It seemed almost serendipitous that Involvement Specialist and Support Worker, Jasmine came into customer Jess’ life during a transitional stage for Jess. Having lost her father nine years before, Jess had been learning to do many new things herself and was at a point where she was leaning into new challenges and opportunities.
As a child, Jess’ parents were always protective of their daughter due to her reliance on her wheelchair. Jess said that although it came from a place of love, this safeguarding didn’t serve her well in the long term as Jess had to have, what she describes as “a crash course in becoming an adult” after her father passed.
This sheltering, mixed with years of anxiety, kept Jess in her safe space and away from many beautiful opportunities life has to offer.
Meet Jess
Saying ‘yes’ to life
Jess had been an Avivo customer for around five years when Jasmine contacted her. Jasmine read a story that Jess wrote – an observational piece during one of our COVID lockdowns. Intrigued to learn more about Jess and to check on her wellbeing, Jasmine contacted her, and a relationship was sparked.
As Jasmine got to know Jess and saw her many strengths and passionate views, she told her about an opportunity to join the new Avivo Council and suggested that she may be a good fit. The Council sees customers collaborate with Avivo’s decision-makers around strategic goals and the organisation’s direction.
This resonated deeply with Jess and her values and propelled her from her comfort zone. She’s since taken on some fulfilling and positive experiences – many of which have been through Avivo. Not only is she part of the Avivo Council, Jess now also co-facilitates new colleague training sessions, has been part of an Avivo photoshoot and participated with in events with Avivo such as Pride Parade.
Jess is living her purpose and sharing her story as a person with lived experience of a disability and as an Avivo customer.
Meet Jasmine
Amplifying voices
Part of Jasmine’s role is to share the voices of customers so they’re not only heard but amplified throughout the organisation. Jess’ voice is now one that our executive team are plenty familiar with and eager to listen to.
“What I love about my role as an Involvement Specialist and Support Worker is that I get to know some incredible humans who come into a space to share their lived experience,” said Jasmine.
“They are vulnerable and honest and want to contribute, learn and to make a difference.
“Jess has been a big part of that. Working with her is a joy and I feel incredibly privileged to be a part of what we’re achieving together.”