In The Community

Autistic individuals often experience social exclusion, particularly in community, cultural, and public spaces not designed with neurodivergence in mind. Wanda’s active engagement in local events and cultural life reflects both a personal commitment to connection and a broader vision of inclusion. She regularly attends events such as Lumen, Bestival, and Open Doors, as well as public lectures at St. Jerome’s University, and, along with her husband, Ryan, is a member of the Canadian Clay & Glass Gallery, Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery, and Waterloo Public Library. As an extension of this, Wanda supports inclusive local economies and enjoys spending time in community districts namely Belmont Village and St. Jacobs Village.

Autistics have some of the lowest physical activity levels and Wanda is determined to be a positive role model in an effort to reverse this trend. She is an active participant in Waterloo Memorial Recreation Centre’s fitness programs and practices yoga with Kim Price Wellness. She also enjoys outdoor skating in the winter and can often be found walking year-round on Kitchener-Waterloo’s scenic trails.