Maryam Ganni motivates “unstoppable” students on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities
The Jackie Fisher Empathy Tour continued yesterday with a contagiously energetic presentation by Maryam Ganni at the Wagar Adult Education Centre in Côte Saint-Luc. Nearly 200 students from John Grant High School and Wagar’s sociovocational integration program filled the auditorium, ready for what would prove to be an unforgettable experience together.
A gifted storyteller and giving speaker, Ganni shared her journey of resilience facing vision loss and how she is rebuilding her life with courage, purpose, and positivity. She opened her heart to tell students about the emotional toll of this loss. “The only voice in my head I could hear was self-doubt. The moment I realized that that voice needed to change was the moment my doubts turned into dreams.”
Her message aligned with the theme of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities: empowerment, inclusion, and celebrating strengths. Ganni taught students that positive self-talk is a tool that can shape their confidence, their choices, and their future. She encouraged them to be mindful of the words they offer to others as well because words can harm, or they can lift someone up.
As part of her interactive presentation, Ganni invited students to write down what makes them a champion and explain why. Their responses were thoughtful and full of pride: “I am the max because I refuse to give up on myself” and “I am great because I push through tough moments.”
Today, the energy in the auditorium was electric. Students were fully engaged, listening closely, cheering loudly, and absorbing the message wholeheartedly.
After the presentation, Ganni was feeling grateful. “Today’s Inspirations News tour, thanks to the amazing support of the Jaclyn Fisher Foundation, was beyond anything I could have imagined. I connected with the most incredible John Grant and Wagar students who are so bright, so full of heart, and so engaged that it touched my soul.”
She added: “I actually got emotional while speaking because their responses and their energy were so genuine and heartfelt. It’s a beautiful reminder that, as I say in my speech: when we ENcourage others, we INstill courage in them and it all comes full circle.”
Ganni’s presentation today was exactly what the International Day of Persons with Disabilities is meant to celebrate. It’s a recognition of strength, empowerment, and the importance of lifting each other up.
“I’m so thankful to Nick Katalifos, Inspirations and all the incredible staff and teachers who made this possible. You’re all doing amazing things, and I’m just honoured to be a part of it. This was one of the most beautiful experiences of my life, and I’m beyond grateful,” said Ganni.
Honouring Jackie’s Legacy
The Jackie Fisher Empathy Tour was created to honour the compassion, generosity, and humanity of Jackie Fisher, whose legacy continues to uplift students across our community. Every stop on the tour embodies her spirit—reminding young people to lead with empathy, courage, and kindness.
We extend a heartfelt thank-you to the Jaclyn Fisher Foundation for making today’s presentation possible, and for their unwavering commitment to creating opportunities where students feel seen, valued, and inspired. Their support ensures that Maryam’s message of hope continues to reach students across the EMSB and beyond.
Watch this fabulous report about the morning, from City TV Montreal!
https://montreal.citynews.ca/video/2025/12/03/blind-makeup-artist-inspires-montreal-students/
