We are proud to welcome James ‘Chappo’ Chapman as an Ambassador for the 2026 Hunter Disability Expo.
James Chapman was born with Pseudoachondroplasia, a rare form of dwarfism.
“I didn’t really realise I was different until later in life,” he says. “It wasn’t until I had a big surgery on my legs that everything shifted for me.”
Today, James is known worldwide for his message “difference is dope.” He notes, “Difference needs to be celebrated and not hidden. We weren’t made to stand in…we were made to stand out.”
James openly shares that his journey hasn’t always been easy. For years, he struggled with identity, confidence, and knowing where he belonged.
“I really struggled with who I was and where my identity was. But I figured out that I can actually have a greater impact being short in stature than I ever could being average height.”
That realisation sparked a global platform. James has accumulated more than 300,000 social media followers, using digital storytelling to challenge perceptions of disability and spark conversations about gratitude and awareness. In 2024, he was also recognised as a TikTok for Good Award nominee.
Beyond social media, James is a passionate athlete and advocate. He has represented Australia at the World Dwarf Games, is a sponsored surfer, and has been invited to compete in the PARA Surfing World Championships. Alongside sport and content creation, James is a youth pastor at The Grainery Church, where he works closely with young people to help them grow into their full potential.
As the Expo Ambassador, James is most excited about connection, meeting people, sharing stories, and learning from others in the community.
“I’m excited to see the people and hopefully share a bit of my story and impact how people think about their own disability, or their clients, or what they’re already doing,” he says.
“It’s important for us to come to events like this so we can continually educate ourselves. A lot of people aren’t aware of my disability until they see me or talk to me, and I know I’m probably not aware of a lot of other disabilities either. Coming to an Expo like this helps us understand what other people go through and how different our walks of life can be.”
The Hunter Disability Expo brings together hundreds of disability service providers, support organisations, and community groups across the Newcastle and Hunter region, offering access to NDIS supports, allied health, assistive technology, housing, education, employment, recreation, and more.
Catch James live on stage on Friday, 8 May at 11:00 am.
Held in Entertainment Centre, Friday 8 & Saturday 9 May, the Expo is free to attend. Register at www.hunterdisabilityexpo.com.au.