Meet Our Presenters
Our IDPWD event presenters bring a variety of perspectives and lived experience.
Kooper Lily
Melanie Chatfield
Jacinta Chamberlain
Katelyn Smith
Kooper Lily
an autistic young author and illustrator who uses AAC and her deep love of books to share stories with the world. What began as a simple homeschool project has grown into a creative journey where Kooper turns her ideas, routines, and big feelings into books that help other children feel understood. She now writes and draws every month, using her unique voice and perspective to inspire others to express themselves in their own way.
Melanie Chatfield
Melanie Chatfield (she/her) brings lived experience and professional insight to disability awareness initiatives and is dedicated to advancing equity and inclusion. Melanie has a background in health, governance and service improvement across government and not-for-profit sectors. Melanie is currently the National Policy Officer at Blind Citizens Australia and Board Chair of Rise, a WA disability service provider. Melanie is an avid adventurer and has hiked, kayaked, skied, danced and cycled her way through more than 60 countries. She currently calls the Pilbara home.
Jacinta Chamberlain
Jacinta’s presentation will share her lived experience as a sibling of someone with disability, and introduce SibConnect, a national peer support program dedicated to siblings. SibConnect creates spaces for siblings to come together - whether over coffee, dinner, or an activity - to exchange experiences, offer support, and strengthen connections. Guided by the idea that “no-one understands a sib like another sib,” the program recognises the value of shared experience in navigating the unique role siblings hold within families. JC will speak about her own journey, the importance of storytelling, and the positive impact of supportive peer networks. She will also highlight the success of long-standing SibConnect groups in Melbourne and Brisbane, and share hopes for establishing a new group in Karratha. This presentation invites siblings and community members to join in shaping a stronger, more connected local support network.
Karla Van Dyk
Let us introduce you to Karla, a remarkable 15-year-old whose love for music lights up every room and shows us exactly what becomes possible when barriers aren’t just met — they’re overcome. As a blind student thriving at Karratha Senior High School, she turns challenges into opportunities, meeting each day with determination, creativity, and a spirit that inspires everyone around her. Surrounding her is a powerful support circle — and a community that believes deeply in her potential and walks beside her every step of the way.
Her journey is a living example of what true inclusion can achieve. When young people with disabilities are supported and uplifted, they don’t just succeed — they soar.
Katelyn Smith
Katelyn is the Goal keeper and Captain for the Commbank Paramatildas, Australia’s inspirational women’s para football team and 2024 World Cup Champions.
Katelyn’s achievements also extend beyond the pitch. As a coach at Football Futures Foundation, she inspires young players, demonstrating how football can be a platform for resilience, inclusion, and success. Her leadership and dedication serve as a beacon for aspiring athletes and the community alike.