Marie-Laurence | Primary School Teacher | Founder of French Touch by Marie (Event Production) | Founder of French Touch Courses | Passionate about Women Empowerment | Into Photography, Travel, Music | From Marseille, France | Based in London
Instagram: @frenchtouchbymarie
Websites: frenchtouchbymarie.com & frenchtouchcourses.com
1) THE BEST THING THAT HAPPENED TO YOU IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS?
The first lockdown brought its challenges for all of us, but also some opportunities to start taking my life to the next level, to re-set, review my priorities and my outlook on things. I realised how important it is to stop wearing your work overload or endless days as a badge of honour, and instead develop time for myself, with a more balanced schedule. This extra time to relax actually proved beneficial in terms of efficiency on the medium-term for my businesses!
2) THE WORST THING THAT HAPPENED TO YOU IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS?
I guess it was going through both a period of high stress while having to also adjust to the changes we all faced due to the global pandemic. I personally found it hard to deal with a sudden loss of the most simple and natural things we once took as granted, the lack of in-person interaction, not being able to be close to our loved-ones at will, or hug our friends. As an expat, I also struggled with the feeling of being unsure when I could see my family and if were ok.
3) YOUR BIGGEST WISH FOR THE NEAR FUTURE?
That the world heals from the wounds left by Covid, for families and friends to be re-united again without fear or risk.
Stronger of my personal experiences and challenges over the past two years, I wish to continue to see more of my dreams come true, and only allow the right people into my life, a high vibes tribe as I like to call them!
On a professional level, I wish to use my creativity and passion to develop my French Courses agency, French Touch Courses, and to continue to try and adapt events I produce, alongside my main job, with French Touch by Marie. I feel so privileged to connect and work with so many talented and inspiring people.
4) YOUR BIGGEST WORRY FOR THE NEAR FUTURE?
Letting my fears and past wounds take over reasons, and prevent me from achieving my objectives be it on a personal or professional level.
5) A CONTEMPORARY WOMAN YOU CURRENTLY ADMIRE?
My mother. This beautiful lady has always been an example for me. A strong, independent, intelligent lady who managed to overcome all the challenges in her life from early on, with both a determination and an elegance of the heart. She is my role model, confident, best friend.
6) A ONE -SENTENCE MESSAGE TO OTHER WOMEN
You’ve got this! Never let anyone tells you what you can or cannot do, never let anyone define you. Allow your inner light to shine through, and share it to the world!
A few more questions about the current situation (Covid-19, lockdown, black lives matter protests, politics, finances, mental health, health, and so much more):
7) THE WORLD HAS BEEN CHANGING DRAMATICALLY IN RECENT MONTHS, HOW ARE YOU COPING?
I am trying to take it day by day, and write down 3 things I am thankful for at the end of each day. I also try to develop, and keep, a positive mindset anytime possible.
8) WHICH CHANGE HAS AFFECTED YOU THE MOST / HAD THE BIGGEST IMPACT ON YOU PERSONALLY?
The travel ban. I used to recharge my batteries by going abroad with my camera, and a notebook at times. I miss it!
9) WHAT ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT THE MOST?
Our future, the future of our children, and the mental health of the population after a pandemic that caused losses, unprecedented change to our life, and economic crisis. I am however positive about the fact that we can grow stronger out of it if we keep a positive mindset, by nurturing and developing our inner resources!