President’s Message: Reflecting on a Year of Growth, Connection, and Courage

 

As we close another incredible year at the Australia Alopecia Areata Foundation, I want to thank every member of our community for being part of this journey.

2025 has been a year of meaningful progress and heartfelt connection. Across Australia, more people than ever have shared their stories, supported one another, and helped raise awareness about Alopecia Areata. From Open Days and awareness campaigns to youth initiatives and research collaborations, every effort has strengthened our mission to empower those living with Alopecia Areata.

More conversations are happening in schools, workplaces, and homes — and that’s how change begins. Together, we’re breaking stigma, building understanding, and fostering acceptance.

To our volunteers, partners, and everyone who contributed time, energy, or resources — thank you. Your commitment keeps this foundation strong. And to every individual or family living with alopecia: know that you are seen, valued, and never alone.

For 2026, our focus remains on connection, support, and continued advocacy — creating spaces where every person with Alopecia Areata can feel confident and celebrated for who they are.

 

Chel Campbell

President, AAAF

 

Community Stories: Authenticity, Resilience, and Hope

Our community is the heart of everything we do. Here are just a few highlights from the past year:

• Oscar’s Advocacy on the Court: Tennis captain and City-to-Bay runner Oscar is sharing his success with Baricitinib to revolutionise community understanding of treatment.
• Alex’s Connection Through the Cello: Grade 6 cellist Alex finds “calm and freedom” in the school orchestra, where they are known for talent rather than hair loss.
• Jamie — Taking Flight: After receiving a sponsorship through AAAF, Jamie recently completed their first landing as a pilot. It’s a reminder that with the right support, confidence can take off in unexpected ways.
• Abigail — Confidence in Motion: Thanks to an AAAF sponsorship, Abigail trained in hip hop, tap, and jazz at The Performance Company, bringing home a troupe win and performing on Telethon.

Support more young people like Oscar and Abigail by donating here

 

Volunteers & Research Partnerships: Driving Change

We are proud to share key highlights from our ongoing research and advocacy work:

• ASAMI Study: An international framework developed to measure alopecia severity beyond hair loss, capturing the emotional and social impact.
• Clinical Trials: Ongoing studies are testing potential treatments, including JAK inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies for adults and adolescents.
• Quality-of-Life Research: Projects exploring the psychological and financial effects of alopecia on individuals and caregivers.

Learn more about our Research initiatives here

 

Events & Advocacy Highlights

• AAAdventure Camp: 95 people recently attended our camp on the Sunshine Coast! Details for the 2026 Camp will be advertised in March 2026.
• Hair Festival, ICC Sydney: AAAF attended this major annual event to educate hair and beauty professionals.
• “Partnering with Purpose” Campaign: Highlighting how collaboration drives change for Australians living with alopecia.
• “It’s Never Just Hair”: Our public message shared across social media to remind Australians that alopecia affects identity and confidence.

 

How You Can Help in 2026

Every act of support makes a difference. This year, you can:

• Donate or Fundraise: Support wig grants, youth programs, and research.
• Volunteer: Join a local branch or assist at community events.
• Partner with AAAF: Collaborate on awareness and inclusion campaigns.
• Host an Event: Run a Crazy Hair Day in your school or workplace.

 

AAAF welcomes the support of companies and organisations through sponsorship, donations, or partnerships. If you would like to help us continue our vital work for the alopecia community, please contact us today