We are thrilled to introduce you to Jason Dunkerley, the newest member of the Board of Director’s Coordinating Committee.
Jason is a fabulous fit for the Active Living Alliance for Canadians with a Disability. Jason was born in Ireland. He and both his brothers were blind at birth. Jason grew up with supportive parents who encouraged him to play outside with other children. Many of his teachers introduced him to a variety of different sports. This interaction instilled a deep-rooted love for physical activity, which has been a defining part of Jason's life.
Jason competed in track throughout high school at the W. Ross Macdonald School in Brantford, Ontario and at the University of Guelph, where he studied International Development. Jason also has a Masters in World Literatures and Cultures obtained from the University of Ottawa in 2014.
Before joining the Public Service as a policy analyst, we were lucky enough to have had Jason work for us. Between 2008 and 2015, Jason was the coordinator of the All Abilities Welcome program that encouraged recreation leaders to accommodate individuals with disabilities.
As one of the founding members of the Achilles Ottawa running club for athletes who are blind, as a board member with the Ontario Blind Sports Association, and through his involvement as a coach with the Ottawa Lions, Jason hopes to encourage people of all abilities to catch the physical activity bug - just as he himself did.
Jason has proudly represented Canada at five Paralympic Games. He is a five-time medallist in middle distance track.
Welcome, Jason!