The new journey so far

This article is a little different. Instead of talking about a single event or project, I want to share some reflections on my journey so far into the mental health and public speaking space—and the role networking has played in shaping it.

For around 20 years, I worked in aquatics and recreation. It wasn’t the career I had planned for myself, but it became a kind of security blanket. From swim teacher to lifeguard, then pool operator through to Aquatics Director, I met people from across the state. Conferences like LIWA were a highlight each year, and over time I realised how powerful networking could be.

In that industry, networking almost happened by accident. People came to know me through the work I was doing, and it often opened doors I hadn’t even been looking for. It wasn’t about self-promotion—it was about being part of a connected industry where relationships really mattered.

When I finally made the leap into mental health and public speaking—the area I’d always felt drawn to—I noticed a big difference. This time I don’t have the same built-in support or recognition that I had in aquatics. But I do have the chance to build it all over again. And that’s where networking comes in.

Already, networking has led me into some amazing opportunities this year:
 Speaking on the International Agritourism Tour of the South West and at their conference day in March.
 Acting as Master of Ceremonies at the Australian Pole Sport Federation’s National Championships in July.

 Presenting at the Nursery and Garden Industry of WA, alongside the Landscaping Industry of WA, earlier in 2025.

Each of these came about through connections—meeting the right people, being in the right place, and saying “yes” when opportunities appeared. They’ve also highlighted my key focal areas: recreation and agritourism. I can feel these themes starting to take shape in my work, though I know there’s still a long way to go.

One thing I’ve been learning along the way is that networking isn’t just about reaching young people directly—though I’ve connected with plenty of teenagers through sport and recreation. Sometimes it’s their parents I need to be talking to, even while building trust and rapport with the teens themselves. That balancing act is something I’m still navigating.

Looking ahead, my next big goal is attending the International Speakers Conference in Cairns, March 2026. It’s a chance to learn from some of the best, connect with speakers from around the world, and hopefully open new doors.

So, while I’ve taken some first steps, this is really only the beginning. Networking has already played a huge role in getting me here, and I’m excited to see where it leads next.