I’ve always believed that everything happens for a reason. I know it sounds cliché, but it’s true. My journey with KultureCity is no different, and after recently visiting Alabama, USA, for their 10-Year KultureCity Ball, I want to take a moment to reflect and share why “Making the Nevers Possible” will always be close to my heart.
It all started at a Vixen’s Netball family day at Federation Square. My daughter, Bianca, who’s always dreaming of the next big thing, saw a Bupa competition for a chance to win four courtside tickets. When she asked me to enter, my initial response was, “No one ever wins those competitions. They just want your details for marketing.” But Bianca, being the persistent middle child she is, kept pushing until I finally gave in and entered.
To my surprise, we actually won the tickets—and of course, Bianca didn’t let me forget that she was right! Since we’re a family of five, I contacted the Vixens to ask if I could bring my son Jayden along, even if he’d have to sit on my lap. At the time, Jayden had recently been diagnosed with autism, and we were avoiding public places due to the overwhelming sensory experiences. So, while Bianca was thrilled about sitting courtside, I had to weigh that against Jayden’s challenges with noise, lights, and everything in between.
That morning was tough for Jayden, and we decided it was best for him to stay home with my parents. Bianca shouldn’t miss out, and we wanted to make it a special day for her. Little did I know, the Vixens had arranged for Renae Ingles to meet Jayden that day—Renae has a child with autism as well. I felt like a bad mother for not bringing him, but Renae reassured me that we have to follow our children’s needs. The Vixens later organised for us to meet Renae and her husband Joe Ingles at another game.
Through Renae and following her journey on Instagram, I quickly learned about KultureCity and was excited to join the Australian Board. For me and my family, it meant understanding the many different disabilities that impact daily life and gaining access to tools that ensure everyone can enjoy outings and events without feeling left out. KultureCity’s mission of “Making the Nevers Possible” is one we’re passionate about spreading in Australia, just as they’ve done over the past decade in the U.S. and beyond. There are already many KultureCity-certified venues across Victoria, including Melbourne Park, Marvel Stadium, GMHBA Stadium, and even Spectrum Lawyers.
So what does KultureCity actually do? They provide sensory bags with headphones to help with loud or distressing sounds, cue cards for when someone needs a break, and fidget tools for those who find it hard to sit through an entire event. They also offer mobile sensory rooms and Sensory Activation Vehicles, creating a safe, sensory-friendly space for anyone who needs a moment to reset. On top of that, KultureCity trains staff at schools, venues, and other public spaces to ensure they’re equipped to engage with individuals who have sensory needs. And let’s not forget their groundbreaking AI Talker & Conversation App, which is 100% free! With KultureCity’s training, sensory tools, and innovative technologies, they’re helping make the “nevers” possible for so many.
Attending the 10-Year KultureCity Gala Ball was an unforgettable experience. From hearing the stories of people’s journeys to seeing the incredible support from public figures like Kodi Lee, Diamond Dallas Page, and Ken Jeong, it was an evening filled with hope and inspiration. We learned about how organisations, from sporting venues to cruise lines, are adopting KultureCity certification to create more inclusive environments. The message was clear: “I wouldn’t change individuals for the world, but I will change the world to accept all individuals and abilities.”
If you’re interested in getting involved, reach out to Spectrum Lawyers to learn how your organisation can become KultureCity certified. Whether it’s in the workplace, your child’s school, or a local sporting club, we can all play a part in making a big difference—and in making the nevers possible.