Events

New Events (Scroll down to see more great Resilience Resources)

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Series of 12 Online Live Workshops for Accelerator Members Only (started Tuesday 5 November)

Are you ready to embark on a journey of healing, resilience and personal growth? I’m excited to announce my upcoming workshop series on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), designed specifically for members of the Get Up and Grow Accelerator Community. This exclusive series will begin in the first week of November and will be conducted live online, allowing you to join from the comfort of your home.

Learn more and sign up

Preventing Parental Fatigue and Burnout Series – 6 Recorded Workshops (Exclusive to Accelerator Members Only)

Festive Season Tips: Practical Advice for Happy Holidays

I’ve recorded an inspiring video with two Specialist Wellness Counselling colleagues, Melissa van Hal and Lehandra Riley. We talk about a variety of aspects that pose challenges for so many of us around this time of the year such as family, feelings, traditions, responsibilities, pressure, solitude, isolation, joy, rituals, self-care, support and more. It will be seven minutes of your time well spent, if you are still in two minds about how to handle some of those tricky situations.

Learning During Holidays: Should Children Continue Academic Work During the Holidays?

Should children continue learning and doing academic work during the holidays or not? This interview with Support Learning Specialist and Specialist Wellness Counsellor, Melissa van Hal, provides valuable advice and practical tips to parents on how to cultivate an environment that supports curiosity, discovery and continued learning through exploration and play, in a less structured holiday context.

No More Spiked Drinks with Drinkerbell

Watch this inspiring interview with Peach Olive, who’s daughter Skyla’s drink was spiked. She created an amazing way to safeguard your drinks when you’re out and about. This is a great story of turning a traumatic experience into a worthy awareness campaign.

Educational Video

Parenting Styles and How they Impact our Children: In this video I explain the four types of parenting, how they impact our children and how you can implement the best style, while also balancing your style with the other parent’s style for the best benefit of your child.

Watch the full video

Listen to the Podcast

Human Rights (International Human Rights Day (10 December)

Human rights are the inherent entitlements that every person possesses simply by virtue of being human. They transcend race, gender, nationality and socio-economic status, forming the cornerstone of dignity, freedom, equality and justice in society. On International Human Rights Day, observed annually on December 10, we are reminded of the universal need to protect and uphold these fundamental rights.

Read the full Blog Post

Corruption (International Anti-Corruption Day (9 December)

On International Anti-Corruption Day (9 December), the world comes together to reflect on the scourge of corruption and how it undermines the foundations of societies. Corruption erodes trust, destroys economic stability and impedes growth and equality.

To combat it, we need to deeply understand its roots, impact and practical ways to rise above its pervasive influence.

Read the full Blog Post

Get Up and Grow Interview

Male Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse: Interview with Martin Pelders. Watch this open-hearted conversation about the challenges so many men face when dealing with their childhood trauma.

Watch the Video

Listen to the Podcast

Educational Video: Rumination

Rumination

Why we do it, How it impacts us and What to Do to Stop it.

Watch the Video

Listen to the Podcast

Living with a Disability (Commemorating International Day of Persons with Disabilities (3 December)

Living with a disability can be one of life’s greatest challenges, but it can also be a journey of strength, transformation and discovery. Each year, on 3 December, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities serves as a reminder to celebrate the resilience and contributions of people living with disabilities while advocating for inclusion, equality and accessibility.

This blog post offers a compassionate exploration of what it means to live with a disability, shares real-life stories of growth and transformation and, provides actionable steps for creating a fulfilling life, regardless of the challenges faced.

Get Up and Grow Podcast

Sexual Abuse: How to Deal with a Childs Disclosure (Interview with John Cardamone). John shares his own story and how his parents, family and community responded to him disclosing sexual abuse. We also talk about some of the telling signs in children that they are being sexually abused and how to respond and take appropriate action when they disclose the incident(s) to you.

Watch the Video – or – Listen to the Podcast

Educational Video: Sponging on Others

Sponging on Other People (Why some do it, What the Impact is & How to Stop It).

Watch the short Video

Listen to the short Podcast

Violence is a Human Issue, not a Gendered One

The term Gender Based Violence (GBV) has become synonymous with discussions around violence, particularly domestic violence. However, the concept often focuses primarily on the plight of women, overshadowing the equally critical experiences of male victims and the nuanced dynamics of violence. The term is problematic and I wish the “Gender Based” will be dropped to use only the word Violence. By shifting the narrative, we can address violence holistically and create a healthier, more balanced society.

Read the Blog

Get Up and Grow Podcast

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Interview with Ernest Fernandez (War Veteran). In this open-hearted conversation, we discuss various traumatic life events that accumulate when there is a lack of proper mental health support and guidance, such as war, abuse, coercive control, suicide and more.

Watch the Video

Listen to the Podcast

Educational Video: Loyalty

Loyalty (What it Really Means and How to Navigate it)

Watch the short video

Listen to the short Podcast

How to Handle Holidays when Divorced

While holidays offer parents an opportunity for loads of quality time with their children, it also often involves issues such as fitting a vacation around the other parent’s schedule, giving up some time for the other’s sake, switching parenting roles while still having the usual responsibilities and not seeing your kids for a prolonged period of time.

When parents are at odds with each other about these things, the children become stressed. Add the change in routine and they are left feeling unsettled at the least. Here are some valuable tips to help you achieve a successful holiday time.

Read the Blog on Fair Divorce

Get Up and Grow Podcast

Help Your Child Reach their Potential (Interview with Sam Soyombo). Learn about several models to apply that will help your child uncover their unique talents and skills as well as their passion and how to pursue it.

Watch the video

Listen to the Podcast

Educational Video: Integrity

Living Your Life with Integrity. Real-life examples of what it means to live with wholeness and alignment to your values as well as practical tips to cultivate integrity for yourself and your family or team.

Watch the Video

Listen to the Podcast

World Diabetes Day (14 November)

World Diabetes Day, observed annually on November 14th, serves as a global platform to raise awareness about diabetes, its prevention and effective management. The campaign’s mission is to educate people on the impact of diabetes and advocate for access to essential treatment and healthcare services for those affected.

Read the Blog Post

International Anti-Bullying Week (11-15 November)

The Origin of Bullying and How to Prevent Your Child from Becoming a Bully.

Listen to the Podcast (11mins)

Bullying Among Children (How to Support Your Child if They Are a Victim)

Listen to the Podcast (<12 mins)

Workplace Bullying and How to Respond to It

Listen to the Podcast (10 mins)

Movember (Men’s Health Issues – November)

Movember, celebrated each November, is a global campaign dedicated to raising awareness of men’s health issues, particularly prostate cancer, testicular cancer and mental health concerns, including suicide prevention. Originating in Australia in 2003, Movember began with a fun challenge among friends to grow moustaches, which quickly transformed into an international movement focused on changing the face of men’s health.

Read the Blog

Educational Video: Triangulation

Get Out of Triangulation. Don’t get caught in the middle as the mediator or peacekeeper for friends or family. See the signs and protect yourself now.

Watch the Video

Listen to the Podcast

Get Up and Grow Interview / Podcast

Special Needs Divorce Support: In this interview with Mary Ann Hughes, we discuss various aspects to consider during separation and divorce, that impact children with special needs.

Listen to the Podcast

Watch the Video

Data Security Month (October)

In today’s digital world, protecting our personal and business data is crucial, yet many individuals and organisations overlook essential steps, leaving themselves vulnerable to data breaches, identity theft, financial loss and emotional stress. In the face of escalating cyber threats, there’s no room for shortcuts – data security is as essential as locking your front door. Data security issues can wreak havoc on family life and business operations, from financial burdens to disrupted relationships and damaged reputations.

Read the Blog and Download the Edugraphic

Educational Video: Anger

Quit Being Angry All the Time! Learn why we get so angry and what you can do about it, with client stories and actionable tips.

Watch the Video

Listen to the Podcast

School Readiness: Is Your Child Ready for the Traditional Learning Environment of a Classroom?

Watch this great collaboration with Melissa van Hal (Specialist Wellness Counsellor & Education Support Specialist), Tendayi Marwa (Remedial Teacher) and Tendai Mhuriro (Foundation Phase Teacher) as we discuss the various skills and abilities children need to adapt and thrive a school.

Watch the Video

Listen to the Podcast

Get Up and Grow Interview / Podcast

Intimate Partner Abuse (Domestic Violence): Interview with Jared Whitaker. Abuse has no preference. Both men and women find themselves in abusive relationships all over the world, as this brave testimony will show.

Watch the Video

Listen to the Podcast

Eye Care Awareness Month (October)

October marks Eye Care Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the importance of vision, raise awareness of eye health and address the challenges individuals face when losing their eyesight. In this blog I talk about the loss of sight, an adversity that reshapes not only a person’s daily life but also their mental, emotional and social landscapes.

Read the blog

Educational Video: Worrying

Stop Constant Worrying (with Practical Steps to Break Free): An eye-opening discussion about the signs of being trapped in a cycle of perpetual worrying and how you can break free from it with some practical action steps to take while learning to manage your worries effectively.

Watch the Video

Listen to the Podcast

Get Up and Grow Interview / Podcast

A Mothers Loss Grieving the Death of her Children: (Interview with Stephanie Frieslaar). A moving conversation with a mother who lost four children and learnt the value of forgiveness in starting her healing process.

Watch the video

Listen to the Podcast

Educational Video: Parentification

How to Heal Parentification Trauma (and safeguard your children): Two types of parentification, how it impacts you, how to heal from it and practical tips for parents to avoid parentifying their children.

Watch the video

Listen to the Podcast

Get Up and Grow Interview / Podcast

Survive Abuse by Perpetrators Close to You: Sinta Ebersohn Interviews Michelle Manders as she shares her horrifying story of childhood physical and sexual abuse and how it impacted her entire adult life until she managed to start healing from the tremendous trauma.

Watch the video

Listen to the Podcast

Breast Cancer Awareness Month (October 2023)

Watch this eye-opening interview with Elana Swart-Traut as she shares her harrowing story of cancer as a result of breast implants.

Thank you Elana, for your brave journey!

Watch the Video

Listen to the Podcast

Get Up and Grow Interview / Podcast

Parenting for a Stronger Generation: Get Up and Grow – Sinta Ebersohn Interviews Nicole Runyon.

We discuss the different parenting styles of past generations and how it gradually created overwhelm and over protection, leading to the high anxiety experienced by children today.

Watch the video

Listen to the Podcast

World Mental Health Day – 10 October 2023

In our fast-paced world it’s easy to overlook the importance of mental health. However, taking care of our minds is just as vital as caring for our physical well-being. Let’s look into the significance of mental health and explore some common mental health challenges people face. Additionally, I’ll provide valuable insights into how to maintain a healthy mind and highlight essential practices for supporting mental well-being.
To celebrate World Mental Health Day today, I asked a number of mental health practitioners what their thoughts are on the topic. Thank you to Cindy Carless, Delani Hollhumer, Melissa van Hal, Helene Potgieter, Presheka Budhrani, Andrea Nettel, Chéry Radley van Staden, Louise Clarence and Jeanne Kruger for your contributions!
Mental Health Awareness Day, observed annually on October 10th, serves as a global reminder of the importance of mental well-being. In a world where stress, anxiety and mental health challenges are on the rise, this day urges us to break the stigma, encourage open conversations and promote strategies for better mental health.
This blog post dives deep into the significance of Mental Health Awareness Day, exploring its history, the current global mental health landscape and offering actionable insights to help you cultivate better mental resilience.

Get Up and Grow Interview / Podcast

Music for Wellness: What you need to know for raising resilient children in a home filled with music for everyone. Inspiring Get Up and Grow Podcast interview with music teacher and Specialist Wellness Counsellor, Lehandra Riley.

Watch the video

Listen to the podcast

International Day of Non Violence (2 October)

On October 2nd, the world comes together to observe the International Day of Non-Violence, honouring the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, whose birthday also falls on this day.

Established by the United Nations in 2007, this day serves as a reminder of the power of non-violence in achieving social, political and economic change. In a world where violence often grabs headlines, this day emphasises the critical importance of peaceful conflict resolution, compassion and resilience in the face of adversity.

Read the blog post

Get Up and Grow Interview / Podcast

Get Up and Grow Interview with Jennifer Burruel on Fentanyl: The heart-warming story of a mother who turned the loss of her son to Fentanyl poisoning, into a purpose of educating and creating awareness of the dangers of illegal counterfeit drugs.

Watch the Video

Listen to the Podcast

International Sign Language Day (23 September)

On Sign Language Day, we celebrate a powerful form of communication that bridges the gap between the hearing and deaf communities. Sign language is not just a tool for communication; it’s a symbol of inclusion, equality and human connection. To understand the significance of sign language, let’s delve into its history, examine its impact across various regions and explore the lesser-known aspects of this fascinating mode of communication. Read the Blog Post

Get Up and Grow Interview / Podcast

Financial Abuse (Interview with Felicity Guest): Maintenance defaulters who withhold financial support for their children, put the primary caregiving parent in an unbearable predicament and it is exasperated by a broken system that fails to protect vulnerable victims.

Watch the Video

Listen to the Podcast

Stepfamily Awareness Day (16 September)

Step-parenting, the role of an individual who enters into a family where at least one parent has children from a previous relationship, is a complex and multi-faceted journey. Rooted in the evolution of family structures and dynamics, step-parenting carries both challenges and opportunities for growth, impacting individuals and families in profound ways in our modern society.

The concept of step-parenting has ancient roots, dating back to various historical and cultural contexts where families were formed through multiple marriages, unions or remarriages. In essence, a step-parent assumes a parental role for children who are not biologically their own, navigating the delicate balance of building relationships while respecting existing family dynamics.

Read the full blog post

Deaf Awareness Month (September 2023)

Two beautiful and inspiring interviews with deaf people who have graciously agreed to give us a glimpse into their worlds. Thank you so much Jessica Combrink and Lochlan McLeod (video to be added soon) for participating!

Deaf Awareness Month (September)

To commemorate DEAF AWARENESS MONTH in September, we collaborated with Edugraphics and the National Insititute for the DEAF (NID), to create this amazing edugraphic with vital information and perspectives that hearing people need to know about deaf people.

World Suicide Prevention Day (10 September)

Suicide is one of the most pressing global health challenges, with over 700,000 people losing their lives to it every year. Yet, it remains shrouded in stigma, misunderstanding and silence. To address this, the World Suicide Prevention Day theme for 2024-2026 is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” urging us all to “Start the Conversation” around this complex issue.
In this blog post, I’ll explore the causes of suicide, how it’s viewed in different cultures and practical ways to encourage resilience to prevent suicide.
⚠️ Let’s TALK about Suicide.
💔 I’ve personally experienced depression when I felt utterly desperate at various times in my life – when I lost my child, when I was betrayed, when I got divorced, when I was abused, when I was diagnosed with cancer, when I lost my livelihood to name a few.
🆘 If I did not reach out to get solid support, I don’t know how I would have overcome all those adversities through the years. It took courage and strength that no-one can muster alone.
🖤 In my life-time I have also experienced the horror of loved ones ending their own lives abruptly and being left behind with questions that will never, ever be answered – more times than I care to count.
🟣 That is why I founded Get Up and Grow. You are not alone – you have me and this amazing community to help and support you all the way – as we cultivate resilience together!
Losing a loved one to suicide is an unimaginable grief. The emotional aftermath can feel overwhelming, leaving family and friends grappling with profound sadness, guilt, confusion and even anger. This type of loss, often referred to as “complicated grief,” is distinct because it comes with questions that might never be answered. For those left behind, healing is a long journey, but it’s important to know that you do not have to walk it alone.
Read here what you need to know and how you can navigate the complex emotions that follow a suicide.

Get Up and Grow Interview / Podcast

Effective Communication for Parents: (Sinta Ebersohn) Interview with Karen Badenhorst. Make time to watch this video with gems of practical advice and tips that will improve your relationship with your child immensely.

Watch the video

Listen to the Podcast

World Sexual Health Day (4 September)

World Sexual Health Day, observed annually on September 4th, is a crucial reminder of the importance of sexual health in our lives. It is a day dedicated to breaking the silence around sexuality, promoting sexual rights and encouraging healthy sexual practices. Understanding and fostering healthy sexuality is essential not only for individual well-being but also for maintaining strong, resilient relationships.

Read the blog post

Get Up and Grow Interview / Podcast

Divorce Support in the Workplace (Interview with Dr Sue Palmer Conn): Worldwide statistics indicate a dire need for employee support when going through a break-up or divorce. In this interview we discuss what can be done to meet that need effectively.

Watch the Video

Listen to the Podcast

International Day of the Disappeared (30 August)

On August 30th, the world observes International Day of the Disappeared, a day to remember those who have vanished without a trace, leaving their loved ones in a state of enduring anguish. Disappearances, whether due to conflict, abduction or other mysterious circumstances, create a unique kind of suffering – an unresolved grief that lingers indefinitely.

This post delves into real-life historical events from different parts of the world where people mysteriously disappeared, the profound impact on their families and communities and how those left behind can cope with such trauma.

Get up an Grow Interview / Podcast

Raising a child with an Intellectual Disability (Interview with Candida di Giandomenico): A mother’s touching story of her inspiring life with her daughter, from birth till today – 30 years later and still growing strong. Candida offers valuable insight and advice for parents.

Watch the full video

Listen to the Podcast

International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief (22 August)

Religious Violence (and the cultivation of resilience): An interdisciplinary perspective of the impact on individuals, communities and societies through the ages.

Religious violence is as old as mankind, a tragic constant that has shaped our history, our societies, and our very identities. The story of religious violence is not only about destruction and suffering but also about survival, adaptation, and resilience. Across time and cultures, individuals and communities have faced immense challenges but have also shown incredible resilience in the face of such adversity. How did they manage to do this? How did religious violence impact them, and how did they cultivate resilience?

Watch the full video

Listen to the full Podcast

International Day of Remembrance of and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism (21 August)

Terrorism has scarred the world, leaving a lasting impact on individuals, communities and entire cultures. Over the past century, acts of terrorism have not only claimed lives but also inflicted deep emotional, psychological and social wounds. The trauma caused by terrorism can be debilitating, with effects that can linger for generations if not addressed effectively.

In this blog post, I explore various acts of terrorism from the past 100 years, examine the resulting trauma and provide practical steps to help individuals manage and overcome this trauma.

Get Up and Grow Interview / Podcast

Bereavement Photography (Interview with Kelly Brown): The privilege of being present to capture precious moments of grief and sorrow among loved ones, is what Kelly shares with me in this beautiful interview.

Watch the full video

Listen to the Podcast

International Left Handers Day (13 August)

Challenges & Triumphs of Left Handers

Throughout history, cultures around the world held diverse views of left-handedness. From ancient times to the modern era, left-handedness has been met with fascination, superstition and even discrimination. In some societies, being left-handed was associated with creativity, intuition and uniqueness, while others considered it a sign of bad luck or abnormality.

Read the full article

Get Up and Grow Interview / Podcast

Living an Inspired Life with Disability & Disease (Interview with Dr Elna Dürr): The incredible story of a woman born with a visual impairment, braving the world to realise her academic dreams and achieving continued success in spite of a subsequent life-threatening disease.

Watch the video

Listen to the Podcast

International Women’s Day & International Day of Indigenous People’s (9 August)

We commemorate International Women’s Day and International Day of Indigenous Peoples on 9 August. It’s a poignant time to honour the remarkable stories of indigenous women from diverse corners of the globe. Some have left an indelible mark on history. They defied norms and emerged as a symbol of strength and leadership. It reminds us of the incredible strength that resides within us all. Here are true stories of indigenous women who conquered adversity, contributed profoundly to their communities and continue to inspire us today.

Women’s Day (9 August) – Images to share in Honour of all Women

Get Up and Grow Interview / Podcast

Men’s Health: This is an absolute must watch, openhearted interview with Leanne Kanzler, who shares her deeply touching story of her husband’s sudden and ongoing battle with cancer. Let’s have honest conversations about the well-being of our men! Much gratitude to Leanne, for letting us in on their life so courageously, so that we can learn from their experience.

Watch the video or Listen to the Podcast

World Breastfeeding Week (1-7 August)

Nurturing Resilience with Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is not just about providing essential nutrients. It is a powerful catalyst for fostering physical, emotional, mental and spiritual resilience that equip our children with the tools they need to overcome life’s challenges. Let’s delve into the scientific evidence supporting the numerous benefits of breastfeeding, focusing on how it … read the full article

Get Up and Grow Interview / Podcast

July is Bereaved Parents’ Month and as promised, here is a deeply moving interview with a bereaved mother.

How does one live with the tremendous grief of losing a child, let alone two? Much gratitude to Ankia Nel who shares her incredible story of mourning her huge loss and rising above her grief to create a beautiful and inspiring life, as she continued to raise two children born after her heart-breaking experience.

Watch the full interview or Listen to the Podcast

World Drowning Prevention Day

25 July

To create awareness of the dangers of drowning and how to prevent it, I’ve created this great Edugraphic that you can download for free.

Get Up and Grow Members can also read this blog post where I describe various incidents where drowning has happened and the impact of such a tragedy on the mental health of the people involved. Read The Unseen Wounds of Drowning.

If you’re not a member yet, check out this page to learn more about the free and paid membership options.

Get Up and Grow Interview / Podcast

Parental Alienation

Listen to this heart-breaking and shocking story of Hannah Corey, who’s mother alienated her from her father. She never saw her dad from the age of six until she was eighteen years old and reached out to him herself. The details of her mother’s controlling and coercive behaviour is unbelievable.

Much gratitude to Hannah for having the courage to share her story with the world, so that it can help so many others understand how alienation works and find hope for reunification.

Watch the Video or Listen to the Podcast

International Self-Compassion Day (20 July)

To commemorate International Self-Compassion Day, I’ve written a blog post where I discuss what it entails and offer six practical steps to cultivate self-compassion, especially when you’re facing an adversity or going through a traumatic experience.

Signed Up members of Get Up and Grow can read the full blog post here.

Farm Safety Week (22-26 July)

Four beautiful Edugraphics (educational infographics) were created with valuable information to create awareness around Occupational SafetyChild SafetyCrime Prevention and Mental Health Wellbeing for our farming communities.

The edugraphics can be used in digital format on any online platform, printed as flyers or even displayed as large posters. Available in English and Afrikaans.

World Youth Skills Day (15 July)

To commemorate World Youth Skills Day, you have a blog post and an edugraphic about the 12 Essential Life Skills the Youth of today needs, in order to succeed in the world.

The Edugraphic, can be downloaded for free and shared with others.

Get Up and Grow Members can read the full blog post where I discuss each of the twelve essential skills and explain what they all entail. There is also information about the soon to be launched online course for parents where they can learn how to teach and cultivate these important skills in their children from a young age.

Scroll down to see more great Resilience Resources

Bereaved Parents Month: July

Mental Health Awareness Month: July

Please scroll up to find an inspiring interview with a bereaved parent.

World Wellness / Wellbeing Week (24-30 June)

World Wellness Week is a great reminder for all of us to pay attention to the importance of cultivating well-being in all aspects of our lives.

In the video I discuss various ways you can cultivate personal wellness in all the interconnected spheres of your life.

In the blog post I talk about 9 great ways you can foster wellbeing, that are all equally applicable in the workplace and at home with your family.

FREE Online Divorce Summit (25 June) Global Fair Divorce Day

On Global Fair Divorce Day, 25 June, I hosted a FREE Online DIVORCE SUMMIT
It was an incredible collection of interviews with 30+ Experts who shared their knowledge as well as Divorced and Alienated Families who told their heart-breaking stories of triumph over trauma, from all over the world.

The Summit is still Available to Accelerator Members Here

International Widow’s Day (23 June)

To honour International Widow’s Day, I recorded two deeply moving interviews with women who share their lived experiences of losing a husband, life partner, best friend and father of their children. I am truly grateful for your contributions to support so many other women who are going through similar experiences of loss, grief and mourning. Thank you to Karen Gemmeken and Renette Vosloo!

Solstice (20 June)

Here are two short videos that will give you an inspired perspective on the cycles of life and how they are similar to the winter and summer solstices, as they are traditionally celebrated in various cultures all around the world.

Enjoy this time of renewal and reflection and I encourage you to create a unique, beautiful ritual for yourself and your family to honour everyone’s journeys.

Happy Solstice to you all!

Learning Disability Week: Learning Preferences and Neurodiversity in Adults & Children (17-23 June)

In this interview with Supportive and Integrative Learning and Wellness expert, Melissa van Hal, we talk candidly about moving away from terms such as disability and embracing the opportunities that a diagnosis offers.

Listen to the Podcast
This is an inspiring conversation for any family with Neurotypical and Neurodiverse members. Get great practical tips and insight for dealing with your own uniqueness and raising children with neurodiversity, from Vanessa Victor & Becky Smith.

Listen to the Podcast

Youth Day (16 June)

To commemorate Youth Day, I wrote a blog post about the 12 Essential Life Skills the Youth of today needs, in order to succeed in the world.

Have a look at the Edugraphic on the left, which you can download for free and share with others.

Get Up and Grow Members can read the full blog post where I discuss each of the twelve essential skills and explain what they all entail. There is also information about the soon to be launched online course for parents where they can learn how to teach and cultivate these important skills in their children from a young age.

Father’s Day (16 June)

Here are two interesting articles I wrote about Father’s Day. They contain practical tips and sound advice for divorced fathers and mothers to help them honour the father figures on this special day.

Don’t allow this occasion to be painful – turn it into a teaching opportunity for your children.

International Men’s Health Week (10-16 June)

To commemorate International Men’s Health Week, I’ve recorded a series of interviews with remarkable men who are prepared to share their experiences of facing several adversities, the life lessons they’ve learnt from it and how they overcame them. Much gratitude goes to all of them who are brave enough to show their vulnerability, speak up and advocate self-care & personal growth so that our men can be healthy.

Interview with William Barret

Listen to the Podcast

Interview with Simon Hill

Listen to the Podcast

Interview with Tarquin Ogilvie

Listen to the Podcast

Global Wellness Day (8 June)

To commemorate Global Wellness Day, I made a short video with very valuable practical tips – things you can do to ensure you cultivate wellness in all aspects of your life, be it emotional, physical, mental or any of the others.

Check it out here and share with others please!

World Best Friend Day (8 June)

Best Friends?

What if your best friend betrays you?

“A friend is someone who knows all about you and still loves you.” – Elbert Hubbard

The qualities of a best friend can vary depending on personal preferences and individual relationships, but there are several common qualities that are often associated with strong friendships. In this blog post, I discuss some key qualities of a best friend and what you can do if they betray you.

World Environment Day (5 June)

Care for Environment Guarantees Resilience

As we commemorate World Environment Day, it’s essential to reflect on the pivotal role our environment plays in our lives. Our surroundings aren’t just a backdrop to our daily activities; they are the foundation of our health, well-being and resilience. As individuals, we have a profound responsibility to lead by example and educate those around us about the importance of nurturing and preserving our environment. Whether you are a parent, employer, leader or simply someone who cares, your actions can inspire and drive change.

In this blog post I talk about the impact of Mother Nature on our daily lives and offer 36 practical tips for sustainable living at home.

Please read the full article here

Global Day of Parents (1 June)

To acknowledge and celebrate the essential role parents play in their children’s lives and society’s overall well-being, I’ve created a parent guide for family transitions.

16 of the most difficult transitions and their impact on you and your family are covered and I offer 12 essential skills for effective change management that you can apply immediately.

Members can download the Pdf here

Elections: What You Need to Vote

With the upcoming elections in my home country, South Africa, I wrote a blog post that I’ve been pondering for several years. There are many aspects to voting responsibly, especially in our country, that we need to consider to ensure that we are accountable citizens and wise leaders of our families.

Please read to full blog post for detailed information and insightful perspectives on the process of determining who to vote for.

Download the accompanying edugraphic for FREE and share as mush as possible to spread this vital information in your community.

International Stepmother Day (19 May)

Much gratitude and appreciation to all step-mothers who make huge sacrifices to care for children who are not their own!

With the recent Mother’s Day celebrations abound, I came across several disgruntled step-mothers who felt unappreciated because they were not included. As a biological mom and a stepmom, I’ve learnt many valuable lessons to add to my own experience as a child with various step-parents, so I hear you loud and clear, but please hear me out.

Read the full blog post and also have a look at the two Edugraphics with Do’s and Dont’s for Step-parents. They are a great resource to download FREE of charge.

International Day of Families (15 May)

To commemorate International Day of Families on 15 May, I talk about various Social, Economic and Demographic Aspects that impact the resilience of families in this video. The Edugraphics next to it, are a summary of the concepts covered in the video, for you to download.

Mental Health Awareness Week (13-19 May)

Mental Health Awareness Week is observed in many parts of the world and the theme for this year is Movement. The Mental Health Foundation created this great infographic. It’s a Pdf to download for FREE:

Tips for Moving More for Your Mental Health

International Road Safety Week (10-14 May)

International Road Safety Week, observed from 10th to 14th May annually, stands as a beacon of awareness and action against one of the most pressing global challenges: road safety.

Read some fascinating global statistics, get practical tips and watch three of the incredible #ItCanWait video campaigns.

Mother’s Day (12 May)

While Mother’s day is a joyous occasion for most families, being separated or divorced can turn this day into a very painful event if not handled with compassion, empathy and an understanding of the value and learning opportunities it brings to both parents and their children.

Once a year, we have the opportunity to honour our Mothers and show our appreciation for everything that they mean to us. It is also an opportunity to teach our children to consider the relationships they have with the women who gave birth to them and the roles that their mothers play in their lives.

If you are one of those sceptics, arguing that it is just another money-making gimmick, take a moment to read and reflect on these notes.

I had a wonderful chat with Benito Vergotine, on The Honest Truth, on SmileFM Radio, about Mother’s Day. We discussed practical tips for divorced fathers to help their children celebrate their mother as well as ways for a divorced mother to teach her children how to celebrate such a special occasion without the help of a spouse.

Safety & Health at Work Day (28 April) and International Worker’s Day (1 May)

Health, Safety and Wellness in the Workplace is vital to the success of any business and organisation. In this video I discuss 10 aspects and strategies for both employers and employees.

Watch the video

Listen to the Podcast

Parental Alienation Awareness Day (25 April)

I’ve designed a special range of clothes to commemorate International Parental Alienation Awareness Day on 25 April 2024. This is for parents who are alienated from their children and here is what it means to me:

My heart (red) is filled with love for my child(ren) and although my child(ren) show no love for me, their hearts (white) are pure. The t-shirt is black to mourn the loss of the children. There are red parent hearts with one, two, three and four up to eight white child hearts.

Order Yours TODAY

ONLINE Resilient Parenting Summit – 09:00 (SAST) 28 March to 09:00 (SAST) 30 March 2024 Now Only Available to Get Up and Grow Accelerator Members

An amazing line-up of expert interviews, exclusive workshops & other specials – all for parents who want to learn more about nurturing resilience in their children.

This event is now exclusively available to Accelerator Members only All competitions & special offers have been closed.

Pro-Active Language for Parents

Pro Active Language for Parents: This interview with Melissa van Hal (Specialist Wellness Counsellor and Education Support Specialist) will really help you understand what it means and get some practical examples and tips for implementing this great parenting tool.

Get Up and Grow T-shirts

I’ve had so many requests for my designer t-shirt, that I decided to make them available here.
Please complete the form below to receive an invoice. Your order will be processed upon receipt of payment.

Order Yours Here

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