smiling through the head-winds
Having worked for organisations for 30 years, I would like to utilise my drive for systems change, my skills, experience and global relationships to shift perception of the work place.
Organisations set up to work with communities, are experiencing unprecedented challenges. Retention, recruitment, compassion fatigue and low levels of staff engagement, have become ‘stuck’ systemic issues.
Through my high support / high challenge approach, I have the ability and experience of enabling organisations to refocus on relationships, making purpose conscious, sustaining meaning to contribute to other people.
Leaning into complexity and learning how to transcend the multiple systemic paradoxes needs a collective perspective shift, which I am able to facilitate.
If you are stuck, but feel the energy for change…
Purpose
In these times of rapid change, our world teeters on the edge of irreparable damage. The transition we face brings forth suffering and harm to individuals, communities, and societies. However, within this uncertainty lies the potential for metamorphosis and realisation of opportunities.
We find ourselves trapped in ingrained patterns, seeking solace in familiar ways of acting and problem-solving, only to find ourselves stuck once again. Through collaboration, I can assist in disrupting these patterns of thinking, enabling individuals, teams and organisations, to envision and embrace new possibilities. Through this process, you can build the confidence to cultivate relationships that propel you forward.
Systemic advantages emerge through this pattern disruption; compassionate leadership focusing on relationships, heightened staff engagement, improved retention and recruitment and a greater connection to those the organisation are there to serve. A culture focused on purpose and values is nurtured, benefitting reputation. By aligning extrinsic and intrinsic values, we unlock the power of creativity, divergent thinking, and inclusive environments.
Not only does this approach benefit customers and users of services, it amplifies what truly matters. People feel seen, heard, and understood. As a result, we are inspired to make a positive impact for ourselves, others and world.
My story
I had the fortunate experience of knowing four of my great grandparents during my childhood. This connection to my ancestors, combined with being raised by socialist parents who nurtured me with belief and love, profoundly shaped my values. At the age of 14, I embarked on my first volunteering job at a homeless shelter, which opened my eyes to the realities faced by marginalised individuals.
As I pursued a degree in social philosophy, my mind was liberated to explore and question the world around me. I began my career working with people experiencing homelessness, and later with those who faced the additional challenges of severe and enduring mental health issues. This journey deepened my commitment to serving socially excluded populations.
To expand my knowledge and skills, I pursued a Masters in Social Work, where I delved into the study of systemic discrimination and complex systems. Working in leadership positions across the South of England allowed me to apply my learnings and further explore the intersection of theory and practice in management.
While I appreciated the insights gained from obtaining an MBA, I felt a calling towards systems thinking and complexity, as a means of understanding how to navigate relationships with oneself, others, and world. I recognised the inherent connections that bind us together, both among humans and the non-human elements of our existence.
I firmly believe that our existence encompasses diverse ways of being, interwoven within the tapestry of connections we forge with one another across various environments, including the realm of work. We are not singular entities defined by a single attribute; we are complex beings shaped by the interactions we experience in different contexts.
Values
What you can expect from me:
+ Belief in others
+ Deep listening
+ Integrity & ethical decision making
+ Collaboration
+ High support / high challenge