Official Bio

NESS (he, him, his) is an integrative interdisciplinarian known for his unapologetic intersectionality “I’m not one thing and I don’t fit in a box, I’m human.” His dynamic contributions to mainstream media, discussion panels, keynotes and hearings have transformed audiences around the world. 

Acclaimed Storyteller, Consultant, Therapeutic Counsellor (RTC), and first openly trans Paralympian, NESS works at the intersections of social justice, belonging and mental health. As a queer, multiply disabled, mixed race, white-presenting, trans human (who transitioned later in life) NESS has spent decades disrupting relational and contextual oppression.  At the core of his work is actioning the critical need for change: human-centred approaches that address systemic barriers and challenge default culture at every level and in collaboration. His current motto is “ask better questions”. 

He has represented three countries in three parasports and holds world, continental, and national titles. In 2020 NESS made history coming out publicly as transgender and became the the first openly trans Paralympian. Advocating safer more inclusive sport he is the first openly trans athlete to compete in World ParaAthletics men’s discus (2022), Canada’s Paralympic Trials (2024) and World ParaAthletics men’s javelin (2025). 

Dad to two incredible kiddos and married for almost 15 years.  NESS is Australian and an immigrant settler grateful to live, strive and thrive on Coast Salish Territory (in settler-called British Columbia, Canada).