For as long as he can remember, Jess Gislingham has dreamed of working for the Western Bulldogs. He attends every training session, knows the AFL players by name, and proudly calls the club his home. In February 2026, that dream finally became real.

It marks the end of a determined journey supported by CVGT Employment, the Western Bulldogs, and Jess’s own belief in his future.

A dream guided by persistence and teamwork

Jess has Down syndrome and first connected with CVGT Employment through a disability specialist program, and as services evolved, so did the people around him. His mother, Carol, stayed closely involved and helped keep his goal clear for everyone supporting him. This brought more structure, regular check‑ins, and a shared commitment to helping Jess reach the club he loved.

With renewed momentum, CVGT Calder ESA Manager Vittoria Coviello focused on making his dream a reality.

I focused on what mattered most, Jess and his dream.

Vittoria Coviello
CVGT Employment Calder ESA Manager – Inclusive Employment Australia

Vittoria visited the Bulldogs, introduced herself, and made sure Jess’s story was heard. Her persistence led to a meeting with the Bulldogs General Manager.

We have really valued getting to know Jess and, with CVGT’s support, partnering to shape a role that enables him to grow and contribute meaningfully within our workplace.

Sophie Porra
General Manager People and Culture, Western Bulldogs

From that moment, everything shifted. Jess made an immediate impression and soon after received a personal phone call from his favourite player, telling him he’d been successful.

Shaping a role where Jess can thrive

The Bulldogs worked closely with CVGT to create a role that plays to Jess’s strengths and gives him room to grow.

As part of the equipment team, Jess supports Mitch with all the practical tasks that keep the football program running smoothly. He helps prepare equipment for training and game day, including organising jerseys, footies, socks and shorts. He also packs the players’ bags, keeps the property room tidy and makes sure everything is in the right place for when the team needs it.

Jess’s manager, Mitch, embraced the opportunity to welcome him into the team.

It’s great working with Jess. He brings a different energy to the building.

Mitch Wallis
Equipment Manager and Football Operations Support, Western Bulldogs

“He’s very open and kind. Even though he’s new, he’s made everyone feel comfortable, like they’re at home.”

To help Jess succeed, the club introduced small adjustments such as sorting socks into left and right piles and laminating number sheets so he can easily check jersey details. According to Mitch, these changes were simple but made a big difference.

“These changes weren’t hard to make, but they really help,” Mitch said.

When asked what he’d say to other employers, he added, “Be more open and embrace it.”

Support that builds confidence

Mitch said having CVGT Work Support Mentor Marta on site has been a huge support.

“I thought I wouldn’t be able to do my everyday managerial tasks,” he said.

But with Marta here to support Jess, I can run around and do other things. I know he’s being supported.

Mitch Wallis
Equipment Manager and Football Operations Support, Western Bulldogs

Jess feels that support too.

“Marta has good ideas, is very smart, and asks if I need help — and helps me,” he said.

He also remembers the work that helped him get here.

“Vittoria would go to all the meetings and she was very helpful.”

Since starting at the club, Jess has already begun to grow in confidence.

“Jess is more confident and speaking up more,” Marta said. “He feels comfortable and feels as though he’s at home.”

She has been inspired by his determination.

“He has the mindset to complete every task he’s given, even the challenging ones.”

Finding his place in a family club

When asked what he loves most about the job, Jess smiles.

“It feels like home — a family club,” he said. “I love the community and being with the boys.”

He also has simple advice for anyone chasing their own goals.

Keep following your goals and dreams. Focus on your career!

Jess
Western Bulldogs team member, CVGT Inclusive Employment Australia participant

A year of persistence, partnership and belief

This placement took a year of planning, teamwork and gentle communication with everyone involved — including Jess’s family, who are deeply supportive. The result is something special: Jess now works meaningful hours each week, contributing to the club he loves, with CVGT beside him as he grows toward independence.

As Marta puts it:

CVGT Employment will help you succeed in building confidence and gaining stable employment, with all supports included.

Marta
CVGT Work Support Mentor, Inclusive Employment Australia

Jess is proof of what persistence, partnership and belief can achieve.

Celebrating World Down Syndrome Day 2026

We’re sharing Jess’s story to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day, 21 March 2026, a global awareness day to advocate for the rights, inclusion and wellbeing of people with Down syndrome.

At CVGT Employment, we see every day how inclusive workplaces, supportive teams, and genuine community connections can transform lives.

Employment plays a powerful role in combating loneliness by creating belonging, purpose, friendships, and confidence. We support individuals with Down syndrome to connect to meaningful work through our Inclusive Employment Australia program.

Inclusive Employment Australia puts you, the Participant at the centre of the service to help create a more inclusive future. It gives people with a disability, injury or health condition the support to prepare for, find and maintain work, and grow their career.

Learn more about World Down Syndrome Day 2026 here