Embracing the Momentum, CPD & Preparing for IWD 2025

We’re already midway through February, which seems crazy to me! January used to feel like a long slog, but since starting my own business three years ago, time has flown. Maybe it’s because DEVA is my passion, and I’m working harder than I ever have, but I truly love what I do.

A Thriving Start to 2025

I’m incredibly grateful for my wonderful clients, people I genuinely love working with. Since the New Year, I’ve had some fantastic conversations with potential new clients, and while I’m currently at full capacity, I still love making new connections.

I’ve also taken on a few ad hoc projects, simply because they were too creative, fun, and inspiring to turn down! There’s something special about working with passionate individuals who bring innovative ideas and energy to everything they do. It reminds me why I started DEVA in the first place, to support visionary entrepreneurs, leaders, and changemakers in bringing their ideas to life.

Ebb & Flow: Creating a Supportive Space for Women

Alongside my work at DEVA, I’m also deeply involved in Ebb & Flow, the bi-monthly events we organise and host for our local community, focusing on women’s mental health, well-being, and menopause. These gatherings provide a safe, open, and supportive space for women to share, learn, and connect, because mental health and well-being deserve just as much attention as physical health.

Working with my co-directors Sarah Murphy and Marianne Jervis as well as the incredible team of volunteer ladies, is empowering and deeply fulfilling. These events go beyond just menopause; they’re about supporting women at every stage of life, breaking down stigmas, and creating meaningful conversations around mental health, emotional well-being, and self-care.

Every event brings honest discussions, expert insights, and real-life experiences, helping women navigate the challenges of menopause, mental well-being, and overall health with confidence and support. Whether it’s physical health, emotional resilience, relationships, or personal growth, Ebb & Flow is about bringing women together, fostering community, and ensuring no woman feels alone on her journey.

It’s truly inspiring to see how much these gatherings mean to the women who attend, and I feel incredibly lucky to be part of something so impactful, inclusive, and transformative.

Always Learning: Continuous Professional Development

One of the things I’ve always believed in is that knowledge is power, so I’m constantly on the lookout for new courses and learning opportunities. I love expanding my skills and deepening my understanding of the areas that impact my work and my clients.

In January, I completed:

• A course in supporting people with addiction, giving me deeper insight into how to assist individuals facing these challenges.

• A suicide awareness course, ensuring I’m equipped with the knowledge to provide support and resources when needed.

• Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) refresher, keeping my skills up to date so I can continue to support my clients and community effectively.

CPD isn’t just about ticking boxes, it’s about continually growing, improving, and staying informed so I can offer the very best support to those I work with. Whether I’m supporting clients through my VA work, mentoring others, or creating inclusive spaces, having the right knowledge and tools is essential.

Gearing Up for IWD 2025 – My Favourite Event of the Year!

One of the biggest projects I’m currently working on is International Women’s Day 2025, and I couldn’t be more excited! This event holds a special place in my heart. It all started eight years ago when I was working at Surrey Business School with the incredible Professor Andy Adcroft Since moving back to my hometown of Brecon, I’ve continued the tradition, and this will be the third year I’ve organised and hosted the event here.

This year, I made a bold decision: instead of seeking sponsorship, I am sponsoring the event myself, along with another local business woman, Kalli McAllister. I wanted to ensure that tickets remain free, making this an inclusive and accessible space for all. IWD isn’t just about celebration, it’s about empowerment, representation, and creating opportunities for important conversations.

An Unmissable Panel of Inspiring Women

As always, we have a phenomenal panel of speakers lined up, each bringing their own powerful story and expertise to the stage:

Lou Englefield – A globally recognised advocate for LGBTIQ+ inclusion in sport, Lou is the founding Director of Pride Sports and leads the Football v Homophobia campaign. She works tirelessly to break down barriers in sport, ensuring equal opportunities and representation for all.

Freya Lodge – A cardiology consultant at Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Freya leads the training of future cardiologists while balancing her passion for environmental sustainability, farming, and business. She brings a unique perspective on women in medicine, leadership, and balancing multiple roles.

Isla Elliott – Having overcome anorexia after being diagnosed at just 12, Isla is an inspiring mental health advocate. Her story sheds light on the realities of eating disorders and the resilience it takes to rebuild life after recovery.

Eva Melissa Roshan – An author, creative life coach, and mental health awareness trainer, Eva is dedicated to well-being and personal growth, helping others navigate life’s challenges with creativity and purpose.

And on the Personal Front…

While work has been incredibly busy and fulfilling, there’s something even more exciting happening in my personal life this month. My sister, Amy, is coming over from New Zealand with her husband and three children!

I am picking them up this Saturday from Heathrow, and after seven years of not seeing her, I cannot tell you how excited I am! I already know that the moment she comes through the arrivals gate, I’ll be completely overwhelmed with emotion. It’s going to be a truly special reunion, and I can’t wait to make some incredible memories together.

Looking Ahead

With so much happening already this year, I know 2025 is going to be a year of growth, impact, and meaningful connections. Whether it’s through DEVA’s VA services, my work with the NeuroHub VA Network, Ebb & Flow, or the incredible opportunities that IWD will bring, I’m excited for what’s ahead.

If you’d like to learn more about DEVA’s services, collaborate on a project, attend an Ebb & Flow event, or join us for IWD 2025, I’d love to hear from you! Let’s continue to build a world where everyone, regardless of neurodiversity, gender, or background, feels supported and empowered to succeed.

Here’s to an exciting February and beyond!

Let’s connect! DEVA@donnaelliott-virtualassistants.com