For 25 years, the Telstra Business Women’s Awards have celebrated the success of Australia’s female leaders and entrepreneurs. They recognise the exceptional work of women in leadership, to advocate for women in business, to help promote gender equality in the workplace, and to applaud the women who are paving the way for future generations.
Founder of Standing Strong, Kim Smith is the winner of the 2020 Telstra Business Women’s Award for Purpose & Social Enterprise WA.
Hi I’m Kim and welcome to Standing Strong. I’m a strong believer that the challenges we face in life are gifted to us as an opportunity to learn, grow and flourish. Through this belief I chose to view the experiences I went through as a young girl as an opportunity to create something special. A unique place where people can go to feel supported, uplifted and strengthened.
As a young girl I struggled with depression, anxiety, body image, bullying, low confidence and living in a loud and demanding world as a shy and sensitive introvert. My teenage years were sad, lonely and hurtful and as a result I chose to shut off from the world.
I thought I was the only one who was having a tough time and felt there was no one I could turn to who would understand. I know first had what it’s like to feel broken and empty and now live my life working to ensure others don’t have to feel this way.
Standing Strong is my life purpose, my passion, my heart and soul. The goal for Standing Strong is to be the support network, the inspiration, and the connection children and families need to thrive in this challenging world we live in. I hope children can feel connected and empowered and above all, use Standing Strong as a place to explore and grow their own individuality, self belief, confidence and inner strength.
KIM MARIE SMITH | Standing Strong Founder & CEO
“We are helping children to realise that no matter who they are, they deserve to feel supported, connected and inspired. They deserve to be treated with respect and kindness from others and they are valuable and worthy of safety, happiness and greatness in their lives”.
– Kim Marie Smith
Youth Coach, Personal Trainer…
Licensee Partnerships Leader
COO, Counsellor & Content…
Strong Mind – mindset | Strong Body – movement | Strong Heart – mindfulness.
At Standing Strong our unique program is designed to work with parents and communities to help educate, motivate, and inspire children to live to their full potential. Through our team of health and wellness specialists, we take a positive, uplifting and non clinical approach to supporting and empowering children and families.
Through our Strong Mind, Strong Body, Strong Heart classes children learn how to improve their confidence and self-esteem, build inner-strength and self-belief, grow friendships, improve their health and body-image, manage stress and gain the tools essential for living happy, healthy and inspired lives.
Mental health is the single greatest health crisis facing teens and families today. Depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and poor body-image are at the forefront of this crisis.
Our unique classes encourage children and teens to develop the mindsets and skills known to prevent social and health issues including depression, anxiety, stress, disconnection and lack of motivation and drive. At Standing Strong, all children are accepted, encouraged and celebrated for their individuality and uniqueness by our specialised team and fellow Standing Strong members.
Through the support and accessibility of our ongoing programs, parents can feel reassured knowing they are not alone and are being supported by a heart centred team, as the saying goes- “It takes a Village to raise a child”.
Through face to face and online programs, our purpose is to provide families and communities with affordable, professional and inclusive services that help to equip children with the confidence, connection and support needed to face the world Standing Strong!
