All Stars for Autism Teen Mentoring Program Cultivates Friendship and Self-Esteem
When Zoe Connell received an autism diagnosis at nine years old, she deeply desired to connect with other children who shared similar experiences. Her mother, Katie, faced challenges in locating appropriate social groups for Zoe's age range until discovering an information booth at Telethon that showcased All Stars for Autism.
Founding a Supportive Community
The charity's founders, Cara Cunningham and Jo McMillan, were originally mothers of autistic children who encountered difficulties finding inclusive, family-oriented social circles that celebrated their unique and talented kids. They established All Stars for Autism six years ago, creating a nurturing environment where autistic children can acquire new abilities, build enduring friendships, and enjoy recreational activities with peers.
Young adolescents are paired with older autistic role models through the Telethon Teen Mentoring Program, addressing a common gap during the pivotal early teenage years. This initiative facilitated the connection between Zoe, now 12, and 16-year-old Issy Cameron last year.
Weekly Sessions and Shared Interests
Each week, the duo met at the Joondalup Family Centre alongside other teenagers, participating in structured sessions that included baking, arts and crafts, and gaming and digital media. As they spent time together, they explored each other's passions: Zoe adores KPop Demon Hunters and collects Squishmallows, boasting a collection of 250 and growing, while Issy practices mixed martial arts, is a dedicated reader, and enjoys artistic pursuits.
Both Zoe and Issy, who was diagnosed at age eight, had limited exposure to other autistic individuals before joining All Stars for Autism. "I liked being around people who were similar to me," Issy remarked about the program, which compensates teen mentors with a wage to acknowledge their contributions and bolster their confidence and pride.
Positive Impacts on Families
Issy's mother, Tara, observed that the happiness and friendships developed not only benefited the teens but also created a magical ripple effect for both families. "Issy just came alive; she realized there were other people out there like her, and they're amazing," Tara explained. "And she realized she didn't have to hide, or feel as though she was different. She's just got this profound confidence to go out in the community now because she stepped away from the very isolated experience of just being the only one who's autistic. The neurodivergent community should be embraced, it's a gift."
Katie noted that Zoe "came out of her shell, she was happier, more confident and she was proud of who she was." Inspired by her experience, Zoe now aspires to become a teen mentor herself when she grows older.
Employment and Leadership Opportunities
Issy has transitioned into another of the charity's initiatives, Rising Stars, which extends employment and leadership prospects for autistic teens following the mentoring program. At All Stars for Autism, Ms. Cunningham emphasized that autistic mentors flourish when provided with their first employment and leadership chances.
"That's often something that's not given to a lot of these kids," she stated. "And when they see that they're able to help younger autistic children, it really helps with their confidence and they're seeing themselves as leaders. We really focus on having a proud autistic identity, which is something that's not deficit focused. We speak about it very positively, we want them to be proud of who they are. The flow-on effect is that the kids begin to feel more understood, and they open up and they talk about some of those tricky things that have come up for them."
Whole-Family Approach and Future Aspirations
Involving parents and siblings is also essential to the charity's mission, according to Ms. Cunningham. "We focus on the whole family and not just the autistic child... and parents are seeing these real opportunities out there for our kids," she said. "And that's why we're so thankful to Telethon. It's our fifth year now and we've seen so many kids come through in that time that have gone on to do incredible things, going to university and living full and beautiful lives, and that's what we want for them."
The All Stars for Autism Teen Mentoring Program continues to empower autistic youth, fostering environments where friendship, confidence, and pride thrive, ultimately paving the way for fulfilling futures.
