Never giving up - her brave story

This is a story of being brave; but it’s not my story. I wrote my story, now it's time for the next generation. This one belongs to my daughter, Devne, who has just achieved a First-Class Honours Degree in Forensic Science (yes, proud mummy moment that I want to tell the world about of course!) But I also wanted to share this post because she is my inspiration; the reason why I do what I do and try to set an example of what it is possible to achieve. It's about never giving up; not being afraid to break the mould and tear up the rule book. And I hope, this will be an inspiration to countless other young women entering STEM careers or choosing STEM subjects. Or even just trying to make it.

Devne has gone on a journey of learning; about herself and about her limits, about what she is capable of and how far she is willing to go and what she is prepared to sacrifice, finding her inner strength to put in the extra hours and time to achieve her goals. She had to learn the value of hard work, sacrifice and defeat to appreciate this outcome. Success doesnt just happen; you have to make it happen. And that means making tough choices.

Devne has overcome adversity and prejudice, and challenged every stereotype they put in her way. When they said it couldn’t be done, she did it. When they told her she didn’t belong she smiled at them and kept on coming. I've watched her conquer her fears and face down defeat with grace and humility. And she never let it stop her. When the world put up an obstacle, she found way to overcome it and work around it. And sure, there were tears and heartache along the way (we’re only human after all), but she picked herself up and brushed it off and got right back on track. She didnt look at challenges or roadblocks as show-stoppers - she altered the path and took a different route.

That dauntless ambition and determination have never wavered, even when faced with some of the toughest challenges and oppositions, she stood tall and refused to give up and go quietly. 

Be brave, stay true to yourself and above all, embrace the unexpected – you never know where it will take you. You're stronger than you think, and tougher than they know.