Looking back, one of the highlights of my writing journey so far has to be the day I found out that The Ship Called The Pharaoh was featured in Chad. It’s one of those moments you dream about when you first put pen to paper — the idea that something you’ve created, something deeply personal and born from your own experiences and imagination, could reach out into the world and be recognized. 

When I set out to write The Ship Called The Pharaoh, I didn’t imagine where it might take me. I simply knew there was a story inside me that needed telling — the story of two brave sisters leaving everything familiar behind in search of a new life in Australia. Inspired by real historical movements and by the sheer resilience of the human spirit, I wanted to capture the heartbreak, the hope, and the staggering determination of people thrust into extraordinary circumstances. “Populate or Perish” was more than just a policy; for countless individuals and families, it was a gamble with their entire lives. 

To see Chad picking up on my novel, giving it space and thought, was both humbling and exciting. It felt like validation — not just for me as a writer, but for the countless real-life stories that often go unheard. I’ve spent much of my life working in heavy industry and the entertainment world — two arenas where resilience, adaptability, and grit are everyday essentials. Those experiences, along with stories shared by people I’ve met over the years, deeply shaped the characters and emotions within the book. 

Reading the article, and hearing from people who reached out after seeing it, made me realize just how powerful storytelling can be. It bridges gaps between generations, backgrounds, and life experiences. It’s a way to say: "You’re not alone. Others have struggled too. Others have hoped too." 

I’m incredibly grateful to Chad for featuring my story and helping spread the word. And to every reader who has taken the time to journey with me through the pages of The Ship Called The Pharaoh — thank you. You have made this adventure richer and more rewarding than I ever could have imagined when I first sat down to write. 

The journey doesn’t end here — there are many more stories waiting to be told. But this moment, this feature in Chad, will always hold a special place in my heart.