On the TechTO stage ×1
First seen on the TechTO stage in 2016. Every talk is searchable — ask the archive about Maayan ↗
In their words
This is why I started AccessNow, because I live with a physical disability, I use a wheelchair, and every time I go somewhere I need to be able to actually get in.
Rather than surrounding yourself with people that are the same, look for those other perspectives, because usually what ends up happening is you build better products when other people's perspectives are being heard.
It shouldn't be the girl in the front of the room with the wheelchair talking about accessibility. It should be everyone.
Around the web ×1
Quick answers
What is AccessNow?
A crowdsourced map of how accessible places are — restaurants, shops, venues — built from information contributed by the people who go there. Maayan Ziv launched it in 2015 and it now carries information on places in over 30 countries.
What did Maayan Ziv say on the TechTO stage?
She laid out three components of accessibility a company can act on: accessible technology (how you build it), accessible hiring (who you look for), and accessible culture (how you invite and communicate). She argued the biggest barrier is that people never think to ask the question.
What recognition has she received?
She received a Governor General's Innovation Award in 2020, nominated by Ingenium, and has been recognised with Canada's Meritorious Service Cross.