Moira Devlin
Moira Devlin is the Founder of LIfexpression and Little Fish Big Impact.
She is also an author, artist, and specialist in change and transformation. She brings a unique blend of creativity and expertise to the realm of personal and professional development. Her mission is to empower individuals and organisations with the crucial skills needed for success in today’s ever-evolving work landscape.
With a diverse skill set encompassing psychology, psychometrics, art, writing, and learning design, she offers a multi-faceted perspective that enriches her creative pursuits.
She tells us that, “My deep passion lies in anticipating future challenges, particularly within the context of AI and robotics, both in life and the workplace.
With a rich and varied background spanning multiple roles across diverse geographical locations in transformation and change management, my career journey harmoniously aligns with my unwavering dedication to learning and development, as well as my roles as an author and artist. I have meticulously formulated a holistic strategy, focused on empowering not only myself but also colleagues and professionals to thrive in dynamic work environments.”
What were your initial years of growing up like? Tell us about your life before starting your professional journey/venture/initiative and what inspired you to choose this career.
Growing up in a small town with limited resources exposed me to various challenges like economic hardship, cultural disparities, and a lack of educational opportunities. Despite these hurdles, this environment shaped my worldview, fostering a deep empathy for others and a drive to make a positive impact.
Inspirations for my Career Path:
Personal Transformation – II underwent a significant personal transformation, overcoming adversity and setbacks. This journey inspired me to assist others in navigating change and overcoming challenges in their lives.
Role Model – Step Grandfather – My step-grandfather, an English literature professor, played a pivotal role in my early development. His impactful career in learning and development demonstrated the profound influence such guidance can have on a young person’s life. (Plus some further role models answered later on)
Community Struggles and Motivation – Witnessing the struggles of my community and learning about others motivated me to contribute positively. I observed that systematic change and personal development can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities.
Diverse Roles and Cultural Exposure – Various roles exposed me to diverse cultures and travel experiences, broadening my perspective. This instilled a passion for fostering change on a broader scale. I am naturally drawn to experiences where I can leverage my understanding of different cultures, individual differences, and global trends to facilitate positive transformations.
These early life experiences and inspirations have fuelled my commitment to a career dedicated to personal and professional development, aiming to create meaningful and positive change in the lives of individuals and communities
Was there any turning point in your life that changed your journey? If so, what was it? Please tell us the backstory behind it.
Growing up with an Irish and Scottish background, I was deeply influenced by the historical legacies of Irish adversities under the British Empire and the challenges faced during the Troubles. Additionally, the backdrop of deindustrialization and the decline of industrial Britain left many communities grappling with issues like job loss, limited opportunities, and an overarching sense of uncertainty about the future. Witnessing these struggles, where families faced hardships and a decline in overall well-being, served as a pivotal turning point in my life.
Inspired by the resilience of individuals who managed injustice, adapted, and overcame adversity, I resolved to pursue a career aimed at helping others navigate change and build sustainable futures. This decision stemmed from a profound recognition of the importance of going beyond technical skills. I understood the necessity of equipping people with soft skills, life skills, and business acumen to not only overcome economic challenges and the impacts of any industrial revolution but also to seize opportunities for personal and collective growth. This turning point fuelled my dedication to a career focused on empowering individuals and communities to thrive amidst adversity and create a foundation for enduring success.
Tell us about your goals, interests, and role models.
Goals:
- Publish Various Comprehensive Guides to Soft, Business, and Life Skills:
Goal: Author and publish various comprehensive books that integrate insights from psychology, psychometrics, and learning design, in addition to incorporating art. These books aim to be valuable resources for individuals seeking personal and professional development. So far, “Mastery in the Making – Navigating the Future with Essential Life Skills”, “2035 and Beyond – Guide to Thriving In The Future Workplace”, and “Career Superheroes Unleashed – Unearth Your Infinite Potential”. Currently working on a new book, “Celestial Chroma – Unveiling Your Cosmic Colour Signature.”
- Conduct Global Workshops on Adapting to Change:
Goal: Organise and lead workshops on a global scale, focusing on helping individuals and organisations adapt to change successfully. Utilise technology to reach diverse audiences and foster a culture of resilience and adaptability.
- Collaborate with Industry Experts on Technology and Society:
Goal: Establish collaborations with experts in technology and societal impact. Conduct joint research, write articles, and participate in conferences to explore the intersection of technology and its influence on society, contributing to a broader understanding of future trends.
- Develop a Multi-Medium Initiative Addressing Social Inequalities
Goal: Curate a comprehensive initiative that addresses societal inequalities for humans, animals, and robots. Utilise diverse artistic mediums, extend the impact beyond traditional gallery spaces by incorporating street art and murals and leverage online platforms for digital storytelling to create shareable content, fostering dialogue and promoting positive change.
- Expand Online Learning Platforms:
Goal: Expand the reach of online learning platforms by creating engaging and interactive classes on personal and professional development. Provide accessible resources to a global audience, with a focus on continuous learning and skill enhancement.
Interests:
- Lifelong Learning, Culture, Reading – Enthusiast of continuous learning and diverse cultures, avid reader.
- Diverse Hobbies – Passionate about football, art, classical music, opera, theatre, cooking, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
- Advocate for Veganism and Climate Change – Committed to promoting veganism and addressing climate change.
- Technology and Societal Impact – Intrigued by the intersection of technology and its profound influence on society
Role Models:
I draw inspiration from a diverse array of role models who have left a lasting impact on my life and values. These include:
- Step Grandfather – A personal source of guidance and wisdom, influencing my approach to family and life.
- Football Legends – Icons like Gianluigi Buffon, Didier Drogba, Gary Lineker, and Zinedine Zidane serve as examples of excellence and resilience on and off the field.
- Global Changemakers – Nelson Mandela and Jane Goodall inspire me with their commitment to positive change and environmental conservation.
- Civil Rights Advocates – Sojourner Truth’s unwavering commitment to justice and equality serves as a beacon in my values.
- Pioneering Women in Psychology – Admiration for trailblazers like Christine Ladd-Franklin, Mamie Phipps Clark, Mary Ainsworth, and Melanie Klein, who have significantly contributed to the field of psychology.
These are some examples of individuals who collectively shape my worldview, providing a rich tapestry of perspectives that guide my personal and professional journey.
Everyone has their own set of challenges when starting an entrepreneurial journey. Still, the most essential part for others to learn is how you deal with those. Would you like to share with us your challenges and your coping mechanisms?
Embarking on an entrepreneurial journey invariably involves grappling with financial constraints and the challenge of accessing necessary expertise and resources. One of the primary hurdles is securing sufficient funding, which can impede the realisation of my vision. In response, I adopted a creative and innovative approach, leveraging relationship-building and offering services in barter for mutual benefit, thus finding alternative paths to implement my vision.
Coping Mechanism – Developing a creative and adaptable mindset has been instrumental in navigating the uncertainties inherent in entrepreneurship. This mindset enables me to pivot when necessary and explore new opportunities. Resilience and persistence are cornerstones of my approach, drawing inspiration from renowned role models who exemplify the ability to overcome obstacles during challenging times.
Staying informed about industry trends, community needs, and entrepreneurial best practices is critical. I prioritise continuous learning, actively participating in conferences, seeking mentorship, and remaining open to fresh ideas. This commitment to ongoing education empowers me to adapt to evolving landscapes and seize emerging opportunities in the entrepreneurial realm.
What impact do you feel you have been able to create with your work so far and how would you want to grow in the next few years?
Through my work in change and transformation projects, writing books and creating masterclasses focused on soft, business, and life skills, I have witnessed a significant impact on individuals and organisations. My books have served as comprehensive guides, sparking personal growth and professional development, with readers applying the concepts to overcome challenges and enhance their lives. The masterclasses have empowered individuals and organisations to navigate change successfully, fostering a culture of continuous learning.
Looking ahead, I plan to continue with my work exploring new topics, and addressing emerging trends to provide timely insights. Simultaneously, I aim to expand my reach through online platforms, partnerships, and immersive learning experiences. My overarching goal is to be a catalyst for positive change, offering a comprehensive and integrated approach to personal and professional development that leaves a lasting impact on a global scale.
While the global pandemic of COVID-19 is associated primarily with adversities, it has also brought about a true boom in startups, with successful entrepreneurship in many countries. The pandemic has impacted all of us in one way or another. Would you like to share your experience on a personal and professional level?
The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges, compelling a profound reassessment of priorities, navigating uncertainty, and drawing strength from resilience. This period highlighted the critical importance of soft, business, and life skills, emphasising the need for addressing skills gaps. Moments of isolation and concern underscored the enduring power of human connection and reinforced the significance of empathy and adaptability.
On a professional level, the pandemic emphasised the imperative for rapid adaptation and a renewed focus on community well-being. Technology played a pivotal role in reshaping both work and personal experiences. The unprecedented nature of the challenges and opportunities presented during this time underscored the necessity for enhancing skills in areas like adaptability and dealing with adversity.
My personal experience during the pandemic became a pivotal moment, influencing my perspective on transformation, career development, and the interconnectedness of global challenges. The lessons learned and resilience demonstrated have solidified my commitment to addressing skills gaps, particularly in soft skills, business strategies, and the ability to navigate change. As we continue to face uncertainties, the need for a comprehensive approach to personal and professional growth, emphasising these essential skills, becomes even more evident.
Your journey and your vision are very inspiring, but are there any achievements or accomplishments you would like to mention?
In addition to my professional journey, one personal achievement I take pride in is my commitment to a vegan lifestyle. This conscious choice extends beyond my diet, encompassing a lifestyle that minimises the use of animal-derived goods and services. By actively promoting anti-speciesism, I aim to raise awareness about ethical and sustainable living, contributing to a compassionate and environmentally conscious global community.
Would you like to share with our young budding women entrepreneurs the change you would like to see in the world if given an opportunity?
I envision a world where every individual, regardless of their background, has equal access to opportunities and resources. It’s a world where economic, educational, and social systems are designed to uplift every member of society, leaving no one behind. In the future world, we will take account of every member of society including humans, non-human animals and robots!
I believe that true progress comes from embracing diversity, dismantling barriers, and creating environments where everyone can thrive. As entrepreneurs, we have the power and responsibility to drive positive change, championing equality, and fostering social justice. Let’s build businesses that not only succeed financially but also contribute to a more equitable and just world for generations to come.
What’s the most important thing you have learned in your personal life and professional journey? What is your personal motto in life?
The most important thing is knowing how to manage change and setbacks.Through my experiences, I have come to understand that meaningful change is rooted in the strength and unity of everyone within a community.
The entrepreneurial journey has taught me the importance of adaptability and innovation. I’ve learned to navigate changing circumstances, pivot when necessary, and create and embrace new ideas to address evolving community needs.
Personal Motto – Strength in Unity, Change through Empowerment.
Women are a growing force in the workplaces worldwide, standing shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts. There are cracks in glass ceilings everywhere, with many women breaking through to carve out a space right at the top of the pyramid. What are your thoughts about women’s leadership today?
I’m dedicated to equality and social justice for all. In today’s world, women’s leadership is not just a matter of diversity – it’s a necessity for creating balanced and effective solutions. Women bring unique perspectives, strengths, and insights to the table that enrich decision-making processes. As entrepreneurs, we must actively champion and support women in leadership roles, breaking down the existing barriers and biases. Gender equality isn’t just about fairness – it’s about harnessing the full potential of our society. It’s time for a paradigm shift where women are not only encouraged but empowered to take on leadership positions in every sector. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and recognising the value of diverse leadership styles, we contribute not only to the success of our businesses but to the overall betterment of our communities and the world.
With your grit and determination, you are making a considerable impact, breaking through, and serving as role models for many budding entrepreneurs. What would you want to say to our young women leaders/audience reading this?
In your journey, embrace the power of your dreams, the strength of your voice, and the unyielding determination within you. The path to success may be challenging, but every obstacle is an opportunity to grow stronger. Remember, the world needs your unique perspective, your innovative ideas, and your unwavering commitment to making a difference.
As a woman in leadership, you have the ability to break through barriers and reshape the narrative. Embrace your authenticity, be unapologetically yourself, and never underestimate the impact of your presence in the room. Your voice matters, and your ideas can transform industries.
In the face of adversity, let grit be your guiding force. Challenges are not roadblocks but stepping stones to your success. Surround yourself with a supportive community, learn from failures, and use setbacks as fuel for your journey.
You are not just leaders – you are trailblazers, shattering glass ceilings and paving the way for those who will follow. Embrace the responsibility with pride, for the change you create today will ripple into a future of possibilities for generations to come.
Stay true to your vision, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo. The world needs your leadership, your innovation, and your courage. You are not alone on this journey – a community of aspiring leaders stands beside you.
Go out there, be bold, and let your impact resonate. The world is waiting for the transformative force that resides within you