Introduce yourself! Who are you and how did you hear about WAGEC?
My name is Jessica Meyrick. I’m a freelance illustrator from the UK, but I now live and work in Sydney!
I first heard about WAGEC when they created a fundraising art exhibition featuring 16 local artists, including myself. I loved their caring and inclusive approach to the worthy support they provide to women, and all who identify.
What does community mean to you?
Community to me means uplifting and supporting others with genuine care. To find a safe place where you are accepted and nurtured, so you can simply be yourself - and to create that for others too.
What strengths did you bring to the WAGEC community? How did you offer support?
The strengths I gave to the WAGEC community were my time, my creativity and my personal commitment. Especially during the first few weeks of self-isolation and quarantine, I wanted to provide as much support to the community as possible - using my skills as a creative felt like the most natural thing to do.
Who is a strong woman that inspires you and why?
So difficult to pick only one! But I think I’ll have to go with Jameela Jamil. Actor, activist, writer, model - who is also 100% honest about her previous struggles with eating disorders, body dysmorphia and other health/mental health issues.
Having experienced much of the same myself, I find her determination to speak openly and honestly about these issues totally inspiring. Her podcast and social media accounts, ‘i-weigh’, shifts the focus from determining self-worth from the number on the scales, to the numerous other parts of individuals' lives that define them. Strongly recommend you check it out!
