Yannick Benjamin, Sommelier and Co-Founder of Wine On Wheels, discusses raising money and awareness for people with disabilities. Topics include building awareness and raising funds for a fitness center, the challenges faced by people with disabilities, creating an inclusive fitness community, and Wine On Wheels' grand tasting event.
Yannik Benjamin raises money and awareness for people with disabilities, emphasizing the need for more inclusive spaces globally.
Physical fitness facilities that offer adaptive exercise programs are crucial for individuals with disabilities, promoting well-being, social interaction, and a sense of purpose.
Deep dives
Creating Inclusive Spaces for People with Disabilities
Yannik Benjamin, a solo yay and restaurant owner, is dedicated to making hospitality and wellness accessible for people with disabilities. Through projects like Wine on Wheels, he raises funds for a Wellness and Physical Fitness Center in New York City that provides adaptive equipment and classes for individuals with disabilities, creating a supportive and empowering community. Benjamin emphasizes the need for more inclusive spaces globally, mentioning the challenges faced by people with disabilities in accessing healthcare, affordable housing, and employment. He urges society to prioritize inclusivity and recognize the contributions and potential of individuals with disabilities.
The Power of Physical Fitness for Individuals with Disabilities
Benjamin highlights the importance of physical fitness for individuals with disabilities, drawing from his personal experience as a wheelchair user. He emphasizes the need for facilities that offer adaptive exercise programs, such as adaptive boxing and martial arts, to promote physical well-being, social interaction, and a sense of purpose. Benjamin advocates for the inclusion of people with disabilities in the workforce, highlighting their abilities, willingness, and the untapped spending power of over 61 million Americans with disabilities.
The Evolving Wine Industry and the Call for Diversity
As a sommelier and wine enthusiast, Benjamin discusses the positive changes he has witnessed in the wine industry, particularly in terms of diversity and sustainability. He applauds the increasing representation of black and brown winemakers, as well as the rise of women winemakers. Benjamin encourages the exploration and appreciation of wines from different regions, highlighting unique projects such as making wine from Iranian grapes in Sweden. He believes that the wine industry, like society as a whole, benefits from inclusivity, history, geography, and a wide range of perspectives.
Yannick Benjamin, Sommelier and Co-Founder of Wine On Wheels, discusses raising money and awareness for people with disabilities. Hosts: Carol Massar and Jess Menton Producer: Paul Brennan.