DJ Cunningham vividly remembers being in grade 4, standing at the board, unable to write the words he was asked to.
“I specifically have what’s known as dysphonetic dyslexia, which affects my ability to make sound-word associations. This impacts things like spelling and reading. Combined with ADHD, I had a major challenge with focus.”
While DJ lacked support at school, his home environment was a different story. He believes having an older brother with dyslexia worked to his advantage.
“My mother was a huge advocate for my brother, got him tested, and got him the support he needed, which then benefited me as I went through the education system. My parents were, and continue to be, incredible, and they wrapped a lot of support around me.”
It was also his older brother who introduced him to assistive technology.
“When I was given my first computer system, which allowed me to have textbooks read aloud, everything changed. The fact that I was able to get through work and have some success made a huge difference. The repetition of success started to shift my belief system. Up until that point, I truly felt stupid, dumb, like I didn’t belong in academia.”
“Then I realized, you know what? I’m not stupid. I just learn differently. When given the right tools, I can have the same access to learning as other kids.”
DJ attended Trent University in Peterborough, ON, where the “phenomenal disability services department” made a significant impact.
Initially studying history, a learning strategist suggested he switch to business.
“There was so much reading and writing in history. The strategist said I was much more suited for business, where there were more group activities and presentations, which fit my learning style and strengths. So, I made the switch.”
After university, DJ began selling assistive technology and went on to develop his own business, LEARNstyle Ltd., at age 24, which is now the largest K-12 educational training company in Canada.
“I understood from my own experience the challenges and stigma that dyslexia creates, and how it can be a barrier to everything in the academic world. So, I focused early on relationships with students, helping them understand that they aren’t stupid, just like I wasn’t. They just learn differently, and these tools will unlock the potential they have inside. This approach worked really well.”
To listen to DJ Cunningham’s story, tune in to Dyslexia Canada’s Spotlight: Mark it Read series, available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you typically access your podcasts.