• "It wasn't until after I had my second child, my son, that I had a moment. I realised, "What the hell am I doing with my life?" I was working eight hours a day, away from my kids, without even enjoying the job or getting anything out of it. My kids ultimately gave me the push to really look at what I was doing and challenge myself."

  • "Looking back, I had very limited self-belief and told myself I wasn't career-driven, which fit the narrative of supporting others as an EA. That was a complete load of bollocks, though."

  • "I had worked for executives who worked ridiculous hours - 7:00 a.m. till 3:00 a.m. the next morning, but my last GM showed me a different style of leadership that was more about people, connection, and knowing yourself. I now understand that this behaviour of showing himself respect is leading by example."

  • "This loss fundamentally changed me and put everything into perspective. Now, things like stress at work or financial worries register as privileges rather than problems."

  • "I also have a better relationship with myself now. I used to take things very personally. Now, when a client rings up upset and takes it out on me, I can step away, be more analytical, and focus on learnings or remedies."

  • "My aim now is to lead by example, embracing vulnerability and working hard to overcome my fear of public speaking. I feel I can’t encourage other women to be bold if I won’t speak about my own journey."

  • "Strengths often associated with women, such as being highly in tune with emotions or having a high EQ (Emotional Quotient), were once perceived as weaknesses. I now realise those strengths are what make me a good leader. I don't need to toughen up or hide them. When you understand yourself and are comfortable with that person, others can feel that confidence too."

  • "While you might think you’re in a cushy job and comfortable, you might actually be at your most uncomfortable because you lack fulfilment, satisfaction, or purpose. Living solely in your comfort zone means you’re not living to your fullest and you won't find much joy."

  • "When I made my change, I reminded myself that I still had about 30 years of working ahead of me. Why wouldn't I make the change? I am stronger and happier for it."

  • "An OE lets you drop inhibitions, discover who you are without judgement, immerse yourself in new cultures, and build resilience fast. It alone forces growth and the experience is unmatched - I loved it."

  • "I'm proud of who I am now. I stand for someone who is bold, authentic, courageous, and vulnerable. All those things combined, I hope, make me a great person, and most importantly, a great mum and wife - my number one roles in this world."