ABOUT JESSICA
Jessica Smith OAM PLY is a disability accessibility consultant, presenter, master of ceremonies, TV host, motivational speaker, keynote speaker and appears regularly on TV and radio as a guest expert.
Through her various speaking platforms, and as writer, lecturer and using her social media presence, Jessica helps facilitate honest conversations about diversity and accessiblity to highlight practical solutions to improve the lack of inclusivity within society, and it is though this exceptional work that Jessica has renowned status as a leading international advocate for diversity and inclusion, and accessibility.
Jessica has a Bachelor of Science majoring in Public Health, and has completed executivce studies in Gender Equality at INSEAD. She combines her academic research with personal experience to formulate strategic initiatives to help people understand the complexities associated with disability and inclusion, and in doing so, delivers genuine social impact. Her current insights into using advanced technology and AI integration with robotics and prosthetics further adds to the wider discussion.
Jessica was born missing her left arm, then at 18 months old suffered terrible burns from an accident that left her with permanent scarring on her neck and chest. Far from holding her back, she worked tirelessly and determinedly to become a world-class swimmer, representing Australia for seven years and competing in the 2004 Paralympic Games.
Since retiring from swimming, Jessica has devoted her life to advocating for diversity and inclusion on the global stage, and draws on her sporting career to help tell a powerful story. An engaging and highly sought-after speaker, she has shared her journey and disability insights in schools and universities, workplaces and community organisations, including the United Nations - where she is a judge for the UN SDG Awards.
Jessica is known for fostering trusting, professional relationships with colleagues and clients alike, and has built a solid reputation for providing considered and informed advice which resolves varying challenges associated with inclusion and accessibility. Driven by integrity and respect at all times, Jessica safeguards and builds relationships with longevity; delivering results with wisdom and attentive diplomacy.
Alongside 20 years of international professional experience in mental health and health promotion, Jessica is also the author of a critically acclaimed series of children’s books about disability and acceptance, and an ambassador and Patron for various organisations.
After more than two decades training and advising Governments, NGO’s, policy makers and organisations about the importance of accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities, Jessica’s consultancy work, includes global clients spanning from Australia to the Middle East, Europe and the USA.
Her outstanding advocacy has been widely recognised, with awards including the ‘Emerging Leader’ at the Australian Government Body Positive Image Awards, the Pride of Australia Medal, and in 2019, the Medal of the Order of Australia, Australia’s highest honour, and in 2024 Jessica was also a judge for the United Nations SDG Action Awards.
Jessica's dedication to sport also continues, she has a relentless pursuit for pushing physical boundaries and has stepped out of the pool to take up marathon running.
Her resilience is unwavering, a quality so many are searching for today ... let Jessica share her story and her skillset with you and your team,
“Jessica is poised and articulate, with a level of sophistication and wisdom that is felt by all her audiences.”
