About Zak

  • 3x Paralympian (Wheelchair Rugby)

  • Keynote Speaker

  • Architectural Technologist

  • Accessibility Advocate

My Story

After contracting a staph infection in October of 2004 my life was suddenly flipped upside down. I had to have both legs amputated, as well as fingers and thumbs. However I did not let this hold me back. It took some time for the body to recover, but the mind healed in one small moment. That moment was when 10 year old me realized that I still had my whole life ahead of me, and I decided that a negative attitude was not going to hold me back.

Keynote Speaking: How it started?

I got an early start on my speaking career thanks to my time as a Junior Youth Ambassador for Easter Seals. I was thrown into the deep end at just 15 years of age speaking at corporate events in front of audiences with 1000+ members.

Beyond Sport

After placing 4th at the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio De Janeiro my life lacked balance. I took a step back from sport to focus on my education and a career after rugby. This landed me at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology where I received my diploma in Architectural Technologies. Here is where I discovered my passion for design and more importantly accessibility. I hope to use this expertise to further improve access for all Canadians, and remove barriers that prevent them from being able to experience the world the same way their able-bodied counterparts would.

FAQs

  • I am based out of Okotoks, AB and work primarily in the Calgary area.

  • Yes, of course that will not be an issue. Rates will be adjusted in order to compensate for travel time depending on the length of the trip, or distance travelled.

  • Rates will vary based on the locations of the event, travel requirements, as well as discounted rates for booking multiple events. Please contact for a quote.