Author Samantha Warne

Samantha Warne is a Disability Support Worker and musician from Perth, Western Australia. Samantha has found joy in combining her passion for music, drama and creative writing with her career as a support worker. She loves to empower her clients through the dramatic arts and loves exploring new creative way to help them thrive as active members of the community. In 2017, Samantha was nominated for an award at the WA Disability Support Awards and received runner-up in her category for Excellence in Individual Support. She has also been nominated for an award in Excellence in Advocacy and Rights Promotion. She is currently studying a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy. In her spare time, Samantha sings in her cover band Eden Fire. She loves playing music, going to the beach, going camping with friends, travelling and eating. A Friend Like Mine was written as a dedication to her client Fletcher Garrett, a young boy who lives with cerebral palsy. One of Samantha and Fletcher's favourite things to do together is read books. While supporting Fletcher, Samantha noticed that individuals with disabilities are underrepresented in children's literature. Samantha felt that her book could help raise awareness and act as a tool to facilitate dialogues about social inclusivity and celebrating the strengths of those living with a disability. You can find Samantha on her Facebook page Samantha J Warne.