Hacia Atherton - Befriending tragedy to build resilience and gratitude
Hacia Atherton is Speaker, Company Director, Certified Practicing Accountant, Ambassador, Industry Thought Leader and Philanthropist.
In 2017, Hacia was crushed by her 600kg warmblood horse and doctors told her she would likely never walk again in any meaningful way.
Devastated by her new reality, Hacia fell into a deep depression. However, her fighting spirit revived itself, as she faced her toughest challenge yet - to stand unaided for the first time since her accident. Hacia was only able to stand without assistance for three seconds. She cried in agony, defeat, and frustration at the helplessness of her situation.
It was at this point mentally and emotionally that Hacia realised she had a choice. To let her tragic circumstances dictate the remainder of her life, or to face the seemingly impossible goal of walking again with courage, positivity, and spirit.
Three years and thirteen operations later, Hacia has defied the odds, not only learning to walk again but also completing two 100km bike rides and achieving her CPA from her hospital bed - successfully turning a major life trauma into a triumph.
Hacia’s adaptability and resilience, and her ability to redefine her own version of success, is a story she now shares to inspire audiences across Australia.
Hacia is also the founder of NFP Empowering Women in Trade, with the mission to radically increase female representation in skilled trades in Australia and to create a more equitable, balanced workforce that values and prioritises the participation of skilled female tradespeople. Empowering Women in Trade also aims to support women who are in vulnerable situations.
Hacia’s courage, adaptability and resilience has been recognised by numerous organisations. She has been invited to join the CPA Emerging Leaders Network Committee, is a Just Strong Ambassador and has been accepted into the pilot Women and Leadership Program run by the City of Darebin.
Socials:
Website: https://haciaatherton.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haciaatherton/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/haciaatherton/
Instagram: @haciaatherton
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