Sarah Freeman – South Australia

Sarah Freeman is an exceptional leader, advocate and community champion whose life reflects courage, resilience, compassion and selfless service.

Diagnosed with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis as an infant, Sarah experienced significant vision loss as a result of severe uveitis and is now legally blind. Rather than allowing these challenges to define her future, she has dedicated her life to creating opportunities and support for others.

At just 19, Sarah founded Kids Arthritis Australia, Australia’s first organisation dedicated to supporting children and families living with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis. As Founder and CEO, she has built a national volunteer-led organisation providing education, advocacy, peer support and family programs, helping countless families feel informed, connected and supported.

Sarah is also deeply committed to her local community, regularly supporting vulnerable families, women and children experiencing hardship, and people facing mental health challenges. Her compassionate and inclusive approach has made her a trusted source of support for many.

Through her work in television, radio and podcasting, Sarah shares stories of resilience and hope, while she continues her own lifelong learning through a Bachelor of Psychology at the University of Adelaide.

Her leadership and service have been recognised through numerous honours, including Young South Australian Citizen of the Year. Sarah’s greatest impact, however, is reflected in the lives she continues to support and empower.

Sarah Freeman exemplifies the values of excellence, perseverance, courage, compassion and self-determination, demonstrating how lived experience can be transformed into meaningful and lasting contribution to the Australian community.