Wyatt Smarz, a junior at Seymour High School, is not just an active student but a force of change in his community. As a member of the Best Buddies Connecticut Student Advisory Board (SAB) and Buddy Director of Seymour High’s Best Buddies Chapter, Wyatt has embraced leadership roles that advocate for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). His latest endeavor, a town-wide event called “This Is Me”, is set to shine a spotlight on inclusion, celebrate personal strengths, and foster equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

The Vision Behind “This Is Me”

Wyatt’s capstone project, “This Is Me”, is much more than just an event—it’s a movement. Scheduled for March 2025, the event will feature a walk, relay race, and various activities aimed at uniting the Seymour community. Its mission is twofold: to celebrate the strengths and individuality of people with disabilities and to connect families and community members with resources that support the Special Education community.

The inspiration for the event’s name comes from the powerful anthem “This Is Me” from The Greatest Showman. The song’s lyrics resonated deeply with Wyatt, particularly the lines:

“‘Cause we don’t want your broken parts… But I won’t let them break me down to dust. I know that there’s a place for us, for we are glorious.”

“For me, inclusion is about owning who you are and knowing you are enough just as you are,” Wyatt shared during a recent speech. These words encapsulate the heart of his mission: to challenge stereotypes, foster understanding, and celebrate the unique qualities that each individual brings to the table.

A Community-Wide Effort

To bring “This Is Me” to life, Wyatt knew he needed the backing of his town. In a bold and inspiring move, he presented his vision to the Seymour Board of Selectmen, led by the town’s First Selectwoman. Speaking with confidence and passion, Wyatt outlined the event’s purpose and its potential impact on the community. His compelling presentation moved the council, who voted unanimously to support the initiative.

The council’s endorsement not only secured funding for the event but also demonstrated the community’s commitment to fostering inclusivity. This monumental moment affirmed Wyatt’s leadership and the importance of his mission.

Wyatt and an SAB Member

Wyatt’s Journey with Best Buddies

Wyatt’s involvement with Best Buddies has been transformative. Best Buddies, a global organization dedicated to ending the social, physical, and economic isolation of people with IDD, has provided Wyatt with a platform to advocate for inclusion and build meaningful connections.

“Wyatt’s confidence has absolutely bloomed since joining the SAB,” shared his mother. “He continues to take on opportunities, such as speaking at the middle school for World Kindness Day. We love Best Buddies.”

Wyatt’s growth as a leader is evident in his willingness to step out of his comfort zone. From public speaking to organizing large-scale events, he exemplifies the power of self-advocacy and determination. His words during a recent speech were particularly powerful:

“I have autism, and I am intellectually disabled. However, those labels don’t define me. My actions do.”

Empowering Others Through Advocacy

Wyatt’s impact extends beyond his immediate community. As a member of the Connecticut Student Advisory Board, he collaborates with peers across the state to promote Best Buddies’ mission and create inclusive opportunities for individuals with IDD. His work as Buddy Director at Seymour High involves fostering one-to-one friendships between students with and without disabilities, creating a culture of belonging within the school.

Through initiatives like “This Is Me”, Wyatt is empowering others to embrace their own strengths and advocate for change. By bringing the community together, he’s showing that inclusion isn’t just a concept—it’s a practice that benefits everyone.

Wyatt Presenting at Seymour Middle School’s world kindness day assembly.

Looking Ahead to March 2025

The upcoming “This Is Me” event is already generating excitement in Seymour. Wyatt envisions a day filled with energy, connection, and celebration. Activities like the walk and relay race will serve as a platform to highlight the achievements and potential of individuals with disabilities. Local organizations and businesses are expected to participate, providing resources and opportunities for attendees to learn about support systems available to the Special Education community.

But perhaps the most impactful aspect of the event will be the message it sends: that every individual has value, and their uniqueness should be celebrated. As Wyatt continues to plan and promote the event, he’s inspiring others to see the importance of inclusion and the role they can play in creating a more equitable community.

A Legacy of Inclusion

Wyatt Smarz is a shining example of how young leaders can make a difference. His work with Best Buddies and his efforts to organize “This Is Me” demonstrate the power of determination, advocacy, and community support. By owning his story and using his platform to lift others, Wyatt is paving the way for a more inclusive future.

As the March 2025 event approaches, Wyatt remains focused on his mission. He hopes that “This Is Me” will not only be a day of celebration but also a catalyst for lasting change in Seymour and beyond. In Wyatt’s words, “This event isn’t just about me or the Special Ed community—it’s about all of us coming together to create a place where everyone belongs.”

With leaders like Wyatt at the helm, the future looks bright for Seymour and the wider movement toward inclusion.