Lived experience takes centre stage
Zero In is a platform that amplifies the voices of people with lived experience - real stories from individuals who have encountered bullying. These personal reflections offer valuable insights, foster empathy, and highlight incredible resilience. While some stories may be emotionally impactful, many people find comfort and connection through them.
We encourage you to prioritise your mental wellbeing as you explore this platform. Take breaks if needed, and seek support if anything you read feels overwhelming.
Meet the Curator
The curator of these stories is Franchesca Isla, an accredited Social Worker, celebrated published author, award-winning human and mother. She founded Evergreen Therapeutic Services, a practice grounded in empathy and understanding. With a rich background in psychology, counselling, and social work – and informed by her own lived experience – Franchesca believes deeply in the power of words to foster self-understanding and safe action.
Learn more about Franchesca in her personal story called Human below.
Human
April 2025, written
Franchesca explores the journey of self-examination, growth and healing, shining a light on the power of empathy, and the need to forgive ourselves for being human.
Self-Forgiveness
April 2025, audio
Franchesca joins Alice Matthews on ABC’s Canberra Afternoons to explore self-forgiveness - sharing her own experience, why so many of us struggle with it, and how we can begin to offer it to ourselves.
In Conversation
In these candid interviews, we speak with individuals from all walks of life to explore how their personal and professional experiences have shaped their understanding of bullying. Their reflections help unpack how bullying evolves, where it hides, and why kindness matters.
Little humanÂ
May 2023, written
Interview with clinical psychologist - Brianna ThomasÂ
Honey over vinegar
June 2023, written
Interview with co-founder of disability employment service - Nipuni Wijewickrema
Shake it off
July 2023, written
Interview with ceo of domestic violence and homelessness service - Kellie Friend
Respect
August 2023, written
Interview with AFL umpire - Michael Baker Michael BakerMichael Baker
If you’re being bullied, or know someone that is, speak up, tell someone - because bullying is NEVER OK.
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There are many organisations that offer free services. Reach out and talk to someone.
GET HELP© Bully Zero Australia Foundation, November 2024
Donations of $2.00 or more are tax deductible in Australia provided they are made voluntarily and the donor receives no material benefit for the donation. We provide donors with official receipts for Australian tax purposes. ABN 94 160 383 406.
