Meet Madison,

Madison Heady is a vibrant young woman navigating her way through the world after high school, and living with a disability.

She has had many challenges in her life and has faced them head on with determination, strength and a huge appetite for the outdoors, while campaigning as an advocate for others. Madison was born with Cerebral Palsy and spent many years learning to walk and talk.

Madison has a highly competitive nature which has seen her compete in WA state athletic competitions for the last 3 years and has had the opportunity to also compete at the 2020/2021 National Athletics Championships, where she won a silver medal for the 1500m T36/Para. Madison loves the freedom of running and the adrenalin sport and exercise provides. Madison is also a typical young person wanting to participant in the same activities as her peers – coffee catch ups, dating, music festivals and of course the beach.

After high school, Madison completed year 12 and then a Cert III in Community Service at TAFE in 2020 before creating her own public speaking business to create awareness, educate others, increase inclusion in community and develop programs for people living with disabilities. She also works closely with The HOYTS Group and The Periscope Crew. The Crew is a group of young people with disabilities working alongside young industry professionals to develop skills and knowledge in the film and media industry, by building real partnerships and a more creative and inclusive landscape in WA. Madison also takes on many advocacy roles for different disability foundation and promote different activity within the foundation like The Saba Rose Button Foundation and The Activ Foundation.

Madison has spoken to many diverse groups. She has raised over $500,000 for Telethon talking to industry leaders in Broome and at Leeuwin Estate. Madison began educating school children on the importance of inclusion, the importance of living an authentic and fulfilled life and addressing issues relating to disability and inclusion. Madison completed an inspiring talk at TEDxYouth at Kingspark on perception in the community of people with disabilities in 2022 and has received Young West Australian of the Year in 2023 for her effort, being a strong advocate for people living with disabilities.

Her inspiration for sharing her story began as a high school student when she noticed a divide between her and her peers. By educating them on her disability and giving them the courage and tools to see past her disability, Madison is hoping to gain true inclusion for future generations. She has been an inspiration for many young children growing up with a disability and given many parents hope that their children will live fulfilled lives.