Jess is the Founder and CEO of UpStage Australia. Growing up in the Central West of NSW, Jess experienced first-hand how impactful it is when there aren’t enough opportunities in the arts. Jess would travel hours to Sydney to take voice lessons, and eventually completed her Masters of Music in Opera at Sydney Conservatorium, performing with Opera Australia and around the world for most of her 20s. Jess has a deep passion for regional NSW, but also for the lifelong benefits of a well-rounded and high-quality arts education. She is driven to ensure that no child is geographically isolated from creativity and expression. Jess is Orff and Estill certified, has conducted for the Australian Girls Choir and Gondwana Choirs, was on the producing team for Hayes Theatre Co. and MCG, and also has a degree in New Technologies Law.