Counting on Emotional Support When the business going gets tough, who wouldn’t appreciate a friendly financial Guardian Angel taking them by the hand? Thinking of a bullet brings to mind images of speed, accuracy and targeted efficiency – ideal qualities for an accountant. But these cold, hard images and their association with accountancy are only part of the services provided by Haley Emerson’s Bullet Business Solutions. There’s a clue in the reason behind the title of her company – named after a beloved former pet dog Haley's business services are a long way from the norm as Haley likes to take a holistic approach to all her customers as not one size fits all! Alongside valued advice and counsel on bookkeeping, payroll and taxation, she also offers friendly emotional support for companies who may be reeling from the effects of unexpected adversities. She’s a rarity in the world of business – a dedicated numbers person with heart and a passion for getting close to what makes small businesses tick and helping them to overcome adversity to reach successful new heights. Numbers Whiz Haley’s own background in business goes a long way to explaining where her empathy for businesses in need comes from. Although a whiz with maths and numbers at school, she also had a desire to be involved in the hospitality sector and work closely with people, so she joined the staff of a Sydney hotel at the tender age of 17. Starting at the bottom in various roles among the hotel’s housekeeping department, her natural flair was quickly recognised and within five years she’d reached a managerial position. After that she moved to other prestigious Sydney hotel and hospitality properties, gaining more insights into different management cultures. “Those years involved in all the various nuts and bolts of a hotel’s services gave me an appreciation of how different layers of business integrate and depend on each other for a successful outcome,” says Haley. “It also got me involved in accounting and financial functions, which re-ignited my love of numbers and finance. It also got me thinking about the fundamental role of accounting in business and how essential good accounting is to success.” Haley’s expertise in business was then further developed during six years of managing a Tourist Park in the scenic South West Rocks, when Haley discovered a real love of bookkeeping and tax. Then a family move to Forster in regional New South Wales provided the opportunity to work with accounting firms as a bookkeeper/ accountant, as well as working in payroll for a local firm with more than 100 staff. The icing on the cake was the completion of her Advanced Diploma in Accounting But along with Haley’s growing understanding of business functions came a realisation that emotion also accompanies business success – and a determination that emotional support would be a big part of her own business she was planning to establish. This all came to fruition when she established Bullet Business Solutions last year to bring this ideal to reality. Hand-in-Hand And with cruel irony, when Haley launched Bullet Business Solutions in her hometown of Forster in February 2020, it was at a time when small businesses were at their lowest and in dire need of all the emotional support they could get. Already stunned by the turmoil of raging bushfires, businesses were then hit by all the unprecedented effects of Covid-19. “It wasn’t a matter of providing straightforward business services – and it still isn’t,” says Haley. I wanted to be there for them, to work hand-in-hand to guide them through all the confusing regulatory procedures - that in some cases they weren’t even aware of.” Her knowledge and expertise enabled her clients that were hit by the bushfires to claim the government’s stimulus grant to help them back on their feet. This work carries on today, with Haley liaising on behalf of clients to process claims for other government stimulus funding, which is sometimes obscured by bureaucracy and officialdom. “With Jobkeeper, it’s now more important than ever for small businesses to ensure all their accounts, tax returns and finances are in good order,” she says. "It’s also important to have a forensic examination of a business to identify any red flags that may appear in the future to trip them up." “I want to make sure all these businesses get that done so that they can sleep at night. Working as a team with a client and other 3rd parties like their Accountants enables us to plot the direction of their business to achieve their goals.” Holistic Service Bullet Business Solutions’ client roster includes businesses right from Haley’s Forster hometown and from Port Macquarie all the way down the Mid North Coast to Sydney. They’re all diverse businesses operating across different business sectors – in hospitality, cleaning, beauty, landscaping, and even dance studios. What they all have in common is a business support that’s truly holistic and not simply confined to professional assistance with accounts, payroll and taxation. It’s the emotional element that makes a striking difference with these services – an honest empathy with the emotional needs of a business and a dedication to getting everything on an even keel. According to Haley, there’s some common mistakes made by businesses that can lead them down the path to trouble. “The biggest mistake is to assume that everything’s fine and running well, without taking a really good look at the details,” she says. “More often than not a detailed examination will uncover inaccuracies with the potential to cause real damage.” These can usually be traced back to miscoding – the wrong figures being initially inputted into the system, which then snowball to set everything out of line. “Setting up payroll systems requires the same level of accuracy. Modern software-based accounting systems are great and simplify things – but they’re only as good as the numbers inputted into them. This knowledge of accurate bookkeeping is all so important with Superannuation to consider.” It’s all food and drink to this self-confessed “tax geek,” who even spends some of her spare time reading up on tax and business. Work-Life Balance That’s not to say she’s a total workaholic – with two young daughters and a growing puppy to raise, as well as a supportive husband - Haley strives to achieve a work-life balance with a fulfilling family life alongside her dedicated work for clients. “I don’t overbook my schedule and ensure that I’m organised each week – family is so important as my girls are six and nine, with a very busy dance schedule! “While my girls are young, I’ll only take on so many clients which will allow me to dedicate my work time to them.” There’s a philosophy behind all this which inspires Haley to strive for success both for herself and her clients. “I enjoy working with people and I also love numbers and tax, which most people may not,” she says. “My aim is to help other small businesses thrive in their chosen business sector and maximise their potential – and also to help them create their own work-life balance.” “I want to support business owners as little or as much as they need, so that they know they can call upon help when needed.” Building a Future One aspect of Haley’s life away from work is linked to her passion for work-related activities, however. Together with her husband, they focus on their own investment portfolio which will hopefully one day enable them to not have to work as hard and then spend more time with family. It’s a pastime with a purpose that’s had Haley researching funding, architects and builders to coordinate their projects. And with a natural eye for cost-cutting, she’s already made savings by using her husband to complete the landscaping! Contact Haley Emerson: e/ bulletbps@hotmail.com t/ +61 425 563 402 f/ facebook.com/BulletBookkeeping Advertise with Brilliant-Online The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment and businesses. - LUXE, latest trends and products in fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. 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A Lady with Infinite Talent Lucy Gamsby Frost is a lady with an infinite bag of talents - she is an entertainer in the art of street theatre, slapstick, comedy, partner acrobatics, escapology, musical saw, singing, fire, stunts, and pyrotechnics to name a few! She is originally from Sheffield in the UK and is now residing in Port Macquarie, NSW, Australia. This lady has travelled the world delighting crowds everywhere with her astonishing talents. The Circus Comes to Town Her passion for entertainment sparked when she was studying Set and Costume Design at Manchester University. It led her into Circus life as stage manager which further led to being asked to take part in a show. Since then her life has been a whirlwind and she has never looked back! She originally specialised in partner acrobatics, but after a couple of broken ankles moved on to whip cracking, lasso and knife throwing. Some 4 years ago, she met her husband-to-be, Port Macquarie local Gordo Gambsy at the Western Australian Circus Festival. And as fate would have it, Gordo is also a performer so they set about travelling the world wowing spectators. Last year they moved back to Gordo’s hometown Port Macquarie to have their first baby, Spike. The Magic of the Arts Lucy had always loved extra-curricular activities as a child. She loved the energy and richness of art, dance, gymnastics, music and choir. She felt there was something magical about the arts and wanted to learn as much as possible. Studying Performance Design at Manchester University was a way to combine her love for theatre with her love of painting and she enjoyed working as a set designer for a number of years. Twist of Fate It was actually by accident that Lucy became a professional performer. She was working for an outdoor circus theatre company Artizani as a stage manager and prop maker when they soon discovered her many other talents and decided to put her on stage for the next show! It really was a lightning bolt moment for Lucy. From then on, she concentrated on training her circus skills and creating shows. First Love Lucy’s first love has always been acrobatics and she worked with a wonderful acrobatic partner when she was residing in England. After a number of injuries that took their toll on her body, she stopped performing acrobatics. Now she centres her performances on cowgirl skills, whip cracking, lasso and knife throwing which are her favourites! As a further extension of her talents, Lucy also plays musical saw which she loves for its quirkiness! Throughout her entertainment career, Lucy has had many memorable experiences. She recalls wonderful memories of going to the World Musical Saw Festival in New York, performing in a martial arts stadium in Tokyo and she also loves being a part of local events and small festivals in a park that have so much heart and soul. Where there is an eager and curious crowd, regardless of where they are, Lucy is happy to perform. The Great Gordo Gambsy Lucy’s husband, The Great Gordo Gambsy is a 13 times world record holder. From the big stage to little sideshow tents, Gordo has done it all. He has performed sword swallowing, amazing stunts like cutting apples out of his mouth with a chainsaw or pulling a car with his tongue. Lucy and Gordo have performed together a few times, and they are also happy to shine in their own individual performances and give each other the freedom to do their thing. Bringing Art to the Community A recent local event Lucy loved being a part of was Artwalk in Port Macquarie. Her talents came to life as she created a poetry trail using traditional hand-painted lettering techniques - a response to COVID-19 and the lack of live shows. For Lucy, entertainment is not just about her enjoying her art. She is highly passionate about letting people access the arts, having people come together outdoors and nothing drives her more than seeing people enjoy her work. Lucy believes the arts can enrich people's lives, allow them to momentarily escape to another world, and provide entertainment, laughter and moments of reflection. Lucy is inspired by how much we all have to share. She says: “If COVID-19 has taught us anything, it's that coming together with others is a vital part of what it is to be human.” The Balancing Act When asked how she balances work and home life, she smiled and said: “It's tricky! I have a one-year-old son, Spike, who is so sweet and full of energy. I love sharing my artistic practice with him in any way I can. My husband and I take turns to look after him whilst the other one works. I feel very lucky to have such a supportive partner, who understands my need to create as well as be a mother.” Outside of work, Lucy loves swimming at the beach. As she grew up in an industrial city in the North of England, she says diving through the waves is what connects her with a natural part of her that will never get old. Locked Down but Growing in Spirit During the COVID-19 pandemic, Lucy turned the situation around and took the opportunity to rekindle her love of visual arts and painting. Beyond her involvement in Artwalk, she recently created a mural outside the CWA in Wauchope to commemorate the hard work by the RFS during the 2019 bushfires. Although Lucy is taking a break from performing to be with her little son Spike, the COVID-19 lockdown has fired up Lucy´s desire to be back on stage. Together with her husband Gordo, she is currently working on a cabaret night to perform locally in 2021 - watch this space for her exciting news! Thank you, Lucy, for sharing your talent and art! Be Entertained! Follow Lucy's journey below. To find out more, visit: Website: www.lucyfrost.org Instagram: @lucygamsbyfrost YouTube Links: An introduction www.youtube.com/watch?v=fSlS2ud6kkk Candyfloss Cowgirl www.youtube.com/watch?v=aQfVonYd7eI Acrobatics www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ap6eVA5jqEY Musical Saw www.youtube.com/watch?v=cAKE0ggC03Y Advertise with Brilliant-Online The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment and businesses. - LUXE, latest trends and products in fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. 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Say 'raw vegan' and some may picture a sad, solitary carrot sitting on a plate. Wait till you see what real raw vegan dishes are like. Many thanks to My Blue Tea, we managed to feature Raw Chef Yin who was voted as Tatler Magazine’s top 19 Inspiring Women in Malaysia's Food & Drink scene. Raw Chef Yin's raw vegan dishes not only look gorgeous, they also make your taste buds burst with joy! And it is not just her dishes that look great. So does Raw Chef Yin herself! She is in her mid forties and she looks half her age. Her natural joy and smile are a testament to how raw vegan food makes one glow from the inside out. Taking Raw Seriously Raw Chef Yin could have had a very different life today, had she chosen to continue working in law instead of training at the world's leading raw and plant-based culinary academy. She trained at the world's first classically structured raw and plant-based culinary school - the Matthew Kenny Culinary Academy at Evason Hua Hin, Thailand where she got a solid foundation in raw food preparation. Raw Chef Yin is also a Certified Raw Food Teacher, having successfully completed a Raw Teacher Training Intensive taught by Karen Knowler in 2016 and 2017. Today, she dedicates her time to sharing her passion for raw vegan cuisine with people from all over the world. From Pain to Change Skin problems have haunted Raw Chef Yin since she was a child. Her search for a solution lasted 30 long years, and a lot of money. 2014 became her defining year. It was when she had her first fully raw vegan meal - just simple, plant-based, whole foods that have not been heated up at high temperatures. This was a 360 degree change in her life. She started to reduce her intake of meat and fish and in 2015, she became a full vegan. Now that the body has tasted what it is like to receive clean, healthy food, it was ready to heal and grow stronger every day. Sharing the Passion Her genuine passion for raw food has brought her to conduct sessions all over the world in London, Brighton, Boston, France, Australia, Bali, Taipei, Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Kuala Lumpur, Petaling Jaya & Penang. When she is not busy travelling or presenting at vegan festivals or conducting courses, she is hard at work publishing books and recipes about raw vegan food. Check out her bestselling book in English and Chinese called Guilt-free Desserts and you can let your sweet tooth dance for joy without feeling guilty! Raw Chef Yin even has her own culinary show called Velicious with Raw Chef Yin. Au Naturel Raw Chef Yin uses natural, healthy ingredients in her recipes and My Blue Tea’s superfood powders are perfect for her culinary creations. With these power-packed superfood powders, she has made beautiful dishes like Cauliflower Blue Rice Nasi Kerabu and afternoon delights like Pandan Matcha Frappuccino. She is a living example of how living healthy and with joy starts with a desire to make a change. And Raw Chef Yin is helping to make that possible for many all over the world. Health can be yours for the taking, and it starts with one simple change. And that is the raw truth. To find out more, visit: www.rawchefyin.com To purchase unique superfoods for these recipes, shop on www.mybluetea.com.au ​Email: info@mybluetea.com.au Tel: +61 478 413 573 Advertise with Brilliant-Online The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment and businesses. - LUXE, latest trends and products in fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. For all enquiries about advertising with Brilliant-Online, please contact us here. Subscribe to Brilliant

A Women’s Empowerment Movement and Social Enterprise To Create Change Starting secretly online, in houses, offices and communities - you can be one of the special few that will change the world, by helping and empowering those who are disadvantaged because of their gender. Secret Sisterhood will do so, by creating a million-strong community of women and girls who vow to empower, uplift and support one another. Founded upon the belief that if women and girls come together they can eliminate gender inequality, their mission as a social enterprise is to provide a supportive and uplifting community for women and girls (and the men that love them). Their belief is that every person deserves to feel as though they have a safe space. One of the founding sisters, Jacquie Love has always been passionate about women’s causes, but is especially passionate about Secret Sisterhood, a movement of amazing women and girls offering beautiful jewellery, inspired events and community gatherings. 100% of all profits from the group’s endeavors go to women’s charities. Here's the interview with Jacquie Love. Tell us about yourself and the Secret Sisterhood, Jacquie. I am the founder of Secret Sisterhood, a women’s empowerment movement and social enterprise. We empower, uplift and inspire women as I believe that no person should ever be disadvantaged because of their gender. We created a symbol for gender equality, as there was no symbol out there! I am so passionate about spreading our symbol into the world as symbols are so uniting and can help spark monumental change. Secret Sisterhood symbol is one of a kind. It represents a community of women and girls who stand for women's empowerment. It represents love, unity and the feminine heart. We sell jewellery that features our symbol and then give 100% of our profits to women’s empowerment initiatives. Thousands of women around the world have joined our Sisterhood community and have worn their symbol in solidarity. Through their support, we have helped fund a range of initiatives. We have helped fund anti-trafficking programs, girls’ education, a domestic violence hotline and we have given micro-finance loans to women in developing countries. We have also helped distribute birthing kits to women in rural villages as well as menstrual hygiene products to women in Uganda. Why did you start Secret Sisterhood? I started Secret Sisterhood after a charity immersion trip to India. I was studying fashion design at university and undertook a sub-major in journalism. When I was studying journalism I came across the issue of human trafficking and was blown away by the horrific nature of the crime and that it was happening at such magnitude. I became very passionate about the issue and how it was very much a gender-based crime. When I finished university, I started questioning whether I still wanted to be in the fashion industry. So when the trip to India came up, I thought it was the perfect opportunity to get away and get some perspective. India completely changed my perspective on everything. We visited slums where girls are often trafficked and found out that they are often trafficked at the young ages of 10, sometimes even younger. We also visited the brothels where girls are often forced to work in, and the conditions are absolutely horrendous. No person should ever have to live like that. No person should ever have their freedom, voice and dignity taken away. When I came back I wanted to make a difference to the women I had met but I had no idea how. I thought the best way to make a difference was to work in a charity, so I started to apply for jobs. Around that time, I randomly stumbled across the concept of a ‘social enterprise.’ A concept that means businesses can run for purpose, that they can make a difference. And that is how Secret Sisterhood was born, I was so excited that I could use my skills in design, create a business, and at the heart of it all was to give back and help empower women. What inspires you to do what you do? I am inspired by the women who are on the ground, every day actively creating change. In India, I met one woman who was trafficked at the age of 11. She was forced into sexual servitude for over 20 years. She finally made her way out with the help of an Indian anti-trafficking organisation. She now works in that organisation, every day, forming relationships with the girls in the brothels to hopefully encourage them to leave. I often think that if this woman can do that every day, then my challenges in my business are so small in comparison. I am also inspired by the incredible change that can occur when women come together to support one another. We have seen this time and time again throughout history. We saw it in the suffragette movement, the online #metoo movement and just recently when millions of women joined hands together in India to demand the end of violence against women. Women can create so much change, we just need to do it together. That is what inspires Secret Sisterhood, imagine the impact we could have if we unite with our fellow Sisters around the globe? As a businesswoman, how do you combine work and home life? Balance is extremely important to me, so I put in a lot of effort to make time for other aspects of my life. I believe in working smarter, not harder so I try to be as efficient as possible with my work so I have time for my friends and family. To help with this, I am an avid ‘to-do list creator’, it helps me compartmentalise my day and break up (sometimes overwhelming) tasks, into manageable small steps. Sometimes the big picture can be very daunting (like helping end gender inequality!) so creating small achievable goals is really important. I work mostly from home, so it is often hard to separate work from home life! If you are working from home, my biggest tip is to have a designated work area. Try and resist the urge to work on the couch in your pajamas, you are just never going to be as productive. Outside of work what are some of your interests? You will either find me at a beach with a good book, at a women’s empowerment protest, or studying at the library (I am studying a postgraduate MBA in Social Impact.) I also love being around people, so when I am not working I love to spend time with my friends and family. There is nothing better for the soul than catching up with a friend on a walk and discussing important world issues. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support I have around me. What did you do differently to thrive during the COVID-19 pandemic? Incorporate flexibility. I heard someone speak at the start of COVID-19 and they explained that we need to be open to pivoting during this time. We should hold onto our purpose and mission tightly, however, we should be open to alternative paths to get there. Our destination is important but how we get there could change. I kept reminding myself of that throughout last year, and I believe it really helped our business to thrive. We were very clear on our mission of ending gender inequality so we became a lot more flexible with how we achieved this. We ended up achieving our highest growth to date at the end of last year, so that was incredibly exciting! Where would you like to be in 12 months? I would love for Secret Sisterhood to be reaching more and more women around the globe. I have a dream that the Secret Sisterhood symbol will become recognized around the world. I hope to be able to direct more and more funds to women’s empowerment initiatives and I hope that I can be a voice for the voiceless. If you were down to your last $20 what/who would you spend it on? Well, this question got me thinking! Well, I have seen the power of microfinance and what an impact it can have on a woman’s life. Microfinance involves women getting loaned a very small amount of money to help them kick start their business. I have seen how this can transform not only someone’s life but how it can help lift families and communities out of poverty. So I think I would invest it in either my own business or a fellow Sister’s business. What would we create with $20? Well, great question... I think I would have to get a lot more creative! Jacquie visiting women in rural villages in Malawi with The Hunger Project Australia. Thanks, Jacquie To find out more, visit: secretsisterhood.com To purchase jewellery with a purpose: secretsisterhood.com/shop/ Advertise with Brilliant-Online The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment and businesses. - LUXE, latest trends and products in fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. For all enquiries about advertising with Brilliant-Online, please contact us here.

Smile, and the world smiles back at you Brilliant interviewed spritely Sukaina Dada on her very bold quest to change the world. Sukaina is the Founder and Executive Director of SMILE Canada. SMILE is a registered charity organisation on a mission to provide support to racialised children and youth with disabilities and their families. Let's hear why Sukaina smiles all the time and what she chooses to challenge Tell us about yourself? My name is Sukaina but most people know me as Sakina. I’m a brown-skinned, visibly Muslim woman on a quest to change the world. While I know that probably sounds cliché, my parents constantly (and I mean constantly) told me I could do and be whatever I wanted. My dad especially taught me that it didn’t matter if I am tiny – I am approximately 5 ft tall – or that I wear Hijab, or that I am a woman of colour, my voice could be heard, and I could make a difference. And that is exactly what I am attempting to do. Since I was young, I was bothered by the inequities in society, especially in healthcare, education, and accessing social services. After completing my undergraduate degree at the University of Toronto, I went on to do my masters at McMaster University to become a pediatric occupational therapist. I then founded SMILE Canada Support Services, a registered Canadian charity that supports racialised children and youth with disabilities and their families. Sukaina Dada founded SMILE, an organization on a mission to provide support to children and youth with disabilities and their families. In 2017, after three moves and two kids, I decided to pursue a PhD in Critical Disability Studies in the School of Health Policy and Management at York University to continue my quest to, “change the system.” My research focuses on the disablement and displacement of Syrian refugees in Canada. I explore concepts of structural violence, intersectional oppressions, and erasure of identities to approach and challenge the dominant narrative … you know the one, that we are “all in this together.” Some of the services that SMILE provides include Pairing families and caregivers with a parent coach who has a background in speech, language or applied behaviour analysis (ABA) to address a challenged child's needs Financial assistance in the form of scholarships to families who are in need of therapy, respite services, and adaptive equipment. Identify the needs of children, youth and their families and then connecting them with various government and private resources within the community to help access funding, respite, therapy, and other supports. Events, sports activities, workshops and lectures to create awareness and inclusion. One to one mentorship for academic and friendly support. As a busy woman, how do you combine work and home life? The pandemic complicates this question as it probably does for all parents who are working from home while their kids are at school – also at home. Being in graduate school, working full time and trying to be a good mom takes a lot of creativity. I must prioritise my time and that may mean my house is a mess or we are having pizza (yet again). The way I see it, I want my kids to pursue their passions, be the best versions of themselves, and to know they can challenge the system. For me, this means they can watch mama work overtime, head deep in books while drinking way too much coffee to be able to get through the day. Change does not happen overnight. We have to keep at it. But I also want them to know they are the most important beings in my life, which means spending lots of quality and messy time with them. Since we have a limited number of hours during the day, I may use my time to paint or build blocks rather than fold laundry. I am okay with that! Outside of work what are some of your interests? While I definitely don’t consider myself athletic, I love the outdoors. I love going for hikes and exploring nature trails with my family and friends. I’ve taken up paddle boarding and biking and I LOVE to travel and explore different cities and learn about different cultures and ways of life. In my 10+ years of marriage, Imraan – my amazing husband and partner – has made my dreams of visiting the Alhambra and the Vatican come true. While we may not be able to travel for some time, we often make a list of places we would like to visit one day. That list is enough to put a huge smile on my face. Has the COVID-19 Pandemic affected you in any way? What did you do differently to thrive during the COVID-19 pandemic? COVID-19 has affected me mostly by being away from my family and friends. While I’m not a social butterfly, my cousins are my best friends and being away from them for so long has taken its toll. But I acknowledge my privilege and that I have been okay. I have a roof over my head and food in my fridge and I know that’s not the case for everyone. So, to get me through this, I’m trying to count my lucky stars and fuel my desire to change a system. If anything, this pandemic has highlighted the disparities amongst populations. No, we are NOT all in this together. Where would you like to be in 12 months? For starters, on a beach with my husband and my babies … somewhere … anywhere! I’m allergic (not literally) to the cold weather. Jokes aside, in 12 months I want to be in a COVID-19-free world. I want to hug my family, hang out with my friends, and high-five random people on the street and celebrate life. I also want to complete my PhD, so I can figure out my next move. If you were down to your last $20 what/who would you spend it on? I’m not sure if I would spend it the right way, but I probably would buy coffee for myself and donuts for my kids. I would also somehow find a way to use those last dollars to connect to my sisters, Fatema and Akila. They are my lifeline. Find out more about SMILE: smilecan.org Support children with disabilities in the community: www.smilecan.org/donate Advertise with Brilliant-Online The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment and businesses. - LUXE, latest trends and products in fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. For all enquiries about advertising with Brilliant-Online, please contact us here.

Seeding a Big Business Big things grow from tiny seeds. Hilberts Hardware is one dynasty that started off small and has kept growing till today. And Sharon Griffiths is proud to share the story of how it grew. Early beginnings… It all started when Grandfather Marten Hilberts started the business to help Sharon’s Uncle with his building company by buying bulk timber and hardware. He ended up with an excess of supplies and decided to open a small shop front in Hastings Street, Wauchope. It catered to not only the building industry and the home handyman but also the timber logging industry that was thriving in the Wauchope area at the time. That was a wise business move and Hilberts Hardware was born. Photo Credit: Craig Mason of East Coast Photography Long, long ago… And what was Grandfather Marten’s story? He originated from Holland and he had a peat business back then, supplying fuel for heating and he managed a team of workers in his business. In the 1950s, he decided to immigrate to Australia as the family had lived through the atrocities of the Second World War. Marten wanted his family to live in a country that was free of war and safe. The family settled west of Wauchope in the hinterland and he started work in a timber mill. The early days of settling in were tough. The family home had a dirt floor, and they did their best to make a new life there. It was not an easy start but here they were safe, and that was what mattered in building up a family in the new country. Sharon’s Dad Max was 14 at that time. He spent about a year in school, then went to work on the railway. Fast Forward… The hardware store has progressed over the years from the small shop front opened by Marten. His son Max eventually started working alongside him and when he took over the business, he doubled the original shop front. In 1990 Max purchased land across the road and built the two-story shopfront we see today. The dynasty continued when Sharon took over the business some 6 months later after the sudden passing of her father Max. 30 years on, the store has over 10,000 stock lines, and caters not only to builders, handymen, and the logging industry but also has a vast range of gardening tools and equipment, paint, hydraulic fittings, sealants and glues, grease equipment, and products, bearings, V/Belts, pulleys, roller chain, lift jacks, bench grinders, power tools, pneumatic tools, drills, taps and dies, calipers, air inflators and gauges, welding gear, MIG wire, ropes, and even kitchenware and camping gear. Each generation has taken a part of their business and put in their hard work and efforts to expand it and bring in more products for the community. Never underestimate the power of starting small. Big things have small beginnings! Helming the Dynasty Sharon Griffiths plays many roles and shines in all of them! She is a Business Woman, Councillor, Mother, and Grandmother. Definitely one with a busy schedule but with a clear head on rock-solid shoulders, she is very organised and has learned through the generations to always put her best foot forward and help others along the way. She is the third generation in the Hilberts Hardware dynasty in Wauchope, and she is proud to celebrate their 50th year in business in 2021. Hilberts Hardware has come a long way since Sharon’s grandfather started it. About Sharon Sharon was born and resided with her family in Newcastle until the age of 15 when her grandfather suffered a heart attack and her Dad Max moved the family to Wauchope to take over the hardware business. This was the catalyst for the continuation of the strong family-run and owned business that has become part of the Wauchope community. She got into the business at a tender age and while Sharon attended Wauchope High School, she also worked in the hardware shop to help out after school and on the weekends. Once she finished school, she did a one-year stint alongside her father learning the ropes. One with a spirit for adventure, Sharon packed her backpack and set off travelling around Europe, the US and Canada for 5 months. She thoroughly enjoyed every minute and soaked up all the experiences. When she returned home to Wauchope, she landed a job at the Department of Education, then with a local accountancy firm. Whilst working for the accountancy firm, she started up a business with her husband Jeff Griffiths. It was a tractor wrecking business, and Griffiths Traders is still a thriving business run today by Jeff’s family. Not long after, she left the accountancy firm to work for Kempsey Timbers ( known today as Australian Solar Timbers ) as their office administrator and bookkeeper. Sharon helped that business to grow and devised a very successful bonus incentive scheme for their employees. In 1991, after the sudden passing of Sharon’s father Max, she returned to the family business and took over the helm, further expanding the business and becoming a very successful businesswoman in her own right. When asked how she succeeded in a man’s world, dealing with log fallers, farmers, heavy haulage drivers, builders and the like, she chuckled and said... ”I think I've educated them over time, they know that if they're going to ask me a question, I'm probably going to give them the answer, or I will find the answer promptly.” The invaluable knowledge gained from working alongside her grandfather and father through the years since she was young prepared her well to deal with business and challenges her working environment brought her. Sharon also learned to be humble enough to realise she always had the option to research and ask if she did not know something, and this is a special touch that her customers appreciate. Her customers are never left hanging - if she did not know, she would source for the product and find an answer for the customer. Taking Pride in the Dynasty It has always been important for Sharon to keep the dynasty going. She believes there is a need in the community for a business like Hilberts Hardware. It is unique, and she is positive that if it disappeared off the business footprint in Wauchope, people would notice. It is a constant in the lives of many and has brought the community many conveniences. There are so many products that you do not generally see on the shelf in most stores. Often items that have a slow turnover and therefore not stocked by other shops can be found in Hilberts Hardware. That shows them as a heavyweight in the industry - they are not worried about a fast turnover. It is more important to them to supply what the customer wants. Keeping the Community Close The community is something that is close to her heart, and Sharon became a Councillor on the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council over eight years ago. She has served 2 terms and is considering running for a third. It was a male-dominated field at the time, but Sharon saw a need to step in and take pride in what she has to offer. She feared a loss of community and felt the need to bring about locations or interconnections where people could meet and actually connect. Sharon saw infinite possibilities in bringing a community close - people could gather in a park to talk over beautification works, or involve community groups and activating people to get together to enable volunteering or they could even establish more local events to draw visitation to the area. Contributing to the Community Being open and approachable meant that if a member of the community had an idea to do something in their community, they found it easy to go to Sharon and she is always ready to help in any way she can. Sharon believes that if someone is willing to do the work and put it all together, it should be encouraged. Sometimes all they need is some support and help so they have the correct information to help put their ideas into action. Potholes were another reason why Sharon became a Councillor. She saw a need to fix the potholes, a big point in case a little over 8 years ago. She was very concerned about the Council´s financial future and believed that her accountancy and business administration background would be an asset. One way Sharon believes she has helped the PMHC finances is the inception of the Waste Incentive Scheme. This scheme has allowed both the Council and residents to actually save money while doing something good for the environment. How the scheme works is this - residents are offered a discount on their waste charges if they choose a particular bin, and there are three sizes to choose from. Council also saves in the long run by minimizing the waste that goes into landfills. This means that the landfill area does not need to be expanded, so there is no new acquisition of land. This means saving dollars and future capital expenses. Sharon has got so much energy, ideas and drive that simply being a successful business owner and a voice for the Port Macquarie/Hastings community as a Councillor is not enough for her. Sharon has furthered her education and has become a Certified Basix Assessor. Having an interest in the building industry and especially home energy efficiency (she does not like waste), Sharon has a desire to help new home builders to save energy. She believes her help will lead to the energy efficiency of the home and in the long run, save the homeowner money by using less power to run their dwelling. Beyond the community, these schemes and plans that Sharon is introducing are helping the environment. Every bit of effort counts to making a change for the planet. It may sound like Sharon is busy all the time with business and community. She keeps a balance in her personal life with her strong family values and taking care of her health by going to the gym at least once a week. She also loves walking and going to the beach. She is health-conscious and so she watches what she eats, but can be found eating a works burger or a large bowl of pasta and she does allow herself to give in to the chocolate temptation on a regular basis! After all, she works hard and a little treat or two is a happy way to pamper herself after a long day! CONTACT HILBERTS HARDWARE w/ www.hilberts.com.au t/ +612 65 852 400 a/ 43-45 Hastings St, Wauchope, NSW, Australia Advertise with Brilliant-Online The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment and businesses. - LUXE, latest trends and products in fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. For all enquiries about advertising with Brilliant-Online, please contact us here.

A Perfectionist Chooses to Challenge the Car Wrap Industry Melanie Fergin has overcome barriers set against her as a woman to become recognised as one of the car wrap world’s most talented and distinctive specialists. Based in Adelaide, her self-taught skills have even led her to the finals of an industry contest in Las Vegas, USA, where she rubbed shoulders and shared wrapping expertise with some of the world’s top car wrappers. Ironically, the annual global competition “Wrap Like a King” inspired Melanie to become a Queen on the top rungs of her chosen profession. It’s been a long road for Melanie to reach these heady heights and become an independent professional car wrap specialist, but one that’s been eventful, enjoyable and fulfilling. Hooked on Wrapping Her journey began when Melanie made a switch from being a highly successful signwriter to car wrap installer. “I owned and operated a signwriting business in Adelaide for 15 years,” she says. “After so many years designing and installing car wraps for private and commercial clients, it was a natural progression for me to start doing colour change wraps." “And after my first full commercial vehicle wrap, I was hooked!" “Since then, I’ve worked on just about any type of vehicle you can imagine - buses, planes, trams, yachts, go karts, motorbikes and even an Australian-built track focussed hypercar. “I’m a very meticulous person at work and I pay a lot of attention to detail. I’m always striving for perfection and I think car wrapping totally suits my personality.” Dogged Determination Melanie put in many hours into learning about wraps from either online resources such as videos, or participating in wrapping workshops. “I attended different short wrap courses and always left with a new skill, a solid mind set and even more determination to improve.” Her dogged determination paid off. She started to gain a good reputation in her local vehicle wrap industry, as well as among car enthusiasts, as a talented and meticulous wrapper. In 2019, the Porsche 911 Turbo S wrapped by Melanie was crowned the continental winner in Wrap Like a King Challenge that year. “When I saw the 'Wrap Like a King’ competition, I remembered imagining that I could win this,” says Melanie At the same time, she also thought about all her hard work over the years to learn and acquire her skills for car wrapping, despite the obstacles put in the way of her chosen career path. Undeterred by Rejections “I found it impossible to get an apprenticeship – there was always something about me being too small, or being a girl.” But undeterred by these rejections, Melanie still wanted to make a career out of car wrapping with her own resources. “I thought if I can win this, it will really prove to young people - especially women -that we can get into the industries of our choice. “We can make the impossible happen if we really want to.” Follow: Melanie Fergin #AveryDennison Advertise with Brilliant-Online The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment and businesses. - LUXE, latest trends and products in fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. For all enquiries about advertising with Brilliant-Online, please contact us here.

Backyard Pods is the home of Australia's most reliable, versatile, and affordable flat-pack modular building kits. For Melanie Williamson, it is her dream for everyone to easily enjoy an extra room made from practical materials at affordable prices. Top that off with a nice design ethic, great energy efficiency and plenty of options for customisation. A dream come true! To access this dream, you can start with a basic backyard pod kit of 3m x 3m flat-pack from A$3,656 with options to add a deck or verandah from A$1,592 plus doors and windows. Not bad when you think of all the things you can do with these pods. Office and Play Pods How about a Pod Office where you can work distraction-free with the convenience of being close to home? I saw what Adrian from Strathmore, Victoria did with the 3.6m x 5m pod kit with Eaves and Blade Walls in Colorbond™ Monument. Through Backyard Pods, he also ordered the double-glazed Polar Eco-View stacker doors with black frames, as double-glazing is known for its soundproofing and energy-saving effectiveness – cool in summer, warm in winter. The versatility of these pods can stretch as far as your imagination allows. When you put one of these pods in your backyard, you can turn it into a TV den, hangout space for teenagers, an exercise room, she-shed, man-cave...the possibilities are endless! Anything that suits your lifestyle. Just imagine what you can do with the extra space! Check out these Studio Pods ideas. Granny Pods Whether you call them Granny Flats or Tiny Houses, the concept is just fantastic. These habitable pod projects can also be a money-spinner as you can rent them out or offer them as holiday pods with Airbnb. Start with a Backyard Pod of 3m x 8m and turn it into a modern, spacious, fully self-contained ‘tiny home’ with all the comfort and conveniences needed for 1-2 people. Add in a queen-sized bedroom, kitchenette, ample wardrobe spaces, open space living and dining areas, bathroom, toilet with full-scale ceiling height and you have all you need to make it your own cozy little home or investment. Backyard Pods are engineering certified Class 1 (dwelling) with standard N3 wind rating – now also available with N4 wind rating, compliant for building in high-wind areas (at a small additional cost based on pod size). Backyard Pods Granny Display Homes are now open in Sydney. Go book an appointment and ask questions like “Can I build a granny flat in my backyard in Sydney?”; “How much does it cost to build a granny flat in Sydney?”; "Who can help with approvals, development applications and building permits?" And yes, you do need Council's approval when you classify your pod as a "habitable" project. Watch this rapid onsite assembly A Pod Full of Inspiration By now your brain must be whirring away with 101 ideas of what you could possibly do with one of these amazing pods! The list is endless - add a backyard studio pod, office pod, granny flat or secondary dwelling, sleep-out, pool house, home extension, commercial and movable building, rumpus room pod, teenage hideaway, yoga retreat ... WOW! Start browsing and collect ideas for your very own Backyard Pod. Be warned - there are lots of amazing designs and great ideas of customers' completed projects, design concepts, professionally installed or DIY projects. If you are buzzing with excitement now, quick get in touch with Backyard Pod's team. Backyard Pods are delivered to most areas of New South Wales, Victoria, Australian Capital Territory (ACT), South Australia and Queensland Australia. Quality materials for endless versatility These are prefabricated pod kits and can be made movable if built on skids instead of piers. Here´s what you can expect: Genuine BlueScope Steel Prefabrication by Steeline Proudly made in Australia Engineered/certified Class 1 Endless design options Your choice of extras Personalised fit-outs DIY or get installation Need financing? No worries. Backyard Pods works with Paul Zahra of Cerberus Finance, an expert in helping customers finance their backyard building projects. Melanie Williamson, the Woman behind Backyard Pods Melanie Williamson is the Founder and CEO of Backyard Pods, an online leader for tiny home kits. As a disruptive techpreneur and strategic chief marketing officer, Melanie also helps other businesses to grow by launching their products or reach global markets. Melanie is like her late father, seizing the moment and making audacious achievements. Peter Williamson was a former legendary racing car driver, sportsman, and businessman, so you can imagine the energy Melanie inherited. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Melanie thought of an idea for technology, CoolGard, a staff and visitor management system for automatic contact-tracing compliance with astonishing real-time alerts and monitoring dashboard and visitor insights. Melanie is always thinking of marketing. When asked what she would do with her last $20, she replied, "Promote something that other people wanted to buy but couldn’t find previously." CONTACT BACKYARD PODS t/ 1800 289 763 e/ hello@backyardpods.com.au w/ https://www.backyardpods.com.au

As they say, if you find a job you love, you never have to work a day in your life. Imagine having a job where you love going to everyday, that is filled with joy, laughter, love, adventure and fun… Sounds like a utopian dream? That is what TG's Child Care is like, and we have seven amazing women here who have experienced this joyful way of living, playing and being at TG's. As we celebrate International Women's Day on March 8th, we want to celebrate these seven beautiful educators who are Playing it Forward with joy and confidence and encouraging others to do the same. The Magic of TG's TG's Child Care is one of Australia's leading early learning preschool. kindergarten and long day care provider for children 6 weeks to 6 years old. They are well-known and trusted by families since 1999 for their high quality education services. What makes TG's stand out and so well-loved in each community they are growing in is their beautiful philosophy of Playing is Learning for Life. Everything they do at TG's is built on their three foundation stones of Building Relationships, Understanding Gifts and Collective Thinking, affectionately known as the TG's Way, all of which create a unique culture of love, trust, respect, compassion and fun where children love to learn and are eager to come to every day. And it is not just the children who love coming here. It is the educators who are also delighted to come through TG's doors and gardens every morning! It is quite an impressive feat to create a workspace that is supportive of women, that is joyous and loving to be in, and which allows for a healthy balance between one´s professional and personal life. The modern woman often finds herself in a quandary of having to give up a career to build a family, and if they do continue with a career, they are stretched thin in trying to be a Superwoman in all areas to everyone. That is why modern families love and appreciate TG's and what they do. TG's lovingly steps in to support families to nurture their children, so women can continue with a career guilt-free and feeling relieved, knowing their children are in good hands and thriving each day. TG's does not take over the role of parenting - if anything, they actively involve families in their children's growth, milestones and development. Each child finds in TG's an extended family that is safe, loving and fun. What some people may not know is that there are TG's children who have loved TG's so much they eventually returned to TG's as adults to work as educators, and there are others who started off as TG's parents and who were so convinced of TG's magic they signed on to become TG's educators! This is a big stamp of approval of how TG's is doing it right, and everyone just cannot get enough of TG's! We want to introduce you to the seven special women at TG's who are examples of how one can take on several roles and enjoy every challenge and opportunity each role brings. Because of the support and nurturing respectful environment at TG's, these women can be mothers, wives, educators, teammates, friends and grow in all these roles without sacrificing one for the other. And the beauty of it all is how they play each role with joy, energy and confidence, and how they nurture and support one another to keep growing their gifts and give back to the community. Meg Barnden-Hyde - Growing Gifts in her Gardens Meg dreams of having a field of beautiful flowers of every single colour and variety on her property one day. While that is in the pipeline, she has been busy growing and nurturing her team of educators and the children under her care at TG's. As Centre Manager, Meg sets the standard for high professionalism for her team and all they do. What Meg tells her team of educators is how each of their unique gifts makes a difference to children and families. Everyone matters and has a voice that is heard. Educators lovingly respect and support each other on the team and they are all different flowers in the same garden. This is what makes TG's a beautiful place to work. TG's is flexible in accommodating what educators need, be it their family or professional development. Meg encourages each educator to reach their fullest potential and she is the first to be the supportive role model with her creative ideas. Meg is ready for some fun with the children and she can also be the rock solid presence educators turn to for guidance. Meg loves being a Mother Hen not just to the children but also to her team of educators. Meg gives it her all at TG's and also in her own home where she is kept busy with her three children Travis, Maddison and Amber. Her children love sports and have very full lives training and playing. Meg is there to take part in their excitement and sporting milestones and she gets to share in their pride when they tackle a challenging technique or score a goal. Her home life is rich with exploring New England's fine food and wine with family and friends and you can almost always find her in one of the local cafes having a good laugh with friends. Meg has grown as part of TG's Family for over ten years now and it is through the support of women like Gayle Kee, owner of TG's Child Care that she has developed her professional potential while also enjoying her personal family life. Meg sees it as her responsibility now to give back her knowledge and gifts to her team of educators where each and every one of them is a leader ready to bloom under her nurturing care. Bron Byers - Being a Mum Never Stops Bron is a key example of how with the support of one's community, women can grow and achieve so much while still engaging fully in their roles in their personal lives. She started at TG's interestingly enough, as a parent! So she had the privilege of seeing TG's from another point of view and she was so convinced of what TG's is doing that she was inspired to join TG's as an educator. She has experienced first-hand as a parent how TG's made a difference in her child's early years with the quality care and education they received. She saw how her child's growth, development and learning were supported through play and the joy TG's inspired in her child to discover new things every day. Playing is Learning for Life for the children and it has even influenced Bron as a parent as she fully signed on to continue Playing is Learning for Life as an educator, and then team leader and now centre manager at Uralla! TG's is a special place for Bron. It is where relationships are built and nurtured and every one's gifts are appreciated and encouraged to develop. To top it off, every day at work Bron is showered with smiles, laughter and hugs from the children. For Bron, she does not stop being a mother the minute she steps into TG's. She becomes a second mother to all the children! Whether it is the children or her educators, staying curious to their needs and listening to them is a way to show they matter and are appreciated. What Bron has received from the educators as a parent, she is now giving back to the children and her team of educators under her wing. ​ Toni-Lee Paine - Excelling with Fun Toni-Lee is highly passionate about what she does and she has dedicated herself to the childcare industry for 22 years. Her career with TG's began in May 2017, when she started as a Preschool Room Early Childhood Educator. It did not take her long to move into her Centre Manager role in October of the same year. Toni-lee thrives on growing and challenging herself and as someone who always welcomes opportunities as gifts, she never says no to a challenge! What makes her passionate about her work is she gets to not just be a part of young children's lives but also to make a difference to their learning journey. It is a rewarding feeling to be able to create a curriculum that provides opportunities for building relationships, supporting each child's unique growth and development and allows them to identify their own superpowers, strengths and gifts. As Centre Manager, Toni-Lee is always on hand to support each child, family and her team of educators. Striving for excellence while having oodles of fun along the way is what drives her enthusiasm everyday at TG's! Linda Hutchison - Our Gifts Make a Difference A core value Linda goes by is giving away what one has received. Education is a two-way street. So for her, children are her world and her teachers. The more she learns about them and from them, the more she can also give back to them to create activities that nurture their development, celebrate their milestones and make TG's feel like a second home. This is where they feel welcome, loved, respected and listened to. This is a safe and secure place for them to learn and grow. She leads her team with an important value - their gifts make a difference to children and families. What attracted her to TG's is how it has a family oriented feel to it, and this extends to the educators as well. The TG's team work together and play together. Educators are highly supportive of each other and they genuinely care for the growth and development of everyone on their team. As women, they are aware of the challenges they face in multiple roles in the professional and personal spheres, and are quick to step in and step up to lift each other. When they work together as a team and understand each other´s gifts, each day becomes a joy to share together. Giving each other the opportunity to grow and shine is how every single educator feels appreciated and valued and want to stay on at TG's. On home grounds, Linda's time revolves around motor bikes, the beach, sports with her three boys and partner. She also enjoys her girly time with her sisters and friends on fun, pampering dates and coffee chats. When work feels like home, one gets energised going to work, leaving plenty of spirit to enjoy one's leisure time with family and friends! Crystal Majeski - Celebrating Everyone Crystal recalls meeting TG's educators for the first time when she moved to join TG's Hastings Street in 2013. She was struck by how much fun they were having and how warm and welcoming they were towards her even though she was so new. It was then that she knew this was right where she needed to be. She has not looked back since then and has moved on through her professional challenges of being Team Leader, Educational Leader and now Centre Manager, first in High Street in 2018 and then in Riverbreeze in 2019. Crystal's daughter is also part of the TG's Family and as parent and educator, Crystal can see the beautiful changes in her child growing up with TG's values. She comes home everyday with amazing stories of TG's adventures and Crystal knows her daughter is celebrated and loved through her days at TG's. Every single educator is passionate and loving, and everyone puts the TG's philosophy into practice. They understand the standards and expectations and strive to go that extra mile for the children and families. Paddling the canoe together is what she does every day with her team of educators - each educator feels their voice is heard and welcomed, they are free to share their experiences and are supported to grow their gifts. Everyone is celebrated here! For Crystal, Playing is Learning for Life does not stop when she steps out of TG's. She is currently landscaping her home so every day is filled with muddy adventures, butterfly hunts and exploring nature. Nature is a key element at TG's - it is where children's learning is ignited and they are free to explore and investigate! Alicia Moody - Everyone is Doing their Best with Joy Joy is something that is cyclical at TG's and when you meet Alicia you will understand how joy can be easily multiplied across TG's playspaces and rooms. Quality-time with her family is what brings joy to Alicia, and it is something she has been gifted with since she was a child. With a beautiful store of family memories from her childhood, and creating beautiful new memories with her own family now, Alicia brings the same loving quality when she goes to TG's every single day. The children and the educators are the people she shares her joy with at TG's and for Alicia, TG's is home, not a place of work. Alicia has spent the past 19 years working in Early Childhood and this is her bliss, supporting children, families and the local community. She feels rich in what she does because every child she meets is a unique universe in themselves. It is what drives her to connect with each child and build a relationship with them coming from a place of love, respect and curiosity to hear about their experiences and interests. Many will agree that TG's magic comes from it being a family-owned and operated service with hands-on owners. Everyone is nurtured at TG's, and a lot of support is given to each person's learning journey. The educators´ development is as important as that of the children. Alicia has been given the opportunity to develop her own leadership role and expand her career, and now she is doing the same to help her team of educators grow. In a place where educators feel heard, valued, respected and cared for, it is no wonder that they see going to TG's as going in to a loving home. It is a clear validation of the loving culture at TG's that welcomes equal opportunities for everyone. Laura Mowle - Growing through Challenges Meeting challenges is not something new to Laura. When she first started at TG's, she took on all the opportunities given to her with passion and energy. For her, every challenge was a privilege and an opportunity to learn, grow, change and shine. She was and still is, always ready to take on board something new. Whether it was engaging in meaningful and fun experiences with children and planning their new experiences or creating a clean, safe and welcoming environment that were compliant with policies and procedures, Laura was hungry to keep learning more. Her career milestone was joining the TG's Family at their first centre in Armidale in 2010. She then relocated to TG's Wauchope in 2013 as Team Leader and Educational Leader. This was a big decision for Laura, because it meant relocating and heading to the coast. She took to her role as Team Leader and Educational Leader like a fish to water. As Team Leader, she could mentor and guide her colleagues to their fullest potential. As they say, stagnant water is not safe to drink, and remaining in her comfort zone was not Laura's way of being. She is always passionate and enthusiastic to keep growing and learning. She studied for her Bachelor of Teaching in Early Childhood in that same year and from there, she transitioned to Centre Manager at TG's High Street in 2016. Laura plays her leadership role with love, kindness and respect to her team of educators just as she does to the children at TG's. By encouraging educators to share their gifts, be a part of collective thinking and build trust, educators feel trusted to provide high quality education and care experiences that meet TG's standards and expectations. Since becoming Area Manager for Wauchope in 2020, Laura continues to strive to provide high quality standards with her team and she takes on opportunities with pride, interest and curiosity. She challenges her team to pursue their gifts and she welcomes new responsibilities to nurture her knowledge and skills. Laura does not take what she has been given for granted. She continues to stay curious and meet challenges in her career. What she wants is to continue to share her deep love, joy, happiness and satisfaction working in Early Childhood with everyone. She is always working towards stretching her personal development, incorporating her colleagues' support and understanding and strengthening herself as a leader, mentor to be the best she can be for her team, families and the community. 'Give it a go' is what Laura says to herself and her team. It is a way to embrace all opportunities with interest and curiosity. Every opportunity is a gift. It is a chance to grow as an individual and shine as a leader. Choose To Challenge Every day, each of us can #ChooseToChallenge and find opportunities to grow and shine in our personal and professional spheres. Having a supportive community and environment makes a big difference to helping women explore and appreciate their gifts and share them with the world. There is much we can learn from children, who are challenging themselves every single day as they explore and make discoveries, and making choices as they learn and grow. On this year's International Women's Day, let us come together to support women to share their gifts and shine as leaders in their own right. TG's Child Care locations and contact details: Uralla +61 (02) 6778 3369 | uralla@tgschildcare.com.au | tgschildcare.com.au/uralla 23B John St, Uralla NSW 2358 Urangan +61 (07) 4184 2282 | urangan@tgschildcare.com.au | tgschildcare.com.au/urangan 61 Miller St, Urangan, QLD 4655 Armidale +61 (02) 6772 7810 | armidale@tgschildcare.com.au | tgschildcare.com.au/armidale 11 Samuelson Crescent, Armidale NSW 2350 Wauchope - Hastings St +61 (02) 6585 1033 | HastingsStreet@tgschildcare.com.au | tgschildcare.com.au/wauchope-hastings-st 33B Hastings St, Wauchope NSW 2446 Wauchope - High St +61 (02) 6585 3331 | HighStreet@tgschildcare.com.au | tgschildcare.com.au/wauchope-high-st 223A High St, Wauchope NSW 2446 Wauchope - Riverbreeze +61 (02) 6585 2981 | riverbreeze@tgschildcare.com.au | tgschildcare.com.au/wauchope-riverbreeze 3 Riverbreeze Drive, Wauchope NSW 2446 Enrolments https://www.tgschildcare.com.au/enrolment Advertise with Brilliant-Online The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment and businesses. - LUXE, latest trends and products in fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. For all enquiries about advertising with Brilliant-Online, please contact us here.

One woman’s passion to teach 3D software skills to aspiring designers The future of fashion is augmented reality. What this means is that if you are looking for a pair of pants, you can pop into a store that has the technologies to do body scanning and offer you custom-fit pants with the fabric, colour or style of your choice. Your information is captured and sent to the backend for processing. Yes, it’s tomorrow’s made-to-order apparel. An important software that connects designers to customers is a three-dimensional (3D) software which designers use to create their fashion pieces and send them off to the production houses for the final cut to customers. Recognising the growing trend towards the use of 3D software in the fashion and retail industry, former graphic designer Tanya Tan, decided to push herself to learn one of the industry’s popular 3D garment simulation software. It was a gruelling two-year journey that she took during whatever spare time between work and family. Tanya did not just want to learn to use the software, no, she wanted the certification to enable her to teach the software to aspiring designers and current garment industry professionals such as merchandisers, pattern makers and stylists, etc. Finally, after much dogged determination, hard work and intensive training in an institution overseas, she attained the much coveted certification in 2019! From Art Director to Virtual Prototype Software Trainer For Tanya who, at one time had been an art director in an agency, her three decades in the design industry gave her opportunities to use cutting edge software (in those days) for design work. Over the years she became adept in working with design software such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Indesign, with rosters of clients that included the government agencies in Singapore, multinational corporations and large local businesses based elsewhere in Asia. In 2013, Tanya set off on a new path to explore a different career. Encouraged by one of the government-subsidised learning opportunities, she signed up to be certified as a trainer. She later found herself conducting training at a local fashion institute for aspiring fashion designers on how to use design software that she was already familiar with, yes, Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator, to design apparel, shoes and bags. On The Road Less Travelled This road less travelled has led her to becoming a highly-sought after design software trainer in Singapore’s small but growing fashion industry. Presently, she is a trainer certified to help the next generation of fashion designers express themselves in exciting 3D software. Tanya conducts training at the Textile and Fashion Industry Training Centre (TaF.tc) in Singapore, the sunny island’s first continuing education and training centre for the local textile and fashion industry which aspires to be a global fashion school without boundaries. She’s spearheading training in Virtual Prototyping for Apparel with CLO, a three-dimensional (3D) fashion design software program creating virtual, true-to life garment visualization with cutting-edge simulation technologies for the fashion industry, while at the same time exploring Virtual Prototyping for bags and shoes. Virtually Tailor-Made “Traditional design and manufacture of fashion apparel can be a painful, time-consuming process with lots of back-and-forth visits between the designer, pattern maker and seamstress before a satisfactory finished product is achieved,” says Tanya. “This software enables designers to dress up a 3D avatar to view how the clothes will move and fit on this virtual mannequin. It can even adjust the design to different sizes with preset measurements or custom set measurements. Once ready, the file will be sent digitally to others in the production chain to work from – so there’s no need to use a physical mannequin and make endless adjustments to get apparel that fits like a glove. “The beauty of this software is that it can be used by both small fashion houses and also big companies for mass-production. “It’s a smooth, streamlined process that’s radically changing the industry, so it’s really pleasing to be at the forefront teaching it to my students, who will adopt it and go on to use it during their careers in the years ahead.” Passion for Tomorrow’s Fashion Industry It was quite a feat for Tanya to become a trainer of this technology and she has no plans to make it any easier for her trainees. To obtain their proficiency certification for CLO 3D software, Tanya’s students have to achieve nothing less than 100 percent in their assessment classes. “This is a skill for them to stay in tomorrow’s fashion industry. So for those who have the passion for this industry, I want them to push themselves and go further in their career. The ability to do virtual prototyping is a game-changer, and especially for small businesses who want to actively participate in the world’s fashion industry, they need to go the extra mile.” With age no barrier to Tanya’s enthusiasm for blazing a new path in her chosen craft, it looks like she’s well on its way to turning Singapore into a hotbed of creative design technology. You can contact Tanya Tan here Advertise with Brilliant-Online The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment and businesses. - LUXE, latest trends and products in fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. For all enquiries about advertising with Brilliant-Online, please contact us here.

Fare Thee Well When COVID-19 swept through the world, "Life is precious" became a glaring understatement. One can never know how much time is left and with so many families grieving losses brought about by the pandemic, it is a sobering moment to contemplate one's end. Nina Linder is one special person who offers support to those seeking a Good End of Life. Nina Linder of Fare Thee Well cares about the wishes of the person who is dying and she provides support for a ‘good death’ at home (wherever possible). She also provides support, counselling and ceremonial services at family vigils. “As a qualified nurse and registered Counsellor, I see the dying and their families having a difficult time dealing with terminal illness or sudden death. They become concerned about preparing for medical events. When you really think about death, would you be oppressed by the fear of death? I was and that’s why I decided to set up Fare Thee Well to help one navigate through End of Life Care and Meaningful Transition after Death; to help families and loved ones through the grieving process. Death then becomes a personal and spiritual event.”, says Nina. COVID-19 complicates End of Life Most people are very focused on the medical aspects of dying and while our Palliative team such as Specialists, General Practitioner, Nurses and Allied Health Professionals all play a vital role as we near our end, it is just as necessary for everyone to prepare early and have calm conversations about medical options and one's End of Life. End of Life conversations does not have to be frightening. When planned early, these gentle conversations help to set out your desires and wishes for the end and can help to lessen the anguish and stress later on. You are then free to experience more personal and spiritual aspects of your last days with your loved ones. The COVID-19 pandemic made us realise how difficult grieving is and social distancing has made it even harsher. People can only talk to loved ones through an iPad at the hospital and cannot attend funerals due to restrictions. While we trust in the quality care of hospital staff at this time, many do not have access to a more personal and spiritual support as they near their end. The pandemic is not here to strip us of our humanity. If anything, it is a reminder of how delicate life is and how we need to let our humanity, hope, faith and love endure through it. Planning ahead and making End of Life Decisions can help us overcome the fear, stigma and anxiety of contemplating death. Death can lose its sting when we accept it as a natural, transitory part of life. An Advance Planning Directive is a helpful tool to consider important medical decisions that will need to be made. These decisions are best made early on as they reduce the burden and pressure on your loved ones to decide for you when you are no longer able to. There are other helpful tools on their website as well. Please contact Nina to talk more about having an Advanced Care Directive or download this eBook "What Matters in Life" Art of Dying Well The Art of Dying Weill is actually the Art of Living Well. The simple question of "Are you happy?" can floor people who have never thought for a second about this. Are you living in pursuit of things that truly matter such as family, friendship, love, trust, compassion, solidarity for our community? At the end of one's life, it is these abstract things closest to our hearts that truly matter. They are the markers of having lived wisely and well. Death need not be feared. And life can be celebrated. End of Life Conversations If you are thinking about setting up a will with a legal professional, or notice how your abilities are reducing in your body and mind, it is time to have an end-of-life conversation with Nina. Do it with your loved ones so you have each other's support. You do not have to do this alone. Talk about options on how you wish to die and your plans for your death. Here’s a booklet that will guide you through decisions when considering an Advance Care Directive and call Nina on 0404 821 779 to discuss them. About Nina Linder Nina is a degree qualified Nurse with a passion for end of life care. She works with you and your loved ones so the process can be a more meaningful and peaceful experience for everyone. As a certified Counsellor, she guides you and your family during the difficult time of terminal illness or sudden death. Nina has had a long career in nursing (palliative care) and family services and she has been a registered Counsellor since 2019. Right now she is finishing her Masters of Counselling. Acknowledgement: The photo above was taken by Craig Mason of East Coast Photography Nina's gentle support and guidance help one's end of life to be a time of deep meaning and resolution for you and your loved ones. She guides and supports one through the grieving process and provides options if people prefer to die at home. Nina has a very full life she beautifully celebrates and she has many interests from busily establishing a native plant edible garden at her home in Port Macquarie to Salsa dancing and attending Toastmasters ( a supported environment to practice public speaking.) Fare Thee Well Services Nina of Fare Thee Well offers her services for you, your family and loved ones in the comfort of your own home in the Port Macquarie/Hastings district and also can provide online Counselling services to those living further afield. Believing that each person and family is unique, Nina’s supports and services also need to be structured differently to suit the individual. She offers an obligation-free 30-minute consultation in your home to discuss your options about the end of life care desired by either you or your loved one. Nina can show you options and help you to make choices based on what is best suited to you. A home death and vigil can be a time of deep meaning, Nina can assist with the process of grief for your loved ones. Counselling services for individual, couple or family groups are invaluable support offered by Fare Thee Well. Contact details Fare Thee Well t/ 0404 821 779 w/ www.faretheewell.com.au Advertise with Brilliant-Online The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment and businesses. - LUXE, latest trends and products in fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. For all enquiries about advertising with Brilliant-Online, please contact us here.

Spreading a Magical Musical Message Pam Hata is an artist who plays to the beat of her own drum, fashioning a vivid vision of her own musical future and the music scene of her adopted Australian stamping ground. This talented musician with a heart full of original songs, big voice and quirky stage presence hails from the Land of the Long White Cloud – Aotearoa, New Zealand – and now bases herself in Port Macquarie and the Lower Clarence region. Photo credit: Craig Mason of East Coast Photography Pam is a full-time independent solo artist playing a soulful blend of blues, R&B, funk, reggae and roots covers, as well as a repertoire of original material. Her stage shows are memorable and engaging, with unique performances of favourites and originals blended in storming mash-ups that get toes tapping and hands clapping. Adding to all this musical energy is Pam’s personal line of merchandise - funky one-off items crafted by local artisans. On Stage Pam has supported acts and shared stages with the big names like Busby Merou, Wolf Mother, Booseeka, Gold Member, The Beautiful Girls, Kalidad, Claud Hay, Pete Murray, Frank Sultana, Austin Alsop and most recently Ash Grundwald with Brad Cox and Chris Rose at the region’s first post-COVID festival “Live At The Smokehouse.” It’s these shows that quickly gained her an organic following and momentum on the festival circuit. But with the music industry battered by swathes of COVID-19 restrictions, Pam tuned-up to challenge the musical torpor and support local communities Undismayed, she kept up her musical profile online and carefully worked around the restrictions with a string of shows conforming to safety regulations. Completing two single releases on her debut tour of Australia, together with one international tour in the past three years on her own and with a band, Pam spent 2020 writing her new series of original EPs - “Raw” and “Wild.” Acknowledgment: The photo above was taken by Bobby Rose Photography and Makeup by Abbie Taylor And in an initiative to support her fellow musicians, she launched a live movement online through a physical and virtual collective - “Original Sound Lounge” - via the Pluto Entertainment website. “This is what I want to do with my life and I’m doing it!” she says. “Despite the industry being in ruin I refuse to stop. I don’t know how to be literally everything else and, in the end, it always comes back to this - I’m an artist, I’m independent and I want to constantly learn and support professionals in the industry to better my craft and eventually release my first independent album.” She can take heart from the success of one of her ventures - now in operation for the fourth year, Original Sound Lounge survived COVID-19 and has actually experienced growth! Online Festival COVID also presented opportunities for staging music online: “I created my first online festival named 'Fox Fest' during COVID with my good friends at Pluto Entertainment, who were all out of work at the time. This was an all female line up, we did this to keep musicians paid and performing on real stages and look forward to the event being held annually now.” “We picked up a world of new artists and fans and expanded from the Mid North Coast to the northern rivers, providing exclusive COVID-safe arts showcases to areas that really need it,” says Pam. “And I’m happy to say nearly all have been sold out since restrictions have lifted.” “This is my way of giving back - I love the communities we live and play in, and most of all the people who come to see us like the Mum and Dad locally-owned venues that support us." “It’s so important we look after each other and this was the best way I knew how. You roll over and die - or you get up!" “We literally had nothing to lose with these two hands, six strings and hopes and dreams!" Pam has spent the holiday season touring the East Coast again - around border closures and COVID outbreaks. In doing so she’s been showing support for communities and musicians determined to continue to keep music appreciators connected at their favourite local venues and festival stages. Pam’s accomplishments as a musician and in her community movement have attracted media attention, both for her solo work and music events as her new line of merchandise which includes T-shirts, stubby coolers, jewellery and even a fragrance all locally sourced grown and hand-crafted to support local communities and local businesses. Support Artistes Donations are most welcome to support artistes to continue their cause - https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/plutoentertainment Original Work Pam’s current roster of originals comprises 30-45 minutes’ worth of compositions she can perform either solo with acoustic or electric guitar, or with a backing band. “They’re written about life - they’re all true stories, all relatable and interactive with my crowds." “I don’t release them online unless they are recorded live by the sound guys or in-studio at radio station interviews because I want the sound to be authentic for my fans. “Post-COVID I recorded CDs with my friend Stephen Bartlett who sound engineered and produced my work in his home studio and I titled it “Raw”. I wanted the sound to be raw and authentic. It is void of the many effects and polish of a studio, It’s like a 90s mix tape nostalgia." “I only make them available to purchase at shows or supporting venues, because I want people to actually come to shows, not just download them! It’s something I’m passionate about - Spotify should pay artists better!” Pam’s current list of original songs to listen out for is: The Fall Fool’s gold Moved Lennox Patchwork Heart I’m Only with Him ‘Cos He’s Crazy Big River Run Road Man’s Lullaby Daddy Issues Regional venues where Pam’s wowed the crowds include Flow Bar, Pandannus Crescent Head, Botanic Wine Garden, The Great Northern Kempsey and The Brew Box. As well as performing the local club scene, her recent events include: Meat Stock Festival Auckland 2019 NZ; Meat Stock Festival Sydney; “Raw” EP tour Mid North Coast 2021; and Live at the Smoke House Festival 2021 Pam's recent achievements include winning the singer song writer competition at Long Point Vineyard where the winner was chosen to support Ben Lee. She also just helped raise money for International Women's Day 2021. Next up for Pam in her busy schedule is to support Ben Lee at yet another SOLD out show before the release of her EP “Wild,” while working towards recording her studio album “Tame the Maine.“ Listen to Pam's Originals Here: CONTACT PAM HATA t: 0434 379 282 Follow: Facebook @pamhatamusic Insta @pam_hata_official Advertise with Brilliant-Online The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment and businesses. - LUXE, latest trends and products in fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. For all enquiries about advertising with Brilliant-Online, please contact us here.