KAYLA McPHAIL has made it her life’s mission to create a community with no barriers.
As the mother of a son with cerebral palsy, McPhail has seen firsthand the barriers people with disabilities face daily.
It inspired her to bring to life Airdrie’s first inclusive playground in July 2024, while supporting other accessible and inclusive projects.
“It’s incredibly rewarding seeing families, children and even adults enjoying the playground, laughing and connecting — reminds me why we started this journey. The joy on their faces makes all the hard work worth it, and it’s a constant reminder of the power of inclusion to bring people together,” says McPhail.
“My dream is to see our community become a model for how cities can be truly inclusive. Most importantly, I want to enjoy watching my kids grow up in a world that values and celebrates diversity.”
Nominator Shelby Perrotta worked with McPhail to fundraise more than $100,000 for the playground. She and fellow nominator Ali Larsen say McPhail inspires them every day to advocate for children with special needs.
“Kayla is endlessly busy supporting accessible and inclusive projects in our wonderful city,” says Larsen.
“She has big plans for making our city more inclusive and accessible and stops at nothing to advocate for her son and children like him.”