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Lived-experience wisdom. Practical action. Real change.

Who We Are

Growth Zone Academy is an education organisation dedicated to transforming challenges into opportunities.
We combine lived experience with practical frameworks to help individuals, carers, and communities build resilience, emotional intelligence, and purpose.

Through workshops, online training, peer supervision, and consulting, we create safe and inclusive learning spaces that speak to both the head and the heart.

our story

Growth Zone Academy was founded on the belief that personal stories, when combined with practical tools,
can change lives. Our team brings together years of experience in community education, facilitation, and carer support.
We know what it means to walk through grief, transition, and uncertainty — and we know growth is possible.

Our MIssion & Vision

Mission: We empower people to make sense of life’s challenges and discover new purpose through lived-experience education.
Vision: A world where individuals and communities transform suffering into strength, and challenges into opportunities for growth.

our values

  • Authenticity – We lead with honesty, grounded in lived experience.

Compassion – We meet people with empathy and respect for their journey.

Growth – We believe every challenge can spark transformation.

Courage – We encourage stepping into discomfort to discover new strength.

Community – We walk alongside individuals, carers, and organisations.

Practicality – We deliver tools people can use in everyday life.

WHat we offer

  • 🎤 Facilitation & Speaking — Inspiring conversations that spark reflection, connection, and empowerment.

  • 🌱 Workshops & Training — Practical, reflective learning that strengthens both head and heart.

  • 🤝 Consulting & Peer Supervision — Guidance rooted in empathy and real-world experience, helping teams
    and individuals grow with confidence.

Explore Courses & Events

Whether you're an individual navigating change or an organisation
supporting others, Growth Zone Academy is here to walk with you.

Book a Discovery Call
meet our team:  the people behind the growth zone

At Growth Zone Academy, our strength lies in the people behind the programs. Our educators and partners bring together lived experience, professional expertise, and a shared passion for helping others grow. Each member of our team contributes unique wisdom and skills, creating learning spaces that are authentic, practical, and inspiring.

1
HaylEY Solich

Hayley is the founder of Growth Zone Academy, a multi-award-winning community educator and published author. With lived experience in mental health, caring, bereavement, suicide, road trauma, family, and domestic violence, she brings both insight and compassion to every space she facilitates. Known for her creativity and deep wisdom, Hayley designs interactive workshops that are transformational, combining practical tools with lived-experience storytelling. She is widely respected across the community as an educator with heart, who creates safe, inspiring environments where people can reflect, learn, and grow.

2
Christine Overstone

Christine is a social scientist, educator, and founder of The Grief Centre of WA. She partners with Growth Zone Academy to design and deliver high-quality, engaging content. Her lived experience spans caring for ageing parents, sudden loss, and work within child protection and prison systems. Christine is the developer and facilitator of the highly successful Change Your Thinking, Change Your Life program, and her tried-and-tested tools are now woven into Growth Zone Academy’s training. She brings a depth of knowledge, practical frameworks, and a passion for helping people and communities transform adversity into growth.

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andrew solich

Andy supports Growth Zone Academy as Policy and Compliance Officer, ensuring services are delivered ethically and with quality. He brings lived experience in family and domestic violence, disability, alcohol and other drugs, and mental health, along with dual trade qualifications and expertise in lean manufacturing, project management, and business analysis. With a sharp eye for detail and a steady commitment to accountability, Andy ensures the Academy meets contractual obligations while staying true to its values. As a partner in both business and mission, Andy contributes wisdom, structure, and reliability to the Growth Zone team.