John Chmela, Managing Director

John is a co-founder of the World Ability Federation.

For several years, John has demonstrated leadership in creating new abilities for people who have a disability. Over the years, John has worked directly with quadriplegics, paraplegics, people who are blind or with low vision, people who are deaf or hard of hearing, and people with various physical and/or cognitive impairments to regain new abilities through the use of personal computers equipped with accessible software and hardware. John then worked to establish a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) foundation chartered to provide free computers for people who have a disability. As the Executive Director, John successfully enabled thousands of individuals with disabilities to lead more productive lives through the use of technology.

John's work was showcased in the Microsoft Windows 98 launch video detailing his efforts creating new abilities for people with disabilities.  John served as the host of the "Empowering People With Disabilities" television show.  John is a published author of two books, and he is a co-authors regular articles for ABILITY magazine drawing attention to people's abilities.  John is also a public speaker focusing on issues that relate to empowering people with disabilities.

John Chmela is currently a managing director for the World Ability Federation, NFP. One of the foundation's programs is the World Ability Awards Gala. This event received national acclaim for innovation and leadership in acknowledging those individuals and organizations that create new abilities for people with disabilities.

John lives in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago.