Who We Are
There is a large need for adaptive fashion, with more than one-quarter of Canadians over 15 years old having a disability, and nearly 20% being age 65 or older. Yet it remains inaccessible to many, limited by high prices, gaps in knowledge between designers, retailers and policymakers, and a fragmented market. With targeted funding, unified best practices and cohesive coordination, Canada's nascent adaptive fashion ecosystem could see sustained development and impact.
The Alliance will act as a national secretariat that unites, coordinates, and amplifies the many voices and organizations advancing adaptive fashion. It will ensure adaptive fashion is recognized, accessible, and inclusive, removing barriers to functional, stylish clothing for all Canadians.
Our Vision
Champion advocacy and awareness
Lead coordinated campaigns and policy initiatives that elevate the importance of adaptive fashion nationally.
Facilitate collaboration
Bring together healthcare, design, research, retail, manufacturing, and advocacy organizations to maximize impact.
Enable knowledge sharing
Maintain an open platform for best practices, research, and policy guidance to support the integration of adaptive fashion across sectors.
Support capacity building
Foster education, mentoring, and access to resources that strengthen skills and readiness within the adaptive fashion ecosystem.
Ensure accountability
Monitor progress, measure outcomes, and report on ecosystem health to sustain momentum, transparency, and impact over time.
Our Team
Anthony Palma
Kite
Executive Oversight
Helen Weston
Kite
Co-Chair / Events & Partnerships / Research
Andrea Wurster
Silverts
Co-Chair
Caron Bitter-Phinney
Toronto Metropolitan University
Events & Partnerships
Garrick Ng
Kite
Strategic Advisor / Fundraising
Anthony Lue
Anthony Lue Foundation
Community Liaison
Anita Kaiser
UHN
Community Liaison
Izzy Camilleri
Silverts / IZ Adaptive
Advisor
Laurie Belzak
City of Toronto
Advisor
Support Us
Help us achieve this vision by joining AFAC as a sponsor or partner. Email kite.partnerships@uhn.ca to book a discussion with our partnerships team.
Stay Connected
JOIN US!
Email afac@uhn.ca to express interest and receive updates on milestones, engagement opportunities, and ways to contribute your expertise or lived experience.
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