Dmalacoaching

When purpose calls, you answer because moments like this don’t come twice.

Last month, I had the honour and blessing of speaking at the International Christian Educators Conference 2025 in Manchester.

We had powerful conversations about safeguarding our children in schools and providing the right support for both staff and parents working with neurodivergent learners.

I also had the joy of connecting with incredible educators and school leaders. I had a very special moment reconnecting with the head of Nathan International School.

We first met in 2019 while donating resources to the school, and six years later, God brought our paths together again.

What A true full-circle moment!

There are many things close to my heart — and mental health is one of them.
I serve as the Mental Health Lead at work, a role that was strategically entrusted to me. But my connection to mental health goes far deeper than a title.
Growing up, mental health simply wasn’t something people talked about. If you mentioned it, you were often met with strange looks or dismissed as “mad.” It was taboo.
Then life happened. I was assaulted at work — a complete shock to my system. I couldn’t believe it. I told myself, “You’re a strong Black woman, you can handle this.”
But eventually… it broke me.
I couldn’t sleep.
I kept reliving the trauma.
I broke out in hives.
I even had a panic attack when I encountered the perpetrator a few days later.
And then I realised — there is no shame in needing help.
There is no shame in therapy.
Talking to someone changed everything.
I learnt what anxiety really is.
I faced my fears.
I started unpacking other traumatic events from my past.
I began to understand why I reacted the way I did.
I learnt to be kind to myself.
Now, I pay closer attention:
• To the signs when I’m feeling low.
• To my loved ones who might be struggling too.
• To my body — it warns me when I’m nearing burnout (for me, it’s my back).
I live more fully. I laugh more deeply. I love myself fiercely.
So on this World Mental Health Day (well, weekend now 😊), I stand firm — in power, pride, and awareness.
I truly understand mental health now.
Do you?

Another week, another event centred on quality education and student wellbeing!

This weekend, I’ll be speaking alongside some amazing individuals at the RCCG Freshers Fair 2025.

Starting university is an exciting new chapter, but it also comes with pressures, expectations, and challenges that can affect one’s mental health.

You have to be mentally prepared.

Caring for the mind is just as important as excelling in your studies.

This event isn’t just for students preparing to begin their university journey, it’s also for parents and school leavers.

Together, we’ll debunk education misconceptions, clarify information for the next step, and most importantly, talk about how to stay grounded, mentally strong, and balanced through the transition.

Please share this with anyone who might benefit so they can take confident and healthy first steps into their new chapter of life. 🎓