A new global movement is propelling the technology world forward with the use of inclusive designs that address the needs of people with disabilities.

Tikkun Olam Makers (TOM) puts together teams of 'Makers' that work together with people with disabilities designing, developing and delivering everyday solutions.

On August 25 to 28, multiple teams of makers will be coming together for the Calgary Makeathon that allows teams to liaise with technology companies over 72 hours, creating an open market design that will be presented to a general audience at the Project Exhibition on August 28.

This year, the teams will be focusing on seven different challenges including hearing loss, developmental disorder, quadriplegia, Rhett syndrome, Parkinson’s disease, stroke rehabilitation, and blindness.

Close to 80 people will be participating to develop solutions that will enhance independence and quality of life.

Kathryn Simone, Neuroscientist and Engineer, is participating in the Makeathon as part of the team designing headphones that work with hearing aids.

"For one of our hearing loss projects, an individual wants to be able to listen to music with her hearing aids; regular headphones don't work with hearing aids, they create feedback and amplify noise."

Simone said there is currently an off-shelf solution but the cost is extremely high due to the market share being so small.

Each team has been working on their challenge for a month, creating prototypes that will be turned into solutions by the end of the 72 hours.

"In Cochrane they're implementing their solutions, so we've put them up in a highly equipped manufacturing facility, EGB Manufacturing, and they're working with the guys on the floor to bring their ideas to life."

To view the completed solutions, the Makeathon is from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Calgary Jewish Community Centre and is free to the public.

To learn more about TOM, visit their website at www.tomglobal.org or the TOM Calgary Facebook page.