PavCo is helping create more inclusive experiences for people with non-visible disabilities across two of British Columbia’s leading venues

We are delighted to welcome PavCo, the Vancouver Convention Centre and BC Place to the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network.

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program was introduced at both venues on October 22, 2025, giving guests with non-visible disabilities a discreet way to indicate that they may need additional support, understanding, time or space.

Supporting guests with non-visible disabilities

Not every disability, condition or neurodivergence is visible. For some people, attending a busy sporting event, concert, exhibition or conference can involve challenges that other guests and employees may not immediately recognize.

By choosing to wear a Sunflower lanyard or sticker, someone can discreetly indicate that they may benefit from additional assistance, clearer communication, more time or greater understanding.

The Sunflower does not identify a particular disability or tell employees what support someone requires. Sunflower wearers should never be asked to explain or prove why they are wearing it.

Everyone’s experience is different, so employees are encouraged to ask how they can help, listen to the guest and respond to the support requested, wherever it can reasonably be provided.

What does wearing the Sunflower mean?

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a globally recognized symbol for non-visible disabilities.

Someone wearing the Sunflower may benefit from:

  • More time to process information or move through the venue

  • Clearer or more direct communication

  • Additional assistance or reassurance

  • Help finding their seat, an information desk or another venue facility

  • Patience and understanding in busy, crowded or unfamiliar surroundings

Wearing the Sunflower does not automatically guarantee priority access, entry to a particular area or a specific accommodation. Guests may still choose to explain what support would help them during their visit.

Visiting BC Place with the Sunflower

Sunflower lanyards are available from the Guest Services desks on levels 2 and 4 at BC Place.

Guests can find the desks at:

  • Section 234 on level 2

  • Section 446 on level 4

Guests can access a Sunflower lanyard to keep or borrow while attending an event.

Those who already have an official Sunflower lanyard, pin or other Sunflower product can also wear it at BC Place.

Visiting the Vancouver Convention Centre with the Sunflower

Sunflower lanyards and stickers are available from the information desks in the East and West building lobbies at the Vancouver Convention Centre.

Guests can access a Sunflower lanyard or sticker to keep or borrow during their visit.

Those who already have an official Sunflower product from another participating organization or venue can also wear it at the Vancouver Convention Centre.

Creating more inclusive venues

PavCo owns and operates BC Place and the Vancouver Convention Centre, which welcome people attending sporting events, entertainment, community gatherings, conferences and international meetings.

By introducing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower across both venues, PavCo is helping increase awareness and understanding of non-visible disabilities among employees, event organizers and guests.

The Sunflower helps create an environment where people with non-visible disabilities can feel recognized and supported without having to disclose personal information.

We are proud to welcome PavCo, BC Place and the Vancouver Convention Centre to the growing Sunflower community and to support their commitment to making their venues more inclusive for people with non-visible disabilities.

Find out more about accessibility at Vancouver Convention Centre and BC Place