Lucy’s story: “I created the representation I needed”
Lola was born with a strawberry birthmark. Here, her mum Lucy talks about the importance of representation and the birthmark community.
Real stories
Read or listen to real stories from people affected by visible difference, their parents and families, as well as Changing Faces staff and volunteers. Inspired to share your story? We’d love to hear it – share your story now.
All stories
Charlotte and Arlo’s story: “Arlo is beautiful, just the way he is”
Arlo was born with two types of birthmarks. His mum, Charlotte, worries about how people might react, but her focus is ensuring that Arlo loves himself as he is.
Rowan’s story: “We need to challenge unconscious judgements”
Rowan has experienced unwanted advice and unkind comments because of her acne. Now she wants to deconstruct the biases that people often have around the condition.
Eden’s story: “I learned to value my uniqueness”
Eden is a filmmaker with the condition CMTC. Her latest work, ‘Paper Tiger’, explores the experiences of people who look different and encourages acceptance.
Anthony Lexa: “Beauty isn’t skin deep.”
Anthony Lexa, best known for playing Abbi on Sex Education, opens up about her journey with Topical Steroid Withdrawal. Inspired by her healing, she’s launched a merchandise line, with proceeds supporting Changing Faces.
Placing respect at the heart of conversations around visible difference
This Anti-Bullying Week, Hannah explains how we can choose respect when talking to people with visible differences.
Reuben’s story: “Embrace Your Uniqueness”
Reuben, a model and advocate with vitiligo, shares his journey of embracing his skin condition and using it to promote diversity, equity, and mental health awareness.
Poor representation is the scariest part of Halloween
Our campaigner John talks about why it’s so important to keep costumes and props inclusive at Halloween.
Oliver’s story: “Stand against appearance-based discrimination”
Oliver’s story of being refused service at a local eatery shows we’ve still a long way to go in reducing intolerance and promoting equality.
Karen’s story: “Everyone is different, there’s nothing wrong with that”
Karen had her breasts removed due to cancer. She wants people to be more aware of the emotional impact that this can have.
Rhiannon’s story: “Prioritise your mental health at work”
Rhiannon shares how her visible difference has affected her mental health, in early life and in work.
Kate’s story: “I wouldn’t change that I was born with a birthmark”
Kate has experienced inappropriate comments and stares because of her visible difference. She hopes education will ensure others don’t go through this in the future.