Hi, I’m 11 years old.

In January, I came into foster care. At first, I was really scared and upset. I didn’t know what was happening or where I was going, and that made my behaviour look a bit naughty sometimes — but really, it was me showing a lot of emotions I didn’t know how to explain because of everything that was happening. I went to a couple of foster homes that didn’t feel right for me, but then I came to the home where I live now. It’s kinder here, with nice people and lots of animals, and I feel safe.

When I was going through all of that, I learned how important it is to be brave, even when you don’t feel like it. That’s why I started Brave Bands. They are bracelets that remind you to hold strong, be brave, and keep going. My story is about surviving hard times and now starting to thrive, and I want my bracelets to inspire other people to do the same.

Here’s how it works: when you buy a Brave Band, you’re really buying two. One is for you, and the other is sent to a child who is going into foster care for the very first time. You don’t see that second band being given out, but it’s happening — and it makes a real difference to a child who needs a reminder to be brave.

When you wear a Brave Band, I hope you remember that you’re never alone, and that being brave can help you through anything.