Two women, two very different career paths, and both stories of transformation and self-discovery. Orla Ó Regan and Sanja Ivcic share their journeys of leaving traditional careers to pursue their passions, and in doing so, found healing, purpose, and a deeper sense of self. Their stories are a testament to the power of listening to your inner voice and embracing change.
Orla Ó Regan: From Construction to Ceramics
Orla Ó Regan's story is one of resilience and self-awareness. After struggling with postnatal depression, she realized she needed to make a drastic change in her life. Leaving her job as a project manager in the construction industry, she returned to her native Co Cork and found solace in her family and her passion for art. She set up a studio in an old hen house on her parents' farm, where she discovered ceramics and found a new purpose.
"That was the greatest therapy and medication of all – and that turned my life upside down," she says. Her art, Orla O Visual, is a labor of love and a business, allowing her to express her creativity and find inner peace. She crafts words in delicate porcelain, embedding meaningful sayings and creating bespoke pieces for customers going through difficult times. Her empathy and attention to detail make her work resonate with people, and she finds joy in the emotional process of creating.
Sanja Ivcic: From Survival to Candle-Making
Sanja Ivcic's journey is one of survival and self-discovery. After a series of turbulent years, including a separation from her husband and an eviction notice, she embarked on a solo walk on the Camino de Santiago. This transformative experience gave her the time and perspective to reflect on her life and discover her passion for creativity.
"I know I’m artistic because I know the way how I’m putting the flowers in my vase and the way how I’m cutting the cake that I made. The way I am choosing my clothes and my jewellery," she says. Inspired by social media, she started making candles and floral bouquets, finding solace in the creative process. Her part-time business, Candlelight by Sanya, allows her to express her creativity and connect with others through her unique creations.
Both women's stories highlight the importance of listening to your inner voice and embracing change. They found healing and purpose in their new careers, and their journeys are a reminder that sometimes, a career u-turn can lead to a deeper sense of self and a more fulfilling life.
