Young Achiever with disability challenges the narrative
Monique Kelly is a testament to what is possible for a person living with disability and has been recognised as a ‘Young Achiever’ and ‘Local Legend’ in 2 different awards categories.
Monique, of Logan Reserve, placed 5th out of 450 applicants for the 7News QLD Young Achiever Awards in the category of Overcoming Adversity in Sport.
She is also a current finalist in the Queensland Community Achievement Awards for 2025, in the Royal On The Park Logan Legend Award category. Her recognition as a finalist is for being ‘a dedicated and compassionate community volunteer whose lifelong commitment to helping others shines through everything she does’.
The judges noted Monique has spent 15 years devoted to helping the Cancer Council, and 3 years helping animal shelters and wildlife conservation causes, saying: ‘Alongside her ongoing studies, university mentoring and volunteering, Monique manages multiple chronic health conditions and disabilities while competing in disability dance and cheer which she has multiple national titles for. Her strength, empathy, and advocacy make her an inspiring role model who champions inclusiveness, diversity, equality, and accessibility within her community.’
The local athlete hopes to shift the narrative and amplify her story of achievement to show that talent, dedication, and resilience is not defined by disability.
‘Too often, society underestimates the potential of people with disabilities, framing them through a lens of limitation rather than capability,’ Monique says.
Now a committed performer with Elite Cheer in Meadowbrook and All Abilities Australia in Kenmore and Coopers Plains, Monique has not only faced the physical challenges of her disabilities, but also the social obstacles of bullying and discrimination.
Told by doubters she may never succeed in dance or cheerleading, Monique chose to transform adversity into motivation.
She competes in both team and solo routines, while consistently achieving strong results.
Monique says she hopes her award recognition will inspire others to follow their dreams.
The Community Achievement Awards will be announced on 21 November, 2025.
