At Wholegreen Bakery’s Alexandria kitchen, the air is filled with the smell of fresh pastry, warm bread, and early morning focus. Among trays of gluten free treats and the steady hum of production, two Breakthru Disability Employment Services clients, Andrew and Tan, are now essential members of the team.
Their stories are about more than employment. They’re about opportunity, inclusion, and what happens when people are given the right environment to thrive.
Their stories are about more than employment. They’re about opportunity, inclusion, and what happens when people are given the right environment to thrive.
Andrew’s story
When Andrew Guo first started at Wholegreen, the commercial kitchen felt big and unfamiliar. He joined the team just two days a week, gradually learning the routines with the help of Laurelle, the Production Manager, and a team that welcomed him with encouragement.
These days, Andrew is in the kitchen most of the week, arriving at 8am to check the task board before diving into a wide range of duties, from glazing pastries and filling pies to packing orders and assembling cake boxes.
One small but thoughtful accommodation stands out. The team worked around Andrew’s strong dislike of olives, helping him avoid dishes that might make him uncomfortable. It’s a simple adjustment, but it reflects a culture of respect and support.
“I never thought I’d be working in a bakery,” Andrew says with a grin. “But now I look forward to it. I feel like I’m good at something, and that means a lot.”
These days, Andrew is in the kitchen most of the week, arriving at 8am to check the task board before diving into a wide range of duties, from glazing pastries and filling pies to packing orders and assembling cake boxes.
One small but thoughtful accommodation stands out. The team worked around Andrew’s strong dislike of olives, helping him avoid dishes that might make him uncomfortable. It’s a simple adjustment, but it reflects a culture of respect and support.
“I never thought I’d be working in a bakery,” Andrew says with a grin. “But now I look forward to it. I feel like I’m good at something, and that means a lot.”
Tan's story
Tan Si joined the Wholegreen team more recently, bringing with him years of experience as a cabinet maker and former bakery owner in Marrickville. Despite being new to the Australian workforce and still learning English, Tan’s confidence and sharp practical skills speak for themselves.
Working three days a week, sometimes four shorter shifts, Tan has quickly become a go-to team member, focused, efficient, and incredibly capable. He’s built strong connections within the bakery, always up for a friendly chat and often the one putting on 80s and 90s hits, especially Celine Dion.
“I like coming here. Everyone is kind. It feels comfortable,” he says modestly, his pride showing more in his work than his words.
Working three days a week, sometimes four shorter shifts, Tan has quickly become a go-to team member, focused, efficient, and incredibly capable. He’s built strong connections within the bakery, always up for a friendly chat and often the one putting on 80s and 90s hits, especially Celine Dion.
“I like coming here. Everyone is kind. It feels comfortable,” he says modestly, his pride showing more in his work than his words.
Grace
For Andrew, Tan, and the Wholegreen team, success isn’t just about perfect pastries. It’s found in the small wins, the confidence that builds over time, and the sense of pride that comes from being part of something real. Because when people are supported to show up as themselves, to be seen, valued, and included, everyone rises.
