Thank You!

I love LinkedIn’s reminder services. Last week I received a notification prompting reflecting on my mentors over the years. I want to take a few minutes and acknowledge some amazing people that have guided me through good times, helped me through some hard times and possibly don’t even know how much they mean to me.

In chronological order of when they came in to my life: 

Jason Potts taught me not to take life too seriously and appreciate all the good things I took for granted. The first person that demonstrated family, friends and community were as important as everything else in life, so never compromise them over career aspirations. I am yet to meet anyone with a more positive outlook on life, both in words and practice. Thank you Jason for the hours you spent influencing a young chap to be better than he was.

Steve Kozlowski, the man, the myth, the epitome of using emotional intelligence and influence over authority to get things done! Sure, I may have a long way to go, however observing, discussing and learning leadership lessons have been one of the biggest privileges in my professional life. Thank you Steve for never giving up on me and being a bright guiding light.

Matthew Youell, Mr. Sunshine! More than six years since I last saw you, I still miss our long chats on doing the right thing even when no one is watching. You are the only one I know who goes out and picks out trash on public beaches on a weekly basis so that visitors to our beaches don’t experience them. I learnt that it doesn’t matter what others think of you or say about you as long as your conscience is clear that you have done the right things, the right way at the right time. Thank you Matt for teaching me about leading from the front with a clear conscience and purpose.  

Sue Medson, If everyone cared for others like you do for your community’s health and well-being, the world would be a much better place. Sue taught me how good governance and accountability in organisations can lead to better outcomes for customers and clients, literally changing their quality of life.Thank you Sue for your guidance and breaking down false personas of 'toughness' to bring out the authentic me and accept that I do care for my community and that I can do good for my community’s well-being. 

Tracey Gibson, you taught me what inspirational leadership, communication and engagement was all about when you demonstrated how to navigate difficult choices thrown at you. You navigated difficult conversations with truth, honesty and compassion, unwavering from finding the best outcomes for everyone through the journey. You and UCG showed me how to operate with empathy and courage under fire when so much was at risk. Thank you Tracey for role modelling real life lessons in selflessness and leading from the back for the good of others. 

As I write this, I am overwhelmed by how fortunate I am to have these amazing people in my life. I thank you all for your kindness, generosity and influencing my life in such a positive way. I can only hope that I will be able to make a similar contribution to someone else one day.