Stories from the senior leaders, executives and teams we've coached over the past twenty years.
In Their Own Words
Before coaching, I had a strained relationship with my direct report and thought the fix was to manage them better. I discovered the real work was learning to manage myself. I became aware of my emotions, triggers, and how to name and regulate them. Now I lead clearer conversations, defined my leadership vision, and show up better at work and at home.
Before coaching, my confidence was low and I felt guilty putting myself first. I discovered I matter and that self-respect improves how I show up as a mother and wife. I became aware of how harshly I spoke to myself. Now I look in the mirror and affirm my worth, set boundaries without guilt, and trust myself.
Before coaching, I struggled with imposter syndrome, high anxiety, and workaholism while our organisation navigated major change. I discovered practical ways to face fear and lead from my strengths. I became aware of patterns that kept me small. Now my anxiety is down by about 90 percent, I’ve stepped fully into my role, and team engagement is way up.
Before coaching, old hurts drove my behaviour and my inner critic ran the show. I discovered how my past shaped my present. I became aware of that limiting voice and learned to challenge it. Now I’ve articulated my leadership goals and purpose, and I meet life with more choice and self-forgiveness.
Before coaching, I was burning energy, disconnected from presence. I discovered how childhood patterns formed my personality. I became aware of how to be here, not hurried. Now I’m more vulnerable, patient, and present—and growing.
Before coaching, stress blurred my relationships and work. I discovered how to prioritise what and who matters. I became aware of my follow-through. Now my relationships are stronger, I drive projects to completion, and I invest in the people who count.
Before coaching, I doubted myself and felt scattered. I discovered an inner authority I can rely on. I became aware of the habits that undermine it. Now I feel empowered and anchored in my own leadership.
Before coaching, life had fallen apart and I couldn’t see my role in the chaos. I discovered how my thinking patterns and childhood experiences kept me stuck. I became aware of healthier ways to relate to myself and others. Now I prioritise my wellbeing and have changed how I relate to money, colleagues, and my child.
Before coaching, work and home bled into each other. I discovered small structural changes shift everything. I became aware of what restores my focus. Now I work outdoors when I can, keep work/home spaces distinct, lean on peer groups, and hire the support I need.
Before coaching, I felt unclear about myself and my future. I discovered compassion through self-understanding. I became aware of my blind spots and strengths. Now my family relationships have improved and I’ve started a vision for a Center on African Public Spaces.
Before coaching, we tried to push performance without addressing root dynamics. I discovered that real results come from deeper individual and team work. I became aware of how to hold safe, stretching spaces. Now my team performs better and I recommend taking the jump. It’s worth it.
Before coaching, I wasn’t sure growth would stick. I discovered what unwavering dedication looks like. I became aware that this work is a calling. Now I feel held to my growth with care and consistency.
Before coaching, I was hunting for techniques. I discovered a deeper kind of truth-telling. I became aware of what was hidden. Now I have insights that changed the trajectory of my work and life.
Before coaching, I was in a sector-wide crisis and forgot my strengths. I discovered tools to stop, breathe, and separate the chaos from my worth. I became aware that self-care without guilt is a discipline. Now I’m calmer, clearer, and rate my progress a solid 7.
