Jessica Irwin brings a perspective on life that challenges assumptions and redefines possibility.
Born with a high level of cerebral palsy, together with an equally high level of self-determination and raw talent, she has excelled in achieving her goal of establishing and operating a commercial business aptly named DARE2BU.
Jessica strongly believes in the ability to learn from everyone you meet. Each of us has a unique skill set.
Mentored by some of Australia’s leading creatives—including renowned photographer Ken Duncan—Jessica has built a respected career spanning landscape photography, red carpet events such as the ARIA Awards, and collaborations with music legend Steve Balbi.
Driven by a passion to perform, Jessica partnered with biomedical engineer Dr Jordan Nguyen and Psykinetic to help develop Atmosphere, Australia’s first eye-controlled musical instrument, enabling her to perform live on stage. Through the same relentless persistence, she has also mastered drawing—defying expectations of what her disability should allow.
She strongly believes that persistence is the key to achieving the impossible.
In 2019, Jessica underwent a hip replacement following unforeseen circumstances. During this time, she experienced firsthand the challenges faced by patients who are rendered non-verbal. Motivated to create change, together with Dr Bestic, senior anaesthetist, they deliver lectures to medical students on non-verbal communication in a hospital setting. This has led to numerous keynote presentations and a TEDx Talk, where Jessica continues to challenge perceptions of disability.
Jessica lives by her favourite David Bowie quote:
