About Us
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Step Into Courage provides a transformative space where individuals embrace vulnerability, share personal experiences, and foster resilience within a supportive community. Through peer-moderated sessions and deep discussions, members navigate professional and personal challenges, cultivating leadership skills, holistic growth, and meaningful connections.
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At "Step into Courage" we realize that everyone has their own little demons, but we can either suppress them or acknowledge them.
​We believe vulnerability is an act of power!
Our experience says that beyond your fear and silence there is a very different life to be had, it does however require you to step into your courage.
We want to empower individuals to speak up, be brave, and break the mold and stigma around discussing anxiety and depression.
Sharing shouldn't be seen as a weakness it should be seen as a strength!
Burnout is real and can lead to physical and emotional issues if not dealt with.
Research by Bupa Global of 1,500 senior decisions-makers in companies of 10 or more employees across the USA, UK, China, and Mexico.
64% of senior business leaders have suffered from mental health conditions including anxiety, stress and depression, with work often cited as a contributor to this.
58% of business leaders say that in their position it’s hard to talk about mental health.
1 in 4 people feel less support for mental health issues since becoming more senior.
Sufferers fear that talking about mental health would affect perceptions of their capabilities and careers prospects.
Richie poulton
Richie Poulton
Richard Poulton, former Asia Pacific CEO at AFEX until December 2021, is a beacon of courageous transformation whose journey from humble beginnings to leadership exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and unwavering determination. Richard's foray into the world of finance began in 2003, marked by his fearless pursuit of success despite lacking traditional academic credentials. Rising from the sales floor in London, Richard's innate ability to connect with others and his unwavering work ethic propelled him forward.
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However, Richard's path to success was far from conventional. Growing up in a one-room flat and before finding his niche in the FX market, he traversed various industries, from working at McDonald's and Blockbuster Video to pursuing unconventional roles such as acting and toy demonstration at Harrods. Through these experiences, Richard honed his drive and resilience, recognizing the value of perseverance and the pursuit of opportunities.
In 2006, Richard's journey took him to Australia, where he played a pivotal role in establishing AFEX's presence in Sydney. Over the years, he ascended through the ranks, eventually leading AFEX's operations as CEO for Asia Pacific in 2012. His tenure saw him navigate diverse markets, from the bustling streets of London to the vibrant landscapes of Sydney and beyond, including overseeing the Americas business in LA.
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Despite his professional success, Richard's personal journey was marked by challenges, including battling anxiety and navigating betrayal. A diagnosis of shingles at 36 served as a wake-up call, prompting Richard to embark on a courageous path of self-discovery and inner healing. Through practices like meditation and breathwork, he cultivated mental resilience and forged deeper connections within himself and others.
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Richard's commitment to personal development led him to share his insights globally, from prestigious platforms like Harvard Business School to World Peace Day events in Sydney in association with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. He advocates for vulnerability and authenticity in leadership, recognizing the transformative power of sharing one's journey.
As the visionary behind Step into Courage, Richard continues to inspire others to embrace fearlessness and unlock their full potential. His dedication to helping individuals navigate challenges, both personally and professionally, reflects his unwavering belief in the transformative power of courage and resilience. Through his leadership and advocacy, Richard empowers others to step boldly into their own journeys of growth and transformation.