At 19, Nioka Bush comes alive when she’s being creative. Whether she’s sketching, singing, or exploring new artistic ideas, she thrives on self-expression and loves giving her all. But when she first joined Breakthru’s School Leaver Employment Supports program in Dubbo, her confidence was low, and stepping into new environments felt intimidating.
“I was shy and worried about meeting new people and whether I’d be able to form connections,” Nioka recalls. Having had disappointing experiences with school placements, she also feared facing rejection again.
With guidance from her mentor Brad Croxon and the Breakthru Dubbo team, Nioka gradually began to find her stride. One-on-one mentoring sessions helped her set goals, reflect on her strengths, and gain a clearer sense of direction. Group programs offered a safe space to build practical skills and improve communication, while drama workshops became her stage to perform without pressure and just be herself. Social lunches brought together her love of food with the opportunity to meet new friends.
Brad has watched her transformation with pride.
“Nioka’s confidence, self-esteem, and self-belief have grown tremendously. She no longer feels she has to ‘mask’ who she is. She speaks her mind, advocates for herself, and embraces new opportunities.”
A key turning point came through work experience in childcare. Nioka quickly felt at home in the nurturing environment, supporting children as they learned and played. She felt a surge of pride when she mastered tasks she had once doubted, like changing a nappy. Volunteering at a local school added another layer of growth, letting her encourage kindergarten students with their reading and see the impact of her support firsthand.
These experiences have sparked a strong interest in early childhood education. Nioka is now looking ahead to formal training and the possibility of building a career in childcare, while remaining open to exploring other opportunities that align with her creativity and strengths.
“I was shy and worried about meeting new people and whether I’d be able to form connections,” Nioka recalls. Having had disappointing experiences with school placements, she also feared facing rejection again.
With guidance from her mentor Brad Croxon and the Breakthru Dubbo team, Nioka gradually began to find her stride. One-on-one mentoring sessions helped her set goals, reflect on her strengths, and gain a clearer sense of direction. Group programs offered a safe space to build practical skills and improve communication, while drama workshops became her stage to perform without pressure and just be herself. Social lunches brought together her love of food with the opportunity to meet new friends.
Brad has watched her transformation with pride.
“Nioka’s confidence, self-esteem, and self-belief have grown tremendously. She no longer feels she has to ‘mask’ who she is. She speaks her mind, advocates for herself, and embraces new opportunities.”
A key turning point came through work experience in childcare. Nioka quickly felt at home in the nurturing environment, supporting children as they learned and played. She felt a surge of pride when she mastered tasks she had once doubted, like changing a nappy. Volunteering at a local school added another layer of growth, letting her encourage kindergarten students with their reading and see the impact of her support firsthand.
These experiences have sparked a strong interest in early childhood education. Nioka is now looking ahead to formal training and the possibility of building a career in childcare, while remaining open to exploring other opportunities that align with her creativity and strengths.
Nikola
Brad agrees wholeheartedly. “Nioka has built strong friendships, developed her independence, and discovered her strengths. She has so much to offer, and the future looks incredibly bright.”
