Some people possess the ability to be present like air quietly sharing the same space with you as if they weren’t there, yet their presence radiates lightness, motivates, and inspires in the most subtle and impactful way. We rarely think about their presence until, for some reason, they are no longer there. And yet, the void they leave behind is monumental. This metaphor didn’t come to me immediately. It emerged as I unraveled Nanny’s story, as I asked my questions and absorbed her answers.
A Photographer’s Curiosity
As a photographer, my role often involves peeling back the layers of a person’s story. My questions, though sometimes uncomfortable, are meant to evoke honesty and ignite a deeper dialogue. They might bring a blush to someone’s cheeks, but they also open unexpected doors to reflection.
With Nanny, I felt like I was standing before a source of wisdom—someone I could ask any question and truly hear the answers. I’m deeply grateful to Nanny for sharing her world with me and to my intuition, which pushed me to invite her as part of Stories That Shine.
This collaboration is not just about a photograph—it’s about capturing a spirit, sharing a story, and creating a connection that lasts far beyond the camera.
The Power of Kindness and Purpose
Marfa: When things get tough, how do you reconnect with that sense of purpose?
Nanny: “Count your blessings. Always be kind; everybody is fighting their demons. Choose your battles.”
Her words made me pause and smile. How often do we lose ourselves in the pursuit of goals and achievements, forgetting to cherish our blessings—health, family, friends, and the sheer gift of living in the present moment? Our lives are woven with unique paths, filled with struggles and joys alike.
What if, during those moments of frustration, anger, or feeling out of balance, we paused for just a few seconds to remind ourselves: Always be kind; everybody is fighting their demons, just like you are now. A simple phrase, yet one that holds the power to shift perspectives and ripple kindness into the lives of others.
Kindness is not always easy; it’s a choice we train ourselves to make every day—with love, faith, and dedication. As Nanny wisely added, “Choose your battles.” This made me reflect: What are we truly fighting? The dramas of life or our attachment to them?
A Life Defined by Presence
Marfa: If you could pinpoint one value that truly defines you, what would it be?
Nanny: “I’m there if you need me.”
Hearing this felt like unlocking a door I didn’t even know existed. That’s the power of insight—it sneaks up on you, transforming your understanding. Nanny’s simple phrase became a milestone in her story. As our conversation unfolded, I began to see the depth behind these words. When a feeling aligns perfectly with the words, it resonates deeply.
Lessons in Legacy
Marfa: Can you recall a specific person whose life or career influenced your success and inspired you? How did that experience shape your journey?
Nanny: “I recently lost a friend. She stayed optimistic and loving until the end and made her passing bearable for her loved ones. I try to follow in her footsteps.”
Nanny’s perspective on success offers a soulful counterpoint to our consumer-driven world. True success, as she sees it, lies in creating a space of love and connection for those closest to us. Imagine a room filled with warmth and positivity a haven where your loved ones feel valued and supported.
This isn’t the kind of success taught in business schools, yet it’s the kind we all secretly yearn for. Her story reminded me to cherish the relationships and moments that shape our humanity.
The Beauty of Small Steps
Marfa: What challenges have you overcome that have shaped you professionally? When facing those challenges, did you ever feel like giving up? What kept you going?
Nanny: “The love for my job and what I can do in my job for people and the planet, however small it might seem, keeps me going. Everybody can contribute in their way.”
Her words reminded me of the power of small steps. I often want to leap three or four steps ahead, sometimes more! How often do we dismiss incremental progress, deeming it insignificant? Yet, it’s these small, consistent efforts towards learning, helping others, or caring for the planet that builds meaningful impact over time. Nanny’s words offered me a sense of inner peace and gave me space to reflect. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve burned out from undervaluing small achievements. It’s a lesson worth holding onto. The beauty of small steps reminds me of a polished stone small, but carrying the weight of the universe.
A Voice for the Unseen
Marfa: As a person and leader, what message would you like to share with other professionals who feel unseen or undervalued?
Nanny: “You matter!”
This phrase transported me back to a podcast I once heard about Syrian Mystics. It told a magical story about a black soil field. At first glance, the field seems barren, but beneath the surface, seeds are quietly gathering strength. Come spring, this seemingly empty field will bloom with unimaginable beauty. Being unseen can feel dark and isolating, but it’s also a time of growth and preparation. Always remember you matter.
Advice to the Younger Self
Marfa: If you could write a letter to yourself as a student, what advice would you give? From the wisdom and experience you’ve gained, what would you tell your younger self about navigating your professional journey?
Nanny: “In every job, you can make a difference.”
This simple wisdom encapsulates Nanny’s philosophy. Through small acts or grand gestures, we all have the capacity to leave a positive mark on the world. Purpose isn’t found in perfection; it’s found in contribution.
The Power of Patience and Perspective
Nanny’s story is not just about offering help through words; it’s about translating values into action. During our photoshoot, I asked her how and when she began her journey at Marketing Tribune. Her answer revealed a milestone that connected the dots in her story, enriching my understanding of her subtle mental organization.
Nanny explained that after a decade of working in advertising, she wanted to give back to society. This led her to transition into education, dedicating the next ten years of her life to teaching. She started working with children with developmental challenges and met quite a few students with autism. Inspired by their honesty and unique sense of humor.
“One of them asked me a difficult question at the start of each lesson,” Nanny shared. “If I took the time to answer it, whether I got it right or not, we both had a good day. To be honest, working in education was overwhelming—both in a good and bad way. It was heavy, but I’m glad I did it. Sometimes I miss it and deeply admire those who dedicate their lives to this work, giving all they have every single day.”
Her reflections reminded me of Takiwātanga” is the Māori word for autism and it means “IN THEIR OWN TIME AND SPACE”, a term coined by linguist and educator Keri Opai. What would our world look like if we embraced this perspective and shifted the rhetoric around autism toward Takiwātanga?
Hearing about Nanny’s time with autistic children felt like uncovering a hidden part of her iceberg. Personally, patience isn’t my strongest trait, and I lose it often. That’s why kickboxing works for me. But as I reflected on Nanny’s green eyes and gentle smile, I couldn’t help but marvel at the power and patience she embodied. To follow her values of love and kindness every single moment requires extraordinary strength.
How much creativity, analysis, and attention must it have taken to teach these children and involve them in her lessons? And how many thoughts must she have carried home each day? This Story That Shines became a tsunami of change for me, a reminder that everything serene, peaceful, and seemingly effortless in life is built on layers of dedication, hard work, and skill.
Breaking Free from Boxes
Marfa: Why do you think people are so quick to place others into boxes or make judgments about what feels different or uncomfortable?
Nanny: “Because it’s so easy, I think. I often wonder about this. I believe it’s in human nature, dating back to ancient times: ‘You’re not my tribe, so you might be dangerous.’ Even people who claim to be against categorizing others still create their own boxes. It’s flabbergasting!”
A Bold Transition
Marfa: What motivated you to transition from teaching to the world of media at 44?
Nanny: “I got the opportunity. It’s that simple. I love writing, photography, and illustrations, so sometimes my work feels like a hobby. And, however small, I occasionally get the chance to make a difference on social issues like diversity, inclusion, and sustainability.”
Her transition spoke volumes about embracing change and seizing opportunities. To act instead of being carried away by life. This is the position of a discoverer, something to remember and to follow.
Passion, Compassion, and the Tango
Marfa: How do you maintain your passion and compassion in a high-pressure environment? If your passion and dedication were a dance, what would you name it?
Nanny: “Humor helps with everything. And I am a neat freak. An organized desk helps keep my mind organized. If my passion and dedication were a dance, it would be the tango.”
Small Steps Toward Inclusivity
Marfa: What small steps do you think individuals or organizations can take to promote inclusivity and understanding?
Inclusivity is a term often overused and manipulated, losing its true meaning. This question carried added weight after hearing about Nanny’s empathy and dedication to children with developmental challenges.
Nanny: “Everybody can promote inclusivity if they take the time. It’s not that difficult. Don’t choose the usual suspects for your interviews or events. Don’t select an illustration that depicts a woman in a way you wouldn’t want to be seen as a woman. Broaden your horizon. Be curious. And keep reminding your colleagues to do the same, even if they get sick and tired of it. Small steps, I know, but better than no steps at all.”
A Sacred Space
On a sunlit November day, sitting in a cozy café and listening to Nanny’s story before our photoshoot in the dunes, I felt something sacred unfolding. It was like stepping into a quiet, enchanted space where every word and gesture resonated with wisdom and compassion.
The dunes became the perfect backdrop for Nanny, a reflection of her deep connection to nature and the values she carries so effortlessly. The more I listened, the more I understood: stories like hers don’t just shine; they illuminate paths for others to follow.