“We are trying to construct a more inclusive society. We are going to make a country in which no one is left out.” - Franklin D. Roosevelt. Jennifer was born with partial limbs but has not let this fact deter her in life. With her life experiences and strong self-esteem, she is actively advocating for inclusiveness and adaptability for people with physical, mental or other limitations. Through her motivational speaking business SHIFT and her own experiences with being bullied, Jennifer has initiated a powerful inclusive campaign for schools called “The Power of Words”. Her natural leadership is evident in her non-profit Making Dreams Come True, which provides adventure and life resources for people of all abilities that have a dream to ski, surf, dance. Last but not least, Jennifer has proudly crowned as Ms. Wheelchair America in 2014.

You are a motivational speaker, adaptive athlete and performer. Which role defines you the most and why?J:  Motivational speaking defines me the most because it is my livelihood it. It is the platform from which my voice and message is heard.

How and when did you start “Shift”, your motivational speaking business?J:  I started my motivational speaking business and 2011. It was a time during my life when I had just been laid off from a job and I felt ready for a new start. I had invisioned being self employed and this was my moment and opportunity to do so.

How did your journey for Ms. Wheelchair America start? What was your most memorable moment as Ms. Wheelchair America 2014?J: I heard about Ms. w
Wheelchair America 20 years prior to running for the title. A couple years before I ran for the title I had started my motivational speaking business and I was feeling an urgency to grow my business and share my story nationally. I met the reigning Ms. Wheelchair Washington in 2010 who greatly encouraged me to run for the title. My favorite memory during my reign was adaptive surfing in Honolulu Hawaii. I had never been anywhere tropical and it was one of the most life giving experiences of my entire life. It also allowed me to overcome a lot of fear, because I was terrified to try surfing. But when I caught that 1st wave I was hooked forever!

Can you tell us about your award-winning campaign, Power of Words?J: The Power of Words Was my 1st initiative through my motivational speaking business. I myself have experienced being bullied both in my youth and in adulthood. I have also experienced the power of encouragement and positive words throughout my life, so I know both sides of the spectrum and how words have a profound effect on our selfesteem and the development of our identity. I have a passion to share this message with youth all over the world and that passion fueled the envisioning of The Power of Words.

What challenges did you face during your school years? How did you motivate yourself to face those challenges?J:  My elementary school years were really good and I had very few issues. It was my middle school and high school years that proved to be much more challenging. I was bullied every day and called names in school. I faced a lot of peer rejection and social isolation during those years. My motivation during those years was my involvement in Performing arts. I took singing lessons, joined choir and performed on stage in local musicals and talent shows. Music gave me the opportunity to express myself and to find worth in myself despite the challenges I was facing.

Who is your inspiration?J:  I find inspiration by following many people on YouTube and social media. I follow other motivational speakers, vloggers, comedians and entertainers who provide inspiration and motivation for my daily life and career.

What do you like to do when you are with your family/friends?J:  I love anything that has to do with traveling and adventure. I have several friends that I take yearly trips with around the world. I'm always looking for new vacation spots and fun things to do where I can meet new people and experience new things.

What are your other hobbies?J: I'm also a painter. I use oil and acrylic as my medium and I enjoy painting nature landscapes, especially water.

What tips/advice do you have for those in our community who want to overcome their limitations?J: My advice is to be very innovative and adaptive with your life. In this day and age we have access to technology and innovative solutions to all of our limitations. Be the one to search for those answers for yourself.

Any special message for our community?J: Know yourself. Knowing who you are is the greatest weapon you have against discouragement. Know your gifts your talents and your dreams and follow them.