The Canadian Federation of the Blind (CFB) Employment–Empowerment Convention will be attended by positive and independent blind people who are working together to improve opportunity and employment for blind Canadians. The convention is organized entirely by blind people for blind people.

“The convention is fun, empowering and an excellent chance for blind and low vision people to get together, to learn from each other and to encourage one another. We get refreshed at the convention, and motivated to go back into the community and live our lives with purpose,” says Mary Ellen Gabias, President of the Canadian Federation of the Blind. “The convention also gives people who are not blind a chance to learn about the diversity, independence and potential of people who are blind.”

This year at the convention, blind people will discuss their jobs, career goals and the essential need to improve equality, opportunity and quality of life for blind people in Canada.

Friday’s agenda includes: seminars on employment and positive approaches to blindness; a talking and Braille technology and resources exhibition; a blindness skills fair, a welcome reception and a ‘live and loud’ auction.

Saturday’s conference will start with greetings from Peter Julian, Member of Parliament, New Westminster – Burnaby. The conference will include a variety of presentations relevant to blind Canadians. The convention will conclude with a banquet and talent night on Saturday evening.

This year CFB members are honoured to welcome keynote speaker, Carla McQuillan, to the convention. Carla is blind and represents the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) in the United States, the largest and most influential movement of the organized blind in the world. She is also president of the NFB of Oregon.

CFB members are also excited to host Buna Dahal, internationally recognized job coach and career developer who will lead a seminar on employment for blind people.

The convention will be held in Burnaby, BC at the Hilton Vancouver Metrotown, 6083 McKay Ave from Friday, May 3 to Sunday, May 5.

The Canadian Federation of the Blind is a grassroots organization of blind people committed to the equality and empowerment of blind Canadians. Through advocacy, public education and mentoring, members work for change, promote a positive perspective on blindness and together gain confidence and skills.

For more information or to schedule an interview, please contact Mary Ellen Gabias at 250-681-2495 or Email: convention@cfb.ca