Shamil Sohail
Introducing Shamil Sohail, the vibrant and ambitious 16-year-old who has been selected as 2024 Provincial Easter Seals Ambassador. Shamil is not your average teenager; he’s a dynamic individual with a passion for justice and a heart dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities.
Currently in Grade 10, Shamil thrives in the academic world, with a particular interest in civics and careers. Shamil’s intellectual pursuits extend beyond the classroom, as he aspires to become a lawyer specializing in aiding people with disabilities, ensuring equal rights and opportunities for all. Dedicated to his journey of self-discovery, Shamil is laying the foundation for both academic and personal growth.
At home, Shamil is all about gaming adventures, building epic LEGO creations, sketching cool stuff, and watching sitcoms—Young Sheldon being his favourite. He shares “I enjoy playing video games the most because they provide an immersive escape into different worlds, allowing me to unwind, challenge my skills, and experience captivating stories that fuel my imagination.”
Born with spina bifida, a congenital condition affecting his spine and lower body, Shamil navigates the world with the assistance of a power wheelchair. Despite facing physical challenges, Shamil is largely independent in his activities, thanks to the support from his family and Easter Seals Ontario.
Shamil’s journey with Easter Seals includes attending camp three times, twice at Camp Woodeden and once at Camp Merrywood. About his experiences at camp, he shares, “I cherished the inclusive environment where everyone understood each other, making it easy to form new friendships. I appreciate the camp’s lack of barriers, allowing me to do anything without limitations, creating lifelong memories and fostering enduring friendships.”
In his new role, Shamil looks forward to connecting with diverse communities, sharing stories, and raising awareness. He brings a unique perspective to the table, shaped by his diverse upbringing across South Asia, the Middle East, and North America, with travel experiences spanning over 10 countries. This global viewpoint has driven his dedication to advocate for inclusivity and equal access in all facets of life.
Shamil, with his infectious humour, love for adventure, and dedication to justice, is set to make waves as a 2024 Easter Seals Ontario Provincial Ambassador. He shares, “I want to use my experiences to raise awareness, inspire others, and contribute to making a positive impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities.” He continues, “My mission is clear – to be a source of inspiration and a voice for those who are yet to find theirs. I’m dedicated to highlighting the remarkable impact that Easter Seals Ontario has on individuals with special needs.”
Chloe Fraser
Meet Chloe, our remarkable 2024 Provincial Easter Seals Ambassador. At 12-years-old, Chloe approaches life with unparalleled passion and an unwavering commitment to breaking down barriers to accessibility and inclusion.
With a love for cheerleading, dance, and horseback riding, Chloe continually demonstrates her ability to shine in anything she sets her mind to. Currently in Grade 7, Chloe dreams of becoming a teacher and outside of school, enjoys spending time with friends and playing on her iPad. At home, her heart belongs to Coco, an adorable French bulldog. Adding even more liveliness to her home are her 9-year-old brother, Carsen, and two cats, Ellie and DJ.
Chloe is looking forward to attending Easter Seals camp for her seventh year this upcoming summer. She gushes, “I love camp. It’s something I look forward to every year.”Chloe treasures camp as a place where she has experienced countless special moments, including the celebration of her past two birthdays. For Chloe, the independence she gains in the fully accessible environments and the opportunity to meet new faces and form lasting friendships are what keep her coming back year after year. Having attended both Camp Merrywood and Woodeden; Chloe’s favourite activities at Merrywood include sailing, canoeing, and kayaking; while at Woodeden she delights in the giant swing, rock climbing wall, high ropes course, and the Woodeden-famous dustbusters!
Living with a C2 spinal cord injury since birth, Chloe considers herself fortunate to possess a level of mobility that is rare among individuals with her condition. Chloe shares, “My main piece of equipment is my power wheelchair, but I also have others like a manual wheelchair that I use for traveling, a commode that I use for showering, my AFOs, my back brace, my hand splits, and my walker.” Although daily tasks regularly require assistance, Chloe is a highly resourceful individual who is fueled by her desire for independence.
Chloe is on a mission to spread awareness this year in her new role, asserting that kids with disabilities, like her, are capable of achieving anything. She shares “I want to inspire other kids with disabilities to go after their goals and dare to try new things and be a great role model.” As 2024 Provincial Easter Seals Ambassador, Chloe’s goal is to inspire fellow kids with disabilities to pursue their dreams, explore new horizons, and embrace their unique potential.