We all have a story to tell. Each of our stories are a collection of our experiences, challenges, and triumphs that shape who we are today. For some, it’s a journey of self-discovery, for others it’s about finding balance and purpose amidst the chaos. In this space, I share my story—not just as a mom of three or a business owner, but as someone navigating the ups and downs of life with intention. I call myself the Accidental Work-at-Home Mom. Whether it’s about creating a home filled with love, embracing a simpler, more intentional lifestyle, or finding the courage to pursue your dreams, this is where our stories come together.
In 2016, I never imagined I’d end up where I am today. I became, quite unexpectedly, a work-at-home mom when my corporate job—one I thought I’d retire from—came to an abrupt end. As I peeled back the layers of that daily grind, I discovered something far more rewarding: the chance to create a life of freedom, intention, and joy. It was the life I’d been quietly yearning for all along.
The Commute and the Cubicle
More than 10 years ago, I remember the dread of returning to my corporate cubicle and feeling a deep yearning to start my own business but having no idea or clear vision of what that looked like. I took the path of least resistance, and kept up with the rat race. My commutes transitioned from a daily 4-hour train journey to a 45-minute drive. While shorter this was draining just the same. On the train, I could zone out and nap but behind the wheel, navigating snow drifts and slippery country hills in the winter certainly was no fun. Life was still a mad rush. I found myself trapped in the same cycle of overwhelm and the stress made me constantly question what I really wanted out of my life.
Finding the Sign to Step Off the Treadmill
On one serendipitous day, I was unceremoniously laid off. This time off work reminded me to reconsider everything. While job hunting I found myself going through the motions of searching for roles where I wouldn’t feel overshadowed or outpaced by candidates 20 years younger. Each time I landed an interview, I noticed a twinge of relief whenever an interview didn’t go my way. Turns out, I was looking for a sign—and each rejection felt like a quiet nudge toward a different path. A new path was right in front of me. I just had to see it. Eventually, I saw it: an opportunity just waiting for me. It was time to leap—into entrepreneurship.
The Accidental Work-at-Home Mom
Soon after, I stumbled upon a Facebook ad about becoming a Virtual Assistant, and after looking into what it really entailed, it felt like the perfect solution. It was the start of something new, something authentic—our new life was unfolding. This journey has been one of growth—both personally and professionally. More than any job I’ve ever held, it has brought me the deepest sense of fulfillment. And while the path hasn’t always been straightforward, it’s led me to a life and work that feel truly aligned—and for that, I couldn’t be more grateful.
Rooted in Growth and Family
I’m a mom of three, and I’m now more present in their lives than I’ve ever been. I grew up in the Greater Toronto Area, with a childhood partly spent in South Africa before moving back to Canada with my family. Our parents worked tirelessly—both times—to build us a home, giving us values of hard work, gratitude, and perseverance.
My identical twin and I have a bond that has shaped who we both are today. We’ve supported each other through countless life changes, and I’m endlessly thankful for her as my other half. I am equally grateful our parents taught us resilience through their own journey—how to save, spend wisely, and to be graceful under pressure. Today, even with aging parents and the challenges that come with that stage of life, their legacy of love and sacrifice continues to guide us.
Gratitude & Inspiration
Our parents worked extremely hard to support our large family. They gave all of themselves so that we could enjoy a good life in South Africa and did so again, when we returned to Canada. We have grown to appreciate their sacrifices even more after leaving the nest and forging a life of our own. They were and continue to be our inspiration an they’ve instilled a lot of our core values like hard work, determination, perseverance, and gratitude for which I share with my own children. The lessons passed down—from my family to my business—are treasures. Today, I’m so grateful to run Digital Marketing by Design, a business I founded in 2017 that brings me so much pride and joy.
I’ll leave you with words that feel like a soft embrace and a gentle reminder of what it means to lead with kindness and purpose:
“For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.” – Audrey Hepburn
