Capturing Moments through the lens: Creating Change: Michaela’s Journey with CPSN

You might recognise Michaela Fernando’s face from our recent Cerebral Palsy Support Network (CPSN) Family Day at Melbourne Zoo. She was our event photographer. Michalea is also one of our valued clients, who adores food photography, travel and people.  

Can you tell us a little about yourself? What are your interests and passions? 

I’m Michaela, a passionate photographer with cerebral palsy (sic) who loves capturing food, people, and travel. I enjoy exploring new places, spending time with friends and being a concert enthusiast. I also just finished a Diploma in Social Media Marketing at the end of 2024.  

Photography is a big part of your life—what inspired you to start, and what do you love about it? 

Growing up, I was never interested in sports or extracurricular activities outside of school. But in 2010, while travelling in Hawaii, my dad handed me his digital camera to take pictures. From that moment, I discovered my passion for photography. As I got older, I pursued it throughout high school and eventually earned a bachelor’s degree in photography. I love that photography became a way for me to express creativity while capturing meaningful moments as I’m a sentimental person who loves to look through photo albums.  

Michaela Fernando, CPSN Client and Photographer

What kind of photography do you enjoy most, and how does it allow you to express yourself? 

Food photography is my main passion, but I also enjoy capturing personal and family moments and travel photography. It allows me to express my creativity while giving others a glimpse into the world through my lens, shaped by my experience with cerebral palsy. 

You were the event photographer for CPSN’s Family Fun day at the Zoo, how was that experience? 

The CPSN community was so welcoming and it was so wonderful to see everyone come together. It's not often that I photograph events, but this opportunity ignited a new passion. 

“As I got older, I pursued it throughout high school and eventually earned a bachelor’s degree in photography. I love that photography became a way for me to express creativity while capturing meaningful moments, as I’m a sentimental person who loves to look through photo albums.” 

What do you enjoy doing in your free time? Any other hobbies or activities you love? 

I’m always down (sic) for a concert, browsing through a market, reading a book, or playing my Nintendo Switch or The Sims 4. I also enjoy watching Law & Order: SVU in my free time. 

How did you first connect with CPSN, and what made you choose them (as a support provider)? 

The Royal Children’s Hospital connected me with CPSN. I chose them because they offer the personalised support I need and understand the unique challenges that come with living with cerebral palsy. Their approach made me feel confident that I would receive the best possible care and assistance. 

CPSN provides support that helps me manage tasks while also giving me the independence to focus on my passions, like photography. Having the right support has made it easier for me to enjoy a social life without any limitations 

By providing support that adapts to my needs, CPSN has allowed me to focus on growing my passion for photography and exploring new opportunities.  

What do you value most about your support worker(s) and the assistance they provide you with? 

I value their flexibility and understanding. They’re not just there to assist but to empower me to live my life the way I want. The right support makes all the difference in feeling independent while still having help when I need it. Knowing I have a support system in place gives me the confidence to take on new challenges without feeling scared or anxious.  

What do you think is missing in the disability support sector? What could be better? 

One big gap is access to flexible support that adapts as a person’s needs change. Many services are too strict and don’t always consider how disabilities can evolve. More person-centred, adaptable support would make a huge difference.  

“In reality, people with disabilities have the same potential as anyone else to succeed and achieve their goals. I’d like people to understand that disability doesn’t define us. it’s just a part of who we are, and it doesn’t hold us back from living a full life.”

Michaela with CPSN's Service Delivery Manager, Olivia McCluskey

Have you faced any challenges in getting the right support?  

I’m very grateful I haven't faced any challenges in getting the right support. However, for those who have, I believe communication is key. Clear and open dialogue can make a difference in ensuring everyone receives the support they need. Easier access to personalised support workers would also help individuals get the tailored assistance that best suits their needs. 

What are some common misconceptions society has about people with disabilities, and what would you like people to understand better? 

A common misconception is that people with disabilities are limited in what they can do. In reality, people with disabilities have the same potential as anyone else to succeed and achieve their goals. I’d like people to understand that disability doesn’t define us. it’s just a part of who we are, and it doesn’t hold us back from living a full life.  

“Keep reaching for your goals, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Make sure you have a great support system as it is good to have someone to lean on.” 

What advice would you give to someone with a disability navigating the transition between finishing high school, transitioning to adulthood and further education/employment? 

My advice would be to stay true to yourself and your passions. The transition to adulthood can feel overwhelming, and there may be times when you feel lost or unsure of what you’re doing, and that’s okay. It’s important to remember that everyone’s journey is unique. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice.  

Any other thoughts or advice you might like to share with the CP community? 

To the CP community, remember that it’s okay to have setbacks and feel unsure sometimes. Keep reaching for your goals, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

Make sure you have a great support system as it is good to have someone to lean on.  

If you would like to chat to us about your dreams, goals and your future pathways forward, we would  love to hear from you. Call us on (03) 9878 1001. We’re here to help.  cpsn@cpsn.org.au