We are delighted to introduce you to Emily and Adina, the two new Young Consultant representatives on our Influencing Committee. Both of these young women are passionate about creating change in the care system and we are so excited to have them as part of the committee.
The Influencing Committee come together every month to drive CREATE’s advocacy agenda. We focus on key issues in the care system and discuss what impact we can have, what key messages we need to deliver and what actions we can take.
Let’s get to know Adina and Emily!
Adina
Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
I was in kinship care for 7 years and am now a lawyer and social worker. I live at the beach with my partner and our 2 fur babies and live for coffee. I have been working with the CREATE Foundation since completing my Speak Up Training in 2012.
What issues are you most passionate about regarding the care system?
I am most passionate about advocating for stability and consistency as well as the empowerment of children and young people, both in care and with a care experience.
If you could change one thing in the care system, what would it be?
If I had a magic wand, we wouldn’t need a “care system”. Given the lack of a perfect world, I would change the instability of the current system so that children and young people would be given more of an opportunity to heal and thrive.
What are you looking forward to about being on the Influencing Committee?
I’m thrilled to be a part of the Influencing Committee and am looking forward to learning about CREATE and its
mission through a different lens. The scope of the committee’s work is far more broad than I would have imagined and within the short time, I have already had my eyes opened to issues and areas I did not realise were a talking point!
Fun fact about you?
I absolutely adore watching MAFS (Married at First Sight).
Emily
Tell us a bit about yourself!
I’m Emily! I am 22 year old from rural NSW living with my partner and five year old son! My ancestors are from Aotearoa (New Zealand) but I have lived in Australia my whole life. I am a community services worker and photographer and I love travelling to all parts of the world exploring different cultures.
What issues are you most passionate about regarding the care system?
I am passionate about:
- Ensuring sufficient supports are in place for Young People’s success within our care system and through to independence.
- Extending the leaving care age and following the state of Victoria’s lead.
- Exploring blended families in foster care and residential care.
- Breaking stereotypes and stigmas for our Young People in care.
- Changing the youth justice system to focus rehabilitation and family restoration as a priority.
What are you looking forward to about being on the Influencing Committee?
I am excited about having a platform to listen to so many influential young people and taking their voices and stories and putting them into action and policy.
Fun fact about you?
I have photographed the likes of Mallrat, Allday, Drapht, and Manu Crooks and have been at more weddings as a photographer than I have as a guest! I love it though! I started in year 11 after having my son and haven’t looked back from being behind the camera.
