Meet Darren Pawski of Synergy Financial Solutions

Darren Pawski, a financial services industry professional with almost 30 years of experience, is the managing director of Synergy Financial Solutions, a boutique financial services firm known for its highly personalized and exceptionally comprehensive approach to financial planning and management. Mr. Pawski began his career in the late 1980s and has served in a number of executive leadership positions with some of the most respected providers of financial services operating in Perth.

An active member of his local community, Mr. Pawski devotes much of his free time to community service efforts and volunteering. While he is a frequent presence at all manner of community service events, Mr. Pawski is especially committed to his volunteer work within the aged-care sector. Outside of his professional work and community service, Mr. Pawski is an accomplished traveler and distance runner who has explored some of the most interesting and unique places the world has to offer.

Known for his firm belief in the value of ongoing education, Mr. Pawski has a long history of helping clients, colleagues, and members of the public better understand the most critical aspects associated with financial planning and financial management. Mr. Pawski, who is currently working toward a master's degree in finance, earned his Diploma of Financial Planning from Deakin University and secured his Certificate IV in Mortgage Broking from Kaplan.

1. In your own words what do you do?

My goal is to help all of our clients develop a personalized and all-encompassing financial strategy that leads to the realization of their specific goals for the future.

2. What led you to your current business?

I've always been very passionate about my role in the finance industry, and Synergy Financial Solutions has allowed me to really sharpen my focus on meeting the specific needs of each and every client that reaches out to our financial planning and management firm.

3. Could you walk us through your process of developing your business?

With my wealth of industry experience, I was keenly aware of the strengths and weaknesses of the industry as a whole. In developing this business, we simply created a structure that we believed would emphasize the strengths while eliminating the weaknesses.

4. Did you encounter any particular difficulty in the beginning, and how did you overcome it?

Of course we did, but we also created an overarching plan that accounted for every possible difficulty in order to ensure there was a contingency in place. Our ability to plan ahead and foresee potential obstacles allowed us to overcome the difficulties we encountered along the way.

5. What is your long-term plan?

We hope to continually grow in a manner that ensures we can continue to offer our highly personalized services to a broader base of clients.

6. Could you share with us some industry insights?

The key to a sound financial strategy begins with a commitment to advance planning and a thorough, comprehensive approach.

7. What are some important lessons you've learned about entrepreneurship/business?

At its core, entrepreneurial success requires an understanding of how to best meet the needs of the consumer.

8. Any tips for achieving success?

You can essentially guarantee long-term success by making a deep commitment to your clients and ensuring they always remain a priority in the decision-making process.

Thanks, Darren!

Meet Joseph Mwansa of Global Empowers

Joseph Mwansa is a Zambian National who currently resides in Perth Western Australia. He was born in Kawambwa District in Luapula Province, and he left Zambia to study Construction and Economics at Curtin University in Perth, Western Australia in 2009. He has created an advanced water purification tablet which can aid in the prevention and cure of third world water and food problems. His goal is to reduce deaths caused by dirty water, and to help millions of people during emergencies and disasters. Learn more by visiting http://www.globalempowers.com.

1. What gave you the idea to create a water purification tablet?

I was raised in a village where unsanitary water and malnutrition is quite common; it has always been there. I was probably malnourished at some stage when I was younger; I remember quite fondly those mornings where we would rise from bed to collect fresh water which we would later boil in order to make it safe for consumption. Years later I would find myself in Australia, and visiting my family in Africa after six years, I was saddened at the realization that not much had changed; my childhood friends, the people I had grown up with, somehow seemed frail and hopeless; the problems we experienced together back then are still the same ones chasing them today.

Coming to Australia was a success on its own, something that I believe happened through divine intervention and likewise great determination on my parents' side: they and many others took great joy in seeing me take on this new chapter in my life, and after stepping away from education I knew I had to find another way to repay them. Launching Vigor Aqua and having it positively change the lives of many will be my greatest measure of success and true joy.

2. What are some of the specific benefits of your product, Vigor Aqua?

In developing this tablet, my main focus groups were pregnant women and children. The prevalence rate for malnourishment in pregnant women and children is at some of the highest it has ever been. A lot of women in developing countries lack their daily nutritional needs, including pregnant and lactating mothers. This usually results in stunted growth in kids and babies and an array of other childhood illnesses. Vigor Aqua can therefore accommodate the nutritional needs of both mother and baby by releasing vitamins and nutrients while also providing them with clean drinking water. We also have aging grandparents who are, sadly, left with caring for their grandchildren in the event of their parents passing due to illness and other ailments; these grandparents are left without a way to feed and provide for the young as the cycle of poverty continues. In many instances there might be a breastfeeding infant who now has no way of receiving a proper diet as their only source of a healthy nutrition has passed and clinics and hospitals are often too far to seek help. It is also my wish to work with hospitals, NGOs, and small charities alike to provide Vigor Aqua for emergency and disaster relief.

3. How did your own experience growing up in Zambia influence your decision to start Global Empowers?

Global Empowers started some time ago; I'm just the next person in line, trying my best to take it to the next phase. My parents managed to move us from the village to the capital, Lusaka. They worked hard and tirelessly to ensure their children have bright futures and better their own lives while managing to stay pure and true to their roots, carrying with them the same humility they had known in the village. They were able to provide for many with the little they had, and never once have they sought any reward for their efforts; they did so to give thanks to those who had helped them. Therefore Global Empowers has always been there, it has always been an idea needing to be put into motion.

4. How will sales of your product help you give back to the community through your foundation?

The Mwansa Foundation will receive a percentage of the profits of the sales from Vigor Aqua. These will be utilized to provide kids and adolescents with education, mentorship, and motivation. I believe that representation is key, and through this program, we wish to develop their minds and teach them the importance of education; the mind is a powerful tool, and we want to help them unlock theirs. We focus strongly on personal growth and empowerment.

5. What else would you like readers to know about your project?

Having done much of the background work, we are now in the process of seeking and securing funds. We also welcome likeminded people who are able to share in the passion and vision behind Global Empowers and who can facilitate Global Empowers in carrying out our mission.

Thanks, Joseph!

Meet Adam Waring, Aussie Ninja Warrior

Born in Melbourne, Australia, Adam Waring is training to be the first Australian Ninja Warrior and the first Aussie to compete on American Ninja Warrior. He created his Aussie Ninja Warrior website to help create the amazingly supportive community in Australia that American currently has.

1. How did you first hear about American Ninja Warrior--is it popular in Australia?

Bizarrely, it was a young Olivia Munn that got me into American Ninja Warrior. The original Ninja Warrior show from Japan is called Sasuke, and I used to love it with all my heart. Eventually they had a couple of American competitors who were interesting, but I never really thought a lot about it until they showed Ms. Munn coming back a second time after training all year to pass the first obstacle--and that lead me to investigate and find American Ninja Warrior which promptly became my favourite.

American Ninja Warrior has only just started airing on Australian television, so for years and years I tried hard to track down episodes Due to regional constraints you couldn't watch them on Youtube or buy them from Amazon, so I had to convince overseas family friends to help me out. Now that Australian Ninja Warrior has been announced to air its first season in 2017, I think interest is very definitely rising. I think Australian Ninja Warrior could be absolutely massive. Aussies are extremely sporty and competitive, so I'm guessing it should fit into our cultural identity more than any other reality TV show.

2. What made you decide that you wanted to be on the show?

I've always been hugely into computers, even as a young kid. I'm an IT guy by trade and loved computer games and programming more than anything else. Predictably, I developed extremely severe RSI in my hands and was suddenly faced with not being able to do any of the things I loved and was good at.

I was devastated for a long time, especially after a huge number of specialists would each promise resolution, and my condition would get worse as time moved along. Eventually, while moping around and feeling sorry for myself, I found the Japanese Sasuke and became a massive fan, and that got me out and training and excited about obstacle courses. I was always terrible at sports, but obstacle courses I was actually really good at really quickly.

A year ago, my partner and I were ready to change life up and decided to move overseas. America became our destination and so it was decided by everyone who had ever met me that I should train and try out for American Ninja Warrior. Then a couple of months ago they announced Australian Ninja Warrior, so looks like I'll be heading back home for a bit of fun.

3. What's your training regimen been like?

Training has been really fun, but actually extremely difficult. Unlike most other sports and disciplines, you have to be good at everything because you have no idea what is going to be thrown at you. So, rock climbing and parkour are a good start, which I started learning last November, and then it's just a heap of exercises. I don't do weights at all because I want to be light and agile, so a lot of body weight exercises and then a heap of training on obstacles where I can and swinging off all the things.

I actually developed a few tendonitis/overuse injuries because I just threw myself into training trying to develop all the muscles and all the skills. Now I'm a lot smarter and have structured three rest days a week into my training week so that I give myself a chance to recover and give all the tendons and fascia around the muscles to develop.

4. Why did you need to move to Portland, Oregon, and what are your plans leading up to appearing on the show in 2017?

I ended up in Portland, Oregon purely by accident. We had no idea it might be the fittest city in America when we moved here. We had no idea there was so much rock climbing and snowboarding and cycling to do here. We only knew of Portland from the television show Portlandia, so really, we had no idea what we were in for. I love it here now; it's such a fun city, and everyone is so active and health conscious. It's amazing.

5. Would you tell us a bit about your website and anything else you'd like readers to know about you?

I initially started www.australianninjawarrior.com.au just as a way to keep track of my own training for American Ninja Warrior. In my training, I've found that America has such a vibrant and supportive community of Ninja Warriors--it's the course versus everyone, so all the Ninja Trainers, Rock Climbers and Parkour Freerunners I've met have been so generous with their time and knowledge that I wanted to share that with my fellow Australian Ninja Warriors, so I’ve changed www.australianninjawarrior.com.au to be a one-stop shop for this budding community and sharing my experiences and training tips. When I first started training, I found it really hard to find any information on how to start, what do to, how to tackle anything, so I'm trying to remove that barrier for my Aussie Ninjas.

Thanks, Adam!

Meet Robert, Owner of My Matcha Tea

My Matcha Tea is Australia's premier tea shop. They sell premium grade Matcha Tea blends to customers worldwide. Matcha Tea 100% pure, organic certified, vegan friendly, stone ground green tea leaves. Learn more about the shop's offerings by visiting their catalog at www.mymatchatea.co/matcha.

Our interview is with Robert, the owner of My Matcha Tea.

1. For people who haven't tried matcha before, what are your favorite things about this type of tea?

My favorite thing about My Matcha Tea is definitely the boost of energy I get from it. Within the first seven days of drinking My Matcha Tea, I found myself more focused and engaged in what I was doing.

2. How do you choose the teas that you offer for sale in your shop?

We work closely with tea distribution farms in Japan. We look for farmers that show a real passion for the tea they grow. Our tea loving farmers are the best in the world when it comes to creating the perfect matcha tea blend.

3. What distinguishes matcha from other green teas and organic teas?

The most obvious thing that separates matcha is the look of the tea powder. It is ground into a super fine powder between granite stone, and packed fresh. The thing that gives matcha tea its bright green color is that it is grown under shade for two weeks, causing the plant to produce more antioxidants than regular green tea.

4. How did your shop first come to be, and what inspired its creation?

My Matcha Tea was created by a noticeable lack of premium matcha tea available in Australia. We wanted to make it easy and affordable for people all over the world to engage easily in this traditional Japanese art.

5. What else would you like our readers to know about My Matcha Tea?

If you've thought about trying matcha tea, now is the time. We offer a range of affordable premium tea blends with a global satisfaction guarantee.

Thanks, Robert!

Meet Daniel M Robinson, Author

Daniel M. Robinson is an Australian author. Now living in Bundamba, he was born in Sydney and grew up in Tweed Heads, graduating from Tweed River High School. Writing in a variety of genres, Daniel is best known for his science fiction, the genre toward which he has the strongest affinity. He was raised on Star Trek and Star Wars.

Daniel is a family man through and through, and he shares his home with his loving wife, their child, his two children from a previous marriage, and her two children from a previous marriage. Daniel owns two pets, a snake named Memphis and a Great Dane named Freya, who accompanies him everywhere he goes.

Learn more about Daniel on his author page on Facebook, and check out his latest book on Amazon.

1. I was intrigued by the description of your novel and wondered how you chose the year 2981 as the time when the novel is set?

I selected the year as I wanted to set the story towards the end of a troubled century. The 30th century in the Fatal Conflicts universe is, was, will be a very dark, dangerous time for humans and other beings. Also the notion that humans will evolve into better, more tolerant, loving, respectful etc. in the future has always bugged me. So I thought it'd be nice to see what we're like thousand years into the future. And frankly, I don't see humans changing too much from what we are now.

2. What is the most fun part of writing a novel for you--and what part is the most challenging?

The fun part? Hmmm...I don't know if I could say what a single fun part is. I love getting the plot worked out, then character development. Also, I find it intriguing to watch characters grow and become more than I first imagined them to be. Those are some of the most enjoyable parts for me, but the process of creating the story from start to finish is all really great fun.

The most challenging part? Editing, I find that the most challenging. I find it very difficult to allow someone else to make suggestions or want plot points changed, however small the request may be. I'm lucky since my publisher also edits my work and she doesn't get too uptight when I fight her ideas. However, I DO listen, think about it, and even if I don't like it but see that it works for the story, I don't protest and we work it out. Also it means she (editor) gets a victory now and then and I get to use that to keep other parts unchanged or unaltered.

3. What is your "day job," and how do you find time for writing?

I own a small movie/toy/collectable business. Finding time to write is always difficult with work and family life, but being a very early riser I find a couple of hours a day, at least, to write. Some days I get lucky and can have a half day were I escape and write.

4. Who are some of your fellow Australian writers whose work you admire?

Pat Ritter is a wonderful Australian author and a complete gentleman. When I was getting started as an author, Pat helped me out a lot. He put me in touch with a few people and I've always appreciated that. I very much enjoy Australiana stories and Pat has several great short books that I just love to read.

Another Australian author that I would have to acknowledge that I admire is my grandmother. I remember reading Elephant in the Kitchen, a book she wrote, and loved it. I think she is where I get my story telling/writing talent from.

5. Are you currently at work on any writing projects?

Yes. I'm in the process of writing Fatal Conflicts 4, while also plotting out two other stories. I always stay busy with writing something new and I love it.

Thanks, Daniel!

Introducing Angela Millar Soul Art on Etsy

Everybody knows that I love Etsy shops, and even more so, I love to showcase Etsy sellers here on my blog. Most recently, I've discovered the shop of an Australian artist named Angela Millar.

Angela's work includes original paintings, travel photographs, greeting cards, and prints. Her art covers a variety of themes that reflect nature, spirituality, and mythology. I like the diversity of her work; as I scrolled through her listings, I was sometimes surprised by an image that I didn't expect. For example, paintings of Ganesh and the Buddha were followed by paintings of a regal flamingo and a smiling mermaid. Angela's image of the Buddha included in this post is called "Young Buddha."

The profile page on Angela's Etsy shop reveals that she took up art less than five years ago when she moved from Sydney to a small seaside town in New South Wales. As another person who loves the sea, I can perceive the influence of the coastal locale in her work in the swirls of color and the feelings she conveys of the natural world.

There's much to like about her work, and my own favorite pieces are the ones that depict animals, such as this beautiful peacock print of a painting called "One Hundred Eyes" which I think would appeal to art lovers of all ages, young children included.

In Angela's own words, "One of my favorite subjects to paint is Buddha, and a favorite medium is acrylic paint, I love using rich and vibrant colors thickly layering them onto the canvas to create interesting textures."

By the way, her artwork has also been published in a coffee table book called Amazing Australian Artists, compiled by ArtMeGallery.com.au. This book is carried by The Art Gallery of NSW, which is a great honor for her. Angela's painting "Blue Buddha" has been used as the cover image of the inspirational book, Wisdom Within: Awakening the Empowered Woman, by L.H. Owens. I suspect that we will be seeing her work published in many more places over the next few years.

Check out https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/AngelaMillarSoulArt and explore her work for yourself! I love that Etsy brings artists all over the world to everyone's doorstep with just a couple of clicks.

Meet Marcela Del Sol, Writer

Marcela Del Sol is an Australian writer, philanthropist, and social activist, soon to launch her new book. Marcela works on cultural and social projects with kids at risk in Chile. She co-exists with PTSD & DID. Visit her online at www.marceladelsol.net.

1. What is the title of your forthcoming book, and would you tell us a little more about it?

"KAELIDESCOPE" is a fictional story based on my experience living with PTSD and DID. It will be available by March 2016. It has erotica, thriller, crime and semi-biographical elements that linger through the dramatically different "lives" of the same person: a beautiful woman, the daughter of a drug lord, who has been through trauma since early in her life.

2. What inspired you to write your book?

It wasn't inspiration but rather a sense of cleansing, a need to free myself from what, to some extent, burdens me that pulled me, literally, to write it. I want to contribute to eradicate the stigma and shame associated with mental illness; I want to show the world how capable people like me are. Writing is my tool so I am using it for it.

This book is a baby of passion, courage, and insomnia.

3. How did your previous work as a ghostwriter prepare you to write your own book?

It only did in a practical sense; this is a completely different scenario for me and the most difficult of all as I had an idea and the knowledge about what I wanted to convey but not a schedule or guidelines or anything that provided me with structure or a linear path, which generally exists when you write for someone else.

It was also somehow taking a piece of me and leaving it out in the open for all to see, which is very scary, but I need to do it not only for me. Nothing prepares you to undress your soul to strangers and although the stories in the book are fictional, the process of it all is something intimately aligned with my reality.

4. What would you most like people to know about the experience(s) of living with mental disorders?

As my wonderful editor said to me: I am not broken. This made me think that perhaps "we" are touched by some kind of magic wand (I don't mean it in a literal sense!) that allows us to experience life and emotions at a more profound level that most. I would like everyone to be able to rid of the shame and the silence that accompany mental illness. Feel valid because you are amazing! You go through life with a much bigger weight on your shoulders; know you can be whoever you decide to be and take that power with you wherever you go.

I strongly believe in the power of one: I know that coming out and telling a bit of what is like to live like me will impact at least one more person and so on, and I hope one day we live in a world that knows and understands and doesn't discriminate because of ignorance.

5. What are your goals and hopes for the new year, 2016?

2016 will be a year of implementation and to harvest. I have decided to make some drastic changes in my life, including spending an extended period in Chile where I was born; this means my children will stay in Australia with their Dad and although my heart feels only half full, it is something I must do in order to regain certain degree of balance.

I have social projects that I want to start developing further, like encouraging kids at risk to communicate and/or enjoy art. I've been talking to some other people in the arts world and am very interested to connect and form a collective to use our combined powers to create better societies where it is most needed.

In the world of words, I am working on a dark/erotica poetry book, but living with DID means things can be very inconsistent at times so the plans could change or grow. I only clearly know that I want my kids to be happy, I really just want to be a good human being, and I hope to contribute wherever I can. I practice gratitude, and I would like to reciprocate the opportunities I have, for I believe no one should be not allowed to explore their full potential and to experience happiness.

Thanks, Marcela!

Meet Marie Kapetanakis, CEO of Kosmea Australia

Marie Kapetanakis is CEO of the Kosmea Australia skin care company, whose products are underpinned by the healing properties of certified organic rose hip oil. Founded in the year 1993 by Marie, the company has grown from a home-based business in Adelaide, Australia, to an international success story. Kosmea products are now sold around the globe in fine department stores, pharmacies, and beauty shops.

1. What is rose hip oil, and why is it good for your skin?

Rose hip oil comes from wild rose hips and is naturally rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants that are essential for skin health. These are vital for our general health and the health of our skin, but our bodies are unable to produce them. Essential fatty acids help to regenerate skin cells and to repair damaged skin tissue, and it is the essential fatty acids in rose hip oil that quench dry, sun damaged skin and help to improve the appearance of burns, scars, wrinkles, and stretch marks. Rose hip oil is rich in a natural source of vitamin A, known as trans-retinoic acid. Research shows that topical trans-retinoic acid is effective in helping to prevent premature aging caused by sun exposure. When skin is exposed to the sun, it can increase levels of enzymes that lead to the breakdown of collagen and elastin. The trans-retinoic acid in rose hip oil reduces the activity of these skin-damaging enzymes, reducing damage caused by the sun. Rose hip oil is a natural source of antioxidants that protect tissues in the body. Rose hip oil is rich in a range of antioxidants, including beta-carotene and lycopene, which help to protect and repair skin from premature aging caused by modern living.

2. What is rose hip oil used for?

Rose hip oil can be used by any skin type, including oily skin and the most sensitive skin types. It is suitable for all ages from newborn babies to seniors. It can be used during and after pregnancy to promote smooth elastic skin and help to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. In general, rose hip oil will relieve and improve the appearance of: scars, burns, wrinkles, stretch marks, acne, dry skin, sun damage, pigmentation, uneven skin tone, oily skin, rashes, age spots, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, diaper rash, and cradle cap.

3. Why is Kosmea Rose Hip Oil the best?

Our oil is produced in Australia by a family-owned and operated company that is dedicated to ethically sourcing hand-picked, wild grown rose hips. Our 100% certified organic rose hips are sourced from the Maluti Mountains of Lesotho in southern Africa, where rose hips grow wild and are not commercially farmed. The region is 10,000 feet above sea level, resulting in high rainfall, clean air, and plump, juicy rose hips. The area is certified organic, which means no artificial fertilizers or pesticides are used. Kosmea uses the entire fruit, skin, and seed of the rose hip to extract the oil. The seed is rich in many of the essential nutrients that make rose hip oil so good for the skin and is responsible for giving Kosmea Certified Organic Rose Hip Oil its rich amber color. Oil is extracted from the oil hips without heat or solvent in a process using CO2 supercritical extraction. Heat, air, water, and light can all affect the quality of rose hip oil, and so these are avoided as much as possible during the manufacturing process.

4. Do all of your products use contain rose hip oil?

Our signature product, Kosmea Certified Organic Rose Hip Oil is pure rose hip oil and guaranteed to contain a minimum of 80% essential fatty acids! Our other all-natural skin care products are formulated around organic rose hip oil along with the finest herbal, plant, and flower extracts from Australia and around the world. We offer cleansers, exfoliants, moisturizers, and healing balms and oils.

5. Where can I find Kosmea Rose Hip Oil in the United States?

We recently intensified our efforts to add traditional retail outlets in the USA. But you can always find all of our wonderful products online at www.kosmea-usa.com with free shipping to any location in the country.

Thanks, Marie!

Meet Cansu Olce, Mathematician and Tutor

Cansu Olce is a mathematician who has been tutoring for seven years. She is preparing a mathematics competition for high school students in Brisbane, Australia in April of 2016. The profit will be donated to Australian cancer research foundation. Learn more by visiting her website at www.astarmaths.com.au.

1. How did you first come to feel a strong interest in mathematics?

I was always attracted to the challenge of thinking and the process of logic since primary school. I enjoy mathematics a lot. It can be used to define the symmetry in nature or manage global companies. I feel that the elegance and logic of the subject is the reason for my desire to study it at a more advanced level.

2. What techniques would you use to be sure that a student understands?

Every parent wants to learn the answer of this question. I ask students if they understand. If so, I give them a practice question and give them some time to attempt it. If they can do it, I move on to slightly more advanced questions. If they cannot solve the question, I do it together with them, and explain again along the way.

3. Would you tell us more about the mathematics competition you're organizing for April of 2016?

The mathematics competition will be for high school students in Brisbane. There are two categories, junior and senior. There are 25 multiple choice questions in the booklets. The top three students in each category will be awarded with cups. A participation certificate will be given to every student in the competition. This is an opportunity for students to discover their talents in maths and also to help cancer patients. All the profit will be donated to Cancer Council Australia.

4. How did you decide on the charity to receive the profits from the competition?

My dad is fighting colon cancer. I know how hard to deal with this illness. Every donation makes a vital difference to researchers' ability to speed up discoveries in cancer prevention, diagnosis, and cure.

5. What is your best advice for students of all ages who are struggling with math?

We are only human, and we can make mistakes. Don't be ashamed! When you are feeling unsure about a problem, ask questions. In mathematics you need a lot of practice. Practice makes perfect. You can't improve your maths skills without practicing. Take advantage of the resources around you. Stay positive. You can't get high marks with a negative attitude.

Thanks, Cansu!

Meet Guy Rogue, Founder of Male Review

Guy Rogue is the guy (no pun intended) behind Male Review. He has the aim to take on all Australia, providing hens and girls nights services to any location in Australia so no girl is left missing out! He is always taking on new guys that are in shape so that there is always a guy available ready to entertain or waiter at any event, any time!

1. How did Male Review first get started?

I actually started working with other agencies for close to a year as a topless waiter. I thought the money was ok, but when I found out that we are actually only getting a tiny percentage of the figures, I was pretty dumbfounded. So I thought I would start my own biz and give most of the earnings back to the guys as they deserve.

2. Do most people hear about your company online, or do a lot of your bookings come from word of mouth?

At the moment it is all online. We are in the process of trying or organise shows, similar to what you saw in the Magic Mike movie, but our men are better!

3. I'm sure looks are very important, but what other qualities are important in making hiring decisions for Male Review?

Looks are important, but we are looking for guys that are really in shape rather than just attractive. Also, if a guy wants to strip for Male Review, he obviously needs to know how pull off the moves and not be shy! They also need to be very respectful when they speak to the girls, and charming, too--this also applies to our male topless waiters.

4. For women who haven't hired a stripper or topless waiter before and are feeling a bit nervous perhaps, what's your advice?

That's only normal to be a bit nervous--I mean look at the guys! Our Male Review strippers do not have to do a full monty: it is really up to the girls as it is their night, so they are in charge! Also, our Male Review topless waiters are harmless, just an ordinary guy that brings you drinks on demand, with a good body, without a shirt on, and very charming hehe.

5. When it comes to party planning, what kind of venue is best for a performance--and what else should a party planner keep in mind to make sure that her party is a success?

Anywhere! Our guys can perform strip shows and waiter anywhere, as long as it is not in the freezing cold as I am sure you can probably guess why. However, there are a few tips on how to make the most out of your party which we will be blogging about soon. So be sure to always check out our website and follow our social pages such as Facebook. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us via the website.

Thanks, Guy!

Introducing Guardia, a Security and Private Investigations Company

Guardia is a full-service security and private investigations company offering services Australia-wide and sometimes involved in international projects. Since opening in 2002, due to the niche of the business and great quality services, Guardia has expanded rapidly, servicing all sorts of clients and VIPs for all types of matters.

1. What are some of the most common services that Guardia provides?

Guardia specialises in a range of highly professional skilled services such as private investigations, personal bodyguards, VIPs escorts, and even international security.

2. I think that a lot of people imagine individuals hiring private detectives, but would you tell us more about the commercial work you do in investigating white collar crimes?

White collar crime is a very serious issue. The multi-million dollar price tags attached to some economic crimes are so staggering I don't even know where to begin! There are so many different issues that arise in these areas; however, we do have professionals that can carry out a wide range of services such as workplace theft, frauds, intellectual property theft, commercial espionage, insurance investigations, and much more.

3. What should someone look for to make sure they are hiring the best private investigator for either a personal or business matter?

Guardia is a member of the Australia Security Industry which only recognizes companies that are at the highest level of security professionalism. We also offer international services for some of the biggest organizations. Due to our policy of protecting our clients' privacy, we cannot really discuss the details.

4. In addition to your work in Australia, what sorts of jobs does Guardia handle internationally?

As mentioned just now, we cannot get into too much detail. However, we have provided a range of services such as transporting high amounts of cash security with the assistance of our highly trained and armed guards. We have also been involved with escorting some of the world's most important people safely without any breaches.

5. What is a good rule of thumb for knowing when to hire private investigation or security services, and when to call the police or other authorities?

A lot of innocent people and organizations never get the justice they deserve due to lack of evidence provided to the higher authorities. Before getting authorities involved, it is important to have professional and documented evidence, which is what we can provide for you. This is one of the many services we can provide at Guardia.

Thanks!

Meet Abel Kalpinand Prasad of Abel Kalpinand Prasad Financial Services

Abel Kalpinand Prasad is based in Sydney, Australia and is about to launch a company called Abel Kalpinand Prasad Financial Services. The idea of the new company is to help low income earners achieve affordable loans. Abel worked in the banking industry for twenty years for Commonwealth Bank, Police Credit Union, and Bank of New South Wales. He has a beautiful wife named Annelise Oriti.

1. What motivated you to launch your own company, Abel Kalpinand Prasad Financial Services?

In early 2006, I was working for Bank of New South Wales as a private banker. I completed numerous tasks for the top 1% of Sydney's richest. Whilst working for them, I noted that the majority of them did have to worry about loan repayments. They had too much money and spent it on worthless items.

I started to get bored and moved to retail banking and saw everyday people come in worried about how they would make their next repayment. They couldn't afford the increasing interest rates. It was then I decided that we needed to start a business to help them manage their expenses and keep up with their repayments.

2. Would you tell us a little more about the services your company will provide?

We have sixteen private investors who have pulled together a sum of $45,000,000 of which we will provide people with low percentage loans.

3. What are some of the most important things you've learned in your twenty years of experience in the banking field?

Only that family is important, and you must always look after your family before work.

4. How would you describe the financial climate of Australia today, and what can Australians do to improve their own financial profile?

The market is very volatile at the moment. More and more people tend to borrow instead of using their own money.

I've taught my children only spend what you have. If you don't have the money, don't spend it.

5. On a more personal note, what do you and your wife like best about living in Sydney?

We love the outdoor environment and the relaxing nature of the suburbs.

Thanks, Abel!

Meet S.J. Brown, Author

S.J. Brown is a crime fiction writer in Tasmania where his D.I. Mahoney series is set. A former Humanities teacher and soccer coach, he is working now on the next two volumes in his "whydunnit" series.

Find his books on Amazon: High Beam and Dead Wood.

1. What inspired you to start writing mysteries?

I suppose it was an abiding love of the genre. The old maxim is "to write about what you know." Well, having immersed myself in murder mysteries for decades now, I feel I know them pretty well. My bookshelves are stuffed with the works of UK writers such as Colin Dexter, P.D. James, Ian Rankin, and Peter Robinson. Among the Americans I always return to Michael Connelly, and from "Down Under" it's hard to go past Peter Temple and Michael Robotham. You pick up the characteristics of compelling crime fiction almost by osmosis.

Apart from the sheer entertainment value of murder mysteries, they allow a writer to examine characters under extreme pressure. And there is always the element of seeing how a society really functions in its pursuit of justice.

2. How would you describe your main character, D.I. Mahoney?

Detective Inspector John Mahoney is something of an "outsider." He lived abroad (England) for a substantial part of his career before returning to Australia. So he struggles to re-adjust to the cultural mores of his hometown. Through his eyes, the reader is able to critically view what many unthinkingly take for granted. He is unmarried but seeks personal stability: he feels he has missed the boat in the relationship sense. His is an ongoing struggle to understand his place in the world.

But not in his professional life. Here he is a scrupulous and committed investigator. His moral compass is steady as he seeks not only to solve his cases but to bring a strong level of accountability to bear. Something of a loner in life he is a natural leader when working on a homicide case. It is then that he can keep his insecurity at bay.

3. What's the difference between a "whodunnit" and a "whydunnit"?

Within a traditional "whodunnit," there are a range of suspects and the detective cunningly solves the mystery. My concept of a "whydunnit" is that the case still requires a thoughtful solution, but there is a much greater emphasis on why characters act the way they do. In particular, why are relatively normal people "driven" to commit the ultimate crime? Many writers are good at laying out the pressures faced by investigators, but I am aiming also to explore the reasons my perpetrators enact "bloody murder."

4. Would you tell us a bit about the setting of your books?

The D.I. Mahoney series is set in Tasmania. A smallish state, by antipodean standards, it is located south of mainland Australia. Its violent convict history and island status set it apart from the rest of the nation. Geographically, it is a rugged and inhospitable place but also a locale of staggering beauty. Formerly the butt of derision, it has become an emblem of artistic creativity and tourist potential. In a real sense, it is a microcosm of the macrocosm: it is an ideal size in which to set mysteries that consider modern society.

5. How are you enjoying the transitions from teaching and coaching into fiction writing?

For a few years now, I've been scaling down my teaching commitments to devote my time to writing as well as I can. I certainly don't miss marking essays! I do miss my involvement in coaching sport, but I've committed to being an author and that takes dedication and effort. Regardless of what commercial success I attain, there are few better places to be than at my desk, in the "zone." In the same way that a good novel transports the reader, I have discovered the satisfaction of traveling to that fictional world where the magic happens.

Thanks, S.J.!

Meet Mark Merriman of The Nerds Blog

Mark Merriman describes himself as a life long nerd. He's 22 and just moved from Australia to Los Angeles. Mark runs a new blog called The Nerds Blog. It's a straight-to-the-point sort of blog, with a light-hearted feel and a strong sense of personality behind it.

1. What's your own definition of what it means to be a nerd?

Being a nerd is something that was once looked down upon. The words "nerd" and "geek" have been used as insults, and it's something I just don't understand?! Who created the iPhone you use every day? Who created Facebook? Who developed Call of Duty and all your favorite games? A bunch of nerds and geeks who said "NO!" to the social norms and continued on with their passions. My definition of a nerd is someone who dedicates time to a certain passion without caring about the "social consequences."

2. What are some of your favorite ways of nerding out?

Turn the lights low, close over the curtains, open up my computer, and spend the next four hours immersing myself in the fantasy world of my choice! Today I might raid villages as an Orc in World Of Warcraft--will I see you on the battlefield? :)

3. Why did you decide to start The Nerds Blog?

I wanted to create a streamlined, clean-looking website with RELEVANT geeky topics! Want to see where to get a portable SNES? Look no further!

4. What are some topics you hope to cover on the blog in the weeks and months to come?

Our articles range from the best Animes, latest video game news, cool gadgets that you need in your arsenal, and science that is explained in a way that our average reader can understand!

5. On a personal note, what's it been like moving from Australia to Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is a massive change from Brisbane, Australia. With the same amount of people as half of Australia's population in this one city, it's crazy how much is happening! If you want to make something of yourself, LA is the place to be! Also, the coffee here is semi-decent ;)

Thanks, Mark!

Meet Costa Vasili, CEO of Sydney Translations

Costa Vasili is the CEO of Sydney Translations, a premium translation agency in Australia providing NAATI accredited and certified professional translation services in over 150 languages. The people at Sydney Translations believe that communication is at the very core of a well-functioning society and because of this, they work with the private and public sector to ensure communication can occur across linguistic barriers.

1. As a translation service based in Australia, what languages are you most commonly asked to translate?

At Sydney Translations, the languages that we get the most requests to complete translation projects in are largely influenced by the migrant populations that have moved to Australia over many decades. Our top ten languages that we work in are Malay, Spanish, French, Italian, German, Arabic, Chinese, Greek, Croatian, Thai, and Portuguese. These languages are in keeping with large migrant populations that have moved to Australia.

2. How do you find the best translators to work for your company?

The best translators that we work with are ordinarily found through our industry contacts and through recommendations. The best translators conduct themselves in a professional manner, meet their deadlines, and check for accuracy before submitting translation deliverables. Building a strong relationship with your translation team helps to build trust and mutual respect, leading to a long and successful partnership. For example, an Arabic translator in Sydney that we work with has never missed a deadline in over 100 assignments and has always received positive feedback from our clients.

3. What are some factors that keep your services so affordable?

Utilizing the latest in technology to drive process improvement and efficiency is absolutely essential to ensuring that we can provide an extremely affordable translation service. At Sydney Translations we operate an extremely lean delivery model to ensure that there are no unnecessary overheads being added to our clients' invoices.

4. When it comes to effective translations, what helps translators achieve speed in their work while also maintaining a high degree of accuracy?

There are a number of Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) tools that translators can use to improve translation accuracy and speed up work. CAT tools help to predict translations, remove repetition, and utilize glossaries to improve translation accuracy.

5. For people seeking translation services, what would your advice be in terms of how to find the best translators for their specific job?

To find the best translation service for your needs, ensure that you work exclusively with translation professionals (not bilingual friends or colleagues). Just because someone can speak two languages doesn't mean that they can effectively translate for you, particularly when it comes to technical subject matter. Seek out translation agencies that work with accredited translators and that are able to explain to you how their unique translation delivery model can help you maintain translation accuracy whilst meeting deadlines and working within your budget.

Thanks, Costa!

Sustainable Hotels and Australia Venture Capital Holdings Limited

Abel Prasad, partner of Australia Venture Capital Holdings Limited, has announced on behalf of the owners of the company that they will be investing a further $10,000,000 into sustainable hotels.

Known for being a playboy, it's rumoured that his fiancee, Annelise Oriti, a Brisbane-based student, has helped change the path of the company.

Abel Prasad and Annelise Oriti have recently become engaged, and her vegan lifestyle has made an impact on the very private family and their companies.

A source within the company has stated that Abel's mother has become very friendly with Ms. Oriti and in turn is spending millions on changing the direction of the company to ensure that it is green by 2016.

Shareholders are not happy as their profits diminish, but a statement by the company insists that the initial expense will be worthwhile.

This could be the start of a successful company and relationship between Annelise Oriti and Abel Prasad.

Meet Liv Kirby, Actor, Dancer, and Model

Liv Kirby was born in Queensland, Australia and was brought up in Sydney and Melbourne. Liv began acting classes at age 12 at the National Theatre in the heart of Melbourne.

From acting Liv then started exploring the world of dance, and by age 15 she was dancing professionally in renowned hip hop crews situated in Melbourne. In 2012 Liv received her Diploma of Modeling and Business of Modeling from the Model Academy and since has been involved in many photo shoots as well as had the opportunity to walk for L'Oreal.

In July 2012 Liv made the move to the United States to take part in the Hollywood Immersive program at Margie Haber Studios in L.A. She then found her love for New York and relocated there. Since her move, she has been undertaking training in Musical Theatre and will be graduating from New York Film Academy in February which will take her onto her next chapter.

1. How did you first become interested in acting?

I first began acting classes at age 12, and at that time what drew me to acting were films I had seen and actresses who were around my age, such as Dakota Fanning--I really admired her talent and career because she could give such influential performances at such a young age, which gave me insight that this could be something I could do. I wasn't really introduced to the theatre till I was around 14. So I enrolled in acting for film classes first and then later also enrolled in acting for the stage.

I found acting as a way to express myself. When I was younger, I was painfully shy. I wouldn't talk to family or friends, and people at my school would spend hours with me just to see if I could say "Hi." So it was quite surprising that I really enjoyed acting. I guess I felt like when I was portraying characters, I didn't have to be myself--when I was acting, I was somebody else, and that helped me through my shyness.

2. What do you see as the connections between acting and dance?

Both of them to me are ways to express yourself in a creative way. Both of them allow you to put yourself, your emotions, and your experiences into an art form. I was taught by one of my wonderful teachers that "Words don't matter; they don't mean anything." It's all about your reaction. I find this so true--the powerful moments in plays are the reactions from one another. This goes for dance as well because your reaction to the music is what makes a piece so beautiful--the audience can tell when you are just doing choreography or when you are really embracing the music you're dancing too.

Acting and dance go hand in hand for me. I've seen dancers dance without feeling, and I can be guilty of that, too, when you're so focused on picking up the choreography because you might be in a class that's moving along really fast, or in an audition and trying to remember everything they're throwing at you. But in the end it's up to you to bring the movement to life, and that's when acting comes into play.

3. How do you balance your work as a model, dancer, and actor?

Right now, I'm focusing on acting, dance, and singing. I'm training full-time and developing my skills to their fullest potential and then will start auditioning and working again early next year upon my graduation. I've found with balancing everything it's important to do the things that excite you. There's nothing worse then working on a project that you don't enjoy: it's like working a job you hate. I'm horrible at saying no to things, so I found at times I really had to step back and work out my priorities. I just have to make sure that the projects I put myself forward for are things that I will happily commit myself to 100%.

4. What prompted your move from Australia to the United States, and how has your career developed following the move?

In 2012 I got into an acting program called Hollywood Immersive which was in L.A. It was an intensive for 10 days. I planned to stay for three weeks and see L.A., travel to San Francisico for a few days, and end the trip with New York. What was meant to be three weeks quickly changed to three months, and in that time I had fallen in love with NYC. After that I caught a flight back to Australia, packed up my room, and moved into a one-bedroom apartment in Manhattan with two other housemates.

Since 2012 I have learned SO much about the industry and about how important networking and education is. I've taken these few years to work on develop my talents and explore the art of auditioning in New York, which really is a career in itself, haha. I've meet so many wonderful people from directors to agents to Broadway stars to composers who have all given me such great advice that I've taken with me to auditions and classes and have been able to apply to my work. Networking I have learned is definitely a big part of starting off in New York--more than most of the time it's about who you know, so I definitely feel I'm on the right path.

5. As you look ahead to the next year or so, what do you hope to accomplish?

Once I finish the current training program I'm in early next year, I'm looking to going back out and auditioning as much as I can and taking the experiences that come my way. I will still keep taking classes as I don't think you ever stop learning and bettering yourself and your skills, so that will always play a big part to me. I've given myself a goal, and that's that by the time I'm 27 I'll have had my first Broadway show. I'm almost 21, so I'm going to work hard and stay motivated and dedicated to the arts and strive to reach that goal and enjoy my journey there.

Thanks, Liv!

Meet Emma, Blogger, Lawyer, and Traveler

Roots and Wings is a blog written by Emma, a lawyer and world traveler who lives in Melbourne, Australia. She describes her blog as sharing her journey to try and have roots (career, family, relationships, etc) at the same time as wings (travel!).

1. How did you decide on the title "Roots and Wings" (R.A.W.) for your blog?

I was on the plane coming home from eight months in Europe, and I was feeling very frustrated and torn about coming back to Australia to pick up my career. It took a few more years, several holidays, and a job change for me to realize that my frustration was a result of my struggle to "have it all." I was trying to lay down roots and a foundation, while still having the freedom to explore and spread my wings. At first, I didn't really know what to do with this realization. I briefly contemplated an ankle tattoo of "Roots & Wings" before the light bulb idea to start a blog. I think I made the right choice!

2. What helps you to balance your career as a lawyer with finding time for travel and other pursuits?

A strong work ethic and a good relationship with my boss. Although travel is a non-negotiable part of my life, I still view it as a privilege rather than an automatic right. I work hard, establish trust, and encourage my boss to value "performance over presence." If the work gets done well and on time, there's no reason to decline my holiday request. I very rarely have enough annual leave but am more than happy to take unpaid leave--you always seem to have the money or the time for a holiday, but rarely both. So, instead of trying to earn more money (although, that's always nice), I'm focusing on scheduling the time to actually spend it--preferably in the Mediterranean!

3. When you travel, do you prefer to do a lot of planning ahead of time about what you'll do when you visit a certain place, or do you prefer to let things happen more spontaneously?

I’m much more of a planner! I actually just wrote a post about this because I think that people (wrongly) assume all travelers are aimless wanderers. The perfect holiday needs to balance both, so that there is some pre-planned structure and space for spontaneity. Read more and get a copy of my template holiday planner here.

4. What would your advice be for people who want to travel internationally but feel hesitant somehow, maybe because of the expense of maybe because of the unfamiliarity of going abroad, etc?

Just do it. It will be challenging but it will be amazing. You can overcome a lot of those issues by researching and planning--work out a budget, research the cities, look at discussion boards, and find the best hostels/hotels. If you're not keen on solo travel, join a tour group, teach English, volunteer, or find work through companies like WWOOF or WorkAway. This is a great way to meet like-minded people, save money, have support, and get a really authentic experience.

5. As you imagine your future self, what do you picture yourself doing?

I'm not exactly sure, but I'm excited! I'd love to be in a role where I'm doing something strategic and innovative but able to work with my own hours and location--my career path is looking more like a scatter diagram than a line graph but it's not going to be a "cookie cutter" life and that's the main thing (http://www.therawlife.co/the-modern-career-staircase/). I'm currently exploring opportunities for another extended working holiday in 2015--six months split between NYC and Italy is the dream. I'm loving being a blogger, too, so hopefully Roots & Wings will take me somewhere amazing.

Check out Emma's posts here.

Thanks, Emma!

Meet Bianca Hendy, Musician and Songwriter

Bianca Hendy is 21-year-old musician and songwriter from Adelaide, Australia. Bianca's guitar skills and warming vocal talents complement each other perfectly to bring a raw and natural sound. Check out her work on SoundCloud, and follow her on Facebook.

1. Have you been interested in music since you were a small child, or did your interest come later?

Yeah, my interest sparked at a pretty young age. However, it wasn't till I was a bit older when I had the guts to be able to perform.

2. Who are some guitarists who have influenced you in developing your own style?

Um, that's a hard question as there's so many possibilities. Tom DeLonge was always up there.

3. As a songwriter, what's your process for writing a new song?

Well, normally I just pick up my guitar, start playing something random, and then sing along to it. I'm terrible as I never write anything down, so a lot of my songs get lost somewhere in the back of my mind.

4. How would you describe your music to someone who hasn't heard it before?

I'd describe it as a story: every song has a story behind it. It's normally based on someone I've come across and their story or my own.

5. What plans do you have for the next year or so in terms of releasing new music or live performances/touring?

Well, I'm currently in the process of working on my new ep titled "Cheap Rumours," and once that's done, we'll go from there!

Thanks, Bianca!

Introducing Enviro First Solutions

Enviro First Solutions is an Australia-based company which sells creative, affordable, environmentally friendly products suitable for individuals and governments alike.

Some of their most popular items are oil spill kits and absorbent kits which are designed to help with the cleanup of different sizes of oil spills. The kits are designed with environmental regulations in mind--for example, if you are a recreational boater, you still need to be responsible for any oil spillage when fixing your engine, etc.

The spill kits on the site include compact, easy to use kits for hobbyists as well as larger kits suitable for municipal use. There are spill bags, spill bins, and a product called Envirohold allows for easy removal and disposal of the spilled oil by making it mass together when in the water. The products are designed to be cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

The Enviro First Solutions website also includes a detailed description of silt fencing and how it helps prevent soil loss on construction sites or other areas where the land is being disturbed. This type of fencing is important in protecting habitats and keeping waterways and sewers from becoming clogged with sediment. The site gives details on design and placement of fences, and you can contact the company for more information about silt fence installation on your building site.

Personally, as I browsed the company's website, I was impressed with their biodegradable alternative to sandbags. Their Easy Bags come flat packed and contain a polymer which absorbs water and inflates so that it functions like a sandbag, but you don't have to shovel sand and haul heavy sandbags to build a barrier to protect yourself from flooding. As the video below says, "your threat becomes your solution" when water-filled Easy Bags function as a protective wall.

If you are in Australia and are looking for a friendly, knowledgeable group of people who are creating products to help protect the environment, check out Enviro First Solutions' website, or just give them a call or an email.