Afford IDPwD event breaks barriers and changes lives

Afford’s IDPWD event breaks barriers and changes lives

Afford celebrated International Day of People with Disability on December 3 with See Me, See Us, an exhibition showcasing portraits of five of our clients.

These portraits were shot on the final day of a three-day modelling course hosted by agency Model Mates, a group which signs models with disability only. At first glance the event was a relatively standard one. A beautiful room at PHIVE in the City of Parramatta Library filled with VIP guests, Afford staff members, clients, family, and friends.

But this event was, in fact, nothing less than extraordinary.

Jodie Afford Model

A life-changing event

When our five client models Jemma, Grace, Jodie, Elsie and Todd saw their portraits for the first time the room fell silent. But only for a moment. Within seconds all five reacted and those reactions were raw, emotional and beautiful. Tears flowed and not just from our models. Our guests were also deeply moved.

The morning was a true celebration of difference, dignity and the power of being seen. It was a day none of us will forget and a reminder of why this work matters so deeply.

Afford acting Chief Executive Officer Nick Johnson spoke warmly of the fact that people with disability are too often overlooked, spoken over, or quietly set aside.

Todd – Afford Model

Inclusion for all

He spoke about how this is not done out of malice, but because of long-held assumptions that underestimate their abilities, personalities and potential. But the truth is far brighter, he told the crowd.

“People with disability bring creativity, humour, intelligence, passion and perspective that enrich every space they enter,” said Nick.

“When we stop placing limitations on them, we see what was there all along: vibrant individuals with much to contribute and a world made better when we make room for everyone.”

New career opportunities

Afford Head of Engagement Nicole Bryson presented each client model with a certificate celebrating the fact they completed the modelling course and in doing so, gained new skills they could take into the world of modelling, acting, presenting and more.

“This project is also about access to real paid work,” said Nicole.

“All five participants are being paid to take part in Afford’s IDPwD digital campaign and will be considered for future paid campaigns. Each participant has been provided with a professional modelling portfolio, creating new opportunities to take on inclusive talent work.”

Elsie – Afford Model

Creating pathways

This exhibition builds on Afford’s ongoing partnerships with Model Mates and Bus Stop Films. Through Model Mates, Afford already features paid inclusive talent in its home, living and community brand materials. Through Bus Stop Films, Afford includes people with disability behind the camera in its video and photography productions. See Me, See Us takes this work even further by creating new pathways for clients to work, earn and be seen

Representation matters

One in five Australians identifies as having a disability, yet this diversity is rarely reflected in mainstream fashion or media. This program is about changing that, added Nicole.

“This project is important because it also opens doors to real, paid employment and opportunities to connect with the community and break down barriers,” she said.

“That is something we are very passionate about at Afford. As a disability services provider, we say that our purpose is create an inclusive world where human rights are realised. A world where people of all abilities come together to share in life’s adventure. Working with our clients, we open doors to living independently, finding a great job, meeting great people and achieving life goals.”

Jemma – Afford Model

Our partners

Model Mates. This groundbreaking modelling agency promoting inclusivity and diversity in the fashion industry. Thank you for being such an important part of this project.

Carbon Lily. A creative photography, videography and production team sharing stories worth telling. They shot and edited these portraits and their work adds professionalism to the modelling portfolios.

Lei Tai. Hair and makeup artist Lei works across editorial, fashion, advertising, events and runway. We were so pleased to have someone of Lei’s renown providing hair and makeup for our models’ photoshoot.

Major partner PHIVE. Parramatta’s community, cultural and civic hub, PHIVE is a place for learning, creativity and connection. A completely accessible public building, PHIVE was developed under the principles of universal design. The team at PHIVE is devoted to genuine community partnership and it shows.