After 19 years working as a hairdresser, including owning her own salon, Forbes local Jade Acheson had surpassed her wildest dreams and felt she had achieved everything she could in the industry.
As the mother of three slowly grew tired of the physically demanding work and long hours associated with being a hairdresser, she craved a challenging and rewarding new career.
This was when Ms. Acheson, a proud Wiradjuri woman, turned to VERTO’s Forbes jobactive team, hoping to find a role where she could immerse herself in her culture while giving back to her local community.
VERTO jobactive consultant Carlee Davis saw the perfect opportunity to connect Ms Acheson with Binaal Billa, a local family violence prevention legal service auspice by Yoorana Gunya Family Healing Centre.
“I could tell Jade had a knack with people and spoke with a genuine heart, which comes above all else when employing someone who will be working with women impacted by domestic violence,” Binaal Billa Program Coordinator, Debbie Gaudie, said when she interviewed Ms. Acheson for the role of Community Support Worker.
“Our clients loved Jade from their first meeting. Taking a chance and hiring her has been one of the best decisions our organisation has made.”
Ms. Acheson has already made a positive impact in her role at Binaal Billa. Since starting in August last year, she has been promoted to a full-time position while she completes a nationally accredited Certificate III in Community Services course through VERTO Training Services.
“My kids are always excited to hear about what I am doing, and when I told them I was offered the full-time position, they said they were incredibly proud of me,” Ms. Acheson said.
“It was very scary to move into a new job with a totally new skill set. I felt as if I was not going to be smart enough, but I have learnt that you can do anything you set your mind to.
“Studying again was certainly different as I hadn’t studied since my second year of hairdressing, but I’m really looking forward to completing this course with VERTO, and next, I hope to study counselling.”
VERTO CEO Ron Maxwell knows the importance of regional support services like Binaal Billa and is proud VERTO helped Ms Acheson fulfill her career aspirations.
“According to the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research, domestic violence incidents have been increasing due to the impacts of COVID-19 and have always been prevalent in Western NSW,” said Mr. Maxwell.
“Reskilling passionate local job seekers like Jade for important community support positions will make a significant difference for many people in need in small regional communities like Forbes.
“Jade’s story really is an inspiring one. She is proof that no matter how long you have been doing something, there are always new and exciting career options out there that really can be life-changing.”
For more information on how VERTO can help you reach your career goals, phone 1300 4 VERTO (1300 483 786) or email
