A Curious Mind
Curiosity has always been one of Jesse’s defining characteristics.
Ask him about his interests and the conversation could take you almost anywhere—from Shakespeare and iambic pentameter to world history, economics, politics and the films of legendary Japanese director Akira Kurosawa.
Whether he’s reading philosophy, exploring world history, studying economics and politics or revisiting Shakespeare, Jesse is driven by a genuine desire to understand how people, organisations and governments make decisions.
It’s perhaps no surprise then that when Barkuma introduced him to the Board Observership Program, Jesse immediately recognised it as a rare opportunity.
“I’ve always been interested in business and economics,” Jesse says. “When I heard about the Board Observership Program through the DES program, I thought it was a rare opportunity to try something I’d never done before.”
After joining Barkuma’s Transition Program in 2024, Jesse later spent time with Barkuma’s Disability Employment Services (DES) program as he continued his journey. Today, he is employed at Summit Café and is halfway through Barkuma’s 12-month Board Observership Program.
Whether he’s learning the ropes at work, reading philosophy at home or sitting around the Board table observing governance in action, Jesse approaches each experience with curiosity and a willingness to learn.
Receiving the call to say he had been accepted into the program is a moment Jesse still remembers.
“I felt proud when I got the opportunity.”
Discovering Governance
Before joining the program, Jesse already understood how corporate boards operated, but he wanted to discover how governance worked in a purpose-driven organisation.
“I understood how boards worked in a for-profit business, but I wanted to understand how a not-for-profit board functions. Instead of focusing on maximising profit, the Board is committed to the purpose of the organisation and helping people.”
Although he didn’t have many expectations going into the program, Jesse quickly found himself immersed in the experience.
“I’ve really enjoyed reading the Board papers, listening to the discussions and asking questions. It’s been interesting seeing how the Board, CEO and Executive work together.”
For someone fascinated by how decisions are made, the Board meetings have brought theory to life. The papers, strategic discussions and governance processes have given Jesse a practical perspective that complements the ideas he explores through history, politics and philosophy.
One of the biggest surprises has been the level of discussion behind every decision.
“The Board really pushes for detail. They ask questions and want to understand everything before making decisions.”
Equally impressive has been the Board’s commitment to hearing directly from the people Barkuma supports.
“You can feel the focus the Board and Executive have on getting client opinions. They’re always working on how they can hear more from clients and improve what they do.”
For Jesse, these conversations reinforced that good governance is about more than financial sustainability—it is about making thoughtful decisions that create better outcomes for people.
Learning Beyond the Boardroom
The Board Observership Program has strengthened skills that Jesse believes will stay with him after the program finishes.
“My listening skills have improved a lot. I do a lot of reading now, and it’s helped me connect what I’ve read with the discussions in the meetings.”
Watching experienced Board members listen, challenge ideas and ask thoughtful questions has changed the way Jesse approaches conversations.
“Listening is a skill used for everything. To build relationships in all areas of life, you need vulnerability, listening and understanding.”
He has also learnt the importance of patience and taking time to understand different perspectives before responding.
“I’ve learnt to listen first and formulate my questions carefully by watching how the Board members ask theirs.”
Regularly attending Safety Committee meetings has broadened his understanding of workplace health and safety and given him a greater appreciation of how organisations create safe environments.
“Understanding WHS can apply at work, but it can also keep you safe at home.”
Reflecting on the experience, Jesse says the program has strengthened his appreciation for Barkuma and its focus on participant voices.
“I’ve always liked Barkuma and enjoyed the Transition Program, but seeing how much value the Board places on hearing the voices of employees and clients has really solidified that.”
Looking Ahead
As he enters the second half of the program, Jesse is looking forward to continuing to learn, ask questions and build on what he has gained.
The experience has also encouraged him to think differently about his own future.
“It’s given me confidence to pursue opportunities. Things are starting to make sense.”
For anyone considering applying for next year’s Board Observership Program, Jesse has some simple advice.
“Have humility, a growth mindset and focus on what you can learn. Make the opportunity yours.”
Preparation, he says, is key to making the most of every meeting.
“Do the reading. If you don’t prepare, it’s like having a hole in the boat. Reading beforehand means you can really listen during the meeting and make sense of what’s being discussed.”
If he could offer one piece of advice to himself before attending his first Board meeting, it would be this:
“Read the papers, take a deep breath and don’t be nervous. The Board and Executive are really supportive. Relax and learn.”
For Jesse, the Board Observership Program has become more than an opportunity to observe governance. It has connected his passion for learning with real-world leadership, giving him the confidence to ask thoughtful questions, value different perspectives and understand how purpose, strategy and good governance come together.
Like the works of Shakespeare, the philosophy he enjoys reading and the moments in history that continue to capture his imagination, Jesse has discovered that leadership is not about having all the answers. It is about remaining curious enough to keep learning—and recognising that the strongest leaders are often those who listen first.
When asked to describe the experience in just two words, his answer is simple.
“Interesting and fun.”
Find out more about employment pathways at Barkuma