I was born with cerebral palsy. My journey till now has been filled with challenges, but I overcame them all thanks to my determination, self-belief and strong family support. I am working towards my goal in becoming a TAFE teacher for future disability workers. I have completed my Diploma in Community Services.
As part as of my hobbies I do 5D diamond painting. I’m into art, I used to paint with acrylic paints and I sell my art on my artist page.
I am a committee member with DnD (Disability & Diversity) for the North West region of Victoria. We are trying to organise a group in Geelong for people with ethnic backgrounds and disability to teach self-advocacy. The NDIS has meant DnD is growing through the funding given to us from the Independent Living Centres Australia (ILC).
I’m the National Ethnic Disability Alliance (NEDA) board. I am a committee member and I represent Victoria. NEDA advocates federally for the human rights of people with disability, and their families, from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) and non-English speaking backgrounds (NESB).
I am trying to campaign my local council to make my community more wheelchair friendly because I was housebound for 4 months. When it rains I can’t get out of my driveway, I live on a dirt road and it turns into a mud pit.
For 11 years I have had my own business with Lareve. I sell perfumes, aromatherapies, candles, men’s cologne and in December I will have skin care. I’m trying to grow my business and in August I am going to Queensland to buy my Christmas stock.
I intend to use my extensive firsthand knowledge and experience to educate others about disability.
For more information about Mary-Anne please contact Speakers Bank’s Project Officer on 03 9314 0988 or speakersbank@annecto.org.au
Watch Mary-Anne’s video here: