Five years of Peers - Jess

When Jess left the Army after 13 years, she was eager to rediscover who she was and what she wanted out of life. 

Her own transition journey, which including joining Opens Arms’ Community and Peer Program, is now intertwined with her unwavering support for other veterans and families going down the same road. 

“My work as a Community and Peer Worker has not only allowed me to support fellow veterans and their families but has also positively impacted my own transition journey,” she said. 

“It feels incredibly rewarding to turn my experiences into a resource for those who might be struggling, and I am passionate about making a difference in the lives of others.

“I see one of the biggest benefits of what I do as helping people feel less alone and more connected. And it is fulfilling to see how sharing information and offering support can make a positive impact. This has inspired me to stay active and get involved myself.”

For Jess, leaving the military led to her stepping right outside of her comfort zone, taking on new challenges and building strong networks within new friendship communities. 

While she was hesitant at first, over the past few years she has done just that – learning to play golf, becoming a qualified Pilates instructor and a proud backyard beekeeper, caring for a thriving hive.  

With a sense of achievement and a renewed sense of confidence, Jess stresses to veterans and families the benefits of finding an interest or a group that works for them. 

“Watching veterans and families build new connections and feel empowered to pursue what matters most to them is one of the most rewarding parts of my work,” she said.

“I just say, keep trying to find something that works for you, even if you participate in one of your children’s groups, so you are doing something that connects you with a community.   

“When people realise they have others to turn to and feel a renewed sense of meaning in their lives, it can make a huge difference in their confidence, mental health and well-being.” 

As a veteran and the spouse of a veteran, she is in a unique position to understand the complexities, challenges and emotions involved in the transition from military to civilian life. 

“Some veterans can initially struggle to move forward because they are focused on what they can no longer do since leaving defence,” she explained. 

“They place a significant part of their identity and worth in their military roles, which can lead to feelings of unworthiness when they transition.

“Having said that, being a veteran doesn’t mean we all have the same experiences. People come from diverse backgrounds and every situation is different.”

Jess describes her role as a Community and Peer Team Leader as both rewarding and humbling. 

“When I see someone making positive changes in their life, I’m grateful to play a small part in their journey,” she said.

“I know it’s their courage, resilience, and hard work that drive the change. 

“Knowing that I could support them and offer encouragement along the way is an honour, but ultimately, it’s their commitment that has transformed their life for the better. Watching that growth unfold is both inspiring and motivating for me.”     

And despite her busy role as a Community and Peer Team Leader and a myriad of interests, does Jess plan to set herself any more challenges in the future? 

“I'm trying to get better at golf so I can start participating in VGA (Veteran Golf Association) events which have recently started up in Brisbane,” she said.