Kelly

When I was 12 years old, my mom suffered a massive stroke in her sleep and woke up with a disability. My experiences with my mom helped me see the world differently, and the exposure to the healthcare system eventually led me to grad school for occupational therapy.

When a school project inspired by local adaptive surfers led me to co-invent the Access Trax portable wheelchair access mats, I knew I had the opportunity to make a huge impact. The surfers felt a sense of independence and freedom using the access mats for a stable pathway on the sand so they can do what they love without barriers. I wanted others to feel that, whether accessing outdoor recreation, concerts, campgrounds, or even a home garden.

Within 6 months of graduating OT school, I launched Access Trax and have since served families, nonprofits, businesses, events and governments globally for outdoor access and inclusion. Who needs a business degree when you have passion and a desire to learn? Since 2018 I have gone through multiple business programs so I can learn how to sustainably grow my social impact business and continue to serve others. I am passionate about the disability community, and honor my mom's memory by continuing to choose the path of impact without giving up in the face of challenges.