DISABILITY-LED · ONTARIO, CANADA
HIGSI Disability Network is a disability-led nonprofit founded by persons with disabilities, committed to the full inclusion, participation, and empowerment of persons with disabilities — particularly newcomers, refugees, and members of the Somali community across Ontario.
Founded and run by persons with lived disability experience
Workshops, guidance, and referrals at no cost to participants
Sessions and materials delivered in both languages
In-person community spaces and online province-wide
HIGSI Disability Network is a disability-led nonprofit organization founded by persons with disabilities who bring lived experience, resilience, leadership, and firsthand knowledge of the barriers faced by people with disabilities. The organization is committed to promoting the full inclusion, participation, and empowerment of persons with disabilities, particularly newcomers, refugees, and members of the Somali community in Ontario.
MISSION · VISION · VALUES
To empower persons with disabilities, particularly newcomers and refugees within the Somali community, through advocacy, disability rights education, capacity building, awareness programs, and community engagement. We work to remove cultural, social, and systemic barriers and promote full inclusion, accessibility, and equal opportunities for all.
A society where persons with disabilities are respected, included, and empowered to participate fully in all aspects of community life, free from stigma, discrimination, and barriers.
Everyone deserves to belong and participate fully in society.
We value the worth, rights, and contributions of every individual.
We support people with disabilities to develop their skills, confidence, and leadership.
We promote environments, services, and opportunities that are accessible to all.
We advocate for fairness and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.
We work together with individuals, families, organizations, and partners to create positive change.
We act with honesty, accountability, and transparency in all that we do.
WHAT WE DO
Helping individuals understand their rights under Ontario’s disability legislation and promoting awareness of accessible services and opportunities.
Supporting persons with disabilities by promoting equal access, inclusion, and meaningful participation within their communities.
Delivering educational initiatives that challenge misconceptions about disability and encourage inclusive communities.
Providing training and learning opportunities that strengthen confidence, leadership, and personal development.
Creating opportunities for networking, participation, cultural activities, and stronger community connections.
Connecting individuals and families with available disability-related services, programs, and community resources.
OUR COMMITMENT
HIGSI works collaboratively with community organizations, service providers, governments, and other stakeholders to identify and remove cultural, social, attitudinal, and systemic barriers. We advocate for accessible services, equitable opportunities, and meaningful representation of persons with disabilities in community life and decision-making.
We believe disability does not define a person’s abilities, potential, or value. Every individual deserves equal opportunities, appropriate supports, and an inclusive environment where they can contribute, lead, and thrive.
RESOURCES
Available
Available
Coming Soon
Coming Soon
UPCOMING EVENTS
Upcoming workshops, awareness sessions, networking activities, and community engagement events will be announced here.
VOLUNTEER
Volunteers play an important role in helping HIGSI create inclusive communities and support persons with disabilities across Ontario. Whether you would like to assist with community events, awareness initiatives, or organizational activities, we welcome individuals who are passionate about inclusion and accessibility.
Join HIGSI Disability Network in promoting accessibility, inclusion, and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities across Ontario.
