Meet The Team - Jemma
Tell us about your journey before JettProof. What led you to this career path?
Before JettProof, I was in school and didn't want to finish. I didn't want to go all the way to year 12 because school just wasn't my thing, and my mental health wasn't the best. My mum, Vanessa, already had a job at JettProof, and she got the job through Michelle (JettProof Founder) because she and Michelle knew each other when they were younger; they used to ride horses together. My brother has Autism, so Mum and Michelle had that in common, too. I started working part-time at JettProof first, and then Michelle snatched me up because she wanted me to work here full-time. So, I ended up getting the job at JettProof through my mum.
Can you tell us about your role here and how it's evolved throughout the years?
My role here is to package, quality check and send our orders. Over time, I've become more efficient, and I can now teach others the role.
What's your favourite product from JettProof, and why?
It's probably the Sensory Fitted Sheets because I have problems with other sheets at home coming off and always having wrinkles in them. With JettProof, I don't have that problem anymore. Do any memorable moments at JettProof stand out to you?
Heaps, but some of the most memorable moments are all the birthday lunches we've had together. You know, just being all together, like at the Christmas parties. The other day, when stray kittens wandered in or when Michelle's dog Koda came to visit. That was really fun!
You've been open about managing OCD and anxiety. How has JettProof supported you in balancing work and mental health?
Sometimes, sleeping or getting up in the morning is hard, so JettProof keeps me motivated. Michelle and everyone at JettProof also understand that if something happens, like if I can't get to work or if I'm late. She cares about my mental health.
What was your initial reaction when you first received these diagnoses?
I was happy because I always thought nothing was wrong with me and that I was just crazy. I was glad we finally got to the bottom of it because I could get some help. It felt like a relief; you know that I wasn't crazy.
You're going for a diagnosis of ADHD at the moment. How will you feel if you do or don't receive that?
I'm a bit 50/50 with that because I think I have ADHD, and a lot of people say that I do. Still, I'm unsure if I want to be medicated or not because I'm worried that that will take away my whole personality. I'm a very bubbly, fun person, and I'm afraid but I'm also keen to see if I get treatment and how it would change things for me?
What advice would you give someone currently going through the process of seeking a diagnosis on any of these?
Just don't think that you're crazy, and know you're not the only one out there who's going through this sort of thing. This is not to say that you're like everyone else, but many people go through the same thing, and you should not be embarrassed. Seek help when you need it, or if you think something's wrong.
Who has supported you the most during this time, and how has that made a difference?
Definitely, my mum and dad because there have been times I've been severely OCD, at night time especially, where they've just had to support me.
Your mum also works at JettProof. Do you have any fun traditions or habits when working together?
We have lunch together, and then on Thursday nights, after work, we go shopping. If I've had a challenging day, it's lovely to talk to your mum sometimes; she is always there to talk to.
If you could create your dream role at JettProof, what would it be?
This would be my dream role in an even larger warehouse. This is my dream position, especially as the company continues to grow.
If you could pick any JettProof product to bring to a desert island, what would it be?
Our seamless feel socks, so I don't burn my feet on the sand.
If JettProof could design a custom product just for you, what would it be and why? I would get a sheet or blanket with my own print on it.
Do you have hobbies or interests outside of work?
I've been going to the gym. I like hanging out with my friends, going for walks with my boyfriend on the weekends, having dinner and lunch dates, and hanging out with my cat.
Is there anything else you want to share about your time at JettProof?
I'm so grateful that I work at JettProof because not many other workplaces would accept you for who you are. JettProof does! If I need time off or something happens and I need to go home, people are more understanding. And yeah, everyone's just there for you. It's like a family. Everyone knows who you are and everything about you pretty much, and you all love each other no matter what.