Our goal here is simple:

We’re here to set you up as the CEO of your very own profitable, scalable & immensely soul-filling VA business.

Because honestly, working for yourself really is that good.

We've been told that our courses have "truly changed their lives"

But really, we're equipping you with the tools, knowledge and confidence to change your own life.

Whether you're an aspiring or established virtual assistant, we created The VA Foundry to help you build a business that's even better than your vision board. Big call, we know. But we like to dream big around here ;)

Just to be clear — we’re here for the lows as much as the highs

Because it’s not all rainbows & espresso martinis.

Success requires commitment and self-belief, so our approach is a delicate mix of real talk, proven processes & strategies, and a dash of ‘woo’ to create feel-good momentum.

We tell it like it is. We provide a safe space for you to authentically open up and ask for support. We hold nothing back in terms of our own business journeys and learnings, because this is the type of invaluable insight we *wish* we had access to when starting out all those years ago.

The mentors behind the brand

We believe in the messy, magic, and all the real stuff behind business building.

Meet Marianne (an ex-teacher turned Creative VA and Online Course Expert)

I didn't set out to become a "course expert."

I started as a creative VA, designing graphics, setting up email campaigns, building websites, and helping other business owners look good online.

I had my 'ah-ha moment' listening to the Sam + Jo podcast and entered the world of online courses, where everything just clicked into place.

Today, I'm still doing that; helping coaches, consultants and experts turn their big ideas into online courses that actually sell and teach.

Meet Toyah (agency owner, systems queen, and business start-up powerhouse)

If Marianne's the creative brain, I'm the systems one.

I started as a generalist VA, doing a bit of everything, but I always knew I wanted to grow a team and a business that worked around my young family.

Over time, I learned that niching was a game-changer. That's how Shadow Administration, a tradie-focused VA agency, was born.

Today, my VA agency is an award-winning business that supports tradies across NZ, and I also run a successful building company with my husband.

Our story (and the handover)

Sam + Jo laid the foundation.

They built the VA Foundry with intention, courage, and a vision for VAs. And you'll still see their fingerprints across our courses, guides, and the shaping of the VA Foundry's DNA.

When they announced their transition in July at the Bali retreat, Toyah (who was there) called Marianne.

We talked, brainstormed, and quickly realised it was a two-woman vision in the waiting.

We met with Sam + Jo, aligned on values, dove into the existing business structure, and made an offer with deep respect for the legacy they created.

Their choice wasn't random; it was intentional. They trusted us to continue their vision while bringing in new energy and growth.

The official handover? It happened at the 2025 VA Awards in September.

So yes, this is a new chapter. But the heart, the mission, the community — those roots run deep and strong.

We believe...

There’s no such thing as a silly question

Seriously. It’s far sillier to not take advantage of the brains at your disposal. We love curious minds, the more questions the better.

Most people actually do have what it takes

But you’ve gotta work on your mindset first — particularly the one that’s partial to comparisonitis, procrastination and inaction. Prepare to say goodbye to those little suckers.

It’s 1000% worth it

Being a business owner can be challenging, but you can’t put a value on the flexibility, freedom, fun and financial gain of working for yourself.

We believe...

There’s no such thing as a silly question

Seriously. It’s far sillier to not take advantage of the brains at your disposal. We love curious minds, the more questions the better.

Most people actually do have what it takes

But you’ve gotta work on your mindset first — particularly the one that’s partial to comparisonitis, procrastination and inaction. Prepare to say goodbye to those little suckers.

It’s 1000% worth it

Being a business owner can be challenging, but you can’t put a value on the flexibility, freedom, fun and financial gain of working for yourself.

“The support and guidance you receive is amazing.

They have seen it all, tried it all, and seeing the tangible results so quickly means it’s undeniable these two ladies know what they’re talking about and are truly invested in your success.

I’ve now truly stepped into a business owner mindset, am now confident in backing myself as a virtual assistant and am part of a really supportive community.”

~ Amber Berends