Daniela

“We are friends for life. When we’re together the years fall away. Isn’t that what matters? To have someone who can remember with you? To have someone who remembers how far you’ve come?”
–Judy Blume

How we met

Daniela and I met 13 years ago at high school in Bangkok, Thailand. My early memories of her include International Day at school where she hung out with the Aussies (she’s Lebanese/Australian and fluent in french) and we taught her Aussie slang, her endless love of chocolate, the millions of photos we took in her bedroom on her 15th birthday and the best hugs ever.

We’ve gotten slack in the last few years but when she first moved to Australia after high school, we caught up so much and made it to each other’s 21sts and even made speeches. Although, I say slack but we have briefly caught up this year twice – once even in a city we both don’t live in! Niela is one of the bubbliest people I know and is such a bright ray of sunshine. I feel so lucky to call her one of my friends still to this day.

I’m so proud of you following your research dream of getting your PhD. This photo was taken in fact when she was in town to present at a conference. You’re smashing it! You’re bright and brilliant - the stars wish they could sparkle like you do! Or the lights in this photo at the Hamlet (where this photo was taken in Canberra)! Love you gorgeous lady and thanks for being part of my project.

Get to know Daniela

What brings you happiness?
I find travelling exhilarating. I just came back from an amazing six-week trip where I was able to meet new people, old high-school friends and family.

How would you like the men in your life to empower you?
I have been fortunate that the men in my life have always supported me, respected my wishes and pushed me to be a better version of myself.

If you had to eat one meal, every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
My initial thought was chocolate? but that’s not a meal right…or could it be?

What would you choose as your Mr. Men/Little Miss character to describe your personality?
Little Miss Giggles!!!

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
The world is your oyster – you can do whatever you want and go wherever you want. Let nothing stop you.