Anthony Frisina: Advocating for a More Inclusive and Accessible World

Anthony Frisina’s life is a testament to resilience, advocacy, and the power of lived experiences. Born with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus, Anthony has never let challenges define his path. Instead, he has built a career dedicated to accessibility and inclusion, leaving an indelible mark on his community and beyond.

A Leader in Accessibility

A graduate of Mohawk College with multiple certifications, Anthony has leveraged his education and personal insights to lead initiatives that challenge perceptions and create meaningful change. He contributes his expertise as a professional at both Mohawk College and McMaster University, influencing inclusive practices within academia.

Anthony’s impact extends far beyond the classroom. As the founder of Above & Beyond, a movement that advocates for universal accessibility, Anthony is a highly sought-after speaker, consultant, TV and podcast host, and author. His biography, Above & Beyond – Anthony Frisina, chronicles his journey and is a source of inspiration for many.

Advocacy in Action

Anthony’s advocacy is rooted in the belief that attitude-based barriers are often the biggest challenges people with disabilities face. “Perception is not reality,” he explains. Through his work, Anthony hopes today’s barriers become tomorrow’s freedoms.

Anthony serves as a board member for multiple non-profit organizations, including representing the disability community on the All Abilities Allstars board, Rygiel, Hamilton Accessible Sports Council, Sport Hamilton, PATH Employment, Mohawk Sports Park, and the Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre as a cheerleader with children with disabilities.

Above & Beyond: A Media Platform for Change

Anthony’s foray into media began with an application to appear on Cable 14’s The Showcase. This initial opportunity grew into the creation of Above & Beyond TV, now in its sixth season. The show celebrates allyship, collaboration, and inclusion within and beyond the disability community.

Anthony also co-hosts Above & Beyond – The Accessibility and Inclusion Podcast, with his co-host Maddy Dever, where they discuss the nuances of accessibility and the steps needed to foster a more inclusive society. His media projects amplify voices from diverse backgrounds and highlight the importance of breaking down barriers.

Re-envisioning EDI

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion had always been the status quo. But what about Access, Accessibility, or even Action? Take the beginning letter of each word, Anthony reformed I.D.E.A. – Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility transforming the conversation into action and creating an I.D.E.A. of Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility, being more forthright to be inclusive from the start rather than a false gratitude for what people with disabilities are given and the empowerment for what we deserve.

Recognitions and Distinctions

Anthony’s dedication to advocacy has earned him numerous accolades, including:

• The Order of Hamilton (2020)
• Alumni of Distinction (2013)
• Amity Goodwill Award (1997)
• Rick Hansen Relay Medal Bearer and Difference Maker (2011)
• Torch Bearer for the Pan Am Games (2015)

These honors reflect not only his achievements but also his unwavering commitment to creating a more inclusive world.

Building a Legacy

Anthony’s mission is deeply personal: to leave behind a society that is more accessible and inclusive than the one he was born into. He envisions a world where individuals with disabilities are respected for their autonomy, agency, and dignity, and where accessibility is not just a requirement but a celebrated standard.

Since the passing of his mom in 2016, who was his biggest fan, the focus has been reinvigorated and the work he continues to do remains in her honour. 

By drawing on his lived experiences and those of others, Anthony continues to grow and build initiatives that prioritize authenticity and inclusion. His work inspires individuals and organizations to go beyond compliance, fostering a world where accessibility becomes the norm.

To learn more about Anthony Frisina’s work and advocacy, visit his website or follow him on social media:

• Facebook: @AboveAndBeyond.AnthonyFrisina
• X: @Abovebeyond4u
• Instagram: @AboveAndBeyondMedia

Anthony Frisina is not just breaking barriers—he’s building bridges for future generations.

About Anthony Frisina:

Anthony Frisina was born with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus and has never allowed these challenges to limit his ambitions or impact. A graduate of Mohawk College with multiple certifications, Anthony has established himself as a leader in the fields of accessibility and inclusion. He continues contributing his expertise at Mohawk College and McMaster University.

Anthony is a highly sought-after speaker, consultant, TV and podcast host, and author. His dedication to advocacy is evident in his extensive volunteer work with numerous non-profit organizations and his representation of the disability community for multiple non-profit organizations, including representing the disability community on the All Abilities Allstars board, Rygiel, Hamilton Accessible Sports Council, Sport Hamilton, PATH Employment, Mohawk Sports Park, and the Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre as a cheerleader with children with disabilities.​