About me

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
― Maya Angelou

Hi,
my name is Varuschka

My journey has been anything but traditional, and it’s this diverse tapestry of experiences that fuels my passion for empowering high-achieving individuals, particularly those navigating transformation.

A few words about me

Born and raised in the vibrant landscape of South Africa, I was instilled with a strong sense of fairness and a deep-seated desire to see justice prevail. This innate drive led me to pursue a legal career, earning both my LLB and LLM. However, even as I embarked on my legal path, a conventional law firm environment didn’t quite align with my broader ambitions. I was drawn to the dynamic world of business, eager to understand how legal acumen could be leveraged to facilitate meaningful deals and drive positive impact.

This curiosity propelled me into the fast-paced corporate arena, where I had the incredible opportunity to work with global powerhouses like Accenture, Google, and DHL. These weren’t just jobs; they were immersive learning experiences. I thrived on the intricacies of contract negotiation strategy, the art of cultivating strong client relationships, and the intellectual challenge of solving complex problems across diverse industries – from the intricacies of banking and retail to the cutting-edge of consulting, outsourcing, and cloud platforms.

I was succeeding outwardly but something inside me longed for more. More depth, more alignment, more impact. Beneath it all, I was also learning something deeper, the kind of leadership that changes lives doesn’t come from performance. It comes from presence. From clarity. From power that’s remembered, not forced. It is that realisation which sparked my move to become a certified Executive and Empowerment Coach. Now I help professionals , particularly women in senior roles reconnect with their inner compass, lead with soul, and rise into the next version of themselves.

This isn’t coaching for your résumé. This is coaching for your reinvention.

Lessons from Cultures, Leaders and Challenges

What truly captivated me during my time in these multinational organizations wasn’t just the business mechanics, but the human element. Interacting with professionals from every corner of the globe opened my eyes to a myriad of cultures, market nuances, and approaches to business. I witnessed firsthand the power of psychological safety and positive working cultures, contrasting them sharply with the detrimental effects of toxic environments. My experiences spanned the bustling energy of Johannesburg, the sophisticated landscape of London, and the diverse professional settings of Europe, each contributing to a deeper understanding of human behavior and fostering profound empathy.

I was succeeding outwardly but something inside me longed for more. More depth, more alignment, more impact. Beneath it all, I was also learning something deeper, the kind of leadership that changes lives doesn’t come from performance. It comes from presence. From clarity. From power that’s remembered, not forced.

It was through these varied experiences – the triumphs and the challenges, the inspiring leaders and the difficult colleagues – that a new calling began to emerge. I realized that while I had honed valuable skills in negotiation, problem-solving, and strategic thinking, my true passion lay in empowering individuals to navigate their own professional landscapes with greater clarity and confidence. I saw so many talented women, often at the peak of their careers, grappling with pivotal moments, feeling overwhelmed by change, or doubting their next steps.

This realization led me to transition out of the corporate world and into executive life coaching. It felt like a natural evolution, a way to directly apply my hard-earned skills and insights to support the very people I had observed and learned alongside for so many years. Now, I dedicate my coaching practice to empowering independent career women in senior management and leadership, who are experiencing career changes, transitions, or seeking a significant pivot.

I understand the unique pressures and expectations particularly women face. I’ve been in high-stakes environments, navigated complex organizational dynamics, and grappled with my own career evolution. This lived experience allows me to connect with my clients on a deeply authentic level, helping them overcome the self-doubt and overwhelm that often accompany significant career shifts. My coaching provides a space to uncover their ‘true north,’ tap into their inherent inner power and strength, and ultimately thrive not just in their careers, but in all facets of their lives.