Wendy Hoost

What inspires you to be a teacher?
Teaching has always been part of my life. It runs in my family, and from an early age I learned that teaching is about much more than sharing knowledge – it is also about continuing to learn yourself. To me, meaningful education is built on authenticity, sincerity and genuine attention to others.

Through my experience of working with people, I have learned that growth begins with trust, curiosity and connection. My aim is not only to equip students with professional knowledge and practical skills, but also to inspire them to look beyond the surface and see the person behind the story. Authentic teaching means learning together, challenging one another and creating a safe environment in which people can grow.

What I enjoy most about teaching is seeing students gain new insights into themselves, their profession and the positive impact they can have on the lives of others.

About me
My professional journey began more than 25 years ago in the field of addiction care. It was there that I learned an important lesson early on: behind every behaviour lies a story, and lasting change begins with genuine attention, connection and trust.

That experience has shaped the way I view people ever since. Human behaviour, recovery, personal development and the way we relate to others have become the common thread throughout my career. I am fascinated by what motivates people to change, how resilience develops, and how meaningful relationships can make a lasting difference.

Throughout my career, I have seen time and again how important it is for people to feel seen, heard and valued, regardless of their background, life experiences or personal challenges. Diversity should be the norm. It is through embracing our differences that we create space for equality, trust and connection, allowing people to grow and develop.

This philosophy is reflected in my teaching. I draw not only on theory, but above all on many years of practical experience and my belief that people thrive when they are encouraged to discover their strengths, take responsibility for their own development and bring out the very best in themselves.

My expertise and passion
My expertise lies in supporting recovery within complex situations, with a particular focus on addiction, behavioural change and mental resilience. I always look beyond the presenting issue. For me, the individual is at the centre, connected to their family, social environment, culture, identity and the wider society in which they live.

I believe in the power of positivity, connection and recognising possibilities rather than limitations. It is this positive approach that can inspire people to take meaningful steps forward. I bring this perspective into my teaching by encouraging students to approach their future practice with curiosity, openness and a genuinely person-centred mindset.

Why have you chosen to teach for the ACC?
ACC holds a special place in my heart. Around twenty years ago, I completed the Coaching and Counselling and Person-Centred Coaching programme here, an experience that enriched me both professionally and personally. The person-centred vision of learning, development and guidance aligns perfectly with who I am and how I work with people.

During my training programme, I was particularly inspired by Lya Young-Afat, who showed me the transformative power of genuine attention, self-reflection and authentic leadership. Those lessons continue to guide me in both my professional and personal life.

I believe that professionals are at their most effective when they combine knowledge and practical skills with a deep understanding of themselves, their motivations and the impact they have on the people they work with.

Who is my hero and why?
One of my greatest sources of inspiration is Lya Young-Afat. When I studied Coaching and Counselling around twenty years ago, she made a profound impression on me. At a time when coaching was still far from the broad and well-established profession it is today, she showed me what truly matters.

She was an exceptional person and an incredibly authentic guide. What has stayed with me most is the way she demonstrated that genuine attention, authenticity and wholehearted presence form the foundation of meaningful connection and personal growth.

She taught me that personal development always begins with yourself, and that as a professional you can only make a real difference when you are willing to continue developing throughout your life. Not as a technique or method, but as a way of being.

Those insights continue to shape both my work and the way I support and connect with others.