3 minute read
Writing Inspiration – Melinda Uys
The Sunshine Coast is swarming with incredible women, and they’re documented in an inspiring new book by talented local, Melinda Uys.
As Melinda Uys compiled the lives of 49 Sunshine Coast ladies for the first edition of Women Inspired, a number of common themes emerged. As the women divulged their individual stories, a love of this beautiful region, the strength to overcome diabolical challenges and the determination to seek a life of joy rang out again and again. The story lines and characters shifted and weaved, but the themes remained constant, the individual triumphs inspirational. For Melinda, the process of interviewing and writing about each woman has been a masterclass in motivation, carefully distilled onto the pages of Women Inspired, a highquality coffee table book guaranteed to wake your inner feminine warrior. A senior secondary teacher of English and History for over a decade and a content writer for the past five years, Melinda has emerged as a formidable writing talent. With clients both here and internationally, her nuanced skills in writing for senior management in education has transformed into a penchant for ghostwriting, content writing and editing both here and internationally. “I particularly enjoy writing for my tourism clients: being enthusiastic about and showcasing the Sunshine Coast is really special,” Melinda says.
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When asked to author Women Inspired, a project aimed at showcasing the incredible strength, innovation and caring spirit of the Sunshine Coast’s women, she jumped at the chance. “When I was approached by Josanne Falla to come onboard, I was completely floored. Not only was I being handed an opportunity to do what I love, I would be meeting some of the Coast’s most influential, innovative and inspirational women. It is such an honour.”
Along with Jaya McIntyre of Empire Art Photography, the three women have produced a book that is both beautiful and stirring. Every story in the book speaks of trials and challenges faced and each woman’s tenacity in overcoming them. From domestic violence to homelessness, devastating health battles, ingrained sexism and workplace bullying or simply getting their businesses and ideas off the ground, each story is unique and ultimately inspiring. Melinda laughs as she recalls, “I would finish each interview and think to myself, What on Earth am I doing with my life? Each woman was so full of life and joy, regardless of the path they’d taken to get to that point. Even reading the stories now, each one is a little nudge: get busy creating the life you want.” Throughout the pages of Women Inspired, another message becomes clear: there is no formula or series of achievements equalling inspiration. Every woman has a story of strength worth sharing that will motivate another to back herself, to make a safer choice or grab on to an opportunity with both hands. “They’ve shared their story in the hope it will inspire others to rise up to those challenges and overcome them. That’s truly wonderful,” Melinda says. With another edition of this incredible book planned for 2022, Melinda is urging applicants to step forward: “We’re ready to document the next 50 inspiring Sunny Coasters, and it will fill fast.” Reserve your spot via the Women Inspired website. Purchase your limited edition book, Women Inspired: Sunshine Coast, here: www.womeninspired.com.au/buy-thebook/ a www.melindauys.com Facebook: facebook.com/ melindauyswords Instagram: @melindauys www.womeninspired.com.au WI Facebook: facebook.com/ womeninspired.com.au WI Instagram: @womeninspiredaustralia
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