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I would love to hear your story.

I am the eldest of four children, brought up in a conventional household where dad worked and mum stayed at home.

I was born in the UK, and we came to NZ when dad decided he wanted to move out of the UK, – it was a choice between NZ and Australia. NZ was the winner.

I went to 7 different schools as to get promotion dad moved, so most places was between 3 – 5 years. Each time it was a new school, new friends and new environment. As I was quite happy in the background, and not comfortable unless I know people – I made few friends, and most of those I lost contact with when we moved.

Being the eldest I was also labelled the responsible one – the one who had to look after my younger siblings, the one who got into trouble if anything went wrong – I learnt very quickly to keep quiet and always do the correct thing.

I left home at 18. We lived in Hamilton at the time and with dad’s help I got into Victoria University in Wellington where I achieved a degree in Accounting. I basically have stayed in the Wellington area since 1980.

It has taken me a long time to accept that I am a good person. I have found throughout my life that I have had amazing people who have been there for me when I needed that support – some only for a short time and others for years. I had known my best friend for 35 years before he passed away.

I have been married twice – my first marriage was not a good one – being told that on a good day you rate 2/10 does not do wonders for your self-esteem. Funnily enough, for someone who does not like being in the foreground – I got built up my confidence by doing a body building contest.

Also for some reason I have good organisational skills so over the years I think I have been on over a dozen committees and organisations – from schools to church to theatre. I was usually the finance person, due to my accounting skills, but often ended up as chairman which would push me into the foreground. I learnt then to fake it until I make it.

I have been married to Murray now for 28 years (together 30), we have two girls and two grand-daughters. One thing I have always encouraged my girls is to believe in themselves and not be influenced by other opinions – something I still sometimes struggle with.

I am now part of an amazing group of women who are there for me whatever – but even now I still wonder how I got such amazing fiends and why they stick with me.

What are the experiences that shaped who you are today?

Not one single thing shaped who I am today – the person you met in the photoshoot is a result of hard times, amazing friends, supportive siblings and husband and myself learning to get confidence to follow what I believe in.

Joy Studio - Elizabeth's story

Tell about the time in your life when you felt the most powerful?

Not sure I can answer that question but have the feeling if you ask people who know me, they could give you examples.

What is your inner attribute that you like the most?

I listen to people – sometimes being the quiet one in the background – you get a lot of people opening up to you.

Are you at ease with your own body and age?

I am 61 – I am struggling with the changes that menopause brings, but I know I am fit and healthy and despite major surgery (hip replacement) I get out there an exercise.

I also find exercise really helps with my mental health.

Joy Studio - Elizabeth's story

What would you try to do if you felt that you couldn’t fail?

Surprisingly it is not extreme sport of any sort – I would love to set up a craft business.

Research shows that a lot of women want to know that the work they do is significant, meaningful and embodies their highest potential. What do you think?

Have never really thought about it. In my job (and everything I do) I strive to do my best without compromising my ethics and beliefs.

What words of wisdom, based on your personal experience, would you like to share with others who struggle to see their own inner light and inner power?

Just be you – you are unique. Do not take onboard other people’s thoughts and opinions about you. All that does is lose who you are and if that happens it is so hard to come back to be the true you.

Joy Studio - Elizabeth's story

What do you do to let your hair down or as a self-care ritual?

I exercise – I walk and I cycle, the fresh air and being outside makes me feel good and really helps with my mental health.

Who are the women that you find inspiring and have influenced you in some way?

Someone famous – the Late Queen – she stayed true to what she believed regardless of what happened around her.

My younger sister Suzanne – regardless of what happens she always stays strong, and she is an amazing support to me

My girlfriend group – they are an amazing group of strong loyal women.

Why are beautiful photos of yourself important to you now?

I am always the one behind the camera, doing stuff for others. I just decided I wanted to do something that was just for me – did not benefit anyone else, but also to say that I have come through a lot and survived.