Leading with Heart

A Mother’s Day Conversation with Jaya De Silva

In this special edition of our Mother’s Day series, we had the pleasure of speaking with Jaya De Silva. Jaya is an inspiring leader at Sekuro, a mother of three, and a woman who balances her vibrant family life with a purpose-driven career. Warm, wise, and deeply grounded, Jaya’s story is a heartfelt tribute to the women who shape us… mothers, daughters, and all the roles in between.

Lessons Lived, Not Just Taught

Jaya grew up in Sydney’s Hills District, raised by her mum, a hardworking single parent and nurse who worked double shifts to provide for her two children. Watching her mum navigate life with grit, humour, and unwavering love left a deep imprint on Jaya. She recalls how her mum showed her the importance of loving your children unconditionally, knowing and loving yourself, working hard, and always giving back to your community. “These weren’t things she told us,” Jaya reflects. “They were things she showed us every day.”

Now a mother herself to three young girls, Jaya describes her household as “lively and chaotic – in the best way.” She and her husband are both drawn to the buzz of a big family, and they embrace the noise, the mess, and the joy of raising kids close in age. It’s that same spirit of openness and energy that Jaya brings to her leadership role at work. “At my core, I’m a maternal person,” she says. “And that doesn’t switch off when I go to work.”

Leading Through Empathy

In her role, Jaya mentors and supports emerging leaders, often drawing from her own lived experience to lead with empathy. For her, leadership isn’t just about performance, it’s about people. “It’s about creating an environment where others feel seen, heard, and supported. That’s how you build real trust, and that’s how you grow leaders.”

Moments That Matter Most

One of Jaya’s most cherished memories with her mother came later in life, after the birth of her first daughter. During maternity leave, she spent most days with her mum, watching her mother and daughter develop a special bond. “That time was a gift,” she says. “My mum was terminally ill and passed away a year later. I’m so grateful I had that time with her.  Life can be unpredictable, and it’s at these times you have to decide what is important, as we don’t get that precious time back.

Reflecting on her mother’s influence, Jaya acknowledges the different paths they took. While her mum worked in healthcare, a field still in need of greater support and recognition, Jaya was drawn to business and law. But the foundation of service and work ethic remains the same. “Mum worked hard, but she also taught me to live a full life,” she says. “If I had a bazillion dollars, I’d still work in some way to contribute. It’s part of who I am.”

Raising Future Women With Purpose

When it comes to advice she hopes to pass on to her own children, Jaya doesn’t hesitate: “Stand on your own two feet – especially financially. Travel. Stay open-minded. And whatever you choose to do, make sure you love it.”

Reflecting on everything she’s learned from her mum, Jaya shares a message she wishes she could say one more time.

“If my mum were reading this now, I’d say – Thank you. For everything. For every sacrifice, every laugh, every hard moment. You taught me what strength really looks like.”

Quick Fire with Jaya

• Three words to describe your mum: Courageous. Empathetic. Humorous.
• What grounds you? My girls – they’re my reminder of what really matters.
• What brings you joy right now? Slow mornings, spontaneous hugs, and watching my daughters become their own people.
• One value you try to live by every day:  Move through the world with kindness and always advocate for yourself!

The Women Who Shape Us

Grace Charles on Her Mum’s Quiet Strength

This Mother’s Day, we’re celebrating the women who shape us with their wisdom, care, and strength. Grace Charles, a passionate HR Business Partner and self-professed introvert “in hiding,” opens up about the incredible influence her mother has had on her life. Grace may not have children of her own, but the life lessons passed down from her mum have deeply shaped who she is today.

A Foundation of Family and Fairness

Grace describes her family – her mum, older sister, and younger brother – as her safe space. “My family are genuinely my favourite people to spend time with,” she says. While her siblings are the storytellers and extroverts, Grace identifies more with her mum’s quiet, steady presence.

One of the most powerful lessons her mother taught her is to “always do the right thing, regardless of whether people are watching or not.” That moral compass, built on fairness, honesty, and humility, has guided Grace throughout her life and career. 

“She’s the first person to place herself in the back-row,” Grace shares, “but you can guarantee she’ll step forward to advocate for something she believes in.”

Little Gestures, Big Love

A tradition that always makes Grace smile is the mysterious Valentine’s Day cards she and her siblings receive every year, signed anonymously, but suspiciously similar to her mum’s handwriting. “It’s a simple gesture, but a tradition I love. I keep all of these cards in a box at home. They make me reflect on the types of traditions I might like to create if I had a family of my own one day.”

Resilience in the Face of Loss

Grace’s mum became a single parent when her husband passed away, leaving her to raise three young children while navigating her own grief. “I’m sure she had days where she wasn’t sure she would get through it,” Grace reflects. “But she did. And those hard times forged unbreakable bonds between us.”

That reminder is something Grace hopes to pass on to future generations: “Even on your hardest days, there are always brighter ones ahead.”

A Quiet Career Influence

Though Grace’s career path in HR differs from her mum’s role as a library technician, the foundational values are the same. “She’s always taught us that it’s important to be responsible and show accountability for things and people outside of ourselves,” Grace says.

Her mum’s emphasis on kindness and respect has also shaped Grace’s approach to work: “The consideration I have for others has contributed to building strong relationships in my career. That’s something I’m really proud of.”

Quick Fire with Grace

What do you call your mum?
Mum

What did your mum call you when you were in trouble?
My full name—Grace Charles (or, jokingly, ‘Disgrace’)

What’s the one tech thing your mum can’t figure out?
Taking photos! Somehow her photos are always blurry – it’s a running family joke.

How would your mum describe what you do?
Before I started working in HR, I think she saw it as just admin. Now, after hearing about my work, she’s realised how deeply human, complex, and strategic the role can be.

A Legacy of Strength

Masseh Haidary on the Women Who Shaped Him

This Mother’s Day, we are proud to feature Masseh Haidary, Oceania CEO of Global Payments. Masseh’s story is a powerful reminder that the influence of strong women can leave a lasting legacy. Not just at home, but in leadership, character, and community. Raised by a courageous mother and married to a deeply inspiring partner, Masseh’s reflections are filled with gratitude, perspective, and hope for a future where more women have the opportunities they deserve.

A Family Shaped by Resilience and Love

Growing up, Masseh’s family had anything but a traditional path. “While my cultural heritage was rooted in a tradition where men led, our family moved to Australia with nothing more than the clothes on our back when I was only one year old,” he shares. In an unorthodox move for their community, it was Masseh’s mother who stepped into the role of both mother and father, setting the tone for the life he would go on to build.

Today, Masseh’s immediate family includes his wife Mina, daughters Siyanna and Sura, and son Danial. After more than 20 years of marriage, Mina’s unwavering support has also played a major role in shaping his life. “She challenges me to get outside my comfort zone and is always my biggest support figure professionally and personally,” Masseh says with pride.

Lessons in Vision and Sacrifice

One of the defining memories Masseh carries from his childhood was a pivotal decision his mother made when times were tough. Amid financial struggles, they had the choice to move away from opportunities and community, but she chose to stay. “Against the grain, Mum was the only one who decided to stay put, rent a small place, and focus on giving us the best opportunities while sacrificing an awful lot along the way,” Masseh recalls.

Her lesson was simple but powerful: never lose sight of the bigger picture and future prosperity, even when the present feels overwhelming.

A Deepening Respect for Motherhood

Watching his wife become a mother only deepened Masseh’s admiration for the strength of the women in his life. He reflects on the early years of parenthood as a profound experience: “The sacrifice, the resilience, carrying another human and that connection a mother has was incredible.“

Through every emotional and mental challenge, Mina’s perseverance stood out. Masseh shares, “With three kids, a mother’s love, guilt and endurance — it’s powerful stuff, especially in a society that’s made it difficult for women to have the same opportunities and support required.” It’s a reality that has strengthened his commitment to being part of a generation that drives meaningful change.

Values That Anchor Every Decision

As Masseh’s career grew into senior leadership, the influence of his mother’s example never faded. “Not a day goes by where I compromise my choices or priorities,” he explains. The importance of a stable, loving home, and carrying out professional duties with empathy, are values deeply rooted in the lessons his mother modelled.

Her courage to go against cultural norms – to work, to lead, and to nurture – continues to shape his leadership style today.

A Legacy of Generosity and Courage

When asked what he would say if he could thank his mother or wife for one thing, Masseh’s gratitude is clear: “I’m eternally grateful for my mum giving me everything she had, showing me the value of generosity in life and how it gives back to you in droves.“

And after nearly 25 years together, he credits Mina to helping him continue to grow. “She’s invested in her personal development and growth, and that gave me the courage to do the same.”

Quick Fire Round

What do you call your mum?
Mal.

What did your mum call you when you were in trouble?
Just my first name.

Who needs more tech help—you or your mum?
Definitely me!

How would your mum describe your job?
A leader who follows in the steps of her leadership principles.

Leading with Love

Redefining Motherhood, Mentorship, and Meaningful Impact

For many women, the word “mother” conjures images of family, warmth, and guidance. But for some, it’s more than a title, it’s a way of being. In this special Mother’s Day feature, we spoke with Doriena Parsons whose career has taken her across the globe and into boardrooms and blended families alike. She shares how women have shaped her journey, what she’s learned as a stepparent, and why redefining motherhood could be one of the most powerful ways to change how we lead.

Finding Power in Kindness and Ambition

Across a career spanning continents and sectors, Doriena has met many remarkable women. But the ones who made the most impact didn’t shout the loudest.

“What stood out was their ability to lead with balance, strength, and integrity,” Doriena recalls. “Whether I was working in Europe, the Middle East or here in Australia, they showed up with calm, consistent leadership. They didn’t compromise their values to get ahead,they embodied them.”

Growing up, ambition wasn’t something encouraged in girls. It was often laughed off or shut down. But an early-career mentor, a woman in leadership, shifted that narrative.

“She told me something I’ve never forgotten: don’t let someone else judge the scale of your ambition, and when they do, don’t let it make you bitter. Stay fair. Stay open. Keep going.”

It’s a philosophy that’s stayed with Doriena. One that reminds us that ambition doesn’t have to be loud to be powerful, and that kindness and strength are not opposites, but partners.

On Choosing a Different Path – and Still Showing Up Fully

Though Doriena chose not to have biological children, she became a stepparent to two daughters in a blended family, and that decision shaped not only her personal life but her leadership style.

“I chose to focus on being a strong and stable presence for the girls,” Doriena shares.

“It also meant I could channel energy into my career and eventually become the main breadwinner. It was a conscious choice, and not always one that others understood.”

Some of the harshest judgments came from other women. But she stood firm in her belief: you don’t need to give birth to someone to love and support them like a parent.

As both a stepparent and mentor, she’s learned the power of presence and perspective. “I try never to tell people what to do. I offer my view and my experience. But I leave the choice to them. That kind of support, that respects autonomy, is essential in parenting and leadership.”

Some of the hardest moments Doriena has experienced have come from the sidelines – watching someone you love make a painful choice you can’t protect them from. “But those are often the moments people grow the most. Your job is to stay steady, stay close, and let them figure it out. It never gets easier, but it’s necessary.”

Mentorship as Modern Mothering

When asked about her role in supporting the next generation, she sees it as an act of reflection and belief.

“Sometimes people just need someone to reflect their strength back to them. To say: I see what you’re capable of, even if you don’t yet.”

Resilience is another core lesson Doriena tries to pass on. Life is messy, nonlinear, and imperfect. And that’s okay. “Setbacks are inevitable. But failure isn’t final. We need to build spaces where people can test ideas, try things, and feel safe getting it wrong. That’s how confidence is built – through belief, experience and freedom.”

In a world that often values speed and perfection, Doriena advocates for something deeper: the courage to grow slowly, thoughtfully, and with purpose.

Redefining Motherhood in Leadership

To her, the word “mother” isn’t limited to biology. It’s a verb, a mindset, a form of leadership.

“In business, mothering can look like mentoring with patience. It can mean creating safe spaces for others to speak up, or advocating for someone when they’re not in the room.”

But she’s quick to point out that we need to rethink the language around it.

“For too long, mothering has been associated with softness, often undervalued in professional spaces. But mothering at its best is profoundly strong. It’s about holding space, building resilience, and helping others realise their potential.”

It also means taking a stand. Saying no to toxic behaviour. Refusing to play into behind-the-scenes commentary that tears others down. “If we say we value transparency, we have to live it – even when it’s uncomfortable. Leadership should reflect our values, not just our KPIs.”

The One Piece of Advice She Hopes Young Women Take to Heart

“Be confident in what you know… and humble about what you don’t.”

Women are challenged more often, Doriena notes, and asked to prove themselves in ways their male peers are not. But confidence isn’t arrogance. And humility doesn’t mean self-doubt.

“You don’t need to justify your choices to anyone. Just make sure they’re rooted in kindness, in integrity, and in your own truth. And don’t stop there. Seek out people who see the world differently from you. That’s where real growth happens.”

This Mother’s Day: A Celebration of Quiet Confidence

For Doriena, confidence isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it’s steady. Sometimes, it’s deeply personal.

“This Mother’s Day, I hope we can celebrate the women who lead with compassion and intention. The ones who uplift others quietly, the ones whose impact is felt more than seen.”

In her view, womanhood doesn’t need to fit a mould. Neither does leadership. “We have the power to shape our lives in ways that not only serve us, but make space for others to thrive too. That ripple effect? It matters. And it starts with how we choose to lead.”

Lessons in Love, Leadership and Legacy

Mother’s Day has never been just about flowers and cards. It’s about the women. Mothers, grandmothers, aunties, stepmothers, chosen family, mentors, partners. All who show up, shape us, and stay with us long after we’ve left home. This year, we’re spotlighting real stories from our community to celebrate the resilience, wisdom, and influence of the women who’ve made us who we are.

We recently connected with some of our community members for an in-depth discussion about the women who have impacted their lives, and how that has shaped who they are today. 

Special thanks to our contributors:

• Grace Charles, HR Business Partner at Rio Tinto
• Jaya De Silva, Head of Commercial and Bids at Sekuro
• Masseh Haidary, Oceania CEO at Global Payments
• Doriena Parsons, National Head of Strategic Communications and Marketing at Moore Australia

Strength, Sacrifice, and the Unseen Load

We know many of the women in our lives carry an emotional and physical weight that often goes unspoken, but never unnoticed. That strength is what shapes the character of those around them.

Masseh remembered a defining moment from childhood:

“Mum was the only one who decided to stay put, rent a small place, and focus on giving us the best opportunities while sacrificing an awful lot along the way.”

Jaya, too, shared the depth of sacrifice that comes with parenting and leadership:

“Sometimes as a mum, you wear the burden of guilt — wanting to be everything to everyone. But over time I’ve learned it’s not about doing everything, but being present where it matters most.”

This invisible labour, emotional, mental, logistical, is often underappreciated, but it’s foundational to how communities and workplaces function. These reflections call for a deeper recognition of that contribution.

Leadership Beyond the Boardroom

The most influential leadership doesn’t always come from titles or authority – sometimes, it’s lived quietly at home. Grace reflected on her mum’s subtle yet powerful presence:

“My mum never tried to be the loudest in the room, but her voice always carried.”

This kind of grounded leadership, rooted in values and quiet consistency, shaped how these leaders now show up in their own roles. For Jaya, motherhood and executive leadership are inherently connected:

“As a parent, I’m always thinking about the legacy I’m building for my children. But as a leader, that thinking has helped shape how I build teams, lead change, and invest in people.”

The lesson? Leadership is not about hierarchy. It’s about responsibility, impact, and showing others what’s possible through your actions.

Redefining Motherhood, Family, and Care

Not all mothers are biological. And not all families are traditional. One key sentiment discussed with our community members was about redefining what motherhood and family mean, and how broadening that definition only adds more meaning.

Doriena offered a powerful reflection on step-parenting and mentorship:

“Motherhood isn’t just about biology — it’s about showing up, about being present, and about leading with kindness.”

Masseh echoed this sentiment through the lens of his upbringing, where his mother took on both parental roles:

“While my cultural heritage was rooted in a tradition where men led, it was my mum who stepped into the role of both mother and father.”

These stories show us that care, love, and leadership don’t follow a set path — and that family is defined by connection, not convention.

Legacy in Action

In the lead up to Mothers Day, our community members reflected on the values passed down by the women which have not only shaped their personal lives, but also their entire careers. They inform how these leaders make decisions, hold boundaries, and mentor others.

Grace, for instance, shared that her mum’s integrity continues to guide her daily:

“She lived by her values and that’s what made her a true leader in my eyes.”

For Masseh, the influence of his mother’s leadership is something he carries into every room:

“Not a day goes by where I compromise my choices or priorities. I carry her strength into every room I walk into.”

Jaya echoed this, explaining how her legacy as a mother and leader intertwines:

“I want my kids to look back and say, ‘My mum was strong, but she also cared deeply.’ That’s what I want for my team too.”

These stories remind us that values aren’t taught once, they’re modelled over time. And when passed down, they become powerful tools for generational and cultural change.

This Mother’s Day

Motherhood is leadership. It’s care. It’s resilience. It’s choosing to believe in someone before they believe in themselves. This Mother’s Day, we honour the women who raised us, inspired us, challenged us, and built futures through their everyday courage.

To every mother and maternal figure, thank you. We are better because of you.

Read each contributor’s full reflective article:

• The Women Who Shape Us: Grace Charles on Her Mum’s Quiet Strength
• Leading with Love: Doriena Parsons on Redefining Motherhood, Mentorship, and Meaningful Impact
• Leading with Heart: A Mother’s Day Conversation with Jaya De Silva
• A Legacy of Strength: Masseh Haidary on the Women Who Shaped Him