Motivated by a deep sense of independence and the need to secure my financial well-being, I found myself drawn to working two part-time jobs while still attending school. I took on the role of a nurse's aide in an age care facility and, despite being underage, worked diligently at a nightclub, responsibly collecting glasses. Though these jobs did not promise great wealth, they instilled in me valuable lessons about hard work and self-reliance, which I carry with me to this day.

Recognising that these endeavours would not lead me to substantial financial stability, I made the humbling decision to leave school behind and embark on a journey of uncertainty. With only $300 to my name, I purchased a one-way ticket from New Zealand to Sydney, hoping to find a solution to my financial predicament. However, working at a hotel proved to be insufficient in resolving my dilemma. Undeterred by this setback, I gathered my belongings once again and set my sights on Perth, where I had heard whispers of opportunities in the mining industry that could potentially improve my circumstances.

For an extended period, I diligently washed dishes on a demanding 12-weeks-on, 1-week-off schedule. Through careful financial management and perseverance, I managed to save enough money to purchase not just one, but two properties. The physical toll on my hands, marked by their wrinkled appearance, served as a reminder of the effort I exerted. With a renewed sense of purpose, I embarked on an adventurous journey abroad, running safaris from Kenya to South Africa, an experience that I consider one of the highlights of my life.

Upon returning to Australia, I transitioned into Occupational Health and Safety, initially starting in the mining industry, and eventually to an offshore oil and gas facility for eight years. While most of my time there was marked by encounters with challenging individuals, I prefer to view those experiences as opportunities for personal growth.

The oil field underwent a change in ownership, resulting in the redundancy of the entire team, including myself. My journey took a turn as I embraced a new role as a leadership coach. Finding myself in a nurturing environment, I was afforded the time and space to reflect upon the value inherent in the setbacks I had faced. Rather than allowing the experience of being mistreated to break me or hinder my career, I chose to view it as a transformative catalyst that ultimately contributed to my newfound success. Today, I am equipped with the knowledge and empathy necessary to coach and mentor others.

As I reflect upon my journey in life so far, I am filled with deep gratitude for every experience. Whether it be the moments of triumph, the challenging lows, or the valuable lessons gleaned from setbacks, each occurrence has played a significant role in shaping my journey and leading me to the present moment, where I have discovered my true passion and calling as a coach and mentor.

Having setbacks in life is all a part of being human, there is no avoiding it. My mission involves identifying setbacks for others and helping them bounce back with more motivation and drive than they previously thought was possible. My method involves utilising a strategic perspective on helping individuals work through setbacks, rather than taking the perspective of a psychologist or therapist.