#FollowHelenQuinnLifeCoach
Helen Quinn is a dedicated Life Coach with over 25 years of experience helping individuals navigate life changes and unlock their full potential. Based in Northern Ireland, Helen is passionate about empowering people to make positive, lasting changes in both their personal and professional lives. With expertise as a Positive Intelligence Coach, she specialises in teaching clients how to recognise and manage negative emotions to enhance productivity, relationships, and overall wellbeing.
As part of the SheGenerate 4.0 cohort, sponsored by AIB, Helen is actively engaging with the AwakenHub community to build meaningful connections and grow her impact. Through her work, she is determined to become "The Positive Intelligence Educator for Northern Ireland," helping individuals and organisations thrive.
How would you describe yourself in 6 words or less?
Approachable, compassionate, authentic, inspiring, motivated, adventurous.
What prompted you to start your business?
I’ve always had a passion for helping people. Throughout my career in Careers Guidance, I noticed that individuals often seek support during times of change. This realization motivated me to train as a Life Coach and Positive Intelligence Coach. I wanted to help people make positive, lasting changes in their personal and professional lives, unlocking their potential to live happy, fulfilling lives.
Tell us a little bit more about you.
I am a qualified Life Coach, Teacher, Trainer, and Careers Advisor with over 25 years of experience in education, guidance, mental health, and wellbeing. Originally from Donegal, I now live in Tyrone with my husband and four children. I’ve taught in Northern Ireland and Zimbabwe, worked in careers guidance at three universities, job centres, and schools, and have also worked as a Mental Health Trainer. For the past four years, I’ve been running my own coaching business, delivering services across various sectors, including community, voluntary, public service, and business. My interests include outdoor activities like swimming, paddleboarding, hillwalking, as well as travel, family adventures, and volunteering.
How has your female founder journey been so far?
I’m grateful for the opportunity to work for myself and do what I love. The variety of work and the chance to meet people from diverse backgrounds is truly fulfilling. However, marketing and client generation have been challenging, and I’ve learned that building a business takes time and patience. I’ve also learned the importance of seeking help and making time for self-care. Ultimately, I’m motivated by the potential to help even more people and make a positive impact in their lives.
How did you hear about AwakenHub and what prompted you to apply for SheGenerate?
I first discovered AwakenHub at the SheVentures Conference in May 2024, where I was impressed by the supportive and knowledgeable community of women founders. After attending, I joined AwakenHub the following day and had the opportunity to speak on BBC Radio Ulster about my work. The network’s willingness to share advice and resources has been invaluable, and that inspired me to apply for SheGenerate 4.0. I’m excited about the opportunity to learn from like-minded women, gain practical business skills, and create a lasting network of support.
What have you gained from the SheGenerate process?
Engaging with a group of diverse women entrepreneurs has been inspiring and encouraging. We share insights, offer practical help, and build strong connections. The business classes, like Denise’s Value Proposition session and Claire’s Business Plan Essentials, have been particularly helpful. I’m looking forward to continued learning, networking, and support as I grow my business.
What does success look like to you in 12 months and 5 years?
In the next 12 months, I aim to expand my Positive Intelligence Training in the corporate and public sectors, helping improve positivity, productivity, and relationships. In five years, I hope to be known as ‘The Positive Intelligence Educator for Northern Ireland’ and beyond, continuing to empower individuals to realise their potential and live fulfilling lives.
What can the AwakenHub community do for you?
As one of the only certified Positive Intelligence Coaches in Northern Ireland, I’d love the opportunity to contribute written articles and speak on podcasts or radio shows to raise awareness of Positive Intelligence. Any help with introductions or opportunities would be greatly appreciated.
As a founder, what are your non-negotiables?
I believe in the values instilled by my parents: believe in yourself, be kind, be honest, help others, use your talents, see the glass as half full, and find reasons to laugh. For me, happiness is a choice, self-care is essential, and relationships are the most valuable asset we have. One of my favourite quotes is from Henry Ford: "If you believe you can, or you believe you can't, you are right."
Six words to live by:
Love, Help, Give, Laugh, Learn, Enjoy.
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