Introducing Kirsten Busby, an exceptional Australian Blind Soprano whose extraordinary talent graces the opera world. With her stunning voice and unwavering determination, Kirsten triumphs on stage and passionately advocates for disability rights and inclusion.
Her message is simple, encapsulated in her own words: ‘We are independent people and no different from anyone else.’
With her bubbly personality, Kirsten fiercely challenges stereotypes with her voice, proving that given the right opportunities, people with disabilities can reach dazzling heights and flourish in any environment and industry.
We are incredibly proud and inspired to have Kirsten as our ambassador for the Hunter Disability Expo. A local Hunter girl who grew up and went to school in the area, she now lives alone and independently in North Parramatta with her beautiful Seeing Eye dog, Kimba, while working part-time as a braille transcriber for Vision Australia.
To Kirsten, disability isn’t a limitation but an opportunity to demonstrate independence. Her beautiful voice serves as a talented Soprano and an influential advocate for people with disabilities. Recently, she collaborated with the car-sharing company Uber to create educational videos promoting the rights of assistance dogs.
Kirsten’s advocacy work with Uber stems from her experience of having her assistant dog, Kimba, refuse entry into taxis. Now, she lends her voice to raising awareness and educating drivers that travelling with an assistance dog is a right and the law.
As a blind soprano singer, Kirsten has faced numerous challenges in her career, from directors hesitating to take risks to overcome logistical hurdles on stage. However, Kirsten’s perseverance and passion for music have propelled her forward, earning her roles in prestigious operas and garnering acclaim from audiences worldwide.
She draws inspiration from fellow advocates like Dylan Alcott, who reminds her that anything is possible with determination and a willingness to challenge the status quo.
Kirsten’s music and career have shaped her advocacy work as she also advocates for greater accessibility in the arts for people with disabilities. Her powerful performances have seen her in productions like Cavaleria Rusticana and Pirates of Penzance.
Looking ahead, Kirsten aims to continue breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes, expanding her reach as a performer and advocate. Because of this, we are so honoured and proud to have her as our ambassador for our 2024 Hunter Disability Expo.
See Kirsten on stage at the Hunter Disability Expo, Friday 10th of May from 11am.
Hunter Disability Expo
The FREE, Covid-safe My Future, My Choice Hunter Disability Expo on Friday 10 and Saturday 11 May 2024, features 140+ service and product providers from a variety of categories, including:
- Government and advocacy organisation
- Aids and equipment providers
- Financial and legal services
- Education, training, and employment providers
- Social and leisure options
- Transport and vehicles
- Health and medical products and services
- Allied health professionals
- Support services including in home care providers
Speakers will provide informative presentations and encourage you to ask questions during our stage presentations – supported by live captioning and Auslan Interpreters. Discuss the details of products and services directly with providers in an inclusive and fun environment. Enjoy the breakout areas and live, all-ability performances while sipping from your cuppa purchased at the expo café.