Bee

My Journey, My Challenge, and Why I’m Fundraising for 20Talk

About ten months ago, I sold nearly everything I owned, packed what was left into two bags (just under the 46kg airport limit - give or take!) and moved my entire life to the opposite side of the world.

Man oh man - was I not prepared for the overwhelm and challenge that came with that decision. The first three months hit me hard. I felt anxious, depressed, and incredibly lonely. I started doubting the career I had spent six years building, (and even longer dreaming about), and pulled away from my family and friends - honestly, a pattern I’m still trying to break today.

It was during this time that I really began exploring the mental health space. I learned to become more self-aware, to spend time with my uncomfortable thoughts, and to accept that while I can’t control the outside world, I can work on calming the chaos in my own mind.

Growing up, we didn’t really talk about feelings or mental health. My family has always been really supportive, but it just wasn’t something we openly discussed (as is true for many people from my generation). I’ve always valued a healthy lifestyle - eating well, exercising, avoiding drugs and excessive alcohol use - but I never truly understood the importance of MENTAL health until life forced me to.

So when I first came across 20Talk on Instagram, I immediately resonated with their message. Their work shines a light on something that affects so many but is often left unspoken: mental health and the importance of sitting with yourself. This challenge feels deeply personal to me - not only because I find it incredibly difficult to sit with my own thoughts without distractions, but also because I know people close to me (and many others) could benefit from breaking the silence around mental health.

By taking on this challenge, I want to raise awareness, share my journey, and support 20Talk in continuing their important work.

If my story resonates with you - or if you believe, like I do, that mental health should be part of everyday conversations - I’d love for you to support me in this fundraiser. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps 20Talk create safe spaces, resources, and conversations that change lives.

Thank you for reading my story, for your support, and for helping me make a difference.