Changing Faces, Changing Lives
Ambassadors
ambassadors
Voices for change, faces of hope
Our Ambassadors play an important role, helping to amplify our work and fearlessly advocating for the craniofacial community.
Their collective experiences deliver a thousand stories; from the trials and tribulations to the breakthroughs that shape them today. They raise awareness, inspire generosity and strengthen our impact.
If you’re interested in hearing from an Ambassador in your local community group, school, workplace or event, we look forward to connecting with you.
Our Ambassadors are available in person, or online.
Selva
Craniofacial Cleft
“Everyone is unique. You need to go out there and say we are all equal and we can do anything. Even if someone said I could do surgery to totally remove the scars, I probably wouldn’t do it because I have accepted the way I am”
Selva lives life to the fullest with his beautiful family in Adelaide; his wife and three boys. Growing up in Malaysia, Selva was born with a rare craniofacial cleft that affects both bones and soft tissues. Because of the complexity of this case, none of the surgeons in Selva’s native country had the expertise to treat him. It wasn’t until a chance meeting with Prof. David at a clinic in Malaysia that his parents were given a glimmer of hope. “Prof. told my parents that he would help me in Australia with a series of surgeries”. And so his journey and their intertwined lives began.
Briana
Cleft Lip
“Don’t be afraid and never be scared to ask for help, you are not alone. It won’t last forever. You are beautifully and wonderfully made”.
Briana has grown up to be a strong woman with determination and wisdom beyond her years. She has spoken at a number of Craniofacial Australia events and bravely shared her experience, living with a Cleft Lip. With the support of her family, Briana recalls one of the hardest things has been the bullying and as a child, those days when she had to play all by herself. Briana now has an amazing group of friends and has a desire to help others, offering to be there for others in a similar situation.
Cecilia
Unilateral Cleft Lip
“If I could give any advice to myself when I was younger, it would be that it really doesn’t matter that you are different. When you grow up it won’t matter at all. Everyone is different”
Cecilia was born with a Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate and had to be fed through a special bottle as a baby to accommodate the hole between her nose and mouth. Growing up, her mum would show her pictures of other children with craniofacial differences and their transformations. Cecilia’s countless surgeries and hospital stays inspired her decision to become a nurse, as she was so grateful to the nurses who looked after her.
Abby
Haemangioma
“It’s all about being happy within yourself and not worrying what others think. The days might seem long, but it will get better and the people who stick around are the ones that matter”
Abby is an advocate for raising awareness of people that look different. She was born with a Haemangioma, a malformation of blood vessels on the face. At just 3 months of age, Abby underwent steroid treatment, with a number of treatments to follow. Abby is passionate about advocacy because she understands the importance of support, so that kids can get the help they need to live their lives.
Anne Marie
Cleft Lip & Palate, Goldenhar Syndrome
“My boys tell me I’m beautiful and perfect – that’s all the validation I need”
At just 3 months old, Anne-Marie’s treatment began. Over 2 deecades, she underwent 15-20 surgeries, including Cleft Lip repair, dental work, speech therapy, hearing support and more. Despite the challenges, Anne-Marie says she never felt afraid, thanks to the support of her Mum, family and medical team led by Prof. David David AC. She shares “as a young girl, I saw my imperfections but I had my mum by my side through every operation and I trusted the doctors completely”. Now a proud Mum herself, Anne-Marie reflets on her journey with strength and gratitude. “It’s truly the foundation of who I am and I wouldn’t change anything”.
Damian
Facial & Head Trauma
“Through my journey, I’ve learned resilience, determination, and the power of kindness – qualities I carry with me every day, especially in my most important role: being a Dad”
Hi I’m Damian. I proudly represent Craniofacial Australia after a life-altering event in 2005, when a rock was thrown at my car while driving. The impact caused a devastating accident that left me with life-threatening injuries and sever facial trauma. What followed were 15 operations and years of rehabilitation under the extraordinary care of Prof. David AC and the Craniofacial team between 2006 – 2010. From the moment I met Prof. David, his compassion and dedication were undeniable. He became more than my surgeon. He became a friend and part of my family. Today, I work in the training sector but what truly drives me is connecting with people, inspiring others and making a lasting impact. Through my journey, I’ve learned resilience, determination, and the power of kindness. Qualities I carry with me everyday, especially in my most important role: being a Dad. Whether it’s through my story, smile or beard, I’m proud to represent Craniofacial Australia.
become an
ambassador
today
We are looking to build a community of people with either a personal connection to living with a craniofacial condition, or a strong connection to our organisation. Are you a change-maker, generous and passionate about helping others? We’d love to hear from you.
Why Become A Cleft & Craniofacial Ambassador?
Raise awareness
Whether you’re family, friend, parent or directly affected, we’d love to hear from you. You’ll help us raise much-needed awareness of the vast array of craniofacial conditions.
Build your skill-set
Do you want to contribute to society and step outside your comfort zone? Let’s work with your unique skills, all while making a difference.
Connect with like-minded people
There’s no better feeling than connecting with people that “get” you. You’ll be part of an Australia-wide community that works for the greater good.
Good for the soul
Volunteering your time and speaking about a cause that’s close to your heart can do wonders for your mental health. Let's make a difference!