Ability Central Presenters

Keith Bonchek, born in Los Angeles, CA, was diagnosed with mild Cerebral Palsy (CP), which was compounded with a moderate to severe hearing loss. Keith stands out as a remarkable example of what can be achieved when you encounter and overcome obstacles in your life. Keith pushes himself to enjoy the fullness of life. He enjoys snow skiing, sailing, mountain biking, paddle boarding, and backpacking. Known by friends as “Cowboy Keith,” he loves country music and two-step dancing. Never a dull moment with Cowboy Keith!

As an advocate, Keith has served in many capacities. He has served as Vice Chairman of the California Committee for the Deaf and Disabled Telecommunications Program (DDTP) and is currently serving on Disability Voices United’s Speakers Bureau, and Ability Central’s Advisory Council. Keith is the Founder and CEO of Ability Together, Inc. an organization focused on advocating for equity in healthcare spaces for Deaf, hard of hearing, and disabled individuals.
To learn more about Keith and Ability Together, please visit www.AbilityTogether.org.

Keith@AbilityTogether.org

shelley.hamilton@ucsf.edu | 510-428-3588

Born with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita, a rare condition, Barbara's journey began with seemingly insurmountable obstacles. With the steadfast support of her parents and later her husband, she defied medical prognoses and conquered every challenge in her path.

Barbara's spirit of innovation led her to pursue a degree in Human Development with a minor in business administration. Her talents in computer-generated creations opened doors in the engineering sector, and over two decades, she evolved through various roles, ultimately managing the HR division for the western region. Continuing her dynamic journey, Barbara established BarbaraJWaite.com, where she excels in brand management, propelling businesses through impactful narratives and strategies. Barbara also passionately utilizes her life coaching expertise to empower individuals with disabilities to pursue their own aspirations.

A compelling speaker and writer, Barbara shares her narrative to inspire others. Her life story showcases the strength of the human spirit, proving that barriers can be dismantled, success can be shaped, and possibilities are limitless with determination and a unique perspective.

info@barbarajwaite.com | 817-330-4011‬

Sandra.artiga-jimenez@iaba.com

Tempest Cooper is a proud Black deaf mom to a one-year-old son and happily married to her amazing husband, who's a fantastic father. Motherhood is her joy. As the CEO of Oya Reigns LLC, Tempest crafts

organic soaps, bath bombs, and scrubs from scratch. Balancing entrepreneurship, she also serves as a Clinical Case Manager/ASL Deaf Therapist at Deaf Community Counseling Services at Felton in California, empowering deaf individuals with their mental health.

Tempest is a Deaf artist, Member of Zeta Phi Beta Incorporated, Motivational Speaker, and after-school teacher for Black American Sign Language. She also had the honor of being Miss Deaf US 2018-2019 on an international level, went to Russia, won third place culture Attired, and she currently serves as Vice President of Bay Area Black Deaf Advocates (BABDA) 2023-2025. Recently, Tempest was accepted into Tulane University as a PhD candidate as a Social worker. She is grateful for this journey!

TCooper@felton.org | (510)-984-1656