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 I am thrilled to announce that book 1 "Walsy: The Red Glove" of my debut graphic novel series, "Walsy" has been nominated as a finalist in the prestigious Excellence in Graphic Literature (EGL) Awards. The novel has been shortlisted in two categories: - Best in Children's Fiction - Mosaic Award, celebrating diverse stories and perspectives. "Walsy: The Red Glove" is a heartfelt passion project that brings to life the story of Walsy, an inspiring character that represents neurodiversity and disabilities. The book’s nomination highlights its authentic representation and its powerful message of inclusion and empathy. I am incredibly humbled to be selected among over 250 titles submitted for this year's awards. Being recognized alongside bestselling authors and illustrators like Dav Pilkey, and renowned publishing houses, is truly an honor. As a self-published author, this acknowledgment means the world to me and validates the hard work and dedication put into creating Walsy’s story. The EGL Awards, established by the Denver-based nonprofit organization Pop Culture Classroom, spotlight the best in graphic literature, recognizing titles that advance literacy, learning, and social connection, especially in educational settings. This year’s awards saw submissions from 94 publisher imprints, making it the largest EGL Awards to date. “This year’s EGL finalists are compelling, varied, and substantive—and each has a unique and rewarding story for readers,” said Matt Slayter, Education Director at Pop Culture Classroom. “Our jurors from across the country are academics, teachers, librarians, and graphic literature professionals, and they have identified some real gems for early readers and lifetime learners alike.” "Walsy: The Red Glove" stands out not only for its compelling story and beautiful artwork but also for its mission to promote understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity and disabilities. The nomination in the Mosaic Award category underscores the book’s contribution to celebrating diverse stories and perspectives, making it a valuable resource for both children and educators. About the Author: Sarah Kourkejian is a Montreal-based author and graphic novelist with a passion for storytelling and inclusivity. "Walsy: The Red Glove" is their debut graphic novel, inspired by a commitment to authentic representation of neurodiversity and disabilities. Through their work, they aim to create stories that resonate with readers of all ages and backgrounds.
 At the Montreal Comic Arts Festival, my debut as an exhibitor with "Walsy" was an unforgettable experience. It all began with two captivating conversations, where seasoned comic artists delved into the intricate world of publishing and comic creation. Their insights fueled my excitement for what lay ahead. The opening ceremony was a spectacle, as the winners of the prestigious Prix Bedelys took center stage to receive their well-deserved accolades. It was inspiring to witness such talent being honored, setting the tone for the weekend ahead. And as the night wound down, karaoke provided a lighthearted end to the day, fostering camaraderie among exhibitors. Throughout the weekend—from Friday to Sunday afternoon—I had the privilege of mingling with incredible comic creators, each with their own unique stories to tell. Participating in my first-ever panel on Representation and Role Models in Comic Art was a highlight, as we discussed the importance of diverse voices in shaping the medium. I was overwhelmed with gratitude as students sought me out to purchase my book after my recent school presentations. Their enthusiasm reaffirmed the impact of "Walsy" and the significance of its message. The festival buzzed with energy, thanks to the cheerful volunteers and the sea of attendees—over 90,000 people—who passed by my table or simply came out to revel in the festivities. None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of my family and friends. Their contribution (juggling, dancing, and showcasing "Walsy" in every way imaginable) helped raise awareness for an important cause close to my heart. Together, we made waves in the vibrant tapestry of the Montreal Comic Arts Festival, leaving behind memories to cherish for a lifetime. Looking forward to next year!  Embarking on a journey to the Toronto Comic Art Festival (TCAF) was not just about showcasing my work as a kids’ graphic novel author but also a family adventure filled with unexpected twists and turns. Traveling with my husband and two kids, we set off with excitement, looking forward to both the festival and visiting family in Toronto. Our journey began with a flat tire, followed by a last-minute hotel change and a table number shuffle at the festival venue. Nevertheless, my journey to the Toronto Comic Art Festival (TCAF) was preceded by an enriching day at the World Balloon Academy on Friday, May 10. The day was packed with insightful presentations spanning various aspects of the comic industry. From panels on securing grants and navigating challenging subjects in comics to an engaging session on Creative Law 101, the academy provided a comprehensive overview of the industry's landscape. An interesting Indie Publishers Roundtable took place, where esteemed figures such as Tracy Hurren from Drawn & Quarterly, Andy Brown of Conundrum, Avi Ehrlich of Silver Sprocket, and Alexandra Finbow from Renegade Arts Entertainment shared their expertise. Their discussions delved into the current state of the industry, offering valuable perspectives on emerging trends and challenges and navigating the ever-evolving landscape of independent publishing. Another highlight was the Kickoff panel where TCAF partnered with Canada Post to celebrate their newest stamp issue featuring the works of iconic graphic novelists Chester Brown, Michel Rabagliati, Seth, and Jillian Tamaki. On Saturday, May 11, I arrived at the Toronto Reference Library, where TCAF was buzzing with energy. Once the doors opened to the public, the atmosphere was electric, drawing in hordes of comic enthusiasts eager to meet their favorite creators in person. One observation struck me immediately - there weren't many smaller children amidst the crowd. Positioned on the second floor amid a diverse array of comic genres, I realized that the younger audience (early readers) was somewhat underrepresented. It became evident that accessibility played a significant role; the waiting line to access the hall I was in (the busiest hall) might have deterred families with younger children. Reflecting on this, I pondered over potential strategies to engage with a younger audience effectively. While the kids' area and workshops were located on the first floor, setting up a table nearby could have enhanced visibility for creators targeting a younger demographic. Nevertheless, I made the most of the situation by leveraging creative tactics. Enlisting my family as brand ambassadors, they enthusiastically distributed bookmarks and stickers, igniting curious young readers on a quest to find Walsy's table. Clad in matching Walsy T-shirts, they became an unwitting marketing team, much to the amusement of attendees. Despite the initial setbacks and logistical changes, the experience proved invaluable. Engaging with fellow creators and interacting with passionate fans fueled my enthusiasm and offered valuable insights. As I reflect on my debut at TCAF, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share my passion with other graphic novel creators and fans. The journey may have been fraught with obstacles, but it was also marked by moments of camaraderie, inspiration, and growth. And as I prepare to embark on my next Comic Art Festival in Montreal, held on Rue Saint-Denis from the 24th till the 26th of May, where I will take part in a panel as well as exhibit my graphic novel, "Walsy: The Red Glove", I carry with me the invaluable lessons learned and the connections forged during this unforgettable experience.  When
Sunday June 2, 2024 From 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM Where Espace Pauze Cafe Lachine, Quebec What to expect Join us for our first edition of a low-key Meet & Greet Are you seeking a supportive community where you can connect with other parents who understand the unique journey of raising neurodivergent kids? Look no further! Our upcoming Meet & Greet event is tailored just for you. Here's what you can expect
This is a kid friendly event and a chance to mingle with parents and kids looking to get to know each other. The Meet & Greet event is free. Access to the play area indoors is 10$ per kid should you want to stay in the cafe after the event. Have any questions or concerns? Don't hesitate to reach out. Your comfort and enjoyment are our top priorities. Please RSVP by sending an email to [email protected] This event is organized by Non-Omission  I'm thrilled to announce that I'll be participating in the upcoming Toronto Comic Arts Festival (TCAF), set to take place on May 11th and 12th at the iconic Toronto Reference Library. This marks my very first time exhibiting at such an esteemed event, and I couldn't be more excited!
TCAF is renowned for its celebration of comics, graphic novels, and the vibrant arts scene, drawing in over 25,000 visitors each year. Being a part of such a dynamic gathering of creatives and enthusiasts is an incredible opportunity, and I'm eagerly looking forward to immersing myself in the energetic atmosphere. Swing by my table for an engaging and interactive encounter! Alongside showcasing my debut book, "Walsy: The Red Glove," I'll also have an array of merchandise ready for you to explore. I can't wait to connect with you, share stories, and geek out over all things comics and art. So mark your calendars, gather your friends, and join me at TCAF for a weekend filled with creativity, inspiration, and endless fun.  Books play a pivotal role in shaping our early perceptions. My childhood was immersed in European comics, classics such as Asterix and Obelix, Tintin, and my cherished favorite, Boule & Bill. The inherent sarcasm in the latter significantly influenced my personal style. Despite never intending to become an author, I found myself naturally evolving into a storyteller from a young age. This storytelling journey commenced with writing poems and evolved into the creation of songs. At the age of 16, I recorded a complete demo of original songs, known only to a select few family members who still tease me by singing the lyrics to this day—an unexpected but enduring connection.
In my professional life, I discovered my forte in crafting brand stories for various clients. As I became a mother, the idea of writing my debut graphic novel emerged organically. It wasn't a preconceived plan; rather, it was a light bulb moment, realizing, "Ah! This could be an intriguing way to convey an important social message." The genesis of this message, however, began germinating in the recesses of my mind the day I learned about my son's motor disability. After talking to parents of children with disabilities, I came to realize that we all share one common worry. That of how disability is perceived. And much of that perception is built from the lack of authentic representation, if any, of people with disabilities in the media, hindering awareness and normalization. In my role as a marketer, understanding demographics and target audiences is paramount. However, after more than a decade in the profession, I never paused to consider how certain products can fit into the lifestyle of people with disabilities. With 1.3 billion people with disabilities in the world contributing significantly to economies, I began to wonder how this segment of the population is the least represented and rarely given an authentic voice in the media. A sense of shame enveloped me—a marketer with an MSc—realizing that disability inclusion and inclusive design were never broached in my education. Representation, I understood, matters profoundly. It has the power to reshape perceptions, challenge the status quo, and provide a voice to those marginalized. I refused to envision a world where preconceived notions about life with a disability prevailed, emphasizing inspiration for accomplishing tasks typical of able-bodied individuals. This all led to the creation of Walsy, my graphic novel series about a boy juggling the ups and downs of disability in daily life. With his clenched fist and secret superpower, and the support of his friends and family, he discovers creative ways to overcome obstacles and accomplish nearly anything. The central theme woven through the 18 short stories within this graphic novel is that, irrespective of disabilities, children share common interests and are, above all, just kids. It underscores the importance of treating them in a manner that accentuates their strengths rather than emphasizing their limitations from an early age. The environment emerges as a pivotal factor in nurturing a child’s well-being. A combination of flexibility, understanding, and empathy proves instrumental in cultivating a sense of belonging, fostering an environment where they can thrive. “Walsy: The Red Glove” is the first volume of the Walsy series made possible with the generous support of Canada Council for the Arts. Currently, it is available in paperback and ebook format on Amazon USA and Amazon Canada. It is a great addition to your kidlit for many reasons you can find in the description paragraph here. Meanwhile, if you are interested to know more about Walsy, watch the book trailer here. Follow Walsy’s journey on instagram.  Image by Freepik Inclusion in the corporate world refers to creating a work environment that values and respects the diversity of employees, embraces their unique backgrounds, perspectives, and abilities, and ensures that everyone feels welcome, supported, and empowered to contribute their best. It involves creating a culture that actively promotes and practices equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their race, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, religion, or any other characteristic.
Many companies claim to be inclusive yet most still fail to acknowledge the disabled population when drafting their D&I (Diversity and Inclusion) strategies, practicing what I call selective inclusion. Granted, it is easier (and less costly) to tackle gender, sexual orientation, religion, and race and some may claim this is enough for a company to claim a diverse corporate culture. However, people with disabilities are not optional, additional targets within inclusion strategies, and should definitely not be boxes that can be left unchecked in the “diversity” list. If anything, people with disabilities, because of their different experiences, can bring new and unique ideas to the table, and lead the way to innovation and breakthroughs, if only they are given a seat and a chance to contribute. But a D&I strategy goes beyond simply having a diverse workforce; it focuses on fostering an environment where everyone feels included, respected, and able to fully participate in all aspects of work. This includes ensuring equitable access to opportunities, resources, and career advancement, as well as providing fair treatment and protection against discrimination or bias. For people with disabilities, this still seems unattainable today. Even after Covid 19 has shifted the workplace from the physical sphere to the online one, finally giving people with disabilities a golden opportunity to have better chances of participating and contributing to places they couldn’t get their foot in before, those with disabilities continue to be overlooked and under-represented in the workforce, because companies are reluctant to go the extra mile to cater to their needs. As Harvard Business School professor Robin J. Ely and Morehouse College president David A. Thomas said: ” Being genuinely valued and respected involves more than just feeling included. It involves having the power to help set the agenda, influence what — and how — work is done, have one’s needs and interests considered, and have one’s contributions recognized and rewarded with further opportunities to contribute and advance.” Although the situation today is less than ideal, the path to inclusion is not as difficult as one might imagine. From selective inclusion to inclusion Embarking on a D&I journey is a commitment that takes time, requires flexibility and a willingness to adapt aspects of the workplace to accommodate people from all walks of life. At the core of this journey is the willingness to truly be inclusive. Disability inclusion is not an overnight achievement through a heartwarming message posted on social media channels and advertising campaigns. It is a reevaluation of an organization’s recruitment policies, communication practices, environmental office design and a requestioning of its internal behaviors and attitudes towards people with disabilities. Accommodating people with disabilities starts with understanding their needs and concerns, and building empathy among employees to create safe spaces to enable everyone to participate and thrive. Romy Wakil, DEI Consultant & Anti-Oppressive Therapist, mentions a few ingredients for companies to help them become inclusive.
Romy believes that organizations should move from a mindset of tolerance to one of celebration. The difference is that tolerance is giving a person with a disability accessibility (for example: a parking space) and celebration is going beyond accessibility and giving them a voice and truly including them by hearing their opinion. Some of these changes require more time and financial investment but these shouldn't be the reasons why companies opt out of including people with disabilities. One potential challenge remains the redesign of the infrastructure of the workplace in order to better accommodate people with disabilities and create a space that offers a stronger sense of belonging. Albeit an important step in becoming a truly inclusive company, infrastructure should not stand in the way of companies looking to start their inclusion journey. Companies that cannot change their infrastructure in the short term can still plan towards it within their long term goals, whilst catering to people with disabilities by offering them remote work when possible. Disability inclusion is not an overnight achievement but it is an attainable and rewarding commitment that organizations should make to truly do justice to their D&I strategies. Check out Valuable 500 suggestions’ in tackling the disability data gap by reporting on key disability-related data to ensure inclusion is embedded within companies. https://www.thevaluable500.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/ESG-and-Disability-Data-white-paper.pdf |
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