Jessah and Reza: Snipping goals in Edenhope

Grampians Health employees, Jessah Ozon and her husband, Reza Sabetsarvestani, joined the team in Edenhope in 2021. Jessah is a registered Nurse and Associate Nurse Unit Manager, and Reza is a Health Care Worker at Lakeside Living.

They came with a desire to leave behind city life. "I wanted to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and explore other places in Australia. With the great opportunities that Grampians Health provides, it led me to relocate to Edenhope and experience living in the countryside" Jessah explained.

Transitioning to a small rural community brought about some adjustments for Jessah and Reza, who were accustomed to city living.

"We had difficulties looking for a rental property during our first year in Edenhope given that it's a small town. Fortunately, with the opportunities we received, we were able to resolve our rental concerns and purchase our first home as a couple," said Jessah.

"Living in a small town gave us the chance to meet and interact with more people within the community, which is quite different from city living. The locals here are also very supportive and welcoming, making our transition to Edenhope fun and easy."

Motivated by their desire to be business owners and Reza being an experienced barber, they decided to purchase a hairdressing business. "As a couple, we decided to explore the possibilities, invest in it, and continue our journey in the world of business." Said Jessah.

Starting a new business came with its challenges, particularly navigating the Australian business processes and regulations. Jessah and Reza invested time and effort to familiarize themselves with the requirements.

"With referrals from friends and the support of the locals, we eventually got our business off the ground. We always remind ourselves to approach each new experience with an open mind and as a learning opportunity."

"We were both ecstatic to finally reopen the doors of Four Aces Barbershop under new management. We aim to continue serving the community and hopefully provide job opportunities in the barber industry."

Reflecting on their experiences, Jessa and Reza offer advice to other international nurses and healthcare professionals considering a move to a small rural community like Edenhope. They suggest that such a transition provides an opportunity to escape the bustling city life, save financially, and enjoy the peacefulness of a small town.

Looking to the future, Jessah and Reza have ambitious aspirations for their business and their lives in Edenhope.

“We are looking forward to growing and expanding our business to the neighbouring towns at the same time offering job opportunities. As a couple, we have plans to have our own children anytime soon and would gladly raise them here letting them experience the beauty of what we have right now.”