Acknowledgements
At Compass and Covenant Genealogy, uncovering the complex narratives of the past is never a solitary journey. This work relies profoundly on the meticulous preservation efforts of archivists, the shared insights of the global genealogical community, and the trust of the families, past and present, who invite me into their histories. I am deeply grateful to the mentors, colleagues, and loved ones whose unwavering encouragement has shaped this practice.
Most importantly, thank you to the clients who entrust me with their lineages - your passion for discovery is the true compass that guides every investigation.
Support
Navigating the transition from passionate researcher to professional practitioner requires both a solid foundation and an expansive network, which is exactly what the Society of Genealogists has provided. Their unparalleled archival collections, robust professional development resources, and vibrant community of experts have been instrumental in these first steps for Compass and Covenant Genealogy. Having access to their wealth of knowledge and peer support has not only sharpened my investigative framework but has also reinforced my commitment to upholding the highest standards of genealogical excellence.
Professional Development & Academic Excellence
As Compass and Covenant Genealogy flourishes, my commitment to delivering forensic precision and upholding the highest industry standards remains paramount. To continually elevate the practice, my strategic roadmap includes pursuing advanced qualifications and continuing professional development (CPD) through the industry’s premier academic and professional bodies.
To deepen my expertise in complex methodologies, I will be engaging with advanced training from the IHGS, SoG, and Pharos Tutors, with future milestones targeting postgraduate credentials from Strathclyde or Dundee universities. Aligning my practice with these industry benchmarks ensures Compass and Covenant Genealogy exceeds the strict standards required by premier regulatory bodies like AGRA and the RQG. This commitment to continuous academic excellence guarantees unmatched investigative integrity for my clients as the business scales.
Consulting
Building a business on the principles of rigorous historical investigation requires elite mentorship, and the Institute of Heraldic and Genealogical Studies (IHGS) has been an invaluable consultant in these foundational steps. Their uncompromising standards, structured academic approach, and deep expertise in records and methodology have provided a vital sounding board for Compass and Covenant Genealogy. By challenging and refining my professional framework, their guidance has been instrumental in ensuring my practice delivers the highest level of academic integrity and forensic precision from day one.
Governing Body
Navigating the foundational requirements of a professional practice has been immensely streamlined by the Association of Genealogists and Researchers in Archives (AGRA). Their insights into professional codes of conduct, business ethics, and client care have been invaluable in structuring Compass and Covenant Genealogy. By providing a clear blueprint of the stringent benchmarks required for full industry accreditation, AGRA has served as an essential guide, ensuring my fledgling business is built on a solid framework of professional excellence from the very start.
A Special Acknowledgement
I cannot thank Steve enough for his unwavering support as I embark on this new business adventure. He brings a wealth of practical wisdom from his own years as an entrepreneur, his time managing businesses for others, and his early days running stores in his capacity as a master cobbler.
Beyond business acumen, Steve has been my absolute anchor. He possesses a rare, deep understanding of my frustrations, my moods, and the childhood complexities that shaped me. For the past fifteen years of our partnership, he has been the grounding force that keeps me steady.
Our story began long ago as childhood sweethearts—he was my very first serious boyfriend. As life so often does, it took us on separate paths for a time, until a chance meeting at a pub near Heathrow brought us full circle. Steve was out with an old colleague, I was celebrating a leaving event with my team, and fate simply took over.
While we certainly know exactly how to irritate and frustrate one another, our souls and spirits are entirely joined. There is no one else I would rather share the rest of my life's journey with... well, apart from the cats, of course!
A Note of Gratitude & Acknowledgment
This business and this website are the results of a long journey toward healing, self-discovery, and building a future with intention. I would not be standing here today, launching this venture and looking toward the horizon, without the profound support of my therapist and the phenomenal team at We Are With You.
For a long time, I carried the heavy weight of my past, replaying the challenges of my early years and adulthood. Through immense patience, guidance, and clinical insight, my therapist helped me reframe my entire story. She helped me look back with compassion, see things through a completely different lens, and finally accept a truth I deeply needed to hear: I was not to blame. Lifting that burden changed everything. It allowed me to shift from a place of survival to a place of creation.
Today, because of that life-saving support, I am proudly setting up my own business. My partner and I are actively planning for a bright, long-term future—one focused on growth, fulfillment, and our ultimate dream of one day retiring to a Greek island.
Thank You
To my wonderful therapist Monika and everyone at We Are With You: You held up a light when things felt their darkest, and you helped me build a life I genuinely want to live. I can never thank you enough.