Boy Walks with Robotic Exoskeleton After Toyota-Backed Hub

Mitchell Robert from Milton, Ontario, was born with a rare genetic disorder that left him unable to walk on his own. Today, he's moving his legs and gaining independence thanks to a wearable robotic exoskeleton that's changing what's possible for kids like him.

The Trexo exoskeleton wraps around Mitchell's legs and helps him take steps he could never take before. His parents say the device has boosted his physical strength and mental health in ways they never imagined possible.

Trexo Robotics created the breakthrough technology with support from the Mobility Unlimited Hub, a collaborative space in Toronto backed by the Toyota Mobility Foundation. The Hub brings together startups, technical experts, and funding to speed up development of life-changing mobility devices.

A new film from BBC StoryWorks follows Mitchell's journey and shows how the exoskeleton works in daily life. The documentary is part of the Age of Automation series and highlights the real human impact behind assistive technology innovation.

The Mobility Unlimited Hub isn't just helping Trexo. Sixteen innovative companies across two cohorts are now developing mobility solutions in the Hub's supportive ecosystem. Other first-cohort members include Braze Mobility, Cheelcare, Deaf AI, and Axtion Independence Mobility, each working on devices to help people overcome different physical challenges.

The Ripple Effect: Toyota's approach combines technical know-how with financial backing and networking opportunities to help young companies move faster. By sharing lessons learned and creating collaborative pipelines, the Foundation helps devices reach the people who need them months or even years sooner than they would otherwise. That acceleration means more families like the Roberts can access independence-restoring technology while their children are still young enough to benefit most.

The Hub represents a new model for innovation where corporations, nonprofits, and research institutions work together instead of in silos. MaRS Discovery District in Toronto provides the physical space and operational support that makes the collaboration possible.

Toyota Mobility Foundation launched in 2014 with a mission to eliminate disparities in mobility worldwide. Chair Akio Toyoda says the goal is creating a truly mobile society where everyone can move freely, regardless of physical limitations.

For Mitchell and families facing similar challenges, that future is already arriving one step at a time.