Qtopia Sydney, the home of Queer storytelling, is proud to announce Abbie Jane (she/her) as its inaugural Youth Ambassador. At just 15 years old, Abbie is already a powerful advocate and change-maker for the LGBTQIA+ community, demonstrating the influence and importance of youth voices in shaping a more inclusive and compassionate future.
Abbie’s journey began in 2022 in Broken Hill when, at just 12 years old, she founded the Rainbow Shoelace Project. This initiative, which started with giving away rainbow beads to wear on shoelaces in support of the LGBTQIA+ community, has continued to grow. To date, over 300,000 packets of beads have been distributed across Australia, spreading a message of love, inclusion and equality.
Abbie’s advocacy has earned her widespread recognition, including the Young Achiever Award at the ACON Honour Awards, Regional Entrepreneur of the Year at the Teens in Business Awards and a “One to Watch” title at the NSW Women of the Year Awards. She has represented the Rainbow Shoelace Project at major events, including Sydney World Pride 2023 and the Pride in Practice conference in 2023 and 2024.
Now, as Youth Ambassador for Qtopia Sydney, Abbie will play a pivotal role in the organisation’s mission to educate and empower young Australians. “Qtopia Sydney is so important to me because it aligns with everything I believe in. By having a youth ambassador, Qtopia Sydney is ensuring young people’s opinions are heard and shared. I’m honoured to be that person and can’t wait to work alongside their wonderful team,” said Abbie.
Abbie’s work in Broken Hill has inspired Qtopia Sydney to explore how they can spread their mission across regional Australia, ensuring young people in rural areas have access to vital messages of inclusion and belonging. This vision will come to life in an exciting initiative set to roll out soon, bringing Qtopia Sydney’s message to schools and communities across the country. Stay tuned for more details on the upcoming regional program.
“Abbie’s passion and drive are inspirational, and it has inspired us to expedite our regional education programs. Her work with the Rainbow Shoelace Project and her unwavering advocacy for equality aligns perfectly with our mission. Together, we will amplify the voices of young people in the LGBTQIA+ community and foster a future of respect and inclusivity. This has become one of our top priorities, especially in regional areas,” said Greg Fisher, CEO of Qtopia Sydney.
Through Abbie’s ambassadorship, Qtopia Sydney aims to continue to solidify the organisation’s belief that education saves lives and that every person, regardless of age or geography, deserves to feel seen and valued.
For more information about Qtopia Sydney’s education programs, visit www.qtopiasydney.com.au/programs/education/
