WISH wins workplace inclusion award
At WISH, accessibility means access to opportunities.
To maintain a workplace culture that champions diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion it is essential for diverse perspectives to inform the work we do.
Inclusion at WISH is not just a policy but a philosophy that is embedded in practice. From hiring processes that prioritize sex workers to low-barrier Supportive Employment Program (SEP) opportunities, WISH cultivates a work environment where diverse perspectives are valued and integral to all operations.

This year, WISH was recognized with a nomination for the Untapped Workplace Inclusion Awards, and on September 19, WISH was announced as the winner in the “Inclusive Culture Champion – Non-Profit” category.
Hosted by Open Door Group, Accessible Employers, and CAN WiN, the Untapped Workplace Inclusion Awards honour individuals and businesses leading the way in cultural diversity, accessibility, and disability inclusion across BC.
Being recognized alongside 82 other organizations nominated for their efforts to cultivate workplaces where everyone feels valued is truly inspirational.
“I didn’t fully understand the meaning of inclusion, but I have practiced it my entire life. I don’t see people as the same, I see them individually for the special gifts they bring. WISH’s Supportive Employment Program is full of individually unique people, with very different stories, and ironically it is our different experiences that have brought us all together.”
— SEP Manager
Having more mechanisms in place for peers to shape WISH programs helps to ensure long-term accessibility improvements are embedded in decision making.
Supporting peers to take leadership roles increases the accessibility and responsiveness of WISH programs for all participants, including those with disabilities.
Currently, WISH employs 49 SEP staff. More than half receive BC Disability Assistance. Program managers report that up to 80% of the 850+ participants who access WISH each year are living with a disability. This is reflected in the 2023 “By Us For Us” sex worker-led research project; of the 143 WISH participants surveyed, 75% identified as a person with a disability.
Because peer staff have lived experience as street-based sex workers, and most are people living with disabilities, they have a heightened awareness of the range and depth of accessibility barriers that participants face, and they are well-positioned to build trust with, and receive feedback from, participants.
“By continually seeking to deepen equity and increase economic and disability justice, we are better able to support the well-being of participants and staff while increasing the sustainability of the work WISH does.”
— Kara Gillies, WISH Executive Director
WISH exemplifies what it means to lead with integrity, vision, and compassion in promoting cultural diversity, equity, accessibility, and disability inclusion in the workplace.
Thank you to the Untapped Awards for this incredible honour!