Jen’s diverse resume reflects an eclectic range of interests, experiences and passions for life.
She has worked in politics, communication, retail, adult education and in business, but it’s with storytelling and in community development that she feels most at home. Jen holds a degree in English literature and education, a graduate diploma in social sciences and qualifications in both training and business management. She has worked extensively in the media across a number of platforms and is a former editor, columnist, and award-winning journalist. She is an accomplished writer and is the published author of a number of non-fiction and children’s books. Jen has a passion for her community and for global social justice, and has served on a number of boards at local and state level in the arts, wildlife conservation, community development, mental health and disability services.
Jen has worked with at-risk youth, been involved with humanitarian projects around the world through Rotary International, including in Cambodia and India, and has worked extensively with remote Aboriginal settlements in the Northern Territory on community development projects.
In 2019, Jen was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for her services to regional communities through a range of organisations.
All these experiences have helped Jen be a better wife, mother and dedicated advocate for the people and communities of regional Australia, which is, was and always will be home.