The vibrant neighbourhood of Notting Hill has undergone significant transformations over the years. In the past, it was an area known for its bohemian atmosphere, home to artists, writers, and musicians. In the 1960s, it was the epitome of London’s alternative cultural scene – a hub of creativity and diversity, brimming with vintage clothing stores, independent bookshops, and quirky cafes.

Today, however, Notting Hill presents a much different picture. Walking through the leafy streets now feels more like a tour of a high-end residential area. The bohemian vibes have been replaced with polished façades of opulent houses, boutique shops, and posh bistros. The most notable symbol of this transformation is perhaps the iconic Portobello Market. Once a haven for counterculture and bargain-hunters, it has now become a popular tourist attraction, populated by pricey antique sellers and upscale food stalls.

However, despite these changes, Notting Hill has not entirely lost its charm. Its multicultural roots still remain strong. It’s still home to the grand Notting Hill Carnival, a showcase of the area’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. What Notting Hill reflects today is not only the changes in its own landscape but also the larger societal and economic shifts that London – and indeed, the whole of the UK – has experienced over time.

Let’s get the formalities over and done with. I am a Certified Life Coach, NLP Practitioner and NLP Master Practitioner, a professional member of ANLP, and a member of ICF.

I have a lot of life experiences under my belt. I have hitchhiked around Texas as a youngster, visited many countries, and mentored others in the field of education. I also ran my own business providing early years childcare for over 20 years, one of my greatest professional achievements to date.

But hitting my 50s a few years ago, was a pivotal moment. I felt I had lost my sense of identity and to some extent my health.