A quick intro
Hello! I’m Jo - a freelance front-end developer based in Portsmouth & Southsea which has a fantastic creative scene.
I love being involved in my local creative community - so much so I set up Portsmouth Freelancers Meet. In 2020 I won the Sweet FA Freelancer of the Year award for my project Supportsmouth.
- 2008 Freelancing since
- 5 PubHack hackathon events hosted
- 3 Awards shortlisted for (1 win!)
- 3 Cats who own me
- 2010 Founded Portsmouth Freelancers Meet
Where it all began
My passion for building websites was sparked when I discovered Geocities back in 2001 (yes, I'm that old). Once I found there was more to life than GIFs of twinkling stars and spinning welcome signs, I moved onto MS FrontPage where I started building websites using tables.
My first success was a popular fan website dedicated to the TV show Bottom, which had people from around the world submitting their own content, something I was very proud of as a 16-year-old.
Starting my own company
I went to University and left with a degree in film production and media studies, but never stopped building websites. After University, I set up my company Starboard Media Ltd which did both film work and development.
I had my first ever office at Port 57 and spent a lot of time filming amazing conferences and events for companies like Microsoft and Re:develop.
Where I am now
I eventually found my focus in front-end development, now I work from home with my husband and three cats.
Not just a coder
Whilst I enjoy getting my code on, I also like to get out and see friendly faces and get involved in the local creative community. In 2010, I started a monthly networking group called Portsmouth Freelancers Meet. I’ve also successfully run five PubHack events; my own brand of hackathon set in a pub.
Outside of work
I have three cats (Joel, Rocket, and Lyra) who like to “help” around the office and are often featured in my social media photos.
I’m also an avid traveller and since meeting my husband in 2017, we’ve visited 15 countries and counting! I like to document my travels in my blog.
Let's work together.
I currently have some capacity for new projects. Drop me a message via email and I’ll get back to you shortly.