'All abilities matter'

A MAN who grew up with family members with additional needs has said becoming a father inspired him to start his own company and publish a book, all focused on inclusion and “equal opportunities”.

- BY SARAH KEENAN

TEAMWORK James helps Ronan coach DELIGHT Ronan at work HOOPY DAYS Ronan wants all spaces to be inclusive

Three years ago, Ronan Conlon, 28, an inclusive development specialist, founded Fit Minds Coach to create a space where all children have equal opportunities, regardless of ability, after working as a mainstream coach for four years.

"I grew up my whole life with my uncle who had spina bifida, a condition that affects the spine," Ronan said and explained how this gave him empathy for those with additional needs and disabilities early in life.

"Also, my auntie was blind. I spent my whole life around people with additional needs and I always had a love for helping people and making them smile," he added.

"My uncle passed in November which gave me a better understanding of how being with him made me understand people with additional needs."