From Self-Doubt to Future Leader: Why This Nomination Means Everything

At Treat Your Staff, we talk a lot about the power of workplace wellbeing—the impact it has on teams, productivity, and culture. But sometimes, the most powerful wellbeing stories come from behind the scenes. This is one of them.

We’re beyond thrilled (and maybe a little emotional!) to share that our founder has been shortlisted for the InsideOut Awards in the Future Leader category. It’s a big moment. Not just for us as a company, but for every dreamer, every underdog, every person who’s ever wondered if they’re really “cut out” to lead.

1.5 Years In—and a Lifetime of Growth

What started as a bold idea to make work a healthier, happier experience has now evolved into a movement. In just a year and a half, Treat Your Staff has grown into a purpose-driven business with a heart-led mission: to transform office life into a place where mental health is prioritised and people genuinely thrive.

Our founder puts it best:

“I never even considered myself a ‘leader’. I had zero self-confidence and was full of limiting beliefs. Never ever thought I could run my own business. And look at me now—I’m rocking it!”

That raw honesty is what makes this nomination so special. This isn’t just recognition from the industry—it’s proof that growth, leadership, and impact start with courage, not credentials.

The Power of Passion, People, and Purpose

Behind every strong founder is a powerhouse of support. This journey has been shaped not only by resilience but by a community of believers—family, mentors, a phenomenal coach (shoutout to Lorna Dunning!), and a mighty team member who’s become the co-pilot in this mission: Anita Zezelj.

Anita, our content wizard and creativity queen, has helped bring the Treat Your Staff vision to life through storytelling that inspires and energises. Together, this “double trouble” duo is changing how companies think about wellbeing—one workplace at a time.

“Our passion for mental health gives us the strength and power to keep going. We’re here to positively impact lives at work. That’s what drives us.”

Why This Nomination Matters

The InsideOut Awards celebrate the people and projects that are reshaping workplace mental health. The Future Leader category shines a light on rising stars who are pushing the boundaries and creating real, measurable change.

To be nominated is to be seen. To be seen is to be validated. And when you’re building a business rooted in heart and healing, that validation means more than words can say.

This Is Just the Beginning

At Treat Your Staff, we believe leadership isn’t about being the loudest in the room—it’s about being the one who listens, lifts others, and leads with empathy. That’s the kind of leadership we’re proud to model and celebrate.

Whether or not we take home the trophy in June, this nomination is already a win—for our founder, our team, and everyone who believes that kindness belongs in leadership.

So here’s to every sleepless night, every doubt overcome, every small win that led us here. We’re raising a (healthy!) toast to growth, grit, and glowing up.