For Isabella Brewster, getting back into work wasn’t just about finding a job, it was about finding her confidence again.
After 18 months out of the workforce, the 29-year-old from Dubbo connected with VERTO’s Workforce Australia program in March 2025. Supported by Case Manager Amy Isbister, Isabella was navigating personal challenges, including her mental health, which at times made it difficult to stay engaged. Like many people in a similar position, the path forward didn’t always feel clear.
With consistent support and encouragement, Isabella started working more closely with Amy, taking steps forward at her own pace.
“Isabella has shown incredible resilience,” Amy said. “It hasn’t been a straight line, but she kept coming back, kept trying, and that’s what made the difference.”
A real turning point came in February 2026.
Isabella came into the VERTO office ready to make a change. From there, she was referred to Passionate Life Solutions, a local provider delivering counselling and personal development support. Isabella began attending weekly sessions, building a stronger foundation and working through barriers that had previously held her back.
At the same time, she enrolled in VERTO’s Laptop to Launch digital skills course, where she learned how to search for jobs online, complete applications, and navigate the digital side of the employment process.
With growing confidence and new skills, Isabella began applying for roles independently. One application stood out, a position at Taronga Western Plains Zoo, working outdoors as part of the team caring for the zoo environment.
“I’ve always loved animals and working with plants, so when I saw the job come up, I just had to apply,” Isabella said. “I didn’t think I’d actually get it, but I really wanted to give it a go.”
Just a week after completing the course, Isabella received a call to interview.
She returned to the VERTO office to speak with Amy about the opportunity, working through pre-employment requirements, including medicals and essential checks. Isabella took the initiative to organise everything herself, with VERTO supporting her by reimbursing the costs and removing any financial barriers.
“We were so excited for her just to get the interview,” Amy said. “Seeing how far she had come at that point was already a huge achievement.”
Not long after, Isabella received the news she had been hoping for. She had secured the role.
Now working full-time as a First Year Horticultural Apprentice with Taronga Conservation Society at Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Isabella is doing what she once dreamed of.
“I love it,” she said. “Being outside, working with animals, learning something new every day… it doesn’t even feel like work sometimes. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do, so it’s pretty amazing to be here.”
With ongoing support from VERTO, including help with work clothing and shoes, Isabella had everything she needed to get started and settle into her new role.
Since starting, she has made a strong impression. Her employer has even reached out to VERTO with glowing feedback, asking if there might be “another Isabella” available.
For Amy, seeing Isabella thrive has been incredibly rewarding.
“She’s put in the work and it’s paid off,” she said. “To see her happy, confident, and doing something she genuinely enjoys is what it’s all about.”
Isabella’s journey is a powerful reminder that progress doesn’t always happen all at once. With the right support at the right time, real and lasting change is possible.
If you’ve been out of work and are trying to find your way back, VERTO’s Workforce Australia program can support you to rebuild your confidence and find a path that feels right.
Learn more about Workforce Australia: https://www.verto.org.au/employment-services/workforce-australia
