From Mining to Massage – Finding Your Niche

With Monica Jay Willemsen From MJW Massage

Remedial Massage Therapist Monica Jay Willemsen took her first foray into business ownership just this year, launching MJW Massage in January.

Monica was driven to train as a massage therapist by her own experience of working in mining, feeling the toll that the physical fatigue, mental load and long hours can take on the body.

Once qualified, Monica identified a gap in the market, providing massage that’s not just designed for your typical luxury-spa clientele, but for regular people seeking to heal their body, calm their minds, and take a break from their busy lives.

“I love having a space where I can help people escape from the demands of daily life and leave feeling restored, valued and listened to,” Monica says.

“Massage has grown over the years from being a luxury spa treatment to a legitimate allied health therapy to support pain management, injury prevention, rehabilitation support, mental health and stress regulation.

“Being active and having a mining background, I have an understanding of the need for recovery. I can relate when people share why they need a massage and I love to help people feel better. I offer treatments that are tailor made around the client and their particular needs by listening and genuinely caring.”

Monica designed the clinic itself to appeal to the community it serves, tapping into Proserpine’s warm rural feel with a tasteful country-western inspired space that immediately invites relaxation and comfort.

Monica is a country girl at heart, herself, with horses and horse riding being her number one passion and hobby.

“Ever since I could walk, I wanted to ride. Growing up in country NSW, I was lucky enough to do that. I’m a lover of all animals and you’ll find me hanging out with my dogs or horses most weekends.”

This authenticity shines through at the MJW clinic – Monica’s personal touch, experience and care shape the business at every level, and make it stand out.

When asked for her advice for other young women looking to launch a business, Monica said, “It’s important to really spend time getting to know yourself and what makes you tick; it is contagious when you act out of authenticity.

“Back yourself even if you're not ready because you will find growth along the way, and you don't have to have everything figured out – you just have to start.

“Never underestimate how transferable your life experience is into business. Every job, hardship, relationship and challenge builds skills you will one day use. Stay true to who you are and remember at times your softness, intuition and empathy are your strengths not your weaknesses.”

Describe your personality in three words:

Caring, Grounded, Punny

What habits support your success both personally and professionally?

Keeping active, going to the gym, having a hobby, eating healthy, supportive relationships.

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