There’s no such thing as a “typical foster kid.” Every child and young person with a care experience has their own story, strengths, and dreams. Yet too often, they face stigma - unfair labels, low expectations, and assumptions that reduce them to their circumstances rather than seeing who they truly are.
Snap that Stigma is CREATE Foundation’s long-running national campaign to challenge those stereotypes and change the conversation.
Children and young people with a care experience are often seen through the wrong lens - viewed as “troubled,” “difficult,” or “broken.” These assumptions can limit opportunities, damage confidence, and shape how others treat them.
Snap That Stigma flips that narrative. It shines a light on the diversity, resilience, and success of children and young people with a care experience, showing the world that they are so much more than their past.
It’s about promoting respect, raising expectations, and building a community that sees young people for their potential, not their label.
“People think we’re going nowhere. But we’re already achieving great things - we just need the world to see it.” - Young Consultant
Through videos, posters, and online storytelling, Snap That Stigma has shared hundreds of inspiring stories - from young people who’ve overcome barriers, to carers and caseworkers who are breaking stereotypes and helping others see what’s possible.
Diverse With different cultures, backgrounds, and dreams.
Resilient Navigating life’s challenges with courage and determination.
Capable Achieving great things in school, work, sports, the arts, and community.
Launched in 2015, Snap that Stigma was born from the voices of young people themselves. At our Voices in Action conference that year, Young Consultants from across Australia spoke out about the discrimination and judgement they experienced simply for having a care experience.
Since then, the campaign has become one of CREATE’s most recognisable and loved initiatives - reaching thousands of people across the community and inspiring countless young people to share their stories, challenge misconceptions, and celebrate their achievements.
“We’re not a stereotype. We’re individuals - strong, capable, and proud of who we are.” - Young person
Since launching, Snap that Stigma has become synonymous with CREATE’s mission to Connect, Empower, and Change.
Reached audiences across schools, communities, and government
Empowered young people to own their stories with pride
Helped challenge bias within the care system itself - among workers, carers, and services
Inspired national media and advocacy campaigns focused on respect and inclusion
We’re always looking for powerful stories to feature.
Are you a young person with a care experience who’s proud of what you’ve achieved? Or a carer or caseworker who knows a young person whose story deserves to be celebrated?
Your story could help change how Australia sees children and young people with a care experience - one perspective at a time.
Snap That Stigma is about shifting perspectives - helping more people understand that every young person’s story is unique, valuable, and worth celebrating.
Help us keep the conversation going:
Follow CREATE Foundation on social media.
Share stories using #SnapThatStigma.
Challenge stereotypes when you hear them.
Because when young people are truly seen, they’re able to reach their full potential.
