“Your Strength is Your Worth” – Jemma’s story

“I was born in Ōtaki and lived there until I was about seven. Then we moved to Levin, where I spent my teenage years. Those years were rocky, to say the least. When I turned 18, I moved to Palmerston North, and it’s been my home ever since.

In 2016, my life changed completely. I was diagnosed with idiopathic intracranial hypertension, a condition that took away a large percentage of my eyesight. Now, I’m part of the Blind and Low Vision Association because of it. Losing my vision was one of the hardest things I’ve ever faced, but it also pushed me to create something beautiful.

That’s how I started making jewellery. At first, it was just a hobby for me, something to keep my hands and mind busy. But it grew into something bigger. Now, I sell my pieces in a shop - the Cuba St Collective, and it’s become a true passion. People often ask, “How do you do it when you can’t see?” But for me, it’s almost automatic. I don’t have to think about the process; it just happens. I’ve always loved crystals, and they’re what inspired me to start. I had a few I wanted to keep close, so I thought, why not make them wearable? I practised and practised, and now I can create pieces that people love. One of my favourite moments was when a 16-year-old girl, Bella, reached out to me. She said she loved my work and wanted to learn. I told her, “I’m still learning too, but we can figure it out together.” Now, she comes over every fortnight, and we make jewellery together. It’s such a joy to share what I know and see her passion grow.

Nature has always been my escape. I love going down to the river or walking through the bush. The Esplanade River Walk is one of my favourite spots. There’s something about the energy of the river and the trees - it’s grounding and peaceful. When I’m there, I can forget my worries and just be present.

Palmerston North has been good to me. I love how diverse it is. It’s a place where people can come and feel like they belong. Sure, there are always going to be a few haters, but for the most part, it’s welcoming. And for families, it’s amazing. There are parks, daycares, and everything you could need for raising kids. It’s such a well-equipped city.

Happiness, for me, starts from within. You have to align with your own path and be happy with who you are and what you’re doing. It’s about putting in the mahi - the hard work - to create the life you want. If you want to be happy, you have to make the changes to get there.

My advice to others is simple: don’t sweat the small stuff. Just keep putting one foot in front of the other. It’s always darkest before the dawn, but things do get better. And don’t be afraid to ask for help. There’s help out there - you just have to reach out. I’ve faced plenty of challenges, but they’ve taught me how strong I really am. In November, I had surgery because my shunt valve broke. That’s why I shaved my head. My condition causes flare-ups where I can’t see, hear, or function. It’s tough, but it’s also made me appreciate the good days even more.

If there’s one thing I want to leave behind, it’s proof that you can overcome anything. Your strength is your worth. No matter how many times life knocks you down, you can get back up.

And if you want something badly enough, you can make it happen."