One of the best things about my job is witnessing the extraordinary human capacity to change. Despite difficult beginnings or experiences, it is always a privilege to observe how people with a challenging start can emerge triumphant, safe and healthy, leading fulfilling lives. I hear about the strength of people, and the role of family, friends and strangers in changing the course of people’s lives for the better. I am always left in awe as to how much progress people can make when they didn’t think it possible.

Since working in Dubai I consider myself privileged to see the world from my consulting room. Sometimes what I see is the normal course of mental health challenges being exacerbated by living away from home and usual support networks. I often see how abnormal events affect the “normal” course of life, and I take great pride in helping people overcome adversity and continue as they once were.

I want to change the world and I know I can’t, but if I can change the course of one person’s life for the better, I can change the world one person at a time. And that’s a pretty good start.