Mathias Castaldo

Age: 29
Occupation: Youth Facilitator, Holland Bloorview

WHAT ARE YOU STUDYING AND/OR WHAT ARE YOUR PROFESSIONAL AMBITIONS?

I hold a Master of Education in Developmental Psychology & Education from OISE and am a youth facilitator at Holland Bloorview.

WHAT ARE YOUR PASSIONS, INTERESTS, AND HOBBIES?

I enjoy hanging out and spending time with friends. I love reading, traveling and running.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH BRAIN-BASED DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES?

I have cerebral palsy. It has made certain things difficult for me such as excelling in sports. 

I also have a learning disability.

However, I have always found the will to adapt and push myself further. Despite all, I have been able to be athletic and excel in school. I don’t allow my cerebral palsy to define who I am.

WHAT ARE YOUR HOPES FOR THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVISORY PANEL?

I am hoping to learn how research will impact target populations. In addition, I am hoping that the panel will be able to comment on how best to improve the research conducted so that it will have a positive impact on the target population.