The Inclusion Project has unveiled two new mascots - Ace and Indi.
Ace (short for 'Accessibility') and Indi (short for 'Independence') were co-designed by the Inclusion Project’s staff with lived experience and Occupational Therapists to better represent those living with hidden disabilities in the community.
The pairing of Ace and Indi creates a safe and imaginative space for young people to explore emotional regulation and empathy without judgment.
The mascots have been brought to life to attend sporting matches and community events, acting as real-life advocates through the Inclusion Project, made possible by Variety, the world-leading match day inclusion program that originated at Hawks games in 2019.
Learn more about Ace and Indi below!
MEET ACE
Ace is the embodiment of energy, enthusiasm, and the vibrant spirit of a true sports fan. As the human lead of the Sensory Sidekicks, Ace navigates the world with a "rounded and chunky" approachability, designed to be expressive and animated. Ace loves being part of a team and can't wait for the game to begin, but they also understand that a high-energy life requires thoughtful preparation.
To manage the excitement of big sporting events, Ace never leaves home without a custom fidget spinner tool belt. This isn't just an accessory; it's a toolkit for regulation. When the energy of the crowd feels like a bit too much, Ace uses these tools to stay grounded, often sharing them with their best friend Indi and other fans.
Meet Indi
Indi the Platypus is a wise, thoughtful, and confident presence who proves that you don't have to be the loudest in the room to hold space. While Indi shares Ace's deep love for sports, they experience the world with a heightened sensitivity. For Indi, the cheering of a stadium or the bright lights of a festival can sometimes feel overwhelming, but they are never caught off guard.
Indi models the beauty of moving at one's own pace. They come prepared for every environment with noise-regulating headphones and a unique, beautifully detailed backpack. This backpack serves as a sanctuary, decorated with hidden disability symbols that act as a visual statement of inclusivity. By looking into their bag for the tools they need or putting on their headphones, Indi shows the community that seeking personal space and sensory comfort is a sign of self-awareness and strength.
Catch Ace and Indi at The Inclusion Project's upcoming events! Sign up to The Inclusion Project HERE to find out more.
