Natasha Lacey

“Catalyst helped me understand what I am capable of doing by exploring what makes me different from others and identifying my strengths and weaknesses.”

What motivated you to apply for the Catalyst course?

Exploring the Catalyst website and attending the taster session made me realise that it was something I needed to help me with my personal development.

How would you describe the Catalyst course? 

The Catalyst course is an experience that is indescribable. It was a phenomenal experience and a tremendous journey. No words can describe the greatness of the course. Every single activity was planned to perfection and despite me not seeing the point of some, in the moment, on reflection, I was able to understand why.

What have you learnt about yourself? 

I learnt a lot about myself through the programme and I understand why I approach things in the manner that I do. I was able to identify my shortcomings, which was the main thing I had hoped to get out of the experience, as I wanted to know what was holding me back. I could see that there were some things which I tended to shy away from and since Catalyst, I have been able to identify why I do this.

How do you think the Catalyst experience will enhance your future employability? 

Catalyst helped me understand what I am capable of doing by exploring what makes me different from others and identifying my strengths and weaknesses. These traits will hopefully enhance my future employability.

What were the highlights from the Catalyst experience?

The whole experience was great but the highlight of my Catalyst experience, and something I don’t think I will be able to forget, is everyone who was involved. The unity of the group was remarkable and the connection formed in merely five days was simply beautiful. Most importantly, the evenings and mornings we all spent together around a fire.

If you could change anything about the course, what would it be? 

I would not change anything on the course because it was flawlessly designed. However, I would change my attitude in certain situations because I feel I would have gained more from the experience if I had just allowed myself to fully participate.

How would you summarise your Catalyst experience?

Five days in beautiful Embercombe, living in a sustainable manner, surrounded by a lovely group of people each on their own journey. I am unable to describe how wonderful Catalyst was for me. My experience was something very special and I am extremely thankful for it.

Through Catalyst, I was able to get out of my comfort zone, meet lovely people and learn a lot about myself. I was put in a situation in which I could grow and discover where I need to be. Thankfully, it re-enforced my idea of what I want to do and what I need to do to get there. Catalyst gave me the underpinning to go on with my desire, enthusiasm and passion to contribute.