SUMMER FARRELLY
Summer is a 15 year old passionate about breaking down stereotypes and calls themself an “autistic advocate”.
Summer is living with their family that consists of multiple autistic members, each with their own complexities. This means Summer can share both a relatable and diverse perspective with our community.
We love how Summer is a role mode to other young teens learning to embrace their “authentic selves” and we recognise the courage it takes to share many of their own personal experiences.
Richard Habelrih
Richard recently launched “Timmy The Turtle”, which is an animated movie whose voice overs are all young autistic people. The story parallels Richard’s own experience growing up with constant bullying and inspires friendship and inclusion.
Despite doctors telling his mum that Richard would never speak, he now presents all around Australia for Autism MATES.
MATES is an acronym for Mates Assisting to Engage Socially because no matter when someone is on the autism spectrum, socialisation is often one of the biggest challenges.
Sam Valavanis
19 year old Sam from Victoria has 2 passions – trains and being on the radio.
Sam is autistic as well as blind, having lost both his eyes to a rare cancer as a child.
Sam is currently studying a Diploma of Audio Engineering and Sound Production at Melbourne’s JMC Academy.
Ultimately Sam wants to have his own radio show to advocate for others with disabilities, presenting the best way to assist without being overbearing and imposing on their personal space.
VERONIKA MIllER
Veronika loves gaming, public speaking and dancing.
They are studying at school and being an advocate to help others articulate and explain how their autism works and to stand up for support.
Veronika, or rather ‘Nika’ is also a talented dancer and film maker who is regularly asked to speak at events. They also attend events on behalf of The A List and vlog about them.
Nika’s dream is to write a book, speak on tv , work towards a better NDIS and help communities accept, understand and support neurodiversity.
