Role Model: Jessica Gomes Travels To Peru With World Vision

Jess Gomes. Photo: World Vision

When Jessica Gomes travelled to Peru in August last year, it wasn’t for a glamorous beachside photo shoot or a turn on the catwalk, but as the newest ambassador for World Vision Australia. There, the model – and face of David Jones – spent a week seeing frsthand how the aid organisation is empowering women through healthcare, education, and small-business projects.

“I learnt so much from this trip,” says Gomes, 29. “I felt privileged to be a witness to everything World Vision does in Peru.”

MC: Before the trip, what wereyour expectations?
JG: I was nervous. It was my first time in Peru and I didn’t know what to expect. But I was ready and I couldn’t wait to get my hands dirty and get involved.

MC: What are the problems facing Peruvian women and children today?
JG: We take education for granted, but it is one of the most important things. The education that World Vision gives children and women changes their lives. They teach women how to set up a business, like alpaca farms, they teach them how to make money from knitting and weaving, and they teach them important health and hygiene skills. Giving women this knowledge gives them power, and it’s so inspiring to see.

Jess Gomes. Photo: World Vision

MC: What were the hardest things you witnessed?
JG: I visited a clinic for children with Down syndrome and cerebral palsy in Lima, where
mothers could take their children during the day. To see these women fighting for their children, trying to get access to
support and specialist health care … that was really emotional for me.

MC: Why did you become a World Vision ambassador?
JG: I fell in love with the way World Vision approaches [aid] and felt compelled to be a part of it all. They’re not only about giving money, but also about making their projects sustainable so that these communities can move on by themselves.

MC: What did you learn?
JG: The trip was such an eyeopener for me. We live such a “cushy” life in Australia and I’m so glad I got out of my comfort zone.

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