YORKTON — The Yorkton branch of SaskAbilities hosted its third annual Together We Shine Conference on May 21, creating a strong sense of community, camaraderie and family at St. Mary’s Cultural Centre.
Designed for individuals experiencing disabilities in Yorkton and the surrounding region, the one-day event drew attendees from across the province for a day filled with laughter, shared stories and motivational learning.
The conference directly aligns with SaskAbilities’ core vision of “working together to build inclusive communities for people of all abilities,” offering opportunities for networking, skill-building and personal growth.
Local dignitaries attended the event to address the crowd and emphasize the importance of meaningful, community-wide inclusion.
Mayor Aaron Kienle praised the event as an example of inclusion in action, noting that true accessibility goes far beyond words.
“It's for dignity, confidence, opportunity and making sure that you provide the support and access to participate fully in communities,” Kienle said. “That is what inclusion is really about. It shouldn't just be something we say; it's something we have to practice together as a community.”
Kienle expressed gratitude for SaskAbilities’ ongoing efforts.
“Every person here has values, perspectives and experiences that are unique. When we remove barriers, create opportunities, and make room for people to fully participate, everybody wins,” he said. “At the city, we're grateful for the work that SaskAbilities does to help build inclusive communities. That work critically makes a difference.”
Yorkton MLA David Chan also spoke to delegates, bringing greetings on behalf of the provincial government.
“It is great to see our community come together to celebrate and support people with disabilities,” Chan said. “This work is so important. On behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan, thank you for sharing your experiences and helping us create a stronger and more inclusive community across the province.”
The conference featured a lineup of presenters, advocates and wellness experts who shared practical knowledge tailored to the audience.
Presenter Ally Beynon kicked off the sessions by helping the crowd relax and find centre through a guided chair yoga practice.
Following the wellness session, local personality Grandma Sherry captivated the room by teaching The Seven Sacred Teachings — Wisdom, Love, Respect, Courage, Honesty, Humility and Truth.
She shared personal life stories throughout her presentation to illustrate how the teachings can help guide a community filled with every ability.
Digital safety and interpersonal relationships were also key focuses of the day.
Dolores LaVangie, a community educator with SIGN Next Steps Program, hosted a session on internet safety, breaking down practical ways users can protect personal information online.
To address abuse and bullying prevention, the Regina-based Kids on the Block puppet troupe used interactive storytelling and role-play to explore sensitive topics, teaching participants how to stay safe and foster healthy friendships.
The event concluded with a presentation by author, performer and laughter wellness advocate Tim Barlowe, known professionally as the Laughing Lion.
Barlowe closed out the day by championing a joyful philosophy for mental wellbeing, telling the audience, “I don't laugh because I am happy; I'm happy because I laugh.”
