Communications Manager Kelly Baker represented Afford on a disability sector panel hosted by Model MATES at the weekend, bringing together people from across the disability sector, charitable organisations and the broader community.
The conversation focused on some of the issues that matter deeply to our sector – including disability employment, inclusion and the importance of creating genuine opportunities for people with disability to participate, contribute and have their voices heard.
Equal work, equal pay
Kelly spoke about the work Afford has created with the help of Model MATES talent and highlighted the incredible impact those projects have created.
The powerful videos and photography created allowed our organisation to showcase services using models with disability. It also meant the models gained experience in a professional setting, had the opportunity to see themselves on screen, brochures, websites and more and most importantly, were paid industry-standard rates and for the first time ever.
“I come from a straight media background and have 25-plus years in the industry,” Kelly told the crowd in the packed Randwick Town Hall.
“If I hire you to appear in a shoot with me, then I am going to make you work. It’s that simple.
“I will tell you what to do and we will not be going home until we get the shots and vision that I need. I will be bossy. But in return, I will pay you what you’re worth … and that will be the same amount as everyone else.”
Model MATES head Randa Habelrih, model mentor John Eussen and Afford’s Kelly Baker at the industry panel held at Randwick Town Hall August 2026.
A life-changing event
Kelly went on to talk about how five Afford clients attended a three-day course hosted by Model MATES meaning they now have the skills to model professionally and earn industry-standard rates as well.
“The impact for this cohort is difficult to describe,” said Kelly.
“Not only have they earned money they have been able to see themselves in a completely different light. They loved the work and are so proud of their efforts … it is beautiful to see the change in them,” she added.
The event culminated in a runway show featuring models with disability, showcasing confidence, personality, individuality and style. Watching the models take to the catwalk was a wonderful reminder of what inclusion can look like when people are given the opportunity to participate on their own terms.
For Afford, that’s an important part of the conversation. Inclusion isn’t simply about creating programs or services specifically for people with disability. It’s also about making sure people have opportunities to be part of the wider community – whether that’s in employment, business, the arts, fashion, media or any other space they choose.
Afford Community Manager Kelly and Model MATES Director of Modelling and Talent Jessica Grace at the event.
A powerful collaboration
Events like this create opportunities for conversations that might not otherwise happen, while also challenging assumptions and making disability visible in positive and powerful ways.
A big thank you to Model MATES for inviting us to be part of the panel and for creating such a powerful platform for connection, conversation and celebration.
And what better way to finish a day about inclusion than with a runway full of people showing exactly what they’re capable of?
