Challenging disability

Up & Over
Passionate. Proactive. Ambitious

Christian Barwell gives over 100 teenagers and adults with disabilities on the Northern Beaches an opportunity to do activities many people take for granted – like visiting a restaurant with a group of friends.

Christian’s younger sister, Emma, grew up with a disability. This experience gave him insight into how society can further disable people, and how people can achieve their goals and dreams if given the proper support. Driven to make a positive difference, he launched Up & Over last year after completing his Bachelor of Business degree.

Up & Over arranges fun and engaging social outings like mini-golf, rock climbing and restaurant visits at which people build friendships with peers in their own age group.

Christian not only provides a caring and engaging service, but he also builds genuine connection with all participants.

Crucially, Christian’s work also helps to change community perceptions around people with disabilities. He believes there is no limit to what people can achieve with appropriate support.

Christian feels honoured to be nominated as a Westfield Local Hero. “It motivates me to keep putting smiles on people’s faces and to put the work we do in the spotlight so that society can become more educated and inclusive.”

Westfield Local Heroes are nominated and voted for by their communities, with the three top finalists per Westfield centre each awarded a $10,000 grant for their affiliated organisation. Up & Over will put its funds towards purchasing an accessible minivan for outings.

For further information on the Westfield Local Heroes program, click here