I am Dr Xanthe Golenko (nee: Wood), daughter, sister, wife, mother, friend, colleague; Australian (by birth), French (by marriage).

I was born in August, 1967 and I have lived in Canberra, Sydney, Gold Coast, Brisbane (Australia), Inatori (Japan), Barcelona (Spain), Paris, Nantes (France).  

In my life so far, I have been a gymnast, dancer, model, marketing and PR consultant, student, researcher, lecturer, mentor, and arts enthusiast. 

On my 56th birthday I left my full-time position as an industry-based researcher in the aged care sector. I loved my work, but I felt mentally drained from a heavy workload, excessive pressure, and challenging circumstances. I was becoming mentally and physically unwell and eventually, I burnt out. I had nothing left, and I knew something needed to change.

So, I have set out on a mission to transform my life into one that is more joyful and fulfilling. For me, that involves reconnecting with creativity, learning and relearning, exploring new places or old places from a new perspective, and contributing to the greater good. 

As part of this mission, I have created this website as a launchpad to document and share my personal transformation process, offer workshops in digital storytelling and participatory video, and shine a spotlight on some of my sources of inspiration and support.

I hope that sharing this information and providing opportunities to engage in deep reflective experiences through digital storytelling and participatory video will inspire others who want to explore their own identity and find ways to add meaning and fulfilment to their lives.