Every parent hopes their child will have the opportunity to build an independent and fulfilling future.
When Mitchell's mum heard about VERTO's Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA) program during a visit to Glenray, a local organisation providing NDIS services and support for people with disability, she knew it could be the support her son needed.
Mitchell had been attending one of Glenray's learning programs when the VERTO team visited to share how the Inclusive Employment Australia program helps people with disability build confidence, prepare for work and find meaningful employment. After learning more about the program, his mum reached out, hoping it would help Mitchell take the next step towards greater independence.
That decision marked the beginning of a journey that would see the 20-year-old from Bathurst discover new skills, grow in confidence, and find a workplace where he truly belongs.
From their very first meeting, Employment Consultant Susan Bowman saw a quiet young man who simply needed someone to believe in him.
"Mitchell was very shy when we first met," Susan said. "He didn't say a lot, but he always turned up and was willing to learn. Over time, it was wonderful to watch him become more confident."
Together, they worked on building a resume and getting Mitchell job-ready.
At the same time, Mitchell began attending Café on Corporation one day each week. The local not-for-profit café supports people with disability through practical learning, work experience and employment opportunities. There, Mitchell has been strengthening his reading, writing and maths skills while learning everyday tasks such as recognising and using money.
By the time an opportunity became available with Woolworths, an employer committed to creating inclusive employment opportunities, Mitchell was ready.
Susan made sure Mitchell felt supported every step of the way. From helping him prepare for his interview and providing suitable interview clothing, to organising work clothes and boots once he secured the role, Mitchell had everything he needed to begin his new chapter.
Since joining the Woolworths warehouse team in March 2025 as a Grocery Packer, Mitchell has flourished.
He now works three days a week, often accepts extra shifts when they're available, and has formed genuine friendships with the people he works alongside.
"I really enjoy working there," Mitchell said. "Everyone's been really nice to me, and I've made some good friends."
Susan says the biggest change hasn't just been seeing Mitchell in a work uniform, it's seeing the person he's become.
"These days Mitchell chats away during our appointments," she said. "He's really come out of his shell, and you can see how proud he is of what he's achieved."
Susan has witnessed that transformation firsthand during visits to Mitchell's workplace.
"Mitchell takes pride in what he does," she said. "He listens, works hard, treats everyone with respect, and has become a valued member of the team."
For Mitchell, having a job has been about much more than earning a wage. It has helped him become more independent, build friendships and find a place where he feels valued and supported.
His story is a reminder that personal growth doesn't happen overnight. With the right support, opportunities and people who believe in you, even the smallest steps can lead to lasting change.
For more information about the Inclusive Employment Australia program, contact VERTO on 1300 483 786 or visit https://www.verto.org.au/employment-services/inclusive-employment-australia.
