'All abilities matter'

Coach inspired after growing up in family with additional needs

- BY SARAH KEENAN

TEAMWORK James helps Ronan coach DELIGHT Ronan at work

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”.

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.