For Jaimee, St John Ambulance Victoria has never just been an organisation; it has always been part of who she is.

Now the Senior Manager of Clinical Services for Event Health Services, Jaimee’s journey with St John spans nearly two decades, multiple leadership roles, and three generations of family service. But her story began long before her official membership in 2007.

“I was basically born into this organisation,” she laughs. “My dad likes to say my first job was when I was about one and a half years old, distracting patients at a car crash scene while he was responding.”

Growing up surrounded by volunteers, including her parents and later her siblings, St John quickly became a second family.

Joining the Portland Division prior to studying nursing, Jaimee found more than practical experience; she found connection, mentorship and a supportive environment that helped shape both her career and confidence.

“It became another family,” she says. “A really supportive place to learn and grow.”

Women supporting women

For Jaimee, International Women’s Day is deeply personal.

“It’s about celebrating all women, not just within St John, but across emergency services and healthcare,” she explains. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without the strong female mentors I’ve had throughout my journey.”

Throughout her career, she has been inspired by women who demonstrated leadership, resilience and generosity in sharing their knowledge, something she now strives to pass on to others.

“There are so many incredible female leaders who want to guide and support the next generation. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek mentorship, that’s how we grow.”

Balancing leadership, family and service

Outside of St John, Jaimee is also a Director of Nursing at her local health service, a role that comes with significant responsibility. As a sole parent, balancing leadership, family life and volunteering requires careful prioritisation.

“It can be challenging being a female health leader,” she says. “You’re constantly juggling work, family, children’s activities and still wanting to give back to your community.”

Yet volunteering remains a constant in her life, not as another obligation, but as a source of energy and wellbeing.

“I love putting my greens on and volunteering. It’s actually my version of self-care,” she explains. “It’s time spent with friends, with family, and doing something meaningful.”

For Jaimee, the key is simple: focus on what matters most.

“When you truly love what you do, it makes the juggle easier.”

Behind the scenes of safe events

In her current role, Jaimee oversees clinical services across St John’s Event Health Services, supporting doctors, nurses, paramedics, healthcare students and volunteers while ensuring strong clinical governance behind the scenes.

From medication safety and compliance to operational processes, much of her work happens away from public view, but plays a vital role in keeping communities safe.

“It’s a lot of behind-the-scenes work,” she says. “But it’s all about making sure our members have the systems and support they need to keep doing the incredible work they do.”

Despite her leadership responsibilities, Jaimee still volunteers on the frontline, often working as a registered nurse in medical assistance teams at major events.

“I love being the person who greets patients when they arrive, providing that first moment of reassurance and care.”

A legacy of service

Service runs deep in Jaimee’s family. A third-generation St John member, she is now watching the tradition continue with her own children.

Her eight-month-old son has already attended training sessions, and her daughter is eager to join the youth program when she turns 12.

“I grew up coming to events with my parents, and now I’m able to share that with my own children,” she says. “It’s something really special.”

For Jaimee, volunteering reflects St John’s longstanding mission of service to humanity, whether supporting bushfire responses, caring for patients at major events, or helping at a local community fete.

“Every single thing we do makes a difference,” she says. “It’s my way of giving back to the community and to an organisation that’s given me so much.”

Advice for the next generation

Her message to women considering a career in healthcare, emergency services or volunteering is clear:

“Embrace every opportunity; you never know where it will lead.”

She also encourages women to lean on the strength of those around them.

“Seek out mentors, ask questions and learn from others. We all have a responsibility to inspire the next generation.”

Service that lasts a lifetime

After nearly 20 years with St John Ambulance Victoria, Jaimee says the people remain the organisation’s greatest strength.

“I wouldn’t be where I am without my colleagues,” she says. “They’re what make all of this worth doing.”

And while her career continues to evolve, one belief remains constant, the power of first aid knowledge to change lives.

“You don’t need to be a healthcare professional to make a difference,” she says. “First aid is something everyone should learn, because one day it could save someone you love.”

This International Women’s Day, Jaimee’s story stands as a powerful reminder of the impact women have across healthcare, emergency services and communities, leading with compassion, lifting others up, and creating lasting change through service.