By Angela Paoletta, Director of Marketing & Operations, Substance Cares
Last year I walked into InclusiV as a guest. This year I walked in with a run sheet, my phone buzzing with group chats, and a job to do. This year stood on the foundation built over nine years by its founders; Neil, Xavier, and everyone who poured their time and heart into growing this celebration and marking its tenth year.
I have been planning events since my first marketing role, in several industries and many cities across North America and beyond. Each had its own purpose and its own audience, and each taught me something I carried with me. The scale and complexity of InclusiV humbled me in the best way. And what set it apart even more was the intent. This event exists for one reason only, to serve a community in the best way we possibly can.
That intent shapes everything. Sponsors gave generously. Partners offered their time and their talents. A venue like Cabana Toronto opened its space and full support. When the purpose is this clear, people lean in and getting to help organize that energy into a single night was one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.
Some of my favourite moments happened long before June 29. The conversations I had with performers, vendors, volunteers, advocates, and families over the months of planning taught me more than I expected. Repeatedly, I heard the same thing: this is the night so many people look forward to all year. When you know that, you plan differently.
For me, it also hits close to home.
I live with three severe chronic invisible illnesses, including Crohn’s disease and Rheumatoid Arthritis, managed with biologics for over a decade. You would not know it by looking at me, and that is exactly the point. Invisible illness does not announce itself. There is no visible sign, nothing that tells a room what your body is managing.
InclusiV asks for no proof. Nobody at this event has to justify what they need. Rest if you need to rest. Move how you can move. Take up space exactly as you are. Last year, as a guest and as a parent watching families experience pure joy together, I felt that before I could name it. This year, helping organize it, I understood what it takes to make a room feel that way. It takes the dedication of many people, over many months, who care about getting it right.
On June 29, thousands of people came through those doors. Much like last year, I found myself getting emotional more than once. But this time was different. This time I got to share those moments with all the people who helped make it possible, and there is nothing quite like catching a teammate’s eye across a packed dance floor and knowing you worked together towards a shared goal.
And the crowd made it everything. People danced, sang along, cheered for the performers, tried the activations, got their face jewels on, face painted, grabbed a slice of pizza or a hot dog, and turned Cabana into the happiest place in Toronto for one unforgettable night.
To every sponsor, partner, performer, volunteer, team member, our ambassadors, and the countless people who offered to lend a hand, thank you for giving a piece of yourselves to this event. And to everyone who came, whether your challenges are visible or not, this event was built for you. It always will be.
See you next year!
