Introducing Lisa, Program Trainer in Toowoomba
We are thrilled to introduce Lisa, our new Program Trainer at Happy Paws Happy Hearts (HPHH), Toowoomba!
With a strong background in both physiotherapy and psychology, and over 20 years of experience in the corporate world across various fields such as Orthopaedics, Neurosurgery and Business Development, Lisa brings a truly unique skill set to the team.
While studying overseas, Lisa spent time volunteering with Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) in San Francisco, participating in their Animal Assisted Therapy programs which she recalls as such an amazing experience and one where she found a passion of working with both animals and people, and one of the primary reasons why Lisa was drawn to HPHH.
“I was craving a role with soul. I was so excited about the opportunity to combine my interest in psychology and people, with my love for animals”.
Lisa is especially excited about diving deeper into the world of training and facilitation with the opportunity to apply her existing skills and knowledge, while being surrounded by a supportive and passionate team.
At HPHH, our Program Trainers bring a unique and diverse skillset to their role. Many come from backgrounds in education, training, or group facilitation—experience that is crucial in leading sessions, supporting participants, and fostering meaningful interactions within the group. Just as important is their ability to work with animals. With guidance from Senior Program Trainers, access to tailored animal training modules, and the generous support of our shelter partners like RSPCA Queensland, our trainers quickly develop expertise in facilitating the special connection between people and animals.
When it comes to working with people, Lisa thrives on connection.
“I love meeting new people. There is always something you can learn from their experiences and outlook on life, and I am excited to be involved in programs that can bring a spark of joy to their worlds”.
Lisa is a true-and-true farm girl, having grown up locally in Toowoomba, surrounded by animals, from horses and chickens to the family’s many pets. Her bond with animals and her belief in their power to heal and uplift is central to why she’s chosen this path.
“It’s obvious that we [the people and animals] can be in a mutually beneficial relationship, and how the programs at Happy Paws Happy Hearts provide a perfect symbiosis”.
When asked about the values that guide her approach to supporting others she says, “There is no learning without making mistakes, and I believe our perception creates our reality, so how we choose to view our experiences is equal to what we get out of them. Hopefully, I can help to shape other’s confidence and independence through providing a positive, supportive environment the encourages people to grow in their own way”.
3 fun facts about Lisa:
1. She can speak “pretty average Spanish” after backpacking solo through Central and South America for a year.
2. She’s working towards her dream of growing all her own fruit and veggies and is already producing greens, tomatoes, and citrus.
3. She’s a whiz in the kitchen, known for her sourdough, chimichurri, and chocolate raspberry roulade!
And finally, her wish for this new chapter with HPHH is “That I bring some joy and laughter to those I come into contact with”.
Thank you to Lisa for sharing her journey with us! We’re so grateful for the skills, passion and energy she brings to our Toowoomba team!