Words for the young (and the rest of us): Franchesca Isla on And Still

Posted on 16 March, 2026

When we last spoke to Franchesca Isla in 2024, she was just getting started.

The 2023 Lifeline Canberra Rising Women of Spirit, counsellor for Toora Women Inc and founder of bullying prevention charity Brave program for Bully Zero Australia had just opened her own counselling practice, Evergreen. She has also published her very first book, notes to my daughters.

In the last two years, Franchesca hasn’t slowed down.

Giving birth to a baby boy while continuing to champion those who can’t always speak for themselves, she’s recently set her sights on something a little bit different: writing a children’s book.

“And Still is a story about being loved exactly as you are. While the book is written for children, the conclusion offers a gentle nod to caregivers,” Franchesca explains.

“The idea for And Still developed gradually. Through my work as a social worker and my own experience of raising young children, I became increasingly aware of how important it is for children to feel safe and seen – especially when life feels uncertain.”

Sitting at the intersection of family, mental health, and trauma-informed practice, the concept for And Still was born from Franchesca’s desire to create something “gentle” that could reassure children that they are always loved, particularly during times of change and uncertainty.

Illustrated by her own children, the book aims to remind families that it’s okay to hold many feelings at once – that both children and adults can feel strong and overwhelmed, brave and scared.

“Life is rarely simple or predictable for anyone. People do not need to be experiencing extreme circumstances to struggle or question their worth,” she explains.

“At the same time, many families are navigating significant challenges, including mental health struggles, financial stress, or trauma. Because of this, it is so important that both children and adults know they are worthy and enough as they are.”

“That message does not change depending on what someone is going through. And Still is intended to gently hold that truth.”

The book will be launched on Friday 27 March at The Learning Nest Co. in Tuggeranong. For Franchesca And Still is way to continue using her voice and platform to encourage Canberrans to fight against the stigma of abuse and mental health challenges.

And in a world that feels more overwhelming each passing day, the book couldn’t come at a better time.

“The message of And Still is especially needed right now, as many young people are growing up amid uncertainty and emotional strain,” explains Franchesca.

“Knowing they are unconditionally loved can shape the trajectory of their lives and positively influence generations to come.”

Following the birth of her son – a season she describes as “sacred” – the last two years have been a beautiful whirlwind.

Learning how to raise her children in a way that equips them to be safe for others, while also helping to create a world that is safe for them, she says that this work has always been part of her professional life.

But becoming a mother to a son has deepened that purpose for her.

As for what’s next for Franchesca?

“I will continue balancing motherhood and my professional work while trying to contribute to the wellbeing of others,” she says.

“That includes continuing these important conversations, raising awareness, and creating resources that help people navigate the complexities and challenges of life.”

Also developing a complementary professional resource pack that will be available on the day of the book launch, it will provide practical guidance on how the book can be shared safely with children.

The pack also includes links to organisations and resources for families who may need additional support.

For more information about Franchesca and the work she does, visit evergreentherapeuticservices.au.