Jax Garrett: from high-end jewellery design to helping gamers succeed globally.
Having worked in 18 different industries, from aviation to jewellery design and retail management, Jax had a broad set of skills that she then wanted to use to build her own startup.
Short Cuts is an interview series in which Upside participants and faculty answer eight quick questions about their background, ambitions, and the superpower they’ve always wanted.
Jax began her professional career as a high-end jewellery designer.
Having worked in 18 different industries, from aviation to jewellery design and retail management, she had naturally developed a broad set of skills that she then wanted to use to build her own business.
Her first venture was part small business (recruitment) and part startup (resumé builder and education on future-proofing careers), which she sold within 18 months when her son of 9 turned into a pro-gamer.
Navigating this new industry, she saw how fragmented and unprofessional the world of gaming was, so she set out to fix it.
Her deep knowledge and experience of the industry's problems and network combined with the sheer excitement at the size of the industry led her to found GGWP Academy to provide education, a structured pathway to success, and wider opportunities for gamers globally.
Jax is drawn to the intellectual stimulation of problem-solving and is passionate about making the industry a much better place for her son to enter and work in.
Jax lives in Sydney with her mum, husband, son, and two puppies called Archer and Lana.
Jax, who did you look up to when you were younger?
No one. I thought it was silly to idolise others.
And who do you look up to now?
Mel Perkins.
Tell us about the most valuable life lesson you’ve learned so far.
If I wouldn't ask for your expert opinion on a topic, I'll give no weight to your criticism.
Describe what success looks like to you.
Self-provision of a different life for my whole family. Changing our living arrangements and creating a life where we don't need to check a bank balance before shopping or paying bills.
Business. Building a company that is useful, effective, global, passionate, profitable, well-branded and fun to be a part of.
Tell us about something that you’re curious about at the moment.
The cross-section between gaming and Crypto. NFTs and the Metaverse.
What brings you joy?
Summer, being in the water, family, problem-solving, puppies, and great people.
How would you describe your leadership style?
I like to empower those around me to self-drive, make sound decisions, and work freely within a company’s set framework. I enjoy working in a fun and dynamic environment and personally have a very hard focus on the BIG vision.
If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
The power to persuade and influence people 😉
We’re all a work in progress.
Upside Founder Programs help founders become the very best leaders for their businesses as they grow from pre Series A to Series B, and beyond. The 2022 program is currently in session. Apply to be part of Upside 2023 now.
Upside Founder Programs are proudly supported by KPMG High Growth Ventures and Microsoft Australia.