After a life-changing injury, Ryan Straschnitzki has become a leading advocate for accessibility and inclusion in Canada. Through sport and his work with the Straz Strong Foundation, he is helping create a society where everyone has the opportunity to fully participate.
Looking back on your recovery journey, what lessons have had the greatest impact on how you approach challenges today?
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that resilience is about adapting when life changes and finding new ways forward. Progress isn’t always big. Sometimes it’s just showing up, asking for help, and choosing to keep going.
How has your definition of accessibility changed over the years?
My definition of accessibility has changed from simply being able to get into a space, to being able to fully participate in life. It’s about independence, inclusion, opportunity, and being considered from the beginning.
Why is access to sport and recreation such an important part of accessibility and quality of life?
Sport and recreation are a huge part of quality of life. Wheelchair basketball helped me feel like an athlete again and gave me community, goals, and purpose. That’s a big reason why I started the Straz Strong Foundation.
What changes would you most like to see in Canada to help create a more accessible and inclusive society?
I’d like to see accessibility treated as a standard in Canada, not a special request. That means better infrastructure, more inclusive programs, greater access to adaptive equipment, and more people with lived experience involved in decision-making.
What message would you share with young Canadians living with disabilities who may be facing barriers or uncertainty about their future?
To young Canadians living with disabilities, I’d say your life can still be full of possibility, even if it looks different than you expected. You may have to adapt and advocate for yourself, but different does not mean less.
Check out Ryan on Instagram.