A Story of Finding My Voice in Strata

Twenty‑five years ago, I never planned to work in strata. I was in hospitality management—long hours, fast pace, constant movement. Then life, as it often does, opened an unexpected door: a role as an onsite manager, at a complex of 176 apartments across two towers.

I remember standing there on my first day, looking up at the balconies and windows, sensing the many lives intertwined behind them, and thinking: Can I really do this? So I showed up, learned the rhythms of the community, and slowly found my footing.

Three years later, when those management rights were sold, I took a leap of faith into a trainee strata manager role. I didn’t know it then, but that decision would shape the next decades of my life.

Why I Stayed: The People Who Stand in the Storm with You

Strata is not easy. Anyone who works in this world knows the days can be relentless, the demands constant, and the emotional load heavy.

Some days you feel like a firefighter, mediator, counsellor, and octopus—simultaneously.

But the reason I stayed—the reason I STILL stay—is the people.

The lawyers who answer the phone at 6pm because they know you’re drowning.The suppliers who step in with kindness before you even ask.The peers who understand everything you’re carrying without needing an explanation.Even the competitors who become confidants in the trenches.

These people understood what I meant when I said, “It’s been a day.”They saw me. They held space for me.And in an industry as demanding as ours, that human connection is everything.

Defining Moments – The Ones that Quietly Shape You

My career hasn’t been shaped by the big moments as much as the quiet ones. Yes, I’m proud of the 2023 SCAQ Presidents’ Award and the 2019 SCAQ Essay Award — especially because writing about mental health and bullying in strata was something that felt vulnerable and frightening at the time. But it needed to be said, and I’m glad I found the courage to say it.

But, the moments, that have shaped me and really matter have been the quieter ones, those that test your resilience and expand your capacity.

There was the decade of volunteering with the team at Capitol, raising more than $150,000 for ACT for Kids, standing beside people whose compassion matched their commitment.

The constant questioning, pushing to learn and understand more, until I could confidently step into a Subject Matter Expert role—opening the door to operational work in processes and systems that strengthen the entire business.

And then there’s family and friends – the people who quietly steady me when the days spill over, who remind me who I am when I forget, and who offer the kind of support that doesn’t ask for anything in return.

My story is simple, really: keep learning, speak up when it matters, and surround yourself with people who lift you.  Those quiet moments have shaped who I am — personally and professionally — more than anything else.

Leadership: Learning to Grow and to Guide

Leadership is complex. At times it’s heavy or lonely. But it is also profoundly rewarding.

Over the years, my approach shifted from simply wanting to “get things right” to wanting to help others grow.

Through my roles with the SCAQ Education Committee, the SCAQ Board, judging the SCA Australasia Awards, and the SCA Australasia Mentor Program, I’ve discovered the joy of supporting people—not just in my own office, but across the industry.

It’s watching someone take a brave step because you believed in them.It’s being present when someone says, “I’m struggling,” and choosing not to look away.

These quiet, humble moments are when leadership feels like a privilege.

What I Would Tell My Younger Self

If I could speak to the woman who first stepped into strata, I would tell her:

·       The legislation will come. Don’t worry about that.

·       The real work lives in your heart—empathy, patience, communication.

·       Learn to speak across generations; each hears the world differently.

·       Lead your time with purpose so it doesn’t lead you into chaos.

·       Build relationships. Become a trusted advisor.

·       Don’t fall into the trap of being transactional—our work is about people, not paperwork.

·       You will juggle many things. Some days you’ll drop the balls. Trust yourself anyway.

You’re stronger than you think.

Yes, I Doubt Myself — And That’s Okay

Experience doesn’t erase self‑doubt, nor does it shield any of us from moments of uncertainty.  I have encountered imposter syndrome many times throughout my career, as do many professionals when navigating growth, responsibility, and visibility. Receiving the invitation from Laura Bos to share my story for 10 Storeys brought its own sense of hesitation.  I am acutely aware of the many exceptional women who have shaped, and continue to shape, our sector – trailblazers whose achievements set an extraordinary standard.  In comparison, it is easy to question one’s place.

What sustains me during these moments is the practice of reflection, the willingness to engage in honest conversations with those I trust, and the guidance of mentors who provide clarity and perspective. 

Equally important is the deliberate protection of my own well-being.  Our work can deplete one’s cup quickly, it is essential we refill it with intention and care.

The People Who Shaped Me

My journey has never been defined by just one person, but by countless moments shared with committees, communities, colleagues, and many other professionals.I’ve been fortunate to walk alongside so many members of SCA – people who welcomed me, supported me, challenged me, and generously shared their knowledge.  Their guidance and encouragement have shaped not only my career, but the person I’ve become within the industry.

And, I cannot tell my story without acknowledging the remarkable influence of Kim Cox, Ian D’Arcy, Josephine Falco, and Ashley Wood.  These are the people who believed in me long before I fully believed in myself – who pushed me, lifted me, and helped me grow further than I would ever have gone alone.

A Lesson for Every Strata Professional

You are human.You have value, emotions, and worth.

In the middle of conflict, pressure, and competing demands, it’s easy to forget. But kindness matters. Empathy matters.

And one piece of advice I stand by:Never play tag with a keyboard warrior. It’s simply not worth the emotional toll.

The Future: Wide, Bright, and Shared

At the centre of strata’s future are strong connected communities—resilient, human‑centred environments where people actively shape and enhance the experience of living and working together.

Strata Professionals, our future in strata is enormous, filled with opportunity for innovation, growth, and progress, driven by women and men standing side by side, equal in professionalism, pride, and purpose, all committed to delivering transparent, skilled, and value‑led services.

Women bring powerful strengths to this evolution—empathy, insight, and resilience—and that diversity of experience strengthens our entire sector.

Our industry thrives because of the breadth of voices, perspectives, and lived experiences we each contribute.

Why Our Stories Matter

We must tell our stories because they become lanterns for those walking behind us.

We must invest in the future of strata—so its people feel supported, not burnt out.

Our industry offers endless pathways and opportunities. Sometimes hearing someone else’s story is what helps you recognise what’s possible in your own.

If sharing mine helps even one person feel understood, encouraged, or inspired, then every word has been worth it.