Contest celebrates the success of entrepreneurs with disabilities
Imagine a world that tries to help you, but far too often unintentionally sets up barriers. For the 16 per cent of Canadians that live with a disability, navigating such obstacles can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to finding work.
One possible solution is to own a small business, which allows individuals to set their own hours, create a personalized work environment, and gain control of their future. To help support and celebrate entrepreneurs with disabilities or ongoing health conditions, the annual Just Watch ME! video contest showcases success stories that inspire and encourage.
Originally launched in 2011, the Just Watch ME! contest is an initiative of the Community Futures’ Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program, and aims to increase the visibility of rural entrepreneurs by telling their stories in short two- to three- minute videos. “The goal is to build excitement and celebrate success, while also encouraging people with disabilities to consider self-employment,” said Jessica Sandell, program co-ordinator with Elevate & Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program.
The contest itself is open to any individual with a disability or health condition operating a small business in rural Manitoba or Saskatchewan. Entrants are invited to submit a video in one of two categories: Start Up (for businesses that have been in operation for less than a year), or Seasoned Entrepreneurs (businesses that have been in operation for over a year).
Videos are judged by a panel representing both the Saskatchewan and Manitoba business and disability community, with four finalists selected. From there, a public vote determines the first-place winner, who will receive $1,000 in cash, with all other finalists being awarded a valuable business support package.
Regardless of where they finish, the act of telling their individual stories has value, as Susan Bater, Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program & Elevate manager, explains, “Video is a powerful way to tell stories and connect people.”
This year, the contest kicks off at 10 a.m. on Monday, December 4, with a free event at the Frances Morrison Library in Saskatoon. A panel of local small business owners, contest judges, and past winners will be on hand to offer advice, and answer questions on using video storytelling to promote a business.
A keynote address, entitled ‘Using technology to grow your business profile and social media presence,’ is also planned, and will be presented by Katrina German, an award-winning entrepreneur specializing in communications, technology, and digital strategy.
This event will also be part of a larger celebration of the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities (December 3), which aims to raise worldwide awareness, while also encouraging a more inclusive and equitable society for all persons with disabilities.
The purpose of the event is larger than a single celebration, as it also gives a voice to individuals that might not otherwise have that opportunity. “Giving business owners the chance to tell their own story, in their own words, is empowering,” said Sandell. “It can encourage other people who may be searching for a way to take control of their destiny.”
As previous contest winners have shown, that can come in a variety of different forms. Whether by providing wireless internet in rural Manitoba (2012 winner Chris Gaulin, WiFi Country Inc.), recycling pick-up service (2013-14 winner Taylor Layton, Taylor’s Recycling Pick-up), or photography (2015-16 winner Apryl Harel, Apryl Harel Photography), the sky is the limit. Last year, it was Lucy Fouasse, in St. Malo, Manitoba who won first-place for her video on “‘Lil’ Steps Miniatures & Wellness Farm” which provides animal-assisted therapies for mental and behavioural health counselling and personal development.
Once again, the contest is open to any entrepreneur with a disability or health condition who is operating a business in rural Manitoba or Saskatchewan. Additionally, while the thought of putting together a submission can seem daunting, helpful guidelines and suggestions are available online at justwatchmecontest.ca.
“The important thing is to explain why you chose this path, and what it has meant to you,” said Sandall. “Every story will be unique, and deserves to be heard.”
The deadline for videos is January 23, 2018 at 10 a.m., with the top three finalists revealed on February 1. Public voting will begin that same day, and close on February 12. The winners will then be announced on February 15.
For more information, visit justwatchmecontest.ca or cfsask.ca. For updates, follow on Twitter at Twitter.
com/edpJustwatchme. To register for the free event on December 4, visit storytellingevent.eventbrite.ca.