In 2018, I unexpectedly stepped into the role of managing my family’s GP practice due to my father's illness. Over the next few years, I guided the practice team through a period of unprecedented change and uncertainty. This included navigating a generational shift due to the sudden absence of both the senior GP and practice manager - my parents - as well as the upheaval brought on by the pandemic. Facing increasingly complex responsibilities and limited guidance, I recognised a critical need to elevate practice management and enhance patient care in Ireland.Driven by my passion for coaching and development, I founded GP Practice Ally (GPPA) to address these challenges. My vision centres on the principles of connection, collaboration, and support, creating a community of confident, empowered practice managers. Peer learning is at the heart of GPPA, and I’ve witnessed how shared experiences and collective insight can fuel professional growth and resilience, creating a space where practice managers thrive.Before healthcare, I gained valuable experience across a range of Irish businesses, from building social enterprises and revitalising brands to developing marketing strategies for iconic department stores and planning fashion ranges for major retailers. This diverse experience has shaped my approach to GPPA, where I apply fresh perspectives to enhance the operational and financial management of GP practices.My passion for mentoring was sparked during my time in Tanzania, where I had the privilege of teaching business skills to women. This transformative experience ignited a deep desire to empower others, a mission that I continue to pursue through my work with GPPA.My leadership was recognised with the Entrepreneur of the Year award at the Lincoln Recruitment Specialists Early Career Awards 2024, for strong community-building, my commitment to business values and for overcoming adversity. I was also named runner-up for Startup of the Year in the 2023 IMAGE PwC Businesswoman of the Year Awards.At the heart of my work is a belief in the vital role of effective practice management in the future of primary care. I am dedicated to ensuring practice managers feel valued and supported, helping them thrive and make a meaningful impact across the primary care landscape.You can read more on the GP Practice Ally story here: https://www.gppracticeally.ie/about