Isabella Kristo.
NSW Extended Care Study
The Effects of Extending the Out-of-Home
Care Age to 21.
Understanding the Outcomes of Extended Care Policy and Legislation in New South Wales
About the lead researcher Isabella:
Driven by a mission to create positive change, Isabella is a PhD candidate at the University of Sydney, with over 18 years of experience in the field of social work. Currently, she works as an accredited mental health social worker at Armchair Psychology. In this role, Isabella employs a blend of collaboration, client-centered strategies, and evidence-based psychological techniques. Beyond this, she also imparts knowledge as a casual academic tutor at the University of Sydney for the Sydney School of Education and Social Work. Additionally, Isabella is a CoRIT member for INTRAC (The International Research Network on Transitions to Adulthood from Care) representing Australia. As a CoRIT member, she is dedicated to collaborating and connecting with international peers on research related to leaving care. Also, since 2023, Isabella has been a Homestretch committee member. Homestretch is a national campaign formed to advocate for change to the existing leaving care arrangements for youth in foster care.
Educational Milestones
Isabella's academic journey is a testament to her commitment to the field. She completed her Master of Social Work Counselling with a High Distinction from the University of New South Wales. This was preceded by a Bachelor of Social Work. She has expanded her knowledge through participation in various additional programs and courses, notably the Politics course offered by UNSW's The Pathways to Politics Program for Women.
Professional Endeavours
From 2016 to 2022, Isabella played a pivotal role as a social worker in the Sydney Local Health District's stroke unit at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, providing vital support to stroke patients and families. She also honed her skills during a seven-year tenure at the Prince of Wales Hospital, in the acute services team.
She worked at Beyond Blue and 1800 RESPECT, providing brief counselling, referrals to mental health services, and coordinating emergency assistance for individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, sexual assault, or domestic violence.
Awards, Activities, & Publications
Isabella's contributions to the field are substantial and impactful. In 2023, she co-authored a pivotal paper titled 'Providing pathways from out-of-home care to higher education.' Prior to this, in 2021, she authored a significant paper titled 'Voicing the perspectives of stroke survivors with aphasia,' which was published in Health and Social Care. In 2020, her dedication to her work was acknowledged with a spot on the UNSW Dean’s list for Academic Excellence. For a deeper dive into Isabella's experiences, achievements, and collaborations, please feel free to explore further or get in touch.
Lived Experience Researcher
Isabella aspires to use her personal journey to support future generations entering care and advocate for the integration of lived experience at all levels of research, transforming it from merely the role of a research subject.
Through the tapestry of shared experiences and resilience, we find the courage to move forward. Together, we craft a journey of hope and transformation.
I would like to acknowledge the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation - the traditional owners of the land where my home and the University of Sydney reside. I would also like to pay my respects to Elders both past and present.
I recognise that Aboriginal culture, connection, and self-determination are critical to the health and well-being of the Aboriginal people. I am committed to working with Indigenous young people and their communities on responding appropriately to the needs of Aboriginal youth in care and care alumni in a collective and respectful way.
As care alumni, I would also like to acknowledge my brothers and sisters from all cultural and diverse backgrounds who have suffered from insufficient legislation, policy and practice that may have resulted in poor life outcomes for the individual and the greater community.