Do What Matters Book Launch

On Friday 24th January 2020, the UN International Day of Education, we celebrated the launch of my book Do What Matters.

The buzz was palpable and guests began reading the book before they even got inside!

The colourful and vibrant Tracey Keller Gallery on Hastings Street, Noosa, made the perfect venue.

I chose Alex, age 14, to emcee. Alex is incredible. She’s been standing on stage in front of crowds of people, telling them why girls’ education is important to her, and why she sponsors with Free To Shine since she was 10!

Alex gives me hope for the world. She has done all manner of things, as you will read about in Chapter 27 of Do What Matters. So I was thrilled when I learnt she’d be flying in from Sydney to attend the book launch. And she did a terrific job of emceeing.

It was a real celebration; with party music, champagne and chocolate cake. One lesson I’ve learned through writing this book is how little I stop to pause and celebrate. I didn’t really celebrate my 18th or 21st birthdays; I didn’t go to either of my graduations. I’ve realised that in amongst all the problem solving it’s important to stop and celebrate where we can.

And this book took 3 whole years to write. That’s worth stopping to celebrate.

Cheers!

“Choul Moy,” in Khmer.

Guests listened intently as I shared with them my reasons for writing the book, and a little of what it’s about.

And then I did a reading. Mostly because doing a reading is something that’s done at book launches, but also, I knew if I read a bit of it, then a few of my friends would find themselves channelling my accent when they read it at home, which amuses me.

And then there were the all-important book signings.

And more signings.

And more

and more, as people purchased additional copies to give to their friends and colleagues.

A huge thank you to those who came and celebrated with me; long time friends, my yoga class, friends from combat, Free To Shine sponsors, and team members flying in from Melbourne and Sydney. You made it a very special night.

Here’s to Doing What Matters most to you;

In your work, with your family, & in the world!

Acun

Thank You

For more photos see our gallery: https://galleries.page.link/BbJiQ

Credit to Tracey Keller for gifting us the venue space and being an all-round fabulous host: https://traceykeller.com

And photo credits to the brilliant Cooper Brady: https://www.cooperbrady.com.au

To get your copy of Do What Matters; what leading a child protection organisation in Cambodia taught me about life and leadership click here.