By Naomi “Nai” Knights May 11, 2026
My connection to InclusiV, formerly known as DanceAble, started through my love for community, music, dance, carnival, and advocacy. As someone with strong Caribbean roots, dance and celebration have always been a big part of who I am. I’m currently studying in the Developmental Service Worker program at Centennial College and work closely with individuals of all abilities, so spaces like InclusiV immediately stood out to me. It was more than just an event — it was a place where people could truly feel free, accepted, and celebrated exactly as they are.
Growing up, I honestly would have loved to have more spaces like this around me. Spaces where everyone feels included, supported, listened to, and able to participate without feeling judged or left out. I think it’s so important that we continue creating and integrating spaces and activities like this into society because people with disabilities have the same interests, emotions, goals, talents, and desire for connection as everyone else. Sometimes all that’s needed are proper accommodations, support, understanding, and people willing to listen.
InclusiV creates that environment, and that’s one of the reasons it means so much to me.
I first attended InclusiV as a participant, and from the moment I walked in, I could feel the positive energy in the room. There was no judgment, no pressure, and no feeling of being different. Everyone was dancing, laughing, connecting, and simply enjoying the moment together. Seeing individuals of all abilities, families, friends, allies, and community members sharing the same space with so much joy honestly touched me deeply. It reminded me how important inclusive environments are and how powerful it can be when everyone feels like they belong.
Last year, I had the opportunity to attend again, but this time as a performer with the Toronto Caribbean Carnival band, Lux. Being able to combine my Caribbean heritage, love for dance, and passion for advocacy in one space was such a meaningful experience for me. Carnival has always been a huge part of my identity and culture.
Through music and movement, I’ve always found confidence, freedom, and connection, so being able to bring that same energy into an inclusive event like InclusiV felt really special.
One of the things that stood out to me most last year was the love that filled the room. You could see people building confidence through dance, expressing themselves freely, and genuinely feeling included. Sometimes society focuses too much on differences or limitations, but events like InclusiV break those barriers down. They create opportunities for people of all abilities to come together equally, support one another, and experience joy as a community. InclusiV also allows allies and advocates to actively participate, learn, and help create more accessible and welcoming spaces for everyone.
Inclusive events like this matter because representation, accessibility, and belonging matter. Everyone deserves spaces where they feel seen, valued, safe, and included. For many people, events like InclusiV can become a source of confidence, friendship, self-expression, and happiness. It shows that inclusion is not just about accommodation — it’s about creating environments where everyone can fully participate and feel celebrated.
This year, I’m especially excited to return as a brand ambassador. It feels full circle for me, going from participant, to performer, and now ambassador. I’m excited to continue advocating for inclusion, connecting with the community, and helping spread awareness about how
impactful events like InclusiV truly are. I hope even more people continue to experience the love, positivity, and sense of belonging that this event brings.
InclusiV is more than just dance. It’s community, acceptance, expression, and joy — and I’m proud to be part of it.
Naomi’s Bio
Naomi Knights, also known as Nai, is a student in the Developmental Service Worker program at Centennial College and a committed advocate for disability inclusion. She has been part of InclusiV as both a participant and a performer with a Toronto Carnival band, and she now returns as a Brand Ambassador. Naomi is passionate about creating welcoming spaces where people of all abilities feel supported, celebrated, and free to express themselves. She is also a devoted carnival enthusiast who has been traveling across the Caribbean playing mas and exploring different carnival cultures.
