Get in touch: hello@totalbalance.com.au
life coach melbourne
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    • Life coaching
    • Business Coaching
    • Leadership Coaching
    • Half-day coaching intensive
  • Workshops
    • Compassionate Conversations
    • Write Your Life Stories Workshops
    • The Confidence Course
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  • About
  • Coaching
    • Life coaching
    • Business Coaching
    • Leadership Coaching
    • Half-day coaching intensive
  • Workshops
    • Compassionate Conversations
    • Write Your Life Stories Workshops
    • The Confidence Course
    • Free Monday Talk & Meditation
  • Speaking
  • Retreat
  • Resources
    • Kate’s books
  • Blog
  • Contact
  • 0 items

Coaching for women who want clarity, confidence and calm

For over 23 years, Kate James has been offering coaching in Melbourne. Her clients are leaders, business owners, introverts and creatives who want to find direction, overcome perfectionism and live in alignment with their true values. Almost all of the women she works with experience self-doubt or feel ‘not good enough’ at times.

Working together will help you to:

  • deepen your understanding of yourself
  • feel more confident
  • gain clarity about your direction
  • learn how to be a little kinder to yourself
  • set healthy boundaries
  • restore your energy if you’ve been feeling depleted
  • navigate change in a courageous but mindful way
  • live a life with greater purpose and meaning.

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Kate James offers life coaching in Melbourne.

“For the first time in my life, I felt truly seen.”
Andrea

The women I work with

I work with women from all walks of life. Some are leaders, many are women starting their own business or side-project, others are women transitioning into retirement. Most describe themselves as sensitive, introverted, perfectionistic or feeling a sense of ‘imposter syndrome’ at times.  You may also find that some of the following qualities resonate.

  • You know how to fit into mainstream culture, but sometimes feel that there’s something missing.
  • You have a vigilant inner critic (and maybe you’re a little perfectionistic).
  • You might describe yourself as someone who thinks deeply.
  • Even if you don’t meditate, you like the idea of living consciously.
  • You care about living in alignment with your values.
  • You want to live a purposeful life.
  • You care less about the external measures of success and more about being true to yourself.
  • You feel restored by spending time in nature and care about taking care of our planet.
  • You might describe yourself as spiritual (even if you’re not entirely sure what that means to you).

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life-coaching-clients

What people say about Kate’s life coaching in Melbourne

Shannon

‘What I gained from spending this time with Kate was immeasurable. I felt completely relaxed with her, enough to speak openly about matters I was finding difficult and confusing – within the first thirty minutes she had me pegged! Her exercises were incredibly valuable and something everyone should do regularly to remind themselves of what they believe is important. Kate refocused me, helped me make some decisions I had been struggling with and gave me tools and resources to continue my learning and development. I knew I had her undivided attention for the duration of the session and that she was purely focused on helping me. The combination of discussion and meditation was ideal and the environment in which our session was conducted was serene and beautiful. Thank you, Kate.’ Shannon

Audrey

“Kate worked with me in a very powerful and honest way that helped me to leave the session empowered and with a completely different outlook on my future. She helped me to realise my true potential and to work with what I know and am very good at. At the moment I am working on my new own business, and am very confident about my choices.  Kate is very professional, wise and grounded and when working with you she is fully present and committed to you.” Audrey

Lisa

‘The discovery session was extremely beneficial as I’m at a point in my small business where I need to focus more on marketing but I’m also hamstrung by limiting beliefs and self-sabotage. We spent quite a bit of time exploring these limiting beliefs and ways I can overcome them. The meditation and the values mapping also helped bring it all together and the clarity I felt when we finished up was more than I’d had for a long time. I left with some very achievable action steps and have already begun implementing them. I would highly recommend the discovery session for any small business owner looking to make some changes.’ Lisa

Alison

‘Thank you for the discovery session this morning. The whole process of doing the strengths tests beforehand, the reflection in order to fill in the questionnaires, then spending a few hours with someone focusing purely on my needs has been totally indulgent and amazing. You are an excellent listener who has carefully guided my thinking and pulled it all together in the resources you have just sent me. I have always been my own ‘ analyst’ or ‘friend’, along with my partner, but to have someone else listening properly, without judgement, to what I really think/ feel/ want has been wonderful. I feel I have a real platform to launch my next 50 years ( or more!).’ Alison

Anita

‘I’d first seen Kate when she ran a meditation workshop at a retreat I attended. Her calm manner and positive energy spoke to me so when I was at a career/life crossroads and finding it hard to find clarity I booked a discovery session. I was looking for a holistic approach and a life plan, not just a career plan and that’s exactly what I got. Kate has a way of understanding people so she can work with them in exactly the way they need. From start to finish the whole process was a pleasure. It’s a few months down the track now and instead of procrastinating as I have a tendency to do I’ve implemented a number of actions from the session. Go me! And thanks Kate.’ Anita

Karen

‘The transformation of how I was feeling from the start of the session to the end of the session was amazing. My reason for seeing Kate was to help determine my next career move. Working with Kate has helped me identify a direction to move into and the steps required. But it’s not only my career that requires changes; I also need to tweak my personal life. Kate helped me see the “whole” picture.  I’m now in the process of setting some key goals, which are the foundations to the next exciting chapter in my life, one that is filled with love, fun, tenacity and self-respect. Thank you Kate!’ Karen

AJ

‘I don’t know how you manage to say everything that needs to be said in such a new, clear and fresh way. You really find a way to cover so much of the human experience. Today’s discovery session was really eye-opening for me and certainly gave me clarity. I look forward to being proud of myself because I am living in alignment with what feels authentic and true to my natural calling.’ AJ

Ella

‘I recently did the discovery session with Kate and found it an invaluable experience that went beyond my expectations. I have always struggled with recognising my strengths and overcoming behaviours that have stopped me from achieving what I want and finding my purpose. The session with Kate gave me clarity and I learnt a lot more about myself that I don’t believe I would have discovered on my own. Kate has a caring nature and an amazing ability to read people. The session really opened my mind to my true self, I feel I have found my purpose and how I change my behaviours and use my strengths to achieve my goals. I left the session feeling inspired and mindful. I recommend the discovery session to anyone struggling with reaching their goals and wanting to discover their purpose.’ Ella

Danielle

‘I attended a half-day session with Kate over six months ago. I found her to be warm, caring and very intuitive. She knew more about me than I knew of myself.  Kate has helped me grow and feel grounded in mind and body. She has an extraordinary view on a range of things and I can say without any hesitation that she is very good at what she does. I hope to do another session with Kate in the future where I share with her experiences of wonderful change in my life, giving a great deal of credit to her. Thank you.’ Danielle, Melbourne

Catherine

‘I’ve just experienced the profound effects of a Total Balance discovery session and would highly recommend this experience to anyone who is creating and growing a business enterprise or making changes in their personal and professional life. Kate James offers an enjoyable, uplifting and powerful coaching session in a serene, nurturing and beautiful environment. Creative time focused on your plans, needs and goals – this inspiring few hours resulted invaluable insights and action steps, providing time to self-review and recalibrate.  Kate offers useful insights and resources and I look forward to continuing this creative and practical journey with her over the next few months.’ Catherine

What is it like to work together?

My approach is to be kind, empathic, encouraging and supportive. During our work together, my focus will be on whatever is most important to you. Occasionally, if you’re trying to make sense of something, our conversation might feel similar to therapy, but we’ll be focused on moving forward, not staying stuck in the past.

In each of our sessions we’ll agree to some action steps and after your appointment, I’ll often send you additional worksheets and other resources.

Our sessions are conducted over Zoom or in-person (I’m located on the Mornington Peninsula).

Before we begin

We begin with a brief phone call to ensure we’re a good fit for one another. From there, I recommend starting with a single session. Before your appointment, I’ll invite you you to complete a brief questionnaire, reflecting on what you most want to get out of coaching.

Once we have established your objectives, we’ll chat about whether you’d benefit from enrolling in a program. This isn’t a requirement – many of my clients prefer to engage me on a casual basis.

How often do we meet?

We usually meet on a weekly or fortnightly basis for the duration of your coaching program. After the completion of the program, many of my clients continue with a monthly or quarterly appointment on an ongoing basis.

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About Kate

Like many of my clients, I spent my younger years in pursuit of perfectionism and often people-pleasing. I hadn’t yet learned about mindfulness, introversion or self-compassion.

I studied coaching and opened a practice where I could blend my business experience with my interests in psychology, creativity and mindful leadership with my love of deep conversation, and purposeful living.

These days my practice draws like-minded clients — women who care about kindness, connection and curiosity who are pursuing lives with purpose and meaning.

MORE ABOUT KATE
Kate James is a life coach in Melbourne.

Life coaching in Melbourne options

Single session

Begin with a 60-minute appointment, held online via Zoom or in-person on the Mornington Peninsula.

Fee: $275 AUD (includes GST)

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Three session program

3 x 60-minute appointments held online via Zoom or in-person on the Mornington Peninsula.

Fee: $795 AUD (includes GST)

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Five session program

5 x 60-minute appointments held online via Zoom or in-person. Option to pay in instalments.

Fee: $1,250 AUD (includes GST)

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Book a call

Get in touch to ask a question or discuss life coaching in Melbourne and what you’re hoping to get out of the experience.

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Frequently asked questions about life coaching in Melbourne

What is your background?

I founded Total Balance in Melbourne in 2002 after two decades working as business manager for filmmakers, architects and designers. After studying  business with a major in marketing, I changed direction and enrolled in a PCC Level Certification with International Coach Academy. I was one of the first Australian coaches to achieve a PCC accreditation with International Coach Federation in 2005.

My journey with meditation began in the early 1990’s and I have had a daily practice for over 30 years now. I began teaching meditation in the summer of 2003 in-person and in 2015, joined the world’s leading free meditation app, Insight Timer as an instructor, which is now home to over 30 million meditators.

I have trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) with Russ Harris, taken the Mindful Self-Compassion Intensive for Professionals (developed by Kristin Neff & Christopher Germer) and Internal Family Systems by Dr Richard Schwarz.

What are your fees?

My current fees are as follows:

  • $275 for a one-hour session
  • $795 for a 3 x session program
  • $1,250 for a 5 x session program (option to pay in 3 x instalments of $420)

Most people find that coaching is a one-off investment in themselves.  When you consider the impact of not feeling that you’re not on the right life path, coaching might become a necessity, not a luxury.

Do you only work with women?

While my work is especially tailored to support women, particularly those who identify as sensitive, thoughtful or high-functioning, I also work with men and people of all genders who resonate with my approach. I welcome clients from all backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse individuals, especially those who value creativity, inner growth and living with intention.

What's your coaching style?

My coaching style has been described as kind, calm, intuitive, wise, nurturing, non-judging and practical. My role is to be a great listener and to ask questions that will help you discover your own answers. I’ll share resources and therapeutic approaches that have worked effectively for me and other clients. My aim is to support you and help you believe in yourself so that you have the courage and confidence to move forward in your life.

Do I need to enrol in a program?

Not if you prefer not to. My clients begin with a single session to make sure we’re a good fit for one another and after that, you’re welcome to continue on a casual basis or enrol in a coaching program if you like the idea of ongoing accountability.

I'm not that interested in mindfulness. Does that mean you're not the right person for me?

Not at all. Not everyone we see is interested in mindfulness. Being mindful is really just another way of saying being present, curious, self-aware and non-judgmental. If those qualities appeal, you’ll enjoy working with Kate.

How does coaching work?

The objective of our work together is to help you create your own version of a fulfilling life. I’ll help you to understand your values and strengths, clarify your direction, create a clear vision, cultivate a positive mindset and we’ll work together to develop your sense of self-belief.

We begin with a single 60-minute session. For some people, a single session is enough while others engage in a longer-term coaching program or book follow-up sessions as they need them. I keep it all very flexible and don’t lock you into any contracts.

Isn't life coaching all a bit 'ra ra' and how you are different from those kind of coaches?

I have a low-key style and attract clients who say they’re not usually drawn to coaching. I’m not a high motivation, ‘high fiving’  kind of coach. Having said that, most people find that seeing a coach does motivate them to create change in their lives.

We’ll set some tangible goals and action steps that will help you to achieve your vision. For many people, change takes time and I respect that you’ll want to work at your own pace.

For the most part, my role is to support you. I’ll listen and empathise, but I’ll also help you to understand what gets in your way. My aim is to create a space where you feel listened to and understood, and one where you can start to imagine, and begin to create, a life that is more fulfilling.

I'm feeling a bit nervous. Is this normal?

It’s common for people to feel nervous about life coaching (or seeking any kind of support). Some clients worry about whether their issues are normal, whether it’s ok to speak about certain things in the coaching sessions or if they’ll appear silly for raising minor worries.

Please don’t be concerned at all. I’m and open and non-judgemental person and I’m here to support you in any way that I can. If something comes up in a session that I don’t feel I can help with, I’ll  help to direct you to the right kind of  support.

What is your cancellation policy?

I ask for 48 hours notice to change or cancel an appointment to give me time to find someone else to fill your place.

“Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”

Mary Oliver

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When I was taught to meditate, over thirty years ago now, the advice was very rigid. You had to practice twenty minutes, twice a day or you might as well forget it. For so many people who learned, this ended up being off-putting and often not realistic.These days, there are so many different approaches and it's much more flexible – which is exactly what we need.Almost everyone I work with is short of time, but they're still keen to be mindful. And the reality is, you can achieve this even in just a few minutes.In its simplest form, mindfulness is really about two things – paying attention and non-judgement. When you start there, you realise you can practice in so many small ways and the impact can still be incredible.You don't need to head off on retreat (although it is pretty amazing) or block out huge amounts of time to simply tune in and pay attention.Try one or more of these small pauses today:▫️ Drink your tea, coffee or water with your full attention. Slow it right down and notice what you taste, smell and feel – bringing a sense of appreciation.▫️ Take five long, slow breaths. Pay attention to extending your out-breath to engage your parasympathetic nervous system.▫️ Before you send an email or make a call, pause and think about your intention. What matters most in this interaction?▫️ When you're at your computer or using your phone, notice your breathing. It often becomes more shallow (or we hold our breath without realising).Small moments of mindfulness really do make a difference. A few simple pauses through your day can bring you back to calm, clarity and presence. 🙏#mindfulness #presence #selfawareness #mindfulliving #mindfulnessretreat
I’ve been thinking a lot about boundaries lately, mostly after chatting with my wise and insightful daughter, Meg and my wonderful colleague, Catherine. Both of these women know all about setting healthy boundaries. I still find it difficult at times, even though I'm aware how deeply this affects the way that I feel.Healthy boundaries aren’t walls that keep people out. They’re more like an inner framework that helps us stay true to ourselves while staying open to others.When our boundaries are clear and flexible, we can be giving and loving, and we can listen without feeling drained or resentful. When they’re blurred, we can feel overextended, irritable, and even anxious, not because others are asking too much of us, but because we’re not honouring our own limits and needs.If you’re wondering whether your boundaries are healthy, reflect on these questions this week. If you find yourself answering 'yes' to several, consider where you can be a little more true to yourself.✨ Do I say yes when I really mean no?✨ Do I feel guilty when I take time for myself?✨ Do I often feel responsible for other people’s feelings?✨ Do I worry about expressing my own needs and preferences?✨ After spending time with certain people, do I feel somewhat depleted?Healthy boundaries come from a place of self-respect. They’re not about shutting the world out, but about creating the conditions where connection feels safe, sustainable and uplifting.Like anything, our boundaries need care and attention. They can shift as we grow and change. They can strengthen as our self-respect deepens.Working on your boundaries isn’t about getting it perfect. It’s about noticing when you feel out of balance, pausing to listen, and making small, honest adjustments that bring you back into alignment. 💛#leadershipgrowth #healthyboundaries #womeninleadership #personaldevelopment #emotionalintelligence #mindfulleadership #selfawareness #confidentleaders
Yesterday I stumbled across some photos from the launch of my first book, Believe in Yourself & Do What You Love, held just over a decade ago. I’d forgotten how magical it was – the celebration of a lifelong dream to become a published author.It got me thinking about how so many of us, introverts in particular, rarely reflect on our best moments. The strength of humility is wonderful, but we can overuse it at times.As I flicked through the photos I remembered the joy of that night and how meaningful it was to share it with so many of my favourite people.So here’s an invitation for you this week. Scroll through old photos, glance back at your CV or spend some time reflecting and see if you can recall a moment you feel genuinely proud of (it doesn't need to be a big thing). And then, rather than keeping it private, share it with someone you trust. Let them know how it felt and allow yourself to re-celebrate. If it feels right, you might even share it more widely – perhaps in a post of your own.A big thank you to everyone who joined me on that fabulous night including my beautiful Meg, @ramaekerskaren, @enaproducts, @thewellbeingcorner, @lbeavan, @sarah.rudledge, @denu_australia, @lizzycphoto, @thegaleriefitzroy and many others I don't have photos of including @naids, @mindfulinmay, @ofkin, @christinaredlich, @louise_weigall, @linda.salo, @simbeever, @theholisticingredient, @corporatechillout, and anyone else I have missed. Special thanks to the gorgeous Sarah from @babylonflowers for making the tables look so stunning and to Emma Murray for the great photos. 🌸#reflection #celebrateyourself #introvertstrengths #joyfulmoments #selfkindness #confidencecoach #womenwhowrite #lifecoachmelbourne #believeinyourself
I’ve been exploring the theme of ‘not good enough’ for a while now, and the more I research, the more I see how deeply it touches every aspect of our lives. It doesn’t just shape the way we see ourselves – it influences our career, health, relationships, friendships, even the way we handle money.I’ll share more on my latest findings in next week’s article but for now, I want to leave you with this beautiful reminder from Hafiz.If you’re doubting yourself, comparing yourself to others, or feeling like you’re falling short in some way, keep these words close this week and remind yourself that you are valuable, loveable, and entirely unique – not because of what you have, how you look or what you achieve, but simply for being yourself. ✨#selfworth #selfkindness #innerlight #confidencecoach #healingjourney #mindsetmatters #notgoodenough #selfacceptance #gentlegrowth #personaldevelopment
I've had so many lovely responses to my recent articles about the four patterns of not feeling good enough and the signs of overfunctioning. It seems that this one is a common pattern for many of us.This week, I've written about why we overfunction and why it can be difficult to change –even when we know we're doing it. These behaviours often feel hard-wired into our being.If this sounds familiar, you might like to read my latest piece (links to all three articles are in my bio). I share the hidden pay-offs and the costs we often overlook, along with journal prompts to help you explore how and why overfunctioning might be showing up in your life.Over the coming weeks, I’ll write about how to transform overfunctioning, as well as exploring the other patterns of avoidance, procrastination and people-pleasing.#overfunctioning #selfdoubt #confidenceforwomen #notgoodenough #journalling #personaldevelopment #womenandwork
Just over a month ago, Chris and I had to move out of our house while it was being repaired from flood damage, so we decided to take a little road trip. We drove across to Mallacoota, up the south coast of NSW, across to Canberra, and back down through the mountains.Usually, in the middle of winter, if we were planning a trip we’d head somewhere warm. This time, we chose the opposite and it turned out to be one of the most beautiful holidays we’ve had.I think it helped that we stopped in so many places where we could immerse ourselves in nature, but I’m also aware that we expected very little. It was a simple trip with lots of home cooking, slow days, and finding delight in small things. When the days were sunny, we were grateful; when it turned cold, we were ready for it.It has me reflecting on how good it feels to do things differently, to challenge the ways we get set in our thinking. Because we loved this trip so much, I came home planning to repeat the same route next year. Then I realised I was missing the point – what made it special wasn’t the path we took, but all the things that were so unexpected.Sometimes real magic unfolds when we change our habits, let go of expectations, and allow ourselves to be a little more adventurous.An invitation for this week: where could you be more curious or open, or let go of one of your usual patterns? ✨📷 @chrisjamesphotos#innercalm #quietconfidence #mindfulleadership #wellbeingjourney #authenticliving #gentlewisdom #selfacceptance #findingpeace #womenempowerment #innerstrength #emotionalwellbeing
“In an age of speed, I began to think, nothing could be more invigorating than going slow. In an age of distraction, nothing can feel more luxurious than paying attention. And in an age of constant movement, nothing is more urgent than sitting still.” Pico IyerWise and beautiful words from one of my favourite writers.Even in the midst of a busy week, maybe this could be your focus? ✨#slowliving #mindfulmoments #simplewisdom #beingpresent #quietmind #innercalm #thoughtfulquotes #picoiyer #intentionaldays #findingstillness
Last week I wrote a new article in my 'hidden patterns of not feeling good enough' series, this time focusing on five signs you could be overfunctioning. The list could have included many more but these are a few that you might relate to.1. You feel responsible for everythingYou’re the first to notice what needs doing and the first to step in – at work, at home, and in your relationships. This constant responsibility can come from a fear that things will fall apart if you’re not in control.2. You stay busy to avoid feelingsYou fill every spare moment with tasks, even on your days off. Often, this relentless busyness masks uncomfortable feelings that arise when you slow down.3. You always put others firstYou go the extra mile for everyone else, often at the expense of your own needs. Over time, this shifts from kindness to self-abandonment.4. You feel resentful and guiltyYou give endlessly yet feel unseen or unappreciated. Resentment builds, followed quickly by guilt which is a sign that your boundaries may be out of balance.5. You feel anxious when things are out of controlYou plan ahead, double-check details, and rarely drop the ball. But uncertainty makes you uneasy, often triggering a deeper fear of not being enough.Overfunctioning can feel like the only way to keep life running smoothly, but it often comes at the cost of your wellbeing. It keeps you stuck in a cycle of stress and burnout, leaving little space for your own needs or joy. When you start doing less, you create room to breathe, to think clearly, and to feel more connected – both to yourself and the people around you. Small changes can open the door to a calmer, more balanced way of living.I've included a link to the article in my bio if you're keen to read more (and start changing).#overfunctioning #burnoutrecovery #boundariesmatter #emotionalwellbeing #womenandwork #calmoverchaos #mindfulboundaries #stressrecovery #selfworth #peoplepleasing #busymind #highachiever #mentalwellbeing #selfkindness #calmliving #stressmanagementtips #womenover40 #perfectionismrecovery #confidencecoach #coachingforwomen
A few weeks ago, I shared a post about the hidden patterns that show up when we don’t feel good enough. Then last week, I wrote about how exploring our life stories can help us understand ourselves better and give our lives greater meaning.Quite by accident, I’ve just come across a piece of research that brings these two threads together and confirms something I’ve felt for a long time: writing our stories can be transformative.Each of us carries an inner narrative that explains who we are and what’s possible for us. But sometimes that story is skewed or outdated – especially when it tells you you’re not good enough.Rewriting your story isn’t about fixing or changing yourself. It’s about seeing yourself more clearly and holding your experience with greater truth, clarity and compassion.While working on a writing exercise for my Life Stories facilitator training, I stumbled across this old photo of my family. I was around seven years-old and we’d just moved back to Sydney. I was at a new school and hadn’t yet made friends. It was a pretty lonely time in many ways, but after writing, I came to see it very differently. It was when I learned to love spending long hours on my own. Immersing myself in novels, playing alone at the local playground, and learning to love the stillness of nature.Finding that photo helped me see that chapter of my life very differently. Not so much as a time of aloneness but rather, a time of discovery.That’s the power of writing our stories: it gives us the chance to look again and sometimes, to see ourselves and our lives in a completely different light.I've included a link to last week's article about some of the benefits of story writing in my bio. Have a read and try the tips I suggest to help you start writing your stories. ✨#narrativeself #writingtowellbeing #selfworth #womenwhocoach #confidencecoach #lifecoachmelbourne #mindfulleadership
© Kate James 2025

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We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands we live and work on, the Boonwurrung people of the Kulin Nation and pay our respects to elders past, present and emerging.

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