Not only is Jenna a lifelong student herself (she completed post graduate studies in health and exercise in her late 30s and is currently studying adult education), but she also understands the power learning has to upskill and uplift people and communities. That’s why she couldn’t be prouder to be part of the Education Unlimited team.

“What I love about Education Unlimited is that it involves a lot of heart work,” says the Christchurch-based Programme Coordinator and Facilitator.  “You’re not doing it to increase someone’s profitability – although that is absolutely one of the outcomes - but even more importantly, you’re directly benefitting the lives of the learners you’re working with. And by benefitting their lives, you’re also enhancing the lives of their families and the wider community. I enjoy working with people who have fallen through the cracks, the people who haven’t necessarily had the same educational opportunities as others. I want them to know they are not forgotten. We can help!”

A self-confessed ‘people person’, Jenna does everything from carrying out needs assessments for our South Island clients to helping them access funding. She also teaches some of our leadership programmes.

“I can relate to my students because I’m also a student. I believe that even as an adult, every day you’re a learner.”

As well as undertaking plenty of formal study, Jenna has a lot of life experience to draw from.

“I’ve recently returned to my hometown of Christchurch after 16 years away. I always wanted to see what was on the other side of the world so I moved to Perth after I finished school, and later spent two-and-a-half years in Glasgow and a year living in Amsterdam. Working in customer service and sales got me all around the world – I’ve sold everything from glasses to nail polish pens! But when I eventually returned to New Zealand I realised that it was time to get out of customer service, it was bad for my soul.”

After a stint living in Tauranga Jenna headed south, gaining a Bachelor of Applied Science in Physical Activity, Health and Wellness at Otago Polytechnic.

“That’s when I became a group fitness instructor at a gym and for Age Concern Otago. I have a bit of a soft spot for the elderly. Sometimes the over 65s feel like they’re forgotten, but they are amazing. My groups were into everything as they appreciated everything I did for them – and they could sure spin some good yarns!”

A return to the Garden City in 2021 saw Jenna take up a role working as a PA for the Canterbury University Student Association.

“It taught me a lot about high level governance but it was quite a change from being a group fit personal trainer. I really missed teaching and interacting with people and helping them develop their skills. That’s what I’m truly passionate about and that’s why I feel that here at Education Unlimited I’m in the right place.”