b'PROFILEexpected in our profession. I thought mymental health, inclusivity and burnout inability to cope was a sign of personalprevention. The journey was tough, but weakness, which couldnt have beenit gave me a renewed sense of purpose further from the truth. and balance in my career.In reality, I had lost perspective. MyWhat advice can you share with others entire identity revolved around runningembarking on similar paths about finding my practice, and I had no sense of selffulfilment in their veterinary career? beyond that. My life was, frankly, a mess.My career path is both repeatable and That forced break, although painful,unique. While we all carve our own way, became a pivotal moment. It allowedtheres immense value in learning from me to focus on my wellbeing, recalibratethose whove already walked the road. my life, and realise that burnout wasnt aIm a firm believer in making the journey personal failure - it was a symptom of aneasier for others, and removing as many unsustainable work-life balance. obstacles as possible. As a Black African immigrant woman, just getting my foot I trained as a wellnessin the door was tough, and feeling like I coach, and I turned my messtruly belonged was the next challenge. I remember sending out over 100 CVs into my message. Since then,and getting exactly one responsetalk Ive become passionate aboutabout persistence!contributing positively toIt wasnt easy, but I trusted that the right opportunity would come along, the veterinary community,and it did. My best advice? Trust your advocating for mental health,gut. It knows best. Do something you love, where you can make the greatest inclusivity, and burnoutimpact. Veterinary medicine offers so prevention. many varied opportunities, so dont be afraid to diversify. Ive been lucky I trained as a wellness coach, andto meet incredible people and explore I turned my mess into my message.different areas of the profession that I Since then, Ive become passionatewould have missed had I stayed on just about contributing positively to theone path.veterinary community, advocating for 28www.inspiredvet.co.uk'