The Story Of You - Susan.

Content Warning: These stories contain mentions of body dysmorphia, body image struggles, pregnancy loss, fertility struggles and gendered violence. If you find any of the below triggering, please find a list of helpful and free resources below:

DV/SV: 1800 RESPECT

Mental Health: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/

Eating Disorders and Body Image Issues: Butterfly Foundation 1800 ED HOPE

Meet Susan, a remarkable woman whose journey embodies strength and transformation. Originally from Perth and now calling Geraldton home, her path to self-acceptance began with early experiences that shaped her relationship with her body and self-worth. During her school years, Susan encountered challenging situations that left lasting impressions, including experiences of bullying from both peers and, unfortunately, a teacher who should have been a source of support.

The journey through her teenage years brought its own set of challenges, as Susan navigated the complex landscape of self-discovery and acceptance. Despite her resilience, these years were marked by a disconnect between who she was and how she felt in her own skin.

At 17, Susan faced profound experiences that would take years to process - the loss of her twins during pregnancy, followed by a traumatic assault. While justice was eventually served through the courts, the path to healing would require time, strength, and ultimately, a deep journey of self-discovery.

As she grew older, she started to realise that the journey towards healing wasn't about changing herself, it was about learning to love herself, scars and all. After years of hardship, Susan made a pivotal decision to take control of her life and her body. She pursued her education with determination, earning two post-graduate degrees and establishing herself as a respected professional leader in her field.

The road to self-acceptance wasn't easy, but over time, Susan found the courage to embrace who she was. Susan decided it was time to try new experiences, including Rosie Rees naked yoga, which became a powerful catalyst for self-acceptance. "By the end of last year, I was at my peak confidence and had learned to love every mark and unique aspect of my body. I truly felt grateful and powerful."

But life, as it often does, presented new challenges. When faced with negativity about her pole dancing journey, Susan didn't let it define her. Instead, she turned it into fuel for growth. "I am chipping away day by day, and a part of me knows that this was just another challenge to overcome, which will lead to my strongest and most confident self."

Susan came to us for this shoot to fulfil a promise to herself: to not let the negativity she faced from others define her. "I am not disgusting or doing anything wrong by doing pole," she says. "I can be a pole dancer and a professional leader in my workplace. Those identities are not mutually exclusive." As an advocate for female representation in leadership positions, Susan is determined to be the change she wants to see in her industry.

The photoshoot was an important milestone for Susan, who faced her self-doubt head-on. "Walking through the door was my first achievement of the day," she shares. "The second was the peace I felt when getting the tattoo afterwards. I was so proud of myself for doing something I'd never done, for reclaiming my confidence, and for embodying the 'Goddess' tattoo I chose."

Through this journey, Susan has learned to have more compassion for herself and has found a strength she didn't give herself credit for. The shoot was integral in helping her rediscover herself and embrace all the roles she holds in her life.

Susan's story is a powerful reminder that we are not defined by our struggles but by the strength we have to rise above them. Thank you, Susan, for sharing your journey with us. Your courage and resilience inspire us all.