Life beyond Radford
Louise Gilding ( Griffin )
What does life look for you now?
I have been married for 23 years to Stuart (an amazing man) and we have two teenage daughters (our precious treasures). We love watching movies, walking the dog, singing, bushwalking, playing music loud, camping, reading aloud, surfing, kayaking, running (that's just me), hanging our with family and friends, drinking Ona coffee and eating cronuts! Life is good and we feel privileged and blessed to live and work in Canberra.
Tell us what you are passionate about?
I am passionate about ending street homelessness in CBR and stopping domestic and family violence by using my talents, qualifications and experience to solve 'wicked' problems and to deliver soultions that make our community a better place for everyone.
When you were young, what were you hoping to be when you grew up?
I was always a Jack of all trades and Master of none. So I didn't really know what I was hoping to be when I 'grew' up. I did know that I was good at bringing people together to get things done.
What is your favourite Radford moment?
So many....laughing hard as a fellow student chased (in vain) our 'loo with a view' down the hill at Blue Water Holes on year nine camp. Knowing that if Father Peter (6 foot 3 and wide) could fit through the 'wombat hole' then so could I. Gossan Hill just when you thought you were at the top.....there was a bend. Cold Cold Cold change rooms. Mrs Brownbill sending me to Mr Wig for having only one PE shoe (of all the misdemeanours!). My year 10 geography assignment involving weighing the neighbourhoods tin garbage bins at 4am (I'm sure that was a privacy breach). Playing Annie in Oklahoma at Llewwyn Hall. Capsizing a catamaran in the middle of Lake Jindabyne on year 7 camp - pride so comes before a capsize! Rostrum public speaking competitions (I feel suddenly nervous).
Do you have a particular role model or inspirational figure from Radford or now?
My parents. They sacrificed and worked hard to raise four children all the while serving their community. They continue to serve and will leave a legacy of integrity and kindness.
How easy was it to decide what to do in life?
Knowing how I was wired and what I liked doing made it easier to decide what to do after college. I had trusted people who shared insights with me about my gifts and talents. Knowing this made it easier to figure out my path (and all the options therein). Life is an adventure and a journey.....and you can try stuff and change your mind along the way!
Did your further study or career go exactly as you'd planned?
When I graduated from Uni unemployment was at an all time high at 8.5% and interest rates even higher at 10%. Even though I had a top education I had no experience and couldn't find a job. Signing up for unemployment benefits was not part of the plan!!! But then again being Chief of Staff to the Chief Minister was also not part of the plan........
What do you know now, that you wish you'd known when you were at Radford?
That you don't have to please everyone! Life is a marathon not a sprint so enjoy the journey. That my God is so pleased with me and has amazing plans and purposes for my life. That there is something to learn at every level, so don't be in rush.
What advice do you have for current students?
Say yes to the opportunities that come your way.
Finish well what you start.
An apology is powerful.
Humans are underrated.
Be the most prepared person at the table.
