Say hello to Julie, one of the most empathetic, grounded and well travelled people you will meet! Having been on the Brand Alchemy journey herself, she’s perfectly placed to partner with us for this exciting new chapter. Curious to find out more? Read on for all the details.
What’s your one-line elevator pitch?
At Uplift Yacht Crew, I support and empower crew so that they may thrive both on and off the boat.
Why are you passionate about what you do?
I have always believed in the power of truly supporting others—it’s a core part of who I am. As a twin and a team enthusiast, my role with Uplift Yacht Crew goes far beyond that of founder. I’m genuinely committed to connecting with every crew member, championing their goals and dreams long after yachting, and guiding them as they find their way and thrive. My own journey — navigating challenges, transitioning careers, and discovering new paths—fuels this commitment every day.
Who is your ideal customer?
My business is dedicated to supporting every crew member — whether you’re still thriving in the yachting industry or have taken a new path — by offering a thoughtful space to shape your future with purpose. Through insightful conversations and expert-led sessions, I empower you to clarify your ambitions and achieve your goals, no matter their size.
What can Dapper clients expect in a discovery call with you?
In our discovery call, we’ll have a focused yet open conversation where we explore your unique goals and aspirations. You’ll learn what to expect when we work together as I outline my approach and share how I can support you in reaching your ambitions. This call is designed to give you clear insights and empower you to decide if my services align with your vision for the future.
Tell us a bit about your career to date?
My career has been a journey defined by exploration, learning, and the courage to follow an unconventional path. After high school, I moved to London and served as a Customer Service Officer with Vertex, supporting Westminster City Council. Eager to deepen my knowledge, I earned an Honours degree in Economics at Rhodes University, and soon after, I joined my family business — rising to the role of Marketing Director across South Africa and Zimbabwe.
I’ve since embraced a variety of roles that have enriched my professional experience. From selling eco-friendly cleaning products in Limpopo and developing Airbnb systems in Haenertsburg and Johannesburg, to navigating the dynamic world of yachting — where I progressed from Solo Stew to Chief Stewardess and eventually to Purser, even establishing specialised systems for Ultra High Net Worth clients with my captain and partner. Each chapter has added a new layer to my expertise.
Further expanding my passion for personal and professional growth, I became the Community Manager for The Crew Coach, where I supported yacht crew members in their career development. Today, my focus is twofold: helping crew members transition ashore with structured guidance and strategic planning, and teaching the IAMI Certified Advanced Leadership Course to build strong, confident leaders.
In addition to these professional milestones, I have engaged in diverse personal growth pursuits — including ontological coaching workshops, multiple personal development sessions, the Brand Alchemy process, and a Qi Gong Life coaching practice that embraces Eastern perspectives on life and health. These experiences have not only bolstered my practical skills but also instilled in me a deep confidence and resilience to navigate change and inspire others.
Each step of my unconventional career has provided valuable insights and a rich skill set, empowering me to continuously evolve and passionately support others in finding their own path to success.
What brings you joy/energises you?
I find immense joy and energy in a variety of experiences that nurture both my body and my soul. I love taking long walks in the Balinese, Newlands, and Magoebaskloof forests, where the spirit of adventure and the beauty of the outdoors come alive. Whether it’s hiking, walking, running, or even indulging in a refreshing cold dip in the ocean, I embrace every opportunity to reconnect with nature.
I also thrive on continuous growth and learning through engaging, productive conversations and building meaningful, lasting relationships. There’s great fulfillment in uniting communities and collaborating in teams, as well as in running interactive online sessions with my advanced leadership students. In these sessions, I cherish deep discussions about hopes, aspirations, and dreams that we then translate into actionable plans.
At the same time, I value moments of solitude to recharge. I enjoy curling up with top-rated fictional novels by Brandon Sanderson, Patrick Rothfuss, and Robert Jordan, as well as the occasional self-help or educational book that expands my horizons. These diverse experiences all contribute to a vibrant life full of balance, passion, and connection.
What do you enjoy about collaborating with Dapper?
Dapper provided a beautiful landing as I made the decisive transition from yachting to Terra Firma. At a moment when I needed structure, clarity, and unwavering support, their professionalism and seamless partnership made the decision to align with them effortless.
I truly value Dapper for their shared commitment to excellence and the genuine flexibility and openness they offered—qualities I believe are essential for yacht crew navigating their way out of the industry. Their support not only filled a critical gap but also empowered me to move forward with confidence and purpose.
Tell us something not many people know about you?
My ability to genuinely and authentically accept others and patiently embrace diverse personalities is a true reflection of my mother’s legacy. Her boundless love for people and creatures alike, her profound kindness, and her deep spirituality created a nurturing space for both her students and her children. The beautiful, tender qualities I embody today are a testament to her enduring influence, even as I miss her deeply every day.
