Melinda Hutchings

Name: Melinda Hutchings
Age: 30-Something
Occupation: Author & Public Speaker

She's passionate about writing and sees being a writer as a gift, allowing her to help and inspire others. It has allowed her to speak out about positive body image and the dangers of dieting and is motivated by a deep desire to help others. Says Melinda: "I am motivated by a deep desire to help others; I believe that everyone deserves to be happy and live with peace in their hearts. It is a matter of honouring our magnificence as individuals, and giving ourselves permission to shine. "

Who was your role model/s when you were a teen?
Nicole Kidman was a great role model for me because she wasn't afraid to step out of the box and pursue her dreams. Even after she became famous, she maintained a strong sense of dignity.

How did your role model/s help you?
Watching Nicole Kidman's career evolve as it did, helped me realise that it was up to me to create an amazing life and that with passion and persistence, I too could work hard towards my goals and make a profound difference in the world. She inspired me to always do my best.

What role or influence do you think role models have?
I believe role models have a significant responsibility because they are able to influence how the younger generations perceive themselves, positively or otherwise. To be a role model, is to exemplify courage in the face of adversity; belief and trust in yourself and your decisions; self respect; honouring that which is true to your heart. Role models inspire others by leading by example.

What were some of the issues you faced as a teen?
As a teenager, the pressure to stand out, and to achieve and succeed amongst peers, was enormous. Body image played a considerable part in this. The pressure to look good and be thin was unrelenting.

How did you overcome these issues?
At the time, my way of dealing with stress and pressure, was to starve myself. I developed anorexia when I was 14 and it snatched away the next five years of my life. I recovered from my eating disorder by the time I turned 19 and it was then that I realised, if I channelled all that negative, self destructive energy into the positive aspects of my life, that is what would bring me happiness and joy, and a sense of achievement that had nothing to do with external gratification or the beliefs or opinions of others.

What do you remember most about being a teen?
I recall hanging out on the school lawn at lunchtime with my friends, comparing tans, hem lengths and teachers. School camps were like one huge slumber party where we'd stay up all night talking. Being a teen was like an adventure because there were so many new and different experiences to behold. It was not without hardship, though, as I fought to understand my feelings and emotions, and struggled to find my place amongst my peer group.

What qualities do you think you possess that has helped you succeed in your chosen field?
The number one quality for me above all else, is passion. If I am passionate about what I am doing, I am focused, excited and motivated. In addition, trusting my gut feeling and intuition, even if my decisions clash with the beliefs or opinions of family or friends. There have been times I've taken a risk that made no logical sense other than it felt right - and those decisions have always paid off.

Outside of career success, what is it that you are most proud of?
The kind of mother I am to my beautiful son, Flynn. I never knew I could love so selflessly and completely.

Do you undertake activities to help others/community?
I am an Ambassador for The Butterfly Foundation and undertake public speaking engagements and media interviews to promote positive body image and increase the awareness of the dangers of dieting.

Your advice to youths about realising their own potential...
In everything you do, do it with honesty and integrity. Listen to the voice that speaks from your heart and trust what it tells you. Don't let anybody undermine your self esteem by telling you that you can't do something. When people do this, it is never about you and almost always comes from their own insecurities. Never resist change - embrace it as part of the learning and growing process. Above all else, believe in yourself because you truly are capable of achieving anything you put your mind to.

When it comes to how you live your life, what are the most important factors/values?
I know exactly who I am, and I never compromise that. I also believe it is important to live in the context of each day and engage in every moment. Living with an open heart and mind, embracing change and being true to myself are important values. Displaying kindness to others and listening, are also important.

Why do you think you make a good role model?
I am sensitive to the needs of others and passionate about sharing my experiences to help people. I never compromise my core values or beliefs; being true to myself allows me to live a meaningful and fulfilling life, and therefore encourage and inspire others to do the same.