Mary Zendejas is an inspiring figure who embodies resilience and determination. Born in Mexico and diagnosed with polio at just eight months old, she has faced challenges head-on. Her parents sought better healthcare opportunities, which brought the family to the United States. Growing up, Mary was surrounded by strong family values and the belief that every hurdle could be turned into a chance for growth.
With the encouragement of her loved ones, Mary became the first of her nine siblings to graduate from high school and college. These achievements paved the way for a life dedicated to public service and breaking down barriers.
In 2012, Mary was crowned Ms. Wheelchair California, an honor that ignited her passion for advocating for people with disabilities. She quickly became an essential part of Ms. Wheelchair America, a respected national organization. She has held various leadership positions throughout her journey, including member-at-large, secretary, and vice president. Today, she proudly serves as president, using her platform to amplify voices within the disability community and create positive change.
In a groundbreaking moment, Mary became the first Latina wheelchair user elected to public office in the U.S. In her fifth year, she represents the First District of Long Beach, a vibrant area with nearly half a million residents. Her district, which includes downtown Long Beach, is known for being both challenging and rewarding, serving as the city’s economic engine and cultural heart.
With her personal journey and passion for advocacy, Mary is dedicated to promoting equity and accessibility for everyone. She is committed to empowering others and creating a more inclusive world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Kathy is a wonderful advocate living with Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva, proudly representing the Garden State! She first got involved with Ms. Wheelchair America in 2018 when she held the title of Ms. Wheelchair New Jersey as an independent delegate. Now, she’s the state coordinator for New Jersey, positively impacting her community.
Kathy loves hanging out with her husband, Chuck, in her free time and their 19 pets! She’s also passionate about cleaning up litter in her local area and enjoys well-deserved relaxation.
Kathleen is an inspiring Disability Rights Advocate, an accountant, and the enthusiastic President and Founder of Project AIR. She has an impressive educational background, including an Associate of Arts in Business Administration, another in Media Arts, a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems, and an Advanced Certificate in Accounting. Born with cerebral palsy, Kathleen has passionately advocated for disability rights since 2010 and has become a well-respected figure in the disability community.
Over the years, she has rolled up her sleeves and actively participated in various committees, including LAX’s Disability Access and Accommodation Advisory Committee and the Department of Rehabilitation’s Assistive Technology Advisory Committee. From 2018 to 2020, she served as President, Newsletter Editor, and Web Mistress for Californians for Disability Rights, the oldest and largest membership organization for people with disabilities in California.
From 2020 to 2022, Kathleen was appointed to the State Independent Living Council, where she was the Vice-Chair of both the Communication and Collaboration and State Plan for Independent Living Committees. She’s currently the Chair of Los Angeles Metro’s Accessibility Advisory Committee and serves as Secretary for Disability Rights California. She’s also the Vice President and Treasurer of the Ms. Wheelchair California Leadership Institute!
Kathleen has received several awards for her impactful work, including the Access Award from the Los Angeles County Commission on Disability and a Community Service Award from the Disabled Resource Center in Long Beach. She was even honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Ms. Wheelchair America 2017 Pageant in Grand Rapids, Michigan!
Kathleen is strongly committed to advocating for individuals with significant disabilities, especially those who use augmentative communication and need long-term support. She takes pride in making a difference. She loves working on initiatives to improve accessibility and services in the communities she visits, and she proudly represents and speaks on disability issues throughout Los Angeles.
Angela was proud to be named Ms.Wheelchair California in 2019. After serving her title, she became the state coordinator for the Ms. Wheelchair California Leadership Institute. Wheelchair California.
Living in beautiful Redwood City, CA—just a 30-mile drive from San Francisco—Angela has a vibrant life. She was born with cerebral palsy and is the proud mom of two wonderful adult children. Angela attended Sacramento State University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and a minor in Communications. These days, she is making a difference as an Independent Living Coach with Family Housing and Adult Resources.
Shameka Andrews is a passionate community outreach coordinator at the Self Advocacy Association of NYS and the founder of Disability Empowerment Consulting. She loves connecting with others through workshops on self-care, self-advocacy, and disability awareness.
In 2006, she celebrated a special achievement by being crowned Ms. Wheelchair New York. Since 2013, she has been leading the program with enthusiasm.
In 2017, she took on the exciting challenge of writing her first children’s book, “Butterfly on Wheels.” Shameka’s commitment to empowering others and sharing her knowledge shines through in everything she does!
Kristi hails from the charming town of Six Mile, South Carolina. She had the incredible honor of being crowned Ms. Wheelchair South Carolina 2023! Living with a brittle bone disease known as osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), Kristi has experienced over 500 broken bones, but that hasn’t held her back. She’s a proud mom to four wonderful kids, who are her greatest joy.
One of Kristi’s biggest passions is making schools accessible for all children, regardless of their disabilities. She’s currently the Vice President of the Ms. Wheelchair South Carolina state competition and is thrilled to support her fellow contestants as they create platforms centered around their passions. Kristi’s enthusiasm and dedication truly shine through!
Born with Spina Bifida, Rebecca proudly navigates the world in her wheelchair and happily calls herself a #ChairChick. As a Rehabilitation Specialist III for the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services, Rebecca makes a real difference in people’s daily lives.
In 2017, she had the incredible honor of being crowned Ms. Wheelchair Mississippi. As a titleholder, she championed her platform, “All About the Journey,” helping to educate healthcare professionals on making their facilities more welcoming and accessible for everyone, regardless of their abilities.
After her reign, Rebecca became the Ms. Wheelchair America State Coordinator for Mississippi. Since 2021, Rebecca has been a member of the MWA National Board. Recently, she began serving as the Executive Director of Ms. Wheelchair America! Rebecca earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology in 2010 and later completed her Master of Science in Counseling from Mississippi College.
She lives in Madison, MS., with her wonderful husband and their adorable dogs. When she’s not working, Rebecca attends church or creates treasured memories with family and friends. She is passionate about positively impacting the disabled community!
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