As told to Amity Delaney
Photo Julian Kingma

Armed with my CA qualification, I moved to London on a skilled migrant visa [in 2008] and then, eventually, to New York [doing various roles at global advertising agency Grey].

Before returning to Melbourne in 2018, my husband and I took a year out to travel in South America. This experience gave me the space and perspective to rethink what I was doing with my skills. I wanted to use what I’d learned to help others who’d had much tougher journeys.

Most women in prison have been convicted of non-violent crimes, but many themselves have been victims of violence (about 87%). Prison Network aims to support these women to live a life of dignity, hope and purpose.

Our in-prison programs focus on building positive connections. One-on-one mentoring and support programs are offered both inside and outside prison. Our volunteers work alongside the women as they navigate complex systems to access support with housing, health and wellbeing, employment and community engagement.

Picture: Jayde Taylor CA.

Over its 75 years – it started at Pentridge Prison – hundreds of women have gained meaningful employment, been reunited with their children and now live positive lives because of the work of Prison Network.

One of Prison Network’s defining qualities is its long-term commitment to the women it supports. In my role as treasurer on the board – I joined at the start of 2019 – I provide financial oversight and strategic guidance. My focus is ensuring the organisation grows sustainably so it’s able to provide continuing assistance to the women.

It’s rewarding to give back, especially when I hear the success stories. A week rarely goes by when we don’t hear a story of a woman we supported years ago, who touches base just to let us know what she is doing now and to once again say thank you.

“A week rarely goes by when we don’t hear a story of a woman we supported years ago, who touches base just to let us know what she is doing now and once again say thank you.”

My CA qualification has given me a pathway and I want to contribute to giving women in prison a pathway as well.

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