Jess Hastings - Auckland

Jess says “Initially, I was somewhat resistant to yoga, however after attending a weekend workshop with the YEPT, I became more open-minded and aware of yoga as a form of meditation, which can help connect the body and mind.

Working alongside prisoners is something that makes me feel alive and I believe providing programmes to prisoners is vital for positive change. I have almost completed my degree in criminology and education, I want to use my knowledge and lived experience to benefit others and the challenges I have faced in my own life have given me greater empathy.

My goal is to expand on developing a humanizing, mindfulness meditation programme with delivery focused on those who have been through the justice system. I am currently volunteering in various roles at Auckland Women’s Prison and working to challenge public perceptions of those with lived experience of incarceration and their whanau.

At this point, I am interested in further training, work opportunities and speaking with others who share similar goals”.