Jess grew up in a big proud Aboriginal family, connected to culture, on country, involved in her community and fortunate enough to witness strong community governance and leadership through effective Elders.

Jess has based her career on the belief that as Aboriginal people we have always known the solutions for our communities and possess the ability to lead them. Jess began her career as a high school teacher and then worked in the higher education and not-for-profit sectors over the past 15 years. She is passionate about Indigenous governance and leadership and seeing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities thrive.

Jess also serves as Co-Chair of Outward Bound Australia, External Co-Chair of the GHD RAP Advisory Committee and in various other advisory roles supporting DFAT, Philanthropy Australia, Monash University and Optus.