Congratulations to Jessica Reece, who has been shortlisted as a finalist for the Centre for Mental Health Learning (CMHL) Awards for Excellence in Education.
“Wow, to be nominated for an award for Excellence in Lived Experience Education does feel a little surreal and an honour to be acknowledged and recognised for the work I do,” she says.
Jessica is an AOD (Alcohol and Other Drugs) Trainee Supervisor and AOD Lived Experience Educator at Peninsula Health, and is one of four finalists in the category Excellence in Lived Experience Education.
“It has made me reflect on the trials and tribulations that I have overcome in my life,” says Jessica. “At the time, I didn’t imagine that I would ever get to use these as an asset in the work I do every day. I do sit back and acknowledge how far I have come in my journey. Once upon a time I was terrified of even public speaking. Now as an educator I do it every day. I feel very privileged that I get to provide the Lived Experience perspective in all aspects of AOD Education across Peninsula Health.”
The CMHL Awards for Excellence in Mental Health Education celebrate individuals, teams, and programs that make a real impact in mental health education across Victoria.
“I’m so lucky to see the impact this has on people,” Jessica reflects. “Often, after an education session, staff will approach me and open up about their own personal experiences and how hearing from lived experience breaks down stigma about drug use. I will continue to strive to make the voices of Lived Experience stronger.”
Award winners will be announced during the online awards ceremony on Monday 12 May.