Jess Gaddes is a 34-year-old woman born and raised in western Sydney and is a Co-Founder of Encapsulator.

Homelessness, mental health issues and incarceration. Jess spent her twenties in and out of the system, struggling with addiction and an undiagnosed mental health disorder, it was during this time she found herself spiralling out of control.

For the next six years Jess found herself in court rooms and correctional centres across Sydney, supporting her drug habit through petty crime.

At 27, Jess qualified for the Drug Court Program and through the support of the Drug Court Program and long-term rehabilitation, Jess is now able to give back to her community through lived experience.

Jess dedicates herself to helping others battling addiction and is a strong advocate for alternative education and support systems just like Encapsulator. Jess holds a Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs, and is completing a Diploma in Mental Health.