Isabella goes from uncertainty to opportunity with the Brisbane Lions

As the Guest Relations and Retail Coordinator at the Brisbane Lions, she’s turned her lifelong passion for sport into a full-time career - and it all started with a TAFE Queensland qualification.

After finishing high school, Isabella faced the same uncertainty many school leavers do. She knew she loved sport, but the traditional four-year university path didn’t feel right.

“The first six months after school were a real period of uncertainty for me. I didn’t want to commit to uni straight away, but I also didn’t want to do something just for the sake of it,” said Isabella.

That all changed when Isabella discovered the Brisbane Lions Institute of Business and Sport, a dual diploma program delivered in partnership with TAFE Queensland.

The program combines the Diploma of Sport and the Diploma of Leadership and Management (SIS50321/BSB50420) qualifications.

Delivered in collaboration with TAFE Queensland's Academy of Sport, the dual diploma offers students the chance to study full-time at the elite Brighton Homes Arena, the official headquarters of the Brisbane Lions.

“As soon as I saw the facilities and met the staff at the information session, I just knew this was the right fit,” she explained.

From day one, students are immersed in the world of professional sport, with weekly guest speakers - including senior staff from the club’s commercial, community, football, and wellbeing teams.

Past speakers have included Senior Coach Chris Fagan, Captain Dayne Zorko, and Club Psychologist Anthony Klarica, aligning perfectly with student interest areas like coaching, mental wellbeing, and performance, offering advice and insight.

For Isabella, these moments added an incredible layer of meaning to her studies, helping lay the foundation for a career in the dynamic and fast-paced sporting industry.

“Studying in a professional sporting environment helped me feel like I belonged. My class and I weren’t just students in a classroom; we were part of the team. Even quick chats in the café or smiles in the hallway made us feel welcome.”

She credits the TAFE Queensland educators, Martin Moolman, Bianca Whife, and Stephen Meahan, for bringing decades of industry experience to the classroom, helping her thrive in the program.

“They treated us with respect and saw us as equals. Whether it was a pep talk or practical support, they were always there when we needed them, and that kind of encouragement made a huge difference,” she said.

Isabella’s favourite part of the program was the 100 hours of work-integrated learning, where she worked closely with the Lions' events team on major activations including the AFL and AFLW season launches, Club Champion night, AFL photo day, and five back-to-back home games.

“Those five weeks of match-day experience were a game changer, and I learned so much about how live sport runs behind the scenes. It really helped me build confidence and connections,” continued Isabella.

The combination of leadership training, hands-on industry experience, and team-based learning helped Isabella grow into a capable, confident young professional.

“I’m honestly a different person from when I first started. I used to be shy and unsure of myself. Now I’m working full-time in my dream field, and I even gave the student an address at graduation. That never would’ve happened without this course.”

Thanks to her standout performance during placement, Isabella was offered a full-time role at the Brisbane Lions before completing her qualification.

“Being offered a job before graduating was surreal. I get to stay connected with the club and build relationships across departments. It’s exactly where I want to be right now.”

Her goal is to become an event manager in professional sport - a dream she’s now well on her way to achieving.

“The skills I gained - like communication, emotional intelligence, leadership - all vital in this industry, and I’ll carry them with me for life.”

From being an uncertain school leaver to becoming a budding events professional with a clear career path in front of her, Isabella has a simple message for anyone unsure about where to start.

“If you’re passionate about sport and willing to put in the work, this course will open doors you didn’t know existed. It’s the best decision I’ve ever made,” concluded Isabella.