Toronto Life profiles George in his journey as a Toronto actor with a disability. He states, “There have been moments where it’s hard for me to get an audition because of the fact that I’m in a wheelchair.”
Alternating between Machiavellian characters on stage and Kyle on Netflix’s Ponysitters Club has been nothing short of fun and satisfying.
For 19-year-old Wesley, alternating between Machiavellian characters on stage and Kyle on Netflix’s Ponysitters Club has been nothing short of fun and satisfying. Currently a student in York University’s theatre program and acting conservatory, Wesley is learning all the acting techniques he can on his journey to becoming a seasoned professional.
One who’ll ultimately land a major role in the Marvel or Star Wars franchises.
But, not because of the potential fame or fortune.
“If I was to become a Marvel superhero then kids growing up would have the kind of representation I needed when I was younger.”
Wesley—who has cerebral palsy and gets around with his wheelchair and his service dog, Cameo—didn’t see characters like himself on the screen. That’s why advocating for the representation of disability in the media is a huge reason he’s pursuing this career.
“I see a lot of people with disabilities second guessing themselves and not pursuing what they want because they don’t realize they have the potential to do that,” he says.
“So I’m hoping that through my work and fully embracing what I can do, I’m allowing folks to take control of their own lives and pursue their own dreams.”
If you were to describe 12-year-old Sheriauna, triple-threat is the first thing that comes to mind.
If you were to describe 12-year-old Sheriauna, triple-threat is the first thing that comes to mind. Unstoppable is second.
With hobbies consisting of dance classes, listening to music, or drawing, it’s no surprise Sheriauna is always on the go. For this passionate pre-teen, anything creative or artistic makes up most of her time, with a huge focus on following her three passions: dancing, singing, and acting.
She’s only recently started her acting career but has already starred in three commercials. She can’t wait to be in more.
And while her end goal is to one day make it onto a TV show or a film, she’s still open to singing in a musical or dancing on a stage. It’s unsurprising that Sheriauna is up for any and all challenges.
One challenge she’s up to facing?
Bringing more acceptance and representation of people with disabilities in TV shows, film, and especially commercials.
“If [people with disabilities] are in a commercial it’s in a commercial for people with limb differences, for example. It’s not a soap commercial or a car commercial or anything regular like that,” she says. For her, it’s time casting directors and brands stopped focusing on cookie cutter images of who can and can’t play a role.
“If that person is right for that role, like their personality, then they should be able to play that part.”