A journey of creative growth that has taken her across the globe, Jess Macc is dreaming big as she takes her acting experience into the music industry.

Jess Macc has come home to Sydney after having lived in Los Angeles for the past 8 years after studying Acting at JMC, where she worked as a photographer in fashion, sports and music; whilst also lending her talents to non-profit organisations.  

After being away for such a long time, Jess has longed to get back to her roots and decided the time was right to return to Australia to continue her work as an artist. We had a chat with Jess about her career in the creative industry, what she has learnt about herself during this experience and what's in store for the future. 

Tell us a little bit about your career so far and some of the work you’ve done? 

I briefly studied photography before I went to acting school, I always loved the process of shooting and developing, being in a dark room etc. I put the camera down for a really long time after college and didn’t really pick it up again until about 6 years ago. Since then, over in California, I’ve worked with pro-athletes, TV personalities, musicians, actors and also in the fashion industry. I write music too so now that I’ve moved back to Australia I am more than ready to jump back into the Aussie music industry too. 

Working in the USA is such an achievement! How has your experience been? 

The USA is a whole other world. It’s vastly different to Australia and almost every industry is quite different too. It is a much bigger pond but having said that, I did have some amazing opportunities over there that I’m so grateful for. 

What type of work have you been drawn towards since entering the industry? 

Music and photography will always have my heart. I love being in the studio, songwriting and recording, and absolutely love having people in front of my camera too! 

What have you learnt about yourself throughout this experience? 

I’ve faced so many challenges since graduating. I have had a lot of health complications and things I’ve had to work through. If I’ve learnt one thing, it’s that I am a fighter. But I’ve also learnt to be content where I am at any given time with what I’ve got. That for me is paramount, because from there you can do anything you want - not because you’re desperate for it, but because you choose it from a place of contentment. Appreciating the smallest things goes the longest way. 

How do you think studying in your chosen field prepared you for the industry?

My most invaluable experience was the time I spent studying acting. It prepared me for performance but also gave me the mindset that I need to never give up, even during times of having no work or feeling unwell or being knocked back.

What’s next for you in both your acting and music career? 

I arrived back to Sydney in January this year and jumped right into the recording studio with Daniel Natoli. He’s an incredible songwriter and producer, I’m really lucky to be working with him. I’m releasing my first single on June 30th called "Win Some Lose Some"! 

Stay up to date by following Jess on Instagram or on Spotify

What were your favourite things about studying at JMC? 

I think my favourite thing was the community. Also that you really become a much better version of yourself if you’re willing to do the work. You learn so much about who you really are and how to connect with people too. It’s an emotional rollercoaster and I loved every bit of it.  

What advice would you give to anyone thinking about studying acting or music?  

Be ready. Just be ready to show up and be vulnerable, open and willing to learn, shift and grow. It will be the greatest learning curve and it’s so worth it!

Listen to Jess' Single "Win Some Lose Some" here