Created by Jessica Wayland

Jessica Wayland is a behaviour specialist, educator, and creative facilitator based on Gadigal land in Sydney. Over the past 14 years, she has worked extensively across the fields of education, behaviour, wellbeing, leadership, and coaching. Her experience spans hundreds of children, teens, educators, and families, supporting them in navigating complex behaviours, building emotional regulation, and developing tools for resilience and self-esteem.

Jessica has worked in some of Australia’s most disadvantaged communities, as well as in Sydney’s most affluent suburbs, and has witnessed social and emotional challenges across all settings. Her passion lies in empowering young people to feel confident in themselves, cultivate empathy and understanding for others, and remain connected to their authentic selves.

This passion led to the creation of Empower Create Thrive, a program born from Jessica’s personal journey and her recognition of shared experiences among the young people she supports. Having grown up without strong guidance and often feeling confused, alone, and self-blaming, Jessica developed the program she wishes had existed for her younger self.

Her vision is for every girl to shine as her true self and know that she is more than enough. Through Empower Create Thrive, girls learn that it is brave to be authentic, that kindness to others does not require self-sacrifice, and that true peace and love begin within.