“Don’t let the system define you.”
That’s the one piece of advice Ethan wants every young person with a care experience to hear. After growing up in care, Ethan knows what it’s like to feel boxed in by labels, limited by expectations, and underestimated by people who don’t understand the full picture.
But Ethan never gave up.
When we spoke to Ethan, he shared how he learned to push past the limits others put on him, and how holding onto purpose helped him move forward, even when things felt heavy.
Now, Ethan’s dreaming big. He wants to start his own mentoring business, working with carers and young people to break down stigma and build better understanding. For him, it’s about making sure no one feels isolated or overlooked (especially those who’ve been taught to keep their struggles hidden). His message?
“No one should be left behind just because they’ve learned to suffer in silence.”
If you’ve ever felt stuck, Ethan’s story is a reminder that you’re not alone, and that it’s always okay to dream bigger than your circumstances.
Watch Ethan’s story now #SnapThatStigma.
Do you have a story you’d like to share? Reach out to marketing@create.org.au to share your story with us.
