For James, joining St John Ambulance Victoria was never just about a new job, it was about continuing a lifelong commitment to community, service and helping others feel safer.

Originally from Singapore, James brings with him a diverse background spanning sales, recruitment, outdoor education and volunteering. Today, he works in St John’s Customer Development team, supporting organisations across manufacturing, arts and recreation to access first aid training and products, but his connection to St John runs much deeper than his role title.

“I’ve always believed that having the skills to help someone in need is incredibly powerful,” James says. “It gives people confidence, not just at work, but everywhere they go.”

A Seed Planted Early

James’ passion for first aid and service began young. Growing up in Singapore, a multicultural city he describes as safe, vibrant and community-focused, he was involved in scouting, where first aid and community responsibility were part of everyday life.

That early exposure planted a seed that quickly grew. James went on to volunteer as a firefighter and medic with the Singapore Fire Service, later becoming deeply involved with St John Ambulance Singapore as a volunteer and member of the advanced training team.

“Volunteering really shaped who I am,” he reflects. “You’re only one piece of the puzzle, but when everyone contributes, the whole community is stronger.”

Finding Purpose at St John Victoria

After moving to Australia with his partner, James was encouraged by a long-time St John volunteer to explore opportunities with St John Ambulance Victoria. The role felt like a natural fit, combining his professional sales experience with his volunteer values.

“I wanted to work somewhere meaningful,” he says. “Selling first aid training isn’t just about contracts; it’s about empowering people to look after one another.”

James believes first aid training creates a ripple effect well beyond the workplace.

“You don’t switch these skills off when you go home,” he explains. “That person might be a leader at a football club, a scout group, a church, or just someone at the beach. That knowledge stays with them, and it can change how they respond in an emergency.”

People Make the Difference

While St John’s long history and community impact drew James in, it’s the people that have made him feel truly at home.

“The culture here has been incredibly welcoming,” he says. “There’s an openness and generosity that really stands out.”

As someone still relatively new to Australia, James says the support of colleagues, including leaders like Raechella, has helped make the transition smoother and more rewarding.

Giving Back, Inside and Outside of Work

James’ commitment to volunteering hasn’t slowed since arriving in Victoria. Outside of work, he’s involved with organisations including SES, Scouts Australia and other community groups, and has already been invited to support leadership training initiatives within St John.

“For me, volunteering is one of the best places to develop leadership,” he says. “You can learn so much, apply it professionally, and at the same time make a real difference.”

Looking ahead, James is particularly passionate about mentoring and leadership development, helping future leaders gain the confidence and skills to support others.

“If I can teach leaders to teach others, the impact multiplies,” he explains.

A Bigger Picture

James sees his work, and St John’s work more broadly, as part of something much larger.

“Yes, I sell training to organisations,” he says, “but at the heart of it, we’re building safer communities. Every person trained is another person ready to help.”

For James, that belief is what makes St John more than a workplace.

“If you’re looking for a career where your work genuinely adds value to the community,” he says, “St John is a pretty special place to be.”