Zoe Hayes

Q1) Tell us a little about yourself!

Hi, My name is Zoe Hayes & I am a tweny-five year old single mum of one. A Jilaroo working in the Southern Rangelands of West Australia. I am a passionate agricultural enthusiasts & although I wasn't born on the land its certainly a part of me. 

Q2) Tell us about what you do, and why you do it

I hold many titles the main one being a mum, my daughter is my absolute world & best little mate. Since she was five weeks old I've been back in full time work on the land & within the cattle industry, I promised myself that despite going into motherhood completely alone I would hold onto the sense of who I am as a person & continue to strive for dreams & fulfill my passions.

I am also considered a mental health advocate for the rural industries; I lost my mum to suicide in 2012 & since working in such isolation & within the agricultural communities I first hand could see many men & women suffering in silence. I knew on the day I laid my mum to rest that I wanted to help prevent one other person or family going through what mine has. My mum is my motivation & inspiration to continue to be king & have courage. 

Q3) What makes you feel courageous?

I find it hard to swallow that title of being "courageous" despite being told that on a daily basis. I feel confident in myself when I smile at someone & they glow back at me. 

I am empowered when I feel like my pain, suffering & rivers of tears have been worth it because one other person has found courage within themselves to seek help or reach out when the are struggling. 

I think in being courageous its learning to be open to sharing your heart despite knowing others might be out to shatter it & speaking your truth. 

Q4) What is one thing you wish you could tell your 16-year-old self?

Three words sweet girl; Life Gets Better! 

Q5) What is one piece of advice you can give a fellow lady who might be lacking courage?

Courage isn't about conquering the world; it might just look like walking out the front door.