Kate Foster

Author, Inspirational Speaker, Social Issues

Kate is an engaging and passionate speaker and presenter who shares openly with her audience, be those children or adults, about neurodiversity and mental health, as well as her writing process. Her goal is always to encourage a wider understanding via a positive approach and representation that works towards true inclusion.

Where were you born?

I grew up working class on a council estate in a small town in Kent, UK before moving to an even smaller village on the outskirts of town to start my own family. I moved to the beautiful Gold Coast in 2014 and have never felt more at home.

What other jobs have you had?

After finding school and college far too overwhelming, I dropped out and had many a job in childcare, travel, health care, and telecommunications before pursuing my dream of working in children’s publishing. And this is firmly where I belong. Though I took the scenic route to arrive here, the life skills and experience I gathered along way have made me who I am!

What themes are recurring in your work?

Every book I write stars an autistic character and through authentic storytelling, I touch on the neurodivergent experience, as well as mental health and wellbeing. I also love to write about friends and family, not to mention my special interest – dogs!

What have been the highlights of your career?

It’s been an honour to have received several award listings, as well as a couple of wins, but nothing beats a child, or grown up, telling me they have felt seen and accepted after reading my books. Hearing that a child has started a kindness club and how others now understand their neurodivergent peers better is why I keep writing books!

Where have your works been published?

My books are currently published in Australia and New Zealand, the UK and the USA.

What are you passionate about?

Other than my special interest being dogs, I am passionate about giving people a chance and platform to he heard, to be listened to, but also to listen and learn about the lives of others different to them. As an autistic person and mother of an autistic child, I know how much of a battle asking for change can be and I am always seeking positive solutions and spaces for inclusivity to become natural and organic.

Haven’t I Seen You Before?

Probably! I am often found rambling away on social media (@kfosterauthor), but on top of this I run Author Pen Pals, an initiative that pairs authors and illustrators with students across the country, as well as being the founder of the ASLA Diversity in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand Children’s Book Award.