Rhubarb 2024

How did your involvement in school sports influence your outlook on life and your approach to challenges?

Can you tell us about reconnecting with families you met on Teddies sports tours?

Sports at Teddies instilled a strong team culture in me. Even individual sports like tennis taught me the value of teamwork. Winning or losing, it was always a collective experience. In my final year, our hockey team had a very successful season, which was incredibly enjoyable because of the effort we all put in over a significant period of time together.These experiences taught me resilience and how to handle life's ups and downs.

During a Teddies sports tour to Australia we stayed with various families instead of in hotels.This fostered strong connections and I revisited some of these families during later travels.

INTERVIEW

Last year I had dinner with a family

School hockey tour to Australia.

I stayed with in Sydney which was wonderful.These connections have been meaningful and long-lasting.

What are some of the lessons you learned at Teddies that have stayed with you?

You were recently back in Australia for something very special. Can you tell us more about that?

Discipline and organisation were key lessons from Teddies. Balancing various commitments like CCF, band, sports, and prep taught me to prioritise and manage my time effectively. These skills have helped me in my professional life, ensuring I stay on top of tasks and manage my responsibilities well.

Last year I participated in the World Transplant Games which was an incredible experience.The

How did your education and experiences at Teddies prepare you for your career?

games were held in Perth and I competed in tennis, squash, and some athletics. I was thrilled to win gold in the ladies' tennis singles, ladies' doubles, squash, javelin and ball throw. The games were a celebration of life and the resilience of transplant recipients. Being surrounded by others who had gone through similar experiences was inspiring.The Transplant Games were also a reunion of sorts, allowing me to reconnect with old friends and make new ones. Competing and winning medals in such a supportive environment was an amazing experience. However, it was just as important to represent our donors and demonstrate just how important organ donation is.

Teddies instilled confidence in me, whether it was by giving assembly speeches or participating in class.The school encouraged a “who cares”

Flora at Teddies Prize Giving

attitude, pushing us to take risks and learn from mistakes. Leadership roles, such as being Head of House, taught me responsibility and management skills. Even through early experiences like team-building exercises,Teddies helped build my confidence and ability to speak up.

What advice would you give to current pupils facing significant health challenges or other adversities?

Be open and honest about your situation.Transparency helps raise awareness and understanding. Don’t be afraid to communicate your needs, whether it’s taking medication or leaving class for a health-related issue. Additionally, getting involved in fundraising and awareness activities can foster a supportive community.

What major milestones in your life led you to a career in HR?

After school, I worked as a gap student at my old prep school for a year, which included some travel and fun experiences. During this time, I also worked on a community radio station, which I enjoyed immensely. Although I initially planned to go to university, I decided it wasn’t for me and instead took various jobs including tennis coaching and working in retail. I travelled to Australia and reconnected with families I met through Teddies sports tours, which was a great experience. When I returned, I attended Quest Professional, a business school where I learned various skills that helped me secure a job at Grant Thornton. Initially I worked as a team assistant, then during Covid I was seconded to HR where I have remained and which I thoroughly enjoy.

When you look back on your time at Teddies how does it make you feel?

I feel happy and grateful for the experiences and friendships I made at Teddies.The diversity and connections with people from different backgrounds enriched my life. I met some amazing people and, although I didn’t attend university, I feel that the friendships and experiences from Teddies have been just as valuable.

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