About
Jelle Smets
Writer, editor, bookkeeper and children’s author — the heart and hands behind Word & Worth.
In my own words
I’ve taught, translated, edited, balanced books, trained teams, and built systems — and through all of it, I’ve cared deeply about clarity, consistency, and care.
Word & Worth grew from a desire to do things differently — to offer dependable, personalized support to people doing meaningful work.
It came to life after years of working behind the scenes for a nonprofit client. I saw how fragile trust can be when communication breaks down, and how much smoother things run when someone genuinely cares.
As an author
Jelle Smets wrote these stories to help young children understand big feelings during times of change, especially when they don’t yet have the words for what they feel.
Jelle is a linguist, teacher, and editor with more than ten years of experience in education. He believes children feel deeply, and that calm presence, simple words, and shared reading can help them feel safe.
Most of all, he believes every child deserves to feel safe, seen, and understood.
As a writer & editor
Documents that make sense to the people reading them. I’ve edited both curriculum and books in translation, supported new educators, and worked with teams navigating change and growth.
As a bookkeeper
Books that reconcile, reports that reflect reality. Reliable, not rigid — working quietly and consistently in the background to keep things clear, compliant, and calm.
Background
- Teaching
- Taught and led programs in China and Canada, with a focus on communication, critical thinking, and global business skills
- Education
- Master’s in Linguistics · CELTA certificate
- Bookkeeping
- QuickBooks Online Advisor certification
- Based in
- Vancouver, BC