We are especially stoked to present our new Crew Facilitator, Jax!
First of all – how did you get into Burns and what is your Burn history?
I’d been introduced to the cult… I mean, culture… through Burner friends back in the UK and knew it was something that really appealed and aligned with the version of me I wanted to be. I didn’t get to a Burn though until landing in NZ and finding my crew over here. My first Burn was 2020, so I’m relatively new in that sense, but it was the start of something special and I immediately felt at home. That feeling has continued through various Burns and Burn-inspired events since, and it’s pretty fair to say I’m now an addict. So, thanks for that…
I’ve been in the Volunteer Coordinator 2iC role since May 2021 and really loved the team and working in a year-round role, so with Holly moving on from the Crew role (mad props and thanks for your mahi) it felt like a great opportunity to get more involved and see what else I can offer.
How do you spend your time when you are not doing things related to Kiwiburn?
I’m active and love spending time in nature – running or hiking among trees, mountains or near water. Finding fellow weird beings and musing on the ridiculousness of life. Dancing, mostly to bass. Getting curious about people and nature.
Alongside my day job I also work with KnowYourStuffNZ (cos they’re awesome, obviously) as co-lead for the Wellington region alongside Casey (Lead Ranger Arranger). #bringusyourdrugs
Being involved with Kiwiburn can take a lot of energy. How do you re-energise?
Doing the things that ground me and give me perspective – meditation, yoga, running, journalling and shit talking with friends who tell it like it is. Watching the sun set. Getting a mix of down time and adventure/party/social time to keep myself in balance.
Do you have a favourite burn outfit?
My furry vest (affectionately known as Ewok) and the platform boots I have in multiple colours, currently red, blue and turquoise – comfy as and great for throwing myself around like an idiot to weird bassy noises. Sometimes just those, other times not.
What skills have you learned by being involved with Kiwiburn?
The curiosity and courage to lean into myself more, and – not unrelated – finding ways to embed Burn culture and principles in my professional life with the teams and organisations I work with. Finding clearer and more effective ways to communicate and reach consensus or compromise to move forward, and helping others to do the same.
What has been your favourite moment at a Burn?
Hard to pick one. Let’s say crawling through a random tunnel and falling out into the Tripper Trap of weirdness and delight to discover the wandering paint wizard and other curious creatures, and hanging out til dawn talking nonsense, philosophy and top quality banter. I love how Burns offer so many opportunities to meet awesome humans in the most ridiculous circumstances.
What are you most excited about for Kiwiburn 2023?
It actually happening and us all being able to connect after what has been a weird couple of years. I can’t wait to see the result of all the collective creativity that’s been building up! And getting to spend time with the awesome Crew in real life.
