Inspire Magazine - June issue

EDITOR’S NOTE

Hi everyone,

Firstly, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for all the kind words of encouragement and well wishes we received on our inaugural issue in March Your support and feedback have been truly motivating for the entire team at Inspire Magazine It is with great pleasure that we present to you our June issue, filled with even more inspiring stories and thought-provoking content

I was particularly touched to receive a note from one of my former lecturers who shared how the stories from our previous issue had provided him with strength and motivation during a period of hardship and health challenges It is moments like these that remind us of the power of storytelling and the positive impact it can have on individuals

Shadhana Mohan

In this edition, we begin with a captivating feature story on Sana, a beautiful young girl with Williams syndrome, also known as the Happy syndrome Since the age of 12, Sana has courageously chosen to open up and share her personal experiences, aiming to foster a better understanding of the syndrome and create a support group for those facing similar challenges

We also had an exclusive interview with Rubina Khan, Sana’s psychologist, who provides valuable insights into the intricacies of Williams syndrome and how she has guided Sana and her family on their journey towards growth and strength With her expertise and compassionate approach, Rubina has played a pivotal role in helping Sana navigate the challenges associated with the syndrome Her professional input adds depth and understanding to Sana’s inspiring story, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive support systems for individuals and families facing unique circumstances

Furthermore, we delve into the crucial topic of Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) and its profound effects on the safety and well-being of children We had the privilege of speaking with Barnardos, who will shed light on their latest research findings and initiatives to address this pressing issue

We are also thrilled to showcase the remarkable journey of Poonam, a mumpreneur who, against all odds, successfully raised her daughter with Williams syndrome while establishing five daycare centers that now cater to 650 children and employ over 35 staff members Her story is a testament to the power of determination and resilience

Additionally, we had the honor of sitting down with Lalitha, the director of an Australian cybersecurity company, who shares invaluable tips and advice on how working mothers can effectively balance their professional and personal lives Her insights will undoubtedly resonate with many of our readers

Last but not least, we feature Detective Dena Walker, a remarkable woman from California who became a viral sensation for her unwavering dedication to caring for Bob, an elderly man she initially knew only as a stranger Recognizing his need for medical care, Dena took the initiative to secure Power of Attorney and became his devoted advocate and caregiver Her selflessness and compassion are truly aweinspiring

We sincerely hope that the stories presented in this issue will ignite a spark of inspiration within you We eagerly await your feedback and invite you to share your own stories of triumph and resilience You can reach out to me directly at shadhana mohan@inspire360degrees com

Thank you once again for your continued support Together, let us create a community of inspiration and empowerment

Warm Regards,

Shadhana Mohan Editor-in-Chief, Inspire Magazine

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I Give It A Shot

Sana, Sana ...

pg. 05

Unleashing the Power of Healing:

Child Psychologist Rubina

Khan’s Impact on Children’s Well-being

pg. 09

The Hand That Rocks

The Cradle…..

pg. 11

From Boardrooms

Lalitha Ponnudurai’s Tips for Achieving Work-Life Balance

pg. 16

Detective Dena Walker Pauly’s Journey of Love and Redemption

pg. 24

Combating Domestic Violence and Protecting Children

pg. 21

War: Inspire 360°’s top 6 books

pg. 26

I Give It A Shot

Sana, Sana… they all call me

God hears me… I always say Sana, Sana… they all feel me

God hears me for I pray

Sana, Sana they worry for me

God hears me I am okay

For the Heavens know everything will be all right

By Susy Narayanan

What do you do when you come out into this world at 41 weeks only to be sent directly to the ICU breathless, bruised, battered and blue with abrasions due to lack of water You tell yourself I am not just any baby I am Sana and I am prepared for the battle Sana B did just that, she grew up to be a fighter

The Williams Syndrome diagnosis came much later when Sana was 8 months old Poonam her proactive mother, a remarkable lady who has made her daughter her life’s mission had unwavering faith and knew that the challenge was going to be colossal, as the spontaneous deletion of 26-28 genes on chromosome #7 at the time of conception, was not a matter to be taken lightly The deletion can occur in either the egg or the sperm so nobody can pinpoint accurately at the cause or blame anyone in particular for It was indeed the hands of God that sent Sana to this home where everyone held hands to lift each other and never brooded over the past but acted to resolve and emerge victorious It is likely that in most families, the child with Williams Syndrome is the only one to have the elastin gene condition in his or her entire extended family The ominous statistic of Sana being 1 in 10000 was not comforting but instead made Poonam all the more determined to fight all odds to prove that Sana would be different not just different but exceptional

Poonam’s crusade began as soon as Sana was born At this point she was in the dark and many questions assailed her as she wondered what exactly was not right with her baby Sana had difficulty swallowing and constantly cried as severe reflux issues robbed her of quality sleep Poonam battled endless nights of sleep deprivation as she had to sing rhymes for hours just to get Sana to sleep Eating was no joy as Sana was not equipped with the ability to chew and thus had to be tube fed Every mouthful that she took put a smile of relief on this anxious mum ’ s face The support of the extended family gave Poonam the strength and the energy to do endless research as well as the opportunity to reach out to specialists both local and abroad

The diagnosis when it finally came posed more questions for the family as Williams Syndrome was a rare genetic condition and research on it was still ongoing As developmental milestones, posed greater hurdles for Sana and simple acts of crawling, rolling over, sitting and walking proved challenging, Poonam realised that early intervention would be the answer She sought the advice and help of many different caregivers and physiotherapists; occupational therapists and speech therapists were assigned on a regular basis to help Sana and continue to do so

The start of Sana’s school life was exacting to put it lightly The simplest of tasks posed the greatest challenges - the school was huge and navigating the area in search of her classroom itself was a task Sana had trouble with basic self- care skills, lacked social skills and could not adhere to the rules assigned by the establishment which were all considered a norm by the school administrators It came as no surprise when the school counsellors suggested that as Sana would find it tough to keep up with her peers, a school for children with special needs would be a better choice Poonam waged her own wars with these unfriendly establishments that could not provide the inclusive environment that Sana needed to help her cope with her delay in global development Sana too was very much on her own with no friends as nobody understood her predicament The world of academia could do little for her and authorities suggested transferring her to a school for children with special needs This riled Poonam to the core as she did not see any visible handicap in her child who exhibited so much potential She endeavoured to look for a school that had an inclusive programme that catered to other multiple intelligences like the performing arts besides just focusing on passing exams and scoring in core subjects all of which needed reading, writing and comprehending These

were her greatest banes Poonam knew her daughter would reach great heights if given the right opportunity in appropriate fields

At the same time, Sana had other bigger issues to tackle She had to undergo eye, ear and dental surgeries She has a hole in the heart and suffers from heart murmur but doctors are positive that everything is under control She has a fear of flying and hill areas upset her and this leads to anxiety but our fighter remains resilient Though her fine motor skills were weak and holding a pencil was a chore, she broke all boundaries and started learning to play the piano and drums It was not smooth sailing but after years of practice, patience and persistence, she has now advanced to creating her own melodies Sana’s talents did not stop there as her singing prowess has earned her accolades She started taking this passion seriously and is taking regular lessons in classical singing Another feather in her cap is that she has mustered the confidence to perform on stage and has also delved in public speaking Recently, while on a holiday cruise with the family, she took part in a Karaoke Superstar competition where she, despite being the youngest participant beat more able contestants to win the runners-up Golden trophy She not only earned prizes but praises as well

Sana’s virtuosity extends to dancing and that too she executes with a passion and her ability to strive higher led her to choreograph a performance for a big group of family members on the occasion of a family wedding She is a born entertainer and never makes excuses for herself She rises above her debilities and puts many of us to shame She is into cooking now and bakes cupcakes besides concocting her version of chicken wraps Her lack of eye, hand coordination and poor muscle tone have not deterred her from taking part in sports The lack of gross motor skills and upper body strength were waived aside by Sana’s true grit and will-power which she believes are all that one needs to win the day She has improved vastly in badminton, table tennis, swimming and snorkelling Poonam has found an instructor in her daughter who never ceases to amaze her The energy this child puts into all that she aspires to achieve is commendable Her “I have got it” policy has helped her overcome all her fears and doubts She attempted parasailing a mean feat for even the toughest of us but her adventurous streak saw her enjoying the experience immensely Sana’s phobia of heights has become a thing of the past Having a daughter as daring as Sana, has seen Poonam going on roller coaster rides thus overcoming her own fears

What started off as daunting tasks, as a result of Williams syndrome such as drawing, tying shoe laces and writing independently, now do not intimidate Sana She pretty much handles herself with minimal assistance It has not been easy for Poonam too as she has been the driving force to propel this progress and achievement Poonam was apprehensive to have a second child as she wondered if the new addition would have enough of her time and attention With the support of her husband and Sana’s innate ability to ‘ never say die’ Poonam is on to creating another genius in Shaurya, her son who has carved a name for himself in table tennis by representing the state

The most charming trait that this beautiful child has is to share her love and kindred spirit with all those who are lucky enough to meet her She is receptive to mood changes and her empathetic self can reach out to the loneliest souls Poonam relates how on a holiday at Gold Coast, they were out on a shopping spree when they chanced upon a salesperson who appeared rather pensive Whilst everyone would have attributed it to job stress, Sana s discerning self, saw beyond the lady’s quiet demeanour and sensed her sadness within Sana’s emotional intelligence moved her to ask, “Is everything all right with you?” The lady despite her initial surprise, could not hold back her tears and confessed that she was missing her mother who had passed on recently Sana without any hesitation asked if she could give her a hug and did just that She encompassed the lady with the love and warmth that the lady was clearly missing The hug reminded the lady of her mother and the solace she received from this child who was a total stranger overwhelmed her When they revisited the same shop, Sana insisted that they meet her again and of course the lady never forgot the perceptive girl who had brightened her day with just a hug That’s the magnanimity of Sana who reaches out to anyone who needs a smile

Now 14, Sana’s social circle has expanded to include a small group of friends who understand her and provide the support she needs from time to time Now that Sana is growing to be more independent and has greater knowledge of her condition, she has decided to open up and share her experiences so that people would better understand Williams Syndrome which is also known as the Happy Syndrome as people with this condition often have outgoing, friendly personalities and tend to be sociable A better advocate than Sana cannot be found to promote understanding of this condition as she independently pioneered a presentation in front of her whole year group True to her nature of leaving no stones unturned her event was complete with her cupcakes and all She made photobooks and had a questionanswer session to make it not only meaningful but educational as well Sana was equipped with answers and made her family beam with pride as she surpassed all initial apprehension and doubts to announce to the world that she had arrived safely though her journey had begun tumultuously

The family is currently looking forward to the events lined up for Sana in the coming months and to kickstart it, July has been declared the Williams Syndrome month A peek into the event sees a programme named Walk for Williams and Art Nights and if you look closely you will see the main character of this tale shining her bright light and making her presence felt as the excitement will drive Sana’s adrenaline to do the unimaginable

‘Sana’ in Spanish means to heal, recover and improve and it is clear to see that when the good Lord was creating our Sana, He made no mistake Sana has healed, recovered and continues to improve not stopping just at herself but inspiring all and sundry that it is easy to simply blame everything on the unfair Hand of Fate and resign ourselves to merely existing but Life is a precious gift that must be cherished and it is up to us to live it well Although Sana had help along the way, it was sheer hard work and belief in herself that saw her through the many hurdles that came her way Sana learned very early that life is like the igniting of a match –short and beautiful so what is important is that you burn brightly

Unleashing the Power of Healing:

Child Psychologist Rubina Khan’s Impact on Children’s Well-being

In the realm of child psychology, there are individuals who possess a remarkable ability to connect with and empower young minds One such individual is Rubina Khan, a dedicated child psychologist who has spent over a decade shaping the lives of children Renowned for her expertise in childhood anxiety and pain, Rubina has become a trusted figure in the field, leaving an indelible mark on countless young lives

For the past ten years, Rubina has been an invaluable asset to the esteemed Children’s Hospital at Westmead, where she has honed her skills and gained widespread recognition Her work in the hospital setting has exposed her to a diverse range of general childhood conditions, further solidifying her expertise and cementing her reputation as a highly-skilled child psychologist

In addition to her work at the hospital, Rubina has successfully run her private practice in Westmead for the past seven years Her practice caters to a wide range of clients, including school-aged children, younger children, teenagers, and families Through her holistic and compassionate approach, she has transformed the lives of numerous individuals, providing them with the tools to navigate the challenges they face

Rubina’s journey with one particular client, Sana, showcases her dedication and the impact she has on the growth and development of the children under her care Sana was referred to Rubina in 2020 by her general practitioner for the treatment of anxiety Over the years, Rubina has worked closely with Sana, addressing her anxiety-related challenges and providing support tailored to her needs

Sana, who has Williams syndrome, a genetic condition characterized by medical problems, developmental delays, and learning challenges, has thrived under Rubina’s guidance Despite her challenges, Sana possesses striking verbal abilities, highly social tendencies, and a deep affinity for music Rubina recognized these strengths and incorporated them into Sana’s therapy, using music and dance as a means of selfexpression and healing

In their sessions together, Rubina focused on addressing Sana’s anxiety and fears, particularly related to needle phobia and concerns about hospitals and blood As a child with a BloodInjection-Injury phobia, Sana’s fears were significant and required specialized attention Rubina employed various evidence- based techniques, including cognitive-behavioural therapy, problem-solving strategies, and mindfulness meditation, to help Sana manage her anxiety

The collaboration between Rubina, Sana’s parents, and her school has been instrumental in her progress By working closely with Sana’s parents, Rubina ensured that the coping strategies taught in therapy were reinforced at home Additionally, Sana’s school introduced her to programs such as the “Zones of Regulation” and “My Circle of Control,” which have provided her with valuable tools for emotional regulation and self-control

Sana’s remarkable growth and development are a testament to Rubina’s expertise and the unwavering support from her parents and school With their combined efforts, Sana has acquired a repertoire of coping skills that will serve her well as she continues to navigate the challenges associated with Williams syndrome and life in general

Reflecting on her experience with Sana, Rubina offers valuable advice to professionals and parents supporting children with Williams syndrome She emphasizes the importance of seeking professional treatment when necessary, whether it be for social skills challenges, anxiety, or learning difficulties Rubina encourages a collaborative approach, involving parents, schools, and medical professionals to provide comprehensive support to children with Williams syndrome

Looking ahead, Rubina envisions a bright future for Sana With continued support from her parents, therapy as needed, and the ongoing involvement of her school, Sana is poised to thrive Armed with a strong foundation of coping skills

By Susy Narayanan

A child’s first teacher is its mother but for Poonam Nagpal, Sana her eldest child was and still is, her best teacher Almost everything that Poonam is today stems from Sana, evolves around Sana and thrives because of Sana When Poonam first held her firstborn in her arms on July 10, 2009, a flood of emotions ran through her and questions popped up for which she had no answers One thing was certain and that was that her life was going to change, not just a bit which would have been normal for first-time mothers as it is a truism that there is no heroism greater than motherhood but in this instance, her precious bundle felt light in her arms but weighed heavy on her heart Poonam in looking into her baby’s eyes, felt her passion burn brighter than her fears and she instinctively knew that in her arms lay a heroine and not a victim

The Hand That Rocks The Cradle…

The diagnosis of Williams Syndrome when Sana was just 8 months initially came as a shock but Poonam having done a Master’s Degree programme in Early Childhood Education and equipped with a Diploma in Counselling and Psychology, she was better prepared than most young mothers Together with the support of her extended family, well-meaning friends and colleagues, she has managed to not only help Sana but take care of Shaurya, her secondborn Poonam ensures that he is not deprived of quality time with her and is focused on helping him achieve his potential Besides that, she is convinced that to help Sana effectively, she would have to liaise with other existing early intervention services and so she sought assistance from occupational therapists and speech therapists Local Councils and community centres provided invaluable information that she needed to best serve her daughter’s needs

We need women who are so strong they can be gentle, so educated they can be humble, so fierce they can be compassionate, so passionate they can be rational, and so disciplined they can be free

It was during this time that Poonam decided to delve into a new business She prepared herself by attending special courses and doing her own research on children with special needs and was actively involved in forums and joined learning groups to further enhance her knowledge in the field of special education Sana, being her source of inspiration, Poonam started her journey into the world of pre-schooling in Sydney in 2010 Opening her first-day care centre Wiggles and Giggles in Prestons on the 25th of October 2010 was the start of Poonam’s venture Now they have branches providing before and after school plus vacation care services in Dural, Cranebrook, Leonay and Prestons These centres pride on providing high-quality care and education and are run by a fully qualified team of educators The tried and tested curriculum is promising and prepares children from infancy to preschool Staff are given training to better understand children with additional needs It was by no means smooth sailing as funds were short and taking on the responsibility of handling so many children proved to be an unnerving adventure This burden inevitably gave her sleepless nights as she suffered social isolation and stress, having to spend hours at work but it was rewarding as the experiential learning was incredible

Every day Poonam was learning something new from the talented people she had the pleasure of meeting whilst setting up her first preschool In order to reach out to families of children with special needs, information was collated and an information folder was created with a list of local early intervention service details This initiative deserves a pat on the back and Poonam knew best that when challenges overwhelm, it can be a real relief when help is within arm ’ s length in the shape of a wellresearched informative document Poonam engaged the help of support agencies to partake in events so as to promote greater awareness of the cause They in turn showed their support to family and staff and catered to the children in an inclusive environment Poonam having undergone a very rough ride with Sana knew that her preschool centres had to be similar to community schools and acknowledged the importance of having open discussions with parents on the ever-changing needs of the children In keeping everything on track, the administration organises room leader meetings, staff meetings, and management and parents meeting to foster better and more effective links with the intention to facilitate learning and increase the involvement of parents in their children’s development and progress

A pertinent feature in all the centres is that they also provide transportation thus curbing heavy traffic besides reducing pollution Another attraction is the studentteacher ratio which is 30:01 thus ensuring that each child is given sufficient attention and all their cognitive, affective and psychomotor domains are engaged In her quest to reach out to more people, the schools organise social events like Pink Ribbon Day, Loud Shirt Day, Daffodil Day, Williams Syndrome Cupcake Picnic Day and Walkathons These activities promote the understanding of the disease amongst the public which is hoped will prepare them to see that these children needed more than empathy as although they looked normal physically, they had limitations as their delay in global development needed to be understood The Williams Syndrome Australia and the Williams Syndrome Family Support Group in Victoria provided Poonam with the resources she required There are also schools like the Mater Dei School, which caters to children with mild to moderate intellectual disability It is a coeducational setting for students from Kindergarten to Year 12 Poonam partakes in the annual picnics organised by this school where people from different ethnic groups and ages come under one roof to share their stories Watching adults with Williams Syndrome can be an experience in itself but on the bright side, listening to them is both educational and enlightening

Poonam relishes being Sana’s mum and it brings her the greatest joy as Sana’s effusive nature, makes loving her truly easy Poonam shares her own personal view of her daughter,

“Sana has an infectious smile, people readily gravitate towards her. She lights up any room she enters and her warmth encompasses everyone and being around her sets you off to be in a very good mood.”

While all this is heart-warming, Poonam has her fears as well where Sana is concerned as her all-trusting nature leaves her open to the danger of strangers abusing this trust Whilst entrusting Sana with independence and responsibility, her safety is also a prime concern Sana has made Poonam very proud with her ability to interact with people - singing in front of a crowd and winning In addition to organising a presentation in front of her whole year group about Williams Syndrome, Sana could answer questions pertaining to the condition that had plagued her since birth These were the highlights that brought tears of joy to Poonam, the mother who orchestrated her whole life around her child Little does this humble mother gloat or glorify her role in shaping Sana to be the wonderful person she is

Poonam the budding entrepreneur has this to say to other mothers of children with special needs who are keen to stretch their capabilities further and do more for themselves,

Poonam has dreams for the betterment of the community She is convinced that there is a need for more trained special needs educators in mainstream schools In creating a networking system within the school, families of these children would benefit and nobody will be left feeling alone, afraid and ignorant Councils need to advertise and organise courses to train parents to manage their children in the best way possible Poonam on her part has played the role of campaigner and has managed to raise awareness of Williams Syndrome and brought in funds to the tune of over 100,000 AUD to help the Westmead Children’s Hospital and The Ponds School, a school for special education This will fund further research and her fervent desire is that in the coming years, Williams Syndrome will not be feared but understood Though a cure is not in sight just now but one can still hope and until that time may every family with a child with Williams Syndrome have the support, resources, education and financial assistance to welcome this child with open arms Poonam is indeed an inspiration She is a mother who through her adversity has learned that she has strengths she did not know she had and dealt with fears that she did not even know existed

“Believe in yourself. You will have highs and lows but take one step at a time and take care of your own physical and mental health so as to be able to take better care of your child Stay connected to support groups. Be your child’s advocate and you will see them thrive.”

From Boardrooms to Bottle Feeds:

Lalitha Ponnudurai’s Tips for Achieving Work-Life Balance

We had the opportunity to sit down with Lalitha Ponnudurai, Director –Territory Lead GRC for CyberCX Australia, who is not only a successful professional in the cybersecurity industry but also a beautiful mom of three lovely children In honour of all the super moms and kids in our community, we spoke with Lalitha to gain insights into how she manages the delicate balance between work and family life

1 As the director of a cybersecurity company in Australia, how do you manage to balance your professional responsibilities with your household chores? Can you share any strategies or tips that have helped you maintain a healthy home while pursuing a successful career?

Honestly, finding the perfect balance is a never-ending challenge There’s always something that needs adjusting But I’ve learned that striving for harmony and a sense of equilibrium is more realistic Prioritising and letting go of perfectionism have been key for me

Teamwork is essential, and I couldn’t do it without my spouse and children We share the responsibilities and work together as a team Having a support system of family, friends, and colleagues has also made a huge difference They provide guidance, assistance, and encouragement when I need it most

Taking care of myself is crucial I’ve realised that making time for activities that bring me joy and relaxation is essential for my wellbeing It helps me recharge and approach both work and personal life with a fresh perspective

Being adaptable and open to change is vital I’ve had to learn new strategies, adjust routines, and be flexible to meet the demands of work and personal life

Finding work-life balance is an ongoing journey, and it’s important to be kind to ourselves along the way And I must say, none of this would have been possible without the unwavering support and encouragement of my spouse He

has been my rock, understanding the demands of my career and parenting responsibilities I’m truly grateful for his presence and contributions, as he has played an instrumental role in my success

2 Being a corporate mom often requires exceptional time management skills How do you prioritize your tasks at work and at home to ensure that both areas of your life receive the attention they deserve?

I have this old-school approach that has worked wonders for me First off, I m a big fan of making to-do lists They help me stay organised and ensure that nothing slips through the cracks I rank my tasks based on how urgent and important they are, so I can tackle the most crucial ones right away

Another key thing is knowing when to say no Believe me, I d love to be a superhero and take on every task that comes my way, but I’ve come to realise that it’s just not sustainable or beneficial for anyone So, I’ve learned to politely decline and delegate tasks

when needed This way I can avoid feeling overwhelmed and give my full attention and energy to the tasks I’ve committed to Plus, it promotes teamwork and shows that I trust my colleagues to handle their share of the workload

I’ve also learned the importance of recognising my own limitations and setting realistic expectations Trying to do it all only leads to burnout and subpar results By understanding my own capabilities and boundaries, I can make smart decisions about which tasks to prioritise and where to focus my time and energy It’s all about working smarter, not harder

know they’re a priority It’s all about finding that balance and making sure their needs are met, even during those crazy work periods

Oh, and weekends? They’re sacred I keep them reserved for my family, no work allowed unless it’s something absolutely critical That way, I can fully immerse myself in their world, connect with them, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life It’s those moments that bring balance and fulfillment to both my personal and professional life

4 In the field of cybersecurity, staying up to date with the latest advancements and threats is crucial. How do you find time to enhance your professional knowledge and skills while fulfilling your responsibilities as a parent and director?

First and foremost, I gotta say, I don’t have all the answers right now, and that’s okay I’ve come to realise that learning is an ongoing process, not a one-time thing So, I stay open to new ideas, embrace challenges as chances to grow, and always keep my eyes peeled for opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills

First things first, I’m a big believer in keeping it real with my family I have open and honest conversations with them about my work and all the stuff that comes with it I make sure they understand the demands and commitments I have, so they’re in the loop when things get a bit crazy This way, we ’ re on the same page, and they’re supportive and understanding

I can’t stress enough how much I value the support from both my family and my team They’re my rock when things get tough I believe in empowering them and making them part of the journey We’re all in this together, and by sharing the load, we create an environment where everyone feels important and motivated It’s like a big team effort, and it makes all the difference

Now, let’s talk about those times when work just takes over We’ve all been there, right? But here’s my secret sauce: I make sure to make up for it later When things calm down, I dedicate quality time to my family We plan special outings, have heartto-heart chats, and make sure they

To make learning a part of my daily grind, I get crafty with my time During my daily commute, you’ll catch me reading up on industry articles or tuning into cybersecurity podcasts Even when I’m cooking or doing other everyday tasks, I take advantage of audio-based learning materials to keep myself upto-date with the latest happenings in the field

Being an active member of professional communities is also a big deal for me These platforms give me the chance to engage in discussions, share insights, and keep the learning train going By staying connected with industry experts and fellow peers, I get to soak up different perspectives and stay in the loop with the latest trends and best practices

But I don’t stop there I set aside specific time for self-improvement and learning Every day, I commit at least an hour to hone new skills, deepening my knowledge, or chasing after relevant certifications This intentional investment of time ensures I stay on top of my game, constantly upgrading my expertise

Last but not least, I’m all about sharing knowledge and roping in my family on my cybersecurity

3 Managing a cybersecurity practice can be demanding and fast-paced How do you handle the stress and pressure of your job while still being available for your family’s needs and maintaining a harmonious household?

journey Whenever it’s appropriate I engage them in discussions, break down concepts for them, and even practice online safety together Not only does this strengthen my own understanding, but it also sparks curiosity and awareness within my family It’s a win-win situation if you ask me

Now, when it comes to my family, I make it a point to be present during those key moments like meals together, driving them to their activities, or even just those quiet times when we can have a heart- toheart These moments let us connect, share our experiences, and really listen to each other By actively engaging in these interactions, I show my family that I’m there for them with my full attention and that I value our communication

Everyone’s journey is unique, and it’s important to find your own balance and stay true to your values Success isn’t about trying to be perfect or comparing yourself to others It’s about finding joy and fulfillment in both your professional and personal life

5 Maintaining open communication with your team and family is essential for success in both the corporate world and home life How do you ensure effective communication with your employees while still being present and engaged with your family?

You know what they say, communication is a two-way street, and it takes effort from both sides I firmly believe that effective communication requires effort and involvement from both parties It’s a team effort to make sure we’re on the same page and working together towards our goals When it comes to my team, I’m all about clear and open communication I carve out specific times for us to chat, like one- on-one meetings, team gatherings, or even just casual chit-chats by the water cooler or over a cup of hot choc (I don’t drink coffee) when we’re in the office These designated communication windows give us the chance to discuss updates, address any concerns or questions, and make sure everyone feels supported in their work

Oh, and let me tell you, I’m all about quality over quantity I believe in making every moment count, whether I’m talking to my team or spending time with my family It’s all about making the most of the time we have and ensuring that our communication is meaningful and impactful

6 Being a role model for other working mothers, what advice would you give to women who aspire to succeed in their careers while maintaining a healthy and balanced home life? Are there any specific resources or support systems that have been helpful to you in achieving this balance?

You know, my spouse always tells me, “If your dreams don’t scare you, then you’re not dreaming big enough.” That quote really sticks with me and keeps me motivated to aim high and step out of my comfort zone It’s a reminder that we shouldn’t settle for mediocrity but should strive for greatness in everything we do And that’s the advice I’d give to all the amazing women out there

Create your own definition of success and remember that you ’ re not in a race against anyone else Take care of yourself, both physically and mentally, because your well-being is the foundation for everything else And don’t be afraid to seek guidance from a mentor who has already walked the path you aspire to They can offer invaluable advice and show you the way forward

But here s the thing, success isn t achieved in isolation Reach out to your support network, surround yourself with like-minded people, and share your experiences and wisdom Building those connections will remind you that you ’ re not alone on this journey

As a fellow perfectionist, I completely understand the struggle of chasing an unattainable standard It’s essential to let go of perfection and embrace our imperfections, forgive yourself for any mistakes, and let go of guilt You’re doing your best in both your career and as a parent, and that’s what matters most Progress is what counts, not perfection

Lastly, always stay true to yourself Don’t let anyone else define your path or change who you are Be authentic, trust your instincts, and follow your own intuition That’s how you’ll find genuine happiness and fulfillment in the long run

7 Cybersecurity is a rapidly evolving field, requiring constant adaptation and learning How do you stay motivated and keep your passion alive amidst the challenges and demands of managing a practice and running a household?

I always remind myself of the bigger picture and the impact my work has on society Cybersecurity plays a vital role in protecting individuals, organisations, and critical infrastructure Knowing that I’m contributing to a safer digital world gives me a strong sense of purpose and keeps me motivated

Having mentors in the field has been a game-changer for me Their guidance and wisdom not only provide valuable insights but also ignite my motivation to continue learning and growing And I find great satisfaction in mentoring others who are just starting their cybersecurity journeys

Celebrating achievements, both significant and small, is crucial It’s important to recognise and appreciate the progress I’ve made and the milestones I’ve reached By acknowledging my accomplishments, I stay motivated and inspired to push further and make an even greater impact

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for sustaining motivation I make it a priority to engage in activities outside of work that bring me joy and relaxation Spending quality time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, and taking care of my overall well-being replenishes my energy and keeps my passion burning

These strategies help me stay motivated and passionate in the dynamic field of cybersecurity By doing so, I continue to grow, excel, and make a positive impact in this exciting industry

8 As a director in the cybersecurity industry, what initiatives or policies have you implemented within your company to support working parents and create an inclusive and supportive environment for all employees?

I’m really proud to be part of a company that gets it when it comes to the challenges faced by women, particularly working parents In my team, we ’ ve made extra efforts to support them even more One of the things we ’ ve done is introduce flexible work options We give our employees the choice to work remotely and have flexible schedules We understand that everyone s situation is different, especially for working parents, so we want to make sure we accommodate their needs and help them find a good balance between work and family life

But it doesn’t end there We’ve fostered a culture of understanding and empathy within our team We encourage open communication and collaboration, ensuring that every voice is heard and respected We truly value the unique perspectives and experiences that working parents bring to our team, and we re fully committed to supporting them in every way possible

9 Many working mothers often struggle with guilt or a sense of not doing enough in either their professional or personal lives How do you deal with these feelings and maintain a positive mindset?

As a working mum myself, I understand the challenges and emotions that come with juggling multiple responsibilities Dealing with guilt and maintaining a positive mindset requires a combination of self-reflection, selfcompassion, and perspective

It s important to acknowledge that feeling like you ’ re not doing enough in both your professional and personal lives is a common experience for many working mums Remember that perfection is not attainable, and it’s okay to prioritise and make choices based on what is most important in the present moment Set realistic expectations for yourself in both your professional and personal roles Understand that you cannot be everywhere and do everything at once Be mindful of what is truly achievable within the constraints of your time and energy Practice self-compassion and kindness towards yourself Recognise that you are doing the best you can in balancing multiple responsibilities Treat yourself with understanding and forgiveness, just as you would support a friend facing similar challenges Take time to acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem Whether it’s successfully completing a project at work or spending quality time with your children recognise and appreciate the progress you make in each area of your life

10 What personal values or principles have guided you in successfully managing your career and home life simultaneously? Have there been any challenges you faced and overcame that you would like to share?

To all the amazing women out there juggling work and life, here’s my advice from one working woman to another: Forget about trying to achieve the perfect balance between work and personal life Instead, embrace the idea of work-life integration Find ways to make your professional and personal responsibilities work together, supporting each other in a harmonious way

Communication is key! Be open and honest with your family, colleagues, and team members Let them know what you need, set boundaries,

and share any challenges you may be facing This way, you’ll build understanding and support from those around you, managing expectations and finding solutions together

Don’t let society’s expectations weigh you down Define your own version of success and let go of external judgments Remember, your journey is unique, and it s important to align your goals and values with what truly matters to you

As a woman wearing many hats, challenges will come your way And sometimes, the answers won’t be obvious In those moments, focus on what you can control and take proactive steps to tackle the issues Be adaptable and find solutions that work for you, your family and your team That’s how you navigate through uncertainties and lead with confidence

Stay true to yourself, my friend You can’t please everyone or have everyone follow you But as long as you know you ’ re doing the right thing and your conscience is clear, keep moving forward and show the world what you ’ re capable of I recently shared this quote with my children: “You only get one life, but if you live it well, once is enough ”

So go out there, rock your work, cherish your loved ones, and live your life to the fullest You’ve got this!

Australia’s Unseen War: Combating Domestic Violence and Protecting Children

We all have a role to play

In a world that often seems filled with darkness, there are individuals who shine a beacon of hope and bring about meaningful change Dr Robert Urquhart, or Dr Rob, as he is fondly referred to by his colleagues, is one such inspirational soul Dr Robert Urquhart is an Honorary Research Fellow at the Sydney School of Education and Social Work -University of Sydney, and Head of Knowledge, Outcomes and Research at Barnardos Australia He is skilled in devising research that drives advocacy and advances practice Creating the best outcomes for children harmed by abuse has been the focus of his life s work

Australia is facing an unseen war

Australia is facing an unseen war on two fronts

The first is against human rights in the form of domestic violence And the second, is the invisible victims, the children who are suffering in its aftermath Bearing the scars of a war they never asked for

My mission is to change this

I’m fighting for the freedom of those children The freedom to choose a better life And break the cycle of abuse

With your help we can get a foothold in the battle

Dr Robert Urquhart

Dr Rob was also the lead researcher on Barnardos landmark research study, ‘Truth is, the abuse never stopped’, which reveals the long, dark shadow that Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) casts on children in their later lives with persisting health and psychological impacts Based on responses from 149 victim-survivors from all over Australia, the report finds there is a lack of support for children impacted by family violence and education is needed at all levels of the community The report calls for systemic changes that recognise that children and young people experiencing DFV are victimsurvivors in their own right, and policy and law reforms are needed to address their specific needs

Domestic and family violence harms children, often leading to physical harm and lifelong emotional and psychological damage Yet the study shows that when they reach out to adults for help, they are ignored, not believed, or the abuse worsens The abused parent is typically the recipient of service responses for crisis assistance However, as Dr Rob’s research highlights, few services exist to support children in overcoming their trauma from experiencing family violence

The true measure of a society is how it protects its most vulnerable members, especially its children.

This evidence demonstrates the need for more specialist children’s DFV workers positions We need resources to support survivors that have been impacted by DFV We need an open, public dialogue nationally, to normalise communication around DFV and amplify the voices of children experiencing violence, to be able to respond with the help they need

“Children are the silent victims of DFV and yet we know they are forced to manage the impact, often alone, for the rest of their lives ”

“Indeed, recognition of children and young people experiencing DFV as victimsurvivors in their own right and with their own unique safety and support needs is long overdue ”

“We have to focus more attention on helping people recognise DFV and the difference between harmful and healthy relationships ”

Deirdre Cheers, CEO, Barnardos Australia

As experts on child wellbeing, Barnardos sees the solution as better resourcing for trauma-informed child counselling and therapy, additional domestic and family violence specialist workers and an increase in integrated public housing for children and families fleeing domestic violence Mandatory national domestic and family violence police training and education programs in early childhood education, primary and secondary schools are also important ways to prevent and treat the harm of family violence

Barnardos is calling on Federal and NSW governments to increase funding for trauma-informed child counselling and therapy, additional domestic and family violence specialist workers and an increase in integrated public housing for children and families fleeing domestic violence Mandatory national domestic and family violence police training and education programs in early childhood education, primary and secondary schools have also been ear-marked as a priority

A Heartwarming Tale of Compassion:

Detective Dena Walker

Pauly’s Journey of Love and Redemption

In a world where despair often overshadows hope, it is the stories of unexpected connections and boundless compassion that restore our faith in humanity This particular tale, which took place a few years ago, unfolds the inspiring journey of Detective Dena Walker Pauly an exemplary woman whose acts of kindness and selflessness touched the lives of many

The story begins with a photograph capturing a tender moment between a caring granddaughter and her beloved grandfather, who lay in a hospital bed, his strength waning However, behind this seemingly ordinary image lies a profound truth Two years prior, Detective Dena crossed paths with a man named Bob, a chance encounter that forever changed their lives Bob’s journey had been marked by hardships from a young age, navigating a solitary path through a world that often overlooked him Homelessness, poverty, and a stroke that robbed him of his ability to speak these were the challenges that defined his existence

Destiny intervened one fateful day when Detective Dena responded to a call at a local pawn shop The staff stood perplexed, uncertain of how to assist Bob Yet, guided by an indescribable intuition, Dena recognized the profound need for help in his eyes Extending her hand, she offered her assistance and accompanied him to his residence, where she discovered the shocking reality of his living conditions a stark contrast to the world she knew

Though Dena arrived that day as a dedicated policewoman, it soon became evident that she had been chosen for a greater purpose She wholeheartedly embraced the challenge of transforming Bob’s life, attending to his immediate needs and teaching him the simplest of tasks, like properly disposing of garbage Dena became Bob’s guardian angel, ensuring he had sustenance and maintaining a clean and safe living environment

Recognizing the significance of Bob’s medical care, Dena took the initiative to secure Power of Attorney, becoming his devoted advocate and caregiver For months, Bob resided in the hospital, and each passing day strengthened the bond they shared

One day, as the sun shone a little brighter, a momentous decision was made Dena, with a heavy heart, transitioned Bob into hospice care In that sacred moment, she clasped his weathered hand, whispering words of love perhaps the first he had ever heard Surrounded by love and prayers, Bob peacefully passed away, knowing the profound impact he had made on the lives of those who cared for him

In this deeply touching story, the true hero emerges Detective Dena Walker Pauly a woman whose unwavering devotion and selflessness forever imprinted the lives of those around her As she bids farewell to Bob, her heart carries both sorrow and gratitude for the profound transformation he inspired within her While the separation tugs at our heartstrings, we find solace in knowing that Bob has found eternal peace in the embrace of Heaven a realm where suffering and sorrow cease to exist Motivated by this realization, Dena ensured that Bob’s memory would be cherished long after his departure from this earthly plane Thanks to the kindness of Tom M Wages Funeral Service and the compassionate Tommy Wages, Bob’s life was honored with a fitting farewell, providing comfort to Dena, who held his memory close to her heart

As we reflect on this heartwarming tale, let us hold Bob and Dena in our prayers, trusting in God’s divine plan for them And may their story serve as a reminder of the power of compassion and the ability of a single individual to make a lasting impact in the lives of those in need

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