When you meet Karen Boulton-Gorry, her warmth and determination shine far brighter than any label or diagnosis ever could. Now recently married at 22, Karen has built a life of purpose and advocacy but her journey to get here was anything but easy.

Born with a rare genetic microdeletion, and later diagnosed with Level 2 Autism, Karen navigated her teenage years on the Fraser Coast differently to most of her classmates. That difference was too often met with misunderstanding, and school became a painful chapter marked by bullying and anxiety so severe it sometimes brought on panic attacks on the way to class.

But Karen’s story didn’t stop there, because alongside the hard days were people who showed up. A teacher who genuinely cared and helped her feel safe enough to stop hiding and a group of friends in Year 9 who spoke up when she was too scared to, and helped her find her voice. Small acts of kindness that, looking back, made all the difference.

That same year, Karen discovered a passion for advocacy through Youth Parliament which was something that gave her strength and a sense of purpose. Today she channels her lived experience into her role with Headspace’s National Youth Advisory Group, listening to and advocating for young people right across Australia. She prefers the title Community Advocate, a reflection of her belief in giving back and helping others find their voice. In 2019, she was recognised with the Young Citizen of the Year Award at the Fraser Coast Regional Council Australia Day Awards.

In this Everyday Mates Story, Karen shares her journey openly, from surviving the schoolyard to shaping youth advocacy, in the hope that others will see there is light at the end of the tunnel. Her message is simple but powerful: acts of kindness go a long way, and finding something you’re passionate about will give you strength.

Watch Karen’s story and be inspired by her journey of resilience and purpose.