At first glance, 27-year-old Zafeer Madani looks like any other photographer in his element.

Camera in hand, eyes locked on the light as he searches for the perfect shot. But behind each photo is a story of perseverance and opportunity.

For years, Madani, who lives with Down syndrome, struggled to find meaningful work.

“It was hard,” he says. “There are so many people who feel discouraged.”

Like many people with disabilities, he faced systemic barriers: job applications rejected without explanation, workplaces that weren’t accessible, and opportunities that disappeared before they ever began.

That changed when Madani connected with SMILE Canada’s Open Shop, a United Way supported program designed for racialized youth with disabilities.

The initiative pairs participants with mentors,

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