Debra Blackman: A CEO’s compelling Journey from the trauma of an abusive childhood to the Top of the Banking and International Business Sector.
Explosive Human Interest
At age 40, Debra Blackman embarked on a journey that would ultimately change her life.
Growing up in an unsuspecting, affluent household in Sittingbourne, Kent, Debra endured many painful years of sexual abuse from her father in silence. Her mother ignored her suffering, focusing instead on maintaining their lifestyle and climbing the social ladder.
Isolated and ignored, Debra found it even more challenging to face her painful experiences. However, finally, at 18, the abuse from her father became too much, and she confronted him, which led to him throwing Debra out of her home with only £5 to her name. She had nowhere to go.
Although she had been to one of the most prestigious public schools in the UK, Stowe School, and had excelled academically, the following years were littered with spells of homelessness and abusive relationships. Even as Debra attempted to put her past behind her, moving to Bristol, where she began a career in publishing and advertising, her life took another dark turn. Her marriage fell apart, and she had to escape her drug-addicted, abusive partner.
Free from her last relationship and turning 40, Debra accepted a low-tier position at Barclays Bank, unaware of what this would lead to.
Her determination and tenacity led to her being headhunted by the International Desk at Canary Wharf, and she steadily climbed the ranks from there. Soon, Debra was working in management consultancy, heading critical global communications for major companies such as Hitachi, and incredibly, in 2016, after caring for her ailing mother for nearly a decade, Debra founded Viessentially Ltd.
More information on Debra HERE!
Viessentially Ltd is a virtual admin streamlining service, transforming and revolutionising the internal operations for numerous businesses, enhancing productivity, growth, and overall profitability. Over the years, it has expanded to multiple countries, with a focus on cybersecurity, and is continuing to enhance its services.
Debra’s incredible story has earned her the nickname ‘The Mary Poppins of the Office,’ perfectly encapsulating her commitment to supporting and inspiring others while positively making a change to the world around her.
Photo by Floriane Vita on Unsplash
Author: Mandy Kloppers
Mandy is a qualified therapist who treats depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, trauma, and many other types of mental health issues. She provides online therapy around the world for those needing support and also provides relationship counselling.
