MEET THE TEAM
Disability Support Done Differently
At Diffabilities, we believe everyone deserves the chance to grow, connect, and live with purpose.
We provide person-centred programs and supports that honour each Friend’s unique strengths. Our approach blends compassion, creativity, and evidence-based practices to help individuals build skills, confidence, and meaningful independence.
Our Story
Diffabilities began with a simple belief: support should be meaningful, personal, and built around real opportunities for growth — not just “keeping people busy.”
From our early days in Edmonton and Sherwood Park to the community we’ve grown today, our focus has remained the same: Celebrate individuality, break down barriers, and create programs where our Friends can build skills, confidence, and genuine independence.
What started as a small team with a bold idea has grown into a community of passionate professionals, families, and Friends shaping a more inclusive future together.
What We Believe
We believe every person deserves the chance to grow, belong, and thrive — no matter their abilities or past experiences.
Our work is grounded in three core principles:
Growth Through Skills
Every Friend has unique strengths. We focus on building meaningful, real-world skills that foster confidence, independence, and lifelong learning.
Belonging Through Connection
Community changes everything. We create spaces where Friends feel safe, included, respected, and connected to people who genuinely care.
Purpose Through Possibility
We empower Friends to explore interests, discover passions, and build a life filled with purpose, joy, and possibility.
How We’re Different
We’re not a traditional day program — and we don’t believe in “busy work.”
Every part of Diffabilities is built with intention, purpose, and compassion.
Purposeful Programs, Not Pass-Time Activities
Our programs are designed to build real skills — communication, routines, independence, confidence — that translate into everyday life.
Truly Personalized Support
Every Friend learns differently. We adapt our approach to match their strengths, interests, and pace, ensuring everyone can grow in their own way.
A Team That Goes Beyond “Caregiving”
Our team blends professional expertise with genuine connection. We don’t just support our Friends — we celebrate them, advocate for them, and walk alongside their families.
A Place Where Everyone Belongs
We welcome individuals of all abilities and backgrounds, including those who’ve been turned away elsewhere. Everyone deserves a safe and uplifting place to grow.
Meet the Executive Team
Sarah Dewhurst
Founder & CEO
Hello! My name is Sarah Dewhurst, and I am the founder of Diffabilities! I have a passion for supporting individuals in all aspects of life. My greatest moments of joy are when I am spending time in program with my friends and watching them grow and develop into independent (and often sassy) humans!
I am also an instructor at NorQuest teaching in the Disability Studies program and the Educational Assistant program.
I come from a background of building programs to support individuals with diagnoses from pre-k through adulthood.
Michelle Ashworth
Director of Therapies
Hello! My name is Michelle. I am the Director of Therapy Services. I was born and raised in Etoboko Ontario. I now live in Stony Plain, AB with my partner Nic and our 2 beautiful girls.
I got into this field working at Children Autism Services of Edmonton as an EA in their preschool classrooms. Here, I developed a passion for supporting the emotional regulation of others. I went on to complete my duel degree - Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Physical Education at the University of Alberta. I then moved into the role of Behavioural Consultant and have been working with famililes and individuals with developmental disabilities for the past 12 years.
Teo Langille
Director of Administration
Hello! My name is Teo Langille. I am a very organized admin professional, who prides myself on supporting others and creating a welcoming and inclusive area for all. My love for community naturally led me to Diffabilities. Being a part of this program in any capacity is highly rewarding. Something that really clicked for me after being part of this group, is that we just worked - simply by being together. I really value deep connection, loyalty and kindness - which show up in both my work and personal life. I find so much joy in “the little moments” that bring people - especially the little ones - closer together.
Sarah Dewhurst
Founder & CEO
Hello! My name is Sarah Dewhurst, and I am the founder of Diffabilities! I have a passion for supporting individuals in all aspects of life. My greatest moments of joy are when I am spending time in program with my friends and watching them grow and develop into independent (and often sassy) humans!
I am also an instructor at NorQuest teaching in the Disability Studies program and the Educational Assistant program.
I come from a background of building programs to support individuals with diagnoses from pre-k through adulthood.
Michelle Ashworth
Director of Therapies
Hello! My name is Michelle. I am the Director of Therapy Services. I was born and raised in Etoboko Ontario. I now live in Stony Plain, AB with my partner Nic and our 2 beautiful girls.
I got into this field working at Children Autism Services of Edmonton as an EA in their preschool classrooms. Here, I developed a passion for supporting the emotional regulation of others. I went on to complete my duel degree - Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Physical Education at the University of Alberta. I then moved into the role of Behavioural Consultant and have been working with famililes and individuals with developmental disabilities for the past 12 years.
Teo Langille
Director of Administration
Hello! My name is Teo Langille. I am a very organized admin professional, who prides myself on supporting others and creating a welcoming and inclusive area for all. My love for community naturally led me to Diffabilities. Being a part of this program in any capacity is highly rewarding. Something that really clicked for me after being part of this group, is that we just worked - simply by being together. I really value deep connection, loyalty and kindness - which show up in both my work and personal life. I find so much joy in “the little moments” that bring people - especially the little ones - closer together.
Meet the Coordinators
Meet the Coordinators
Shelley Meadahl
Family Coordinator
Hello! My name is Shelley. I’ve spent over a decade working in the field of disability support. My focus has always been on helping caregivers feel informed, empowered and supported as they navigate complex systems. I dedicate my time to researching resources, sharing practical information and connecting families with the tools they need. This work is more than a career, it’s personal as I am also a parent of a young woman who lives with a disability. In my free time, I love to do DIY home renovation projects; my latest project was pulling out carpets and installing new flooring and baseboards. I also love to read and spend time in my garden.
TC Jordens-Harrah
Therapies Coordinator
Hello! My name is TC. I have more than 16 years of experience in behaviour support and disability services, with a strong focus on complex pediatric care. I studied Visual Studies at the University of Calgary and often incorporate Art Therapy inspired strategies into my practice to support connection, emotional regulation and engagement. I'm passionate about supporting individuals and families with compassionate, practical and creatives approaches. Outside of work - I'm married and have 2 wonderful children, which deeply forms my understanding of real-life needs and family dynamics.
Tori Stene
Finance Coordinator
Hello! My name is Tori. I’m working on finishing up my accounting degree and I am very excited to be here. I am thankful for this opportunity that I have been given to work with Diffabilities and being behind the scenes to help ensure the best is always given to our friends and families.
Meet the Coordinators
Meet the Coordinators
Shelley Meadahl
Family Coordinator
Hello! My name is Shelley. I’ve spent over a decade working in the field of disability support. My focus has always been on helping caregivers feel informed, empowered and supported as they navigate complex systems. I dedicate my time to researching resources, sharing practical information and connecting families with the tools they need. This work is more than a career, it’s personal as I am also a parent of a young woman who lives with a disability. In my free time, I love to do DIY home renovation projects; my latest project was pulling out carpets and installing new flooring and baseboards. I also love to read and spend time in my garden.
TC Jordans
Therapies Coordinator
Hello! My name is TC. I have more than 16 years of experience in behaviour support and disability services, with a strong focus on complex pediatric care. I studied Visual Studies at the University of Calgary and often incorporate Art Therapy inspired strategies into my practice to support connection, emotional regulation and engagement. I'm passionate about supporting individuals and families with compassionate, practical and creatives approaches. Outside of work - I'm married and have 2 wonderful children, which deeply forms my understanding of real-life needs and family dynamics.
Tori Stene
Finance Coordinator
Hello! My name is Tori. I’m working on finishing up my accounting degree and I am very excited to be here. I am thankful for this opportunity that I have been given to work with Diffabilities and being behind the scenes to help ensure the best is always given to our friends and families.
Meet the West Edmonton Team
Meet the West Edmonton Team
Nicolas Gelly
Lead
Hello! My name is Nic. I was the lead teacher here when Diffabilities started in 2023. It feels so good to be back with my old friends and to meet all of our new friends! My favourite thing about Program is going out into the community and suppporting our friends with independance and achieving their personal goals.
Madi Billings
Teacher
Hello! My name is Madi. I have been working in Diffabilities since April 2025. I have worked in Respite, Therapy Aide & Summer Activities. Starting this new adventure with Day Program is an exciting time, as I love to meet new people and I am always ready to learn new things but I am also excited to teach our Friends some new things as well!
Samantha Resabal
Teacher
Hello! My name is Samantha. I earned my Education degree back home in the Philippines about five years ago, and later moved to Canada to continue my journey in the field of learning and support. I graduated from NorQuest College as an Educational Assistant and completed my practicum with Diffabilities last January. I'm grateful to have returned in November as a full-time Day Program Staff at West.
Riya Patel
Teacher
Hello! My name is Riya. I moved to Canada in December 2023 and will be graduating from NorQuest in December of 2025 from the Autism Studies program. This past summer, I worked at Diffabilities Summer Camps, which was an incredibly meaningful experience. It helped me realize how much I enjoy supporting and connecting with our friends, and it truly confirmed the direction I want to take in my career.
Meet the West Edmonton Team
Meet the West Edmonton Team
Nicolas Gelly
Lead
Hello! My name is Nic. I was the lead teacher here when Diffabilities started in 2023. It feels so good to be back with my old friends and to meet all of our new friends! My favourite thing about Program is going out into the community and suppporting our friends with independance and achieving their personal goals.
Madi Billings
Teacher
Hello! My name is Madi. I have been working in Diffabilities since April 2025. I have worked in Respite, Therapy Aide & Summer Activities. Starting this new adventure with Day Program is an exciting time, as I love to meet new people and I am always ready to learn new things but I am also excited to teach our Friends some new things as well!
Samantha Resabal
Teacher
Hello! My name is Samantha. I earned my Education degree back home in the Philippines about five years ago, and later moved to Canada to continue my journey in the field of learning and support. I graduated from NorQuest College as an Educational Assistant and completed my practicum with Diffabilities last January. I'm grateful to have returned in November as a full-time Day Program Staff at West.
Riya Patel
Teacher
Hello! My name is Riya. I moved to Canada in December 2023 and will be graduating from NorQuest in December of 2025 from the Autism Studies program. This past summer, I worked at Diffabilities Summer Camps, which was an incredibly meaningful experience. It helped me realize how much I enjoy supporting and connecting with our friends, and it truly confirmed the direction I want to take in my career.
Meet the Sherwood Park Team
Meet the Sherwood Park Team
Sahej Chalal
Lead
Hello! My name is Sahej. I graduated from NorQuest College in 2023 with a Diploma in Disability Studies. I have been with Diffabilities since we opened in 2023 making me one of the most senior employees. I am so grateful to be apart of this community and to be in the position I am in as Lead for Sherwood Park, to come to work everyday and just be among Friends. I truly value the friendships and connections I have built at program, it’s what makes this work so meaningful.
Tinashe Dambiranwa
Teacher
Hello! My name is Tinashe. I am born and raised in Scarborough, Ontario. I have been in the disability support sector for 3 years and have been with Diffabilities since 2024. I love being creative and to spread laughter with our Friends at program.
Lira Gonzales
Teacher
Hello! My name is Lira. I graduated as an Educational Assistant in 2025 and have been with Diffabilities since May 2025. I enjoy spreading good vibes and laughter with our Friends at program. I am passionate about making each day positive and playful. Seeing Friends at program everyday makes my day better and brighter.
Nicholas Mitchell
Teacher
Hello! My name is Nicholas. I have over 12 years of experience working with individuals living with a broad range of disabilities. I believe in approaching everyone with dignity, curiosity, humility and good humour. My method of providing care comes from a thoughtful interest in how others see the world and how the world sees them.
Meet the Sherwood Park Team
Meet the Sherwood Park Team
Sahej Chalal
Lead
Hello! My name is Sahej. I graduated from NorQuest College in 2023 with a Diploma in Disability Studies. I have been with Diffabilities since we opened in 2023 making me one of the most senior employees. I am so grateful to be apart of this community and to be in the position I am in as Lead for Sherwood Park, to come to work everyday and just be among Friends. I truly value the friendships and connections I have built at program, it’s what makes this work so meaningful.
Tinashe Dambiranwa
Teacher
Hello! My name is Tinashe. I am born and raised in Scarborough, Ontario. I have been in the disability support sector for 3 years and have been with Diffabilities since 2024. I love being creative and to spread laughter with our Friends at program.
Lira Gonzales
Teacher
Hello! My name is Lira. I graduated as an Educational Assistant in 2025 and have been with Diffabilities since May 2025. I enjoy spreading good vibes and laughter with our Friends at program. I am passionate about making each day positive and playful. Seeing Friends at program everyday makes my day better and brighter.
Nicholas Mitchell
Teacher
Hello! My name is Nicholas. I have over 12 years of experience working with individuals living with a broad range of disabilities. I believe in approaching everyone with dignity, curiosity, humility and good humour. My method of providing care comes from a thoughtful interest in how others see the world and how the world sees them.
Meet the Respite Team
William Dewhurst
Respite
Hello! My name is William. I have just over a 2 years experience in this field and I am comfortable working with any age. I was drawn to this field because I understand the difficulties a lot of parents have taking care of children with developmental diagnoses and I believe every one of these children deserves more people in their corner who will continue to treat them with patience and understanding. Knowing that my assistance can be the difference between chaos and peace in my friend's lives gives me immense pride in my work. Outisde of work I enjoy the outdoors (which I often spend with the friends I work with), mixed martial arts, working out, and spending time with my family.
Caroline Diggs
Respite
Hello! My name is Caroline. I have been in this field for 3 years and I am comfortable working with any age. I am passionate about providing support to individuals with disabilities to help them meet their full potential. This positions allows me to support, empower others to advocate for themselves, make a positive difference in their lives, and contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate community. The impact I hope to have in my role is to create a positive, inclusive, and supportive environment where my friends feel valued, empowered, and respected, and where meaningful change can be made in their lives. Our Friends have the abilities!
Zechariah Evans
Respite
Hello! My name is Zechariah. I have a little over a years experience in this field and I am comfortable working with any age. I was drawn to this field as helping those in need was the ultimate drive. To be a friend to those who need it. Coming from a household where everyone in my family struggles with developmental disabilities. It has provided me with a very challenging and fullfilling career path. I would describe my support style as understanding. I always emphasize on putting myself in others shoes to best learn about someone. Being a friend to those I support has always been my priority. I always just want those I support to just feel that it is okay to be themselves. I love the feeling of just making peoples lives better.
Ashley Jewkes
Respite/Therapy Aide
Hello! My name is Ashley. My passion for supporting individuals with disabilities grew from the joy of raising two wonderfully neurodivergent children. With over 10 years of experience, I have dedicated my career to learning and applying best practices that foster growth, independence, and self-determination, while always honoring autonomy and celebrating each individual’s authentic self. These core principles guide the care and support I bring to my work every day. In my spare time, I’m a homebody who enjoys crafting and is often found working on a beading or crocheting project.
Arnaud Mukwanga
Respite/Therapy Aide
Hello! My name is Arnaud. I have over a years experience in this field and I am comfortable with any age. I was drawn to this field as my mom is also in the field, so it always felt like second nature to be around persons with developmental or physical disabilities. I am currently getting my diploma for child and youth care. I ensure my friends feel safe, respected and heard by giving them time to figure out tasks by themselves, reassuring their feelings and giving them options to choose what they want to do. This work is meaningful to me because I feel like whenever people talk about others with disabilities, they always think of them as burdens or people that are less then. It's not right and they are people at the end of the day with feelings and thoughts that metter, just like everyone else. I want to be there to help advocate for them in any way I can.
Divine Ohanwe
Respite
Hello! My name is Divine. I have just over 3 years experience in this field and I enjoy working eith any age. I love making fun memories with friends and it warms my heart when I get to see the improvements in our friends. Be it with making connections, coming out of their shell, regulating their emotions better, or just introducing a new hobby to them. I also like that I'm giving space and time for parents and guardians to have a little break or have time for other things. The impact I hope to have in this role is that our friends can feel a genuine connection with me, feel safe, respected and heard.
Arcel Padillo
Respite
Hello! My name is Arcel. I graduated from NorQuest College in 2025 with a certificate as an Educational Assistant, and I’m aspiring to become a future social studies teacher. I have less than a years ecperience in this field. I enjoy working with the "littles" and adults. I recently spent the summer of 2025 with Diffabilities Summer Activities program and in September/October as West Day Programs substitue teacher. I’ve enjoyed the education and career paths I have taken to understand how I can include our friends with special needs into the classroom. Some Fun Facts about Me: I LOVE listening to music! I’m a big fan of the band Nine Inch Nails and was able to see them in Vancouver in August 2025. I also enjoy playing video games and going to the gym as part of my hobbies.
Eden Pura
Respite/Therapy Aide
Hello! My name is Eden. I have about a years experience in this field and I am comfortable working with any age. My experience working with children with disabilities comes from working in a preschool in Singapore, along with having relatives with complex needs. This has inspired me to enter the disability support field. Now, as a Respite and Disability Support Worker in Canada, I’m passionate about helping individuals with exceptionalities feel supported, included, and empowered. I am grateful to fulfill my dream of supporting people with exceptionalities. As a Respite Worker and Therapy Aide, I have the chance to engage with them, share my experiences, and be part of their journey toward growth and independence. It’s a meaningful and rewarding role that inspires me every day, it is a privilege to walk alongside them, celebrate their progress, and contribute to a more inclusive and empowering world
Sebin Shalat
Respite
Hello! My name is Sebin. I have just over a years experience in this field and I am comfortable being around any age! I was drawn to this field because I love to working with the friends who need support in their day to day lives. It makes my life complete when I go see my friends & I see their face with a huge smile. My favourite way to build a successful relationship is by motivation and support. I want my friends to feel safe with me from minute one. I am an active and energetic guy, and I want my friends to feel free to "let loose" and have fun with me.
Jaspreet Kour
Respite/Therapy Aide
Jaspreet is a skilled professional with experience in this field. She delivers exceptional results and drives success for our friends.
Meet the Respite Team
William Dewhurst
Respite
Hello! My name is William. I have just over a 2 years experience in this field and I am comfortable working with any age. I was drawn to this field because I understand the difficulties a lot of parents have taking care of children with developmental diagnoses and I believe every one of these children deserves more people in their corner who will continue to treat them with patience and understanding. Knowing that my assistance can be the difference between chaos and peace in my friend's lives gives me immense pride in my work. Outisde of work I enjoy the outdoors (which I often spend with the friends I work with), mixed martial arts, working out, and spending time with my family.
Caroline Diggs
Respite
Hello! My name is Caroline. I have been in this field for 3 years and I am comfortable working with any age. I am passionate about providing support to individuals with disabilities to help them meet their full potential. This positions allows me to support, empower others to advocate for themselves, make a positive difference in their lives, and contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate community. The impact I hope to have in my role is to create a positive, inclusive, and supportive environment where my friends feel valued, empowered, and respected, and where meaningful change can be made in their lives. Our Friends have the abilities!
Zechariah Evans
Respite
Hello! My name is Zechariah. I have a little over a years experience in this field and I am comfortable working with any age. I was drawn to this field as helping those in need was the ultimate drive. To be a friend to those who need it. Coming from a household where everyone in my family struggles with developmental disabilities. It has provided me with a very challenging and fullfilling career path. I would describe my support style as understanding. I always emphasize on putting myself in others shoes to best learn about someone. Being a friend to those I support has always been my priority. I always just want those I support to just feel that it is okay to be themselves. I love the feeling of just making peoples lives better.
Ashley Jewkes
Respite/Therapy Aide
Hello! My name is Ashley. My passion for supporting individuals with disabilities grew from the joy of raising two wonderfully neurodivergent children. With over 10 years of experience, I have dedicated my career to learning and applying best practices that foster growth, independence, and self-determination, while always honoring autonomy and celebrating each individual’s authentic self. These core principles guide the care and support I bring to my work every day. In my spare time, I’m a homebody who enjoys crafting and is often found working on a beading or crocheting project.
Arnaud Mukwanga
Respite/Therapy Aide
Hello! My name is Arnaud. I have over a years experience in this field and I am comfortable with any age. I was drawn to this field as my mom is also in the field, so it always felt like second nature to be around persons with developmental or physical disabilities. I am currently getting my diploma for child and youth care. I ensure my friends feel safe, respected and heard by giving them time to figure out tasks by themselves, reassuring their feelings and giving them options to choose what they want to do. This work is meaningful to me because I feel like whenever people talk about others with disabilities, they always think of them as burdens or people that are less then. It's not right and they are people at the end of the day with feelings and thoughts that metter, just like everyone else. I want to be there to help advocate for them in any way I can.
Divine Ohanwe
Respite
Hello! My name is Divine. I have just over 3 years experience in this field and I enjoy working eith any age. I love making fun memories with friends and it warms my heart when I get to see the improvements in our friends. Be it with making connections, coming out of their shell, regulating their emotions better, or just introducing a new hobby to them. I also like that I'm giving space and time for parents and guardians to have a little break or have time for other things. The impact I hope to have in this role is that our friends can feel a genuine connection with me, feel safe, respected and heard.
Arcel Padillo
Respite
Hello! My name is Arcel. I graduated from NorQuest College in 2025 with a certificate as an Educational Assistant, and I’m aspiring to become a future social studies teacher. I have less than a years ecperience in this field. I enjoy working with the "littles" and adults. I recently spent the summer of 2025 with Diffabilities Summer Activities program and in September/October as West Day Programs substitue teacher. I’ve enjoyed the education and career paths I have taken to understand how I can include our friends with special needs into the classroom. Some Fun Facts about Me: I LOVE listening to music! I’m a big fan of the band Nine Inch Nails and was able to see them in Vancouver in August 2025. I also enjoy playing video games and going to the gym as part of my hobbies.
Eden Pura
Respite/Therapy Aide
Hello! My name is Eden. I have about a years experience in this field and I am comfortable working with any age. My experience working with children with disabilities comes from working in a preschool in Singapore, along with having relatives with complex needs. This has inspired me to enter the disability support field. Now, as a Respite and Disability Support Worker in Canada, I’m passionate about helping individuals with exceptionalities feel supported, included, and empowered. I am grateful to fulfill my dream of supporting people with exceptionalities. As a Respite Worker and Therapy Aide, I have the chance to engage with them, share my experiences, and be part of their journey toward growth and independence. It’s a meaningful and rewarding role that inspires me every day, it is a privilege to walk alongside them, celebrate their progress, and contribute to a more inclusive and empowering world
Sebin Shalat
Respite
Hello! My name is Sebin. I have just over a years experience in this field and I am comfortable being around any age! I was drawn to this field because I love to working with the friends who need support in their day to day lives. It makes my life complete when I go see my friends & I see their face with a huge smile. My favourite way to build a successful relationship is by motivation and support. I want my friends to feel safe with me from minute one. I am an active and energetic guy, and I want my friends to feel free to "let loose" and have fun with me.
Jaspreet Kour
Respite/Therapy Aide
[Team Member Name] is a skilled professional with extensive experience in [industry/field]. Passionate about [specific aspect of the job or industry], [he/she/they] deliver(s) exceptional results and drive(s) success for our clients.
Want to Join the Team?
Want to Join the Team?
Real Voices. Real Impact.
Real Voices. Real Impact.
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