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.