Originally starting out as a sole trader, speech pathologist Jane Amparis wanted to get back into the workforce after welcoming kids with her husband Jean-Paul.
Unexpectedly, this venture quickly gained traction, leading to the creation of Jibber Jabber Allied Health in April 2018.
Jane is now director, senior speech pathologist and co-owner of Jibber Jabber, along with her husband, general manager and co-owner, Jean-Paul. This power couple have had a significant impact on both allied health clients and the community, with over 15 employees and offices in Corio and Lara.
“The motivation was to be able to put back into the community, particularly towards children with special needs, who are often the ones where early intervention is extremely important,” says Jean-Paul.
Staff at Jibber Jabber are valued immensely, and Jean-Paul and Jane strive to make sure they know just how important they are.
“We have a strong focus on workplace culture and making sure that our staff are really healthy from a mental and physical health perspective,” Jean-Paul explained.
Jibber Jabber is not immune to the staff shortages affecting the industry, however the team maintains a quality over quantity approach. This leads to a high level of satisfaction among employees and clients at Jibber Jabber.
Several Jibber Jabber employees welcome university students to the clinic to undergo student training and work experience. This benefits both the students and allied health professionals that work together, as well as clients requiring assistance and services.
“It’s giving back to the community in that we’re getting more people out there to do this valuable work. Our industry is full of shortages, we don’t have staff to choose from,” Jean-Paul explained.
Vindication from clients and the community has come in various forms, one being nominated by clients and becoming a finalist in the Geelong Business Excellence Awards for two years running.
“We never expected when we opened the business that we’d be nominated for an award, let alone be a finalist for an award. I’m really hopeful. Obviously every business wants to win an award, but I want my team to win an award – they just work so hard and they care so much. It’s their passion and I feel like they need to be rewarded for it,” Jean-Paul said.
Thanks to major sponsor LBW Business + Wealth advisors, the 2022 Geelong Business Excellence Awards celebrate clever, creative and connected businesses in Geelong and the Bellarine, as well as the Surf Coast, Queenscliff and Golden Plains regions.
The Geelong Business Excellence Awards presentation event will take place at GMHBA Stadium on Thursday October 27 at 6pm. Tickets to the awards night are available now at www.gbea.com.au.
