An article written by Lildonia Lawrence
Although I always knew I wanted to work in a helping role, becoming a wellbeing coach wasn’t part of my original plan. I studied psychology at university, but when I couldn’t secure funding for postgraduate study, coaching became my ‘plan B’—a course I could complete alongside teaching community dance classes that celebrated diversity, community, and joy. This plan B was the best thing I could have done!
When I eventually began working in mental health and wellbeing full-time—alongside managing my own experiences with anxiety and chronic illness—I came to realise how challenging it was to navigate healthcare systems that weren’t always designed for people like me. It became clear that there was a significant gap in accessible wellbeing support for BIPOC and Global Majority communities.
Since 2020, I’ve been blending my knowledge of movement with my passion for equitable healthcare and social justice. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of supporting incredible individuals on their healing journeys, while also creating spaces where allies can learn how to better show up for marginalised communities.
This April, I’m thrilled to be launching my first book, Back Yourself: A Wellbeing Guide to Healing from Racial Trauma. Writing it has been an incredible journey—part reflection, part resistance, and full of love for the communities I serve. To celebrate, I’ll be hosting a launch event on 5th April in Bristol, featuring live interviews, performances, and a Q&A session.
It will be an evening of connection, celebration, and healing—and I’d love for you to join. Venue details are coming soon, so stay tuned on my socials for updates! Mental Health Awareness Week is a timely reminder of why this work matters so much. Healing is possible, and together we can create a world where justice and wellbeing go hand in hand.
Let’s rise together. 🖤✨
You can find out more about my work here:
🌐 www.movewithlildonia.com
📸 IG: @lildonia.lawrence
💼 LinkedIn: Lildonia Lawrence
Did you enjoy this article? Share it via:
Leave a Reply