Ben is a passionate advocate for highlighting the intersectionality of race, culture, and disability through public speaking, consulting, and media appearances. As a proud Black man of Ghanaian descent living with Retinitis Pigmentosa, he draws on his personal experiences to amplify underrepresented voices. Ben holds a Social Service Worker diploma from Sheridan College, a Bachelor’s of Social Work from Laurentian University, and a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Waterloo.

 

Currently, Ben serves on the Council of Canadians with Disabilities and is an original member of CNIB’s Black Voices United group. He also participates in several coalitions focused on raising awareness around race and disability. Through his numerous public speaking engagements, lectures, and panel discussions, Ben advocates for the importance of intersectionality in race, culture, ethnicity, and disability.

In addition, he coordinates and hosts the podcast “The Lens: Living Diverse,” which features stories and perspectives from diverse individuals and communities living with blindness or low vision.

 

When Ben isn’t working, he taps into his creative side—writing scripts, writing and composing Hip Hop, pop  and R&B tracks, acting in commercials and on TV, refining his merengue and salsa skills, lifting weights, traveling the world, and performing stand-up comedy. He’s also achieved incredible feats that defy expectations, such as driving a go-kart at 80 km/h, skydiving, parasailing, zip-lining, and running a half marathon to name a few.

 

Ben firmly believes that diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility should be integral to organizations, media platforms, and society at large. Through workshops, lectures, and media appearances, he continues to offer his lived experiences and expertise to foster these values in all spaces. Ben hopes to inspire persons to fulfill their potential and ensure their voices are heard.