
Welcome
Hello, thanks for coming by - I'm Maria
I work with smart, intelligent and thoughtful individuals (just like you) who want to do the work they care about in a way that is right for them. It's individualised and personalised development, practical without being prescriptive, focused on expanding your thinking and getting you results​.
I've been on a mission to make a difference for most of my working life, and it's taken me across the world and back again. From tiny start-ups to large organisations, I've learnt I do my best work when I'm closest to the people and communities I believe in.
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My love of working in groups started with teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) in Southeast Asia, where I worked with diverse multilingual groups, learning fast to make learning relevant and enjoyable. Many years later, building on the experience, I completed a Level 3 Award in Education, became joint CEO of a training and coaching organisation, where our whole focus was designing and delivering coaching programs, training and workshops.

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I also hold postgraduate qualifications in Personal and Business Coaching (2007), a postgraduate diploma in Social Work, a level 3 Award in Education, a Mental Health First Aid certificate, Oliver McGowan Autism training and I'm a founding member of the Universal Coaching Alliance. If you like personality profiling - I'm a protagonist ENFJ-A.
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In 2008 I co-founded Illuminate Charity and our mission was to deliver professional, high-calibre coaching and training for people who could not access coaching due to poor mental health and financial constraints. More about Illuminate over here.
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Every person's context, responsibilities and ambitions are different - I'd love to hear from you. Let's book a call.
Maria helped me to work through some important things and I am struck by how generous and flexible she is. ​Maria is incredibly skilled at reading what is needed in the moment and not afraid to bring humour into the coaching relationship, something I really appreciated. At the right moments, Maria challenged me in a way that encouraged me to think more robustly ... Thank you. Philippa Budgen 2026