This may sound rather bizarre but it is a very important moment for me.

My relationship with Avo started in 2005. I was publishing a magazine for working women called Women Inc. The Complete Resource for the Working Woman.  Jules and her team became invaluable contributors to the publication and I valued our working relationship.

My visits to the Avo space were filled with laughter and respect. I was inspired by the company Jules had grown and loved the connection time with them. Through the years our friendship continued to grow.

In 2008 I hit a wall. The realization that I had gone as far as I could on my own was very clear (and very painful). In January of 2009, Jules and I sat down and had a crucial conversation. I shared my pain and frustration, my hopes and aspirations. She reflected her experiences and learning in 13 years of running Avo.  She graciously extended her hand to me to join her team, and I have not looked back.

Practically, it was not viable to shut down my business, so I have retained the company and have formed a strategic partnership with Avo – they are the official training partner Every Woman Education & Training Solutions. I could not have wished for a better partner.

At the onset of this partnership, I wrote an article titled, “When the going gets tough, the tough get together.” This is the perfect description of our partnership. 
The thing I most value about this relationship is that I am not held at arm’s length by the full-time Avo’s. Rather I have been welcomed into the fold as truly a member of the Avo family. Thanks to all the Avo’s who have made me feel like one of them.

A little about me: I love spending time with my clients, I enjoy conceptualizing the most strategic solution or plan to any particular problem or opportunity that they are facing. My mantra is that the solution we bring into the organization must be strategic and have a clear and sustainable impact on the business. I build authentic and long lasting relationships with the people I work with – but a little word of warning –I am an activator – if you are not serious about getting things moving – I am probably not the best person to chat to    I look forward to meeting you.

Rachel van Doorene (The Activator)