Debra Star

I am an author and guest speaker who raised seven children as a sole parent whilst I studied and worked in the Community Welfare sector. One of my daughter's died in 2016 aged 33 years, I lost a house in a fire, my marital relationships ended in divorce, and it's clear to say that I have endured an extremely harsh life. I will share aspects of my story during an appropriate talk / as arranged. As mentioned, I've lived through an array of life experiences and these are also seperate stories for specific and relevant Speaking roles. However I am open, honest, and 'raw' - revealing the often unspoken matters surrounding relationships, parenting, and the workplace. My previous employment: Over approx. 15 years I worked in the arena of Community welfare, in most sectors, but primarily with women and children fleeing Family Violence. My first semi-fiction novel "Escape to Woodshine" was published in early 2024, and this has enabled me to speak on many themes related to community. Recent Speaking roles: I've been invited to speak to several organisations and social groups on carer wellbeing and mental health, elder abuse and violence, same sex relationships, my book, and similar topics. Thus my confidence and abilities are growing swiftly and I'm eager to Speak to your organisation.