As there were no universities where I grew up I have spent most of my adult life working. Doing a bit of everything from house painting, construction, taxi driving and security, through to teaching English, newspaper editing and theater acting. In 2007 I left my home in Australia and spent a few years backpacking around Asia. In 2010 I immigrated to Canada, and now call Toronto home. In between I lived in Thailand, Laos and China. I am a writer, editor and teacher. I have ridden horses, motorcycles and elephants. Eaten worms, giant crabs and Himalayan snow. I taught myself how to cook, read philosophy, meditate, make furniture, music and joy. I have also raised two amazing children. My life has certainly been an interesting journey, and I hope I can bring some of the lessons I have learned to help your project.