Web Accessibility 101: Hands-On Self-Auditing with Accessibility Tools

Event Description:

A practical, interactive workshop for purpose-driven organizations and consultants, covering the fundamentals of web accessibility and why it matters. Together, we'll walk through common accessibility issues. Using free tools (Lighthouse, AAArdvark, and Wave), we'll audit a couple of participants' websites live, with the opportunity to audit your own sites with Christie's support.

Session outline (60 min):

1. Intro (8 min): what accessibility means, why it's important and relevant, who it impacts
2. Common issues walkthrough (12 min): contrast, alt text, keyboard navigation, headings, form labels
3. Live tool demos (15 min): auditing a couple of participants' sites using Lighthouse, AAArdvark, and Wave
4. Hands-on / walk-around (25 min): participants audit their own sites while I circulate to help

About the Presenter:

Christie Collins is the founder of Rosemary Collective, a digital accessibility consulting practice based in Victoria, BC, focused on Canadian nonprofits and purpose-driven organizations to help make their digital presence as inclusive as their mission. With a background in full-stack web development and a focus on accessible design, Christie brings technical knowledge to non-technical audiences. In plain language, without the overwhelm. She's passionate about the idea that accessible design isn't a compromise; it's just best practice.

Our venue is wheelchair accessible and includes gender neutral washrooms.