THE Swan Chamber of Commerce’s October Hour of Power will feature talks from professionals working in education and media sharing their stories.

Swan Christian Education Association executive principal Darnelle Pretorius and Press Road Media media and brand strategist Anjelica Smilovitis will have 15 minutes each to share the motivation behind their work.

Ms Smilovitis said her talk would focus on inviting more space and stillness into daily life and gently challenging the idea that life must be built around non-stop productivity.

“The idea of making space, slowing down and questioning what we consider a successful or meaningful life has continued to be a theme throughout both my professional and personal life,” she said.

“I’m looking forward to exploring that next Wednesday.”

Ms Smilovitis said the talk would serve as a reminder for others to not lose sight of the bigger picture while navigating their own challenges.

“(Community-driven initiative) We Hike WA actually originated from a period of stillness, so I’ll be sharing how stillness isn’t just about helping us rest and regenerate, but can also create space for creativity, problem solving and serving others in a healthy way,” she said.

“It can also give us the space to question the way we’re doing things, become curious about what might work better, and consider whether there are different ways of living and working.

“Over the years, I spoke to many of the people who came along to those hikes, and a common thread was how difficult people found it to give themselves permission to take time out.

“Guilt was a constant word I heard — guilt about taking time to hike, relax or simply be present.

“With our media and digital worlds feeling increasingly full-on, I don’t think that challenge has gone away.

“If anything, it makes being intentional about carving out space even more important.”

Dr Pretorius will be sharing the stage on the day, bringing in experience as a leader in education.

According to a 2022 Swan Christian Education Association publication, Dr Pretorius said a goal to maintain in life is to build trust wherever you go.

“Time proves authenticity,” she said.

“It doesn’t happen in three weeks or three months.”

After more than four years as the principal of Swan Christian College, Dr Pretorius took on a new role as executive principal for all seven Swan Christian Education Association schools earlier this year.

Hour of Power provides a regular platform for Swan region business owners to connect, share experiences, and learn from industry peers while building professional networks over breakfast.

The presentation will be held at 10.30am on October 14 at the Crooked Spire in Midland.