Thanks for stopping by. My name is Paul Walmsley, and I had the privilege of co-founding the Australia and New Zealand Coaching Alliance (ANZCAL) alongside Christine Walter.

Originally from a small town in the North West of England, I made the move to New Zealand in 2005 with my wife, Janet. We’re proud parents to our wonderful daughter, Alice, who is now grown and thriving in her own right.

My journey into coaching and education took a slightly unconventional path. Rather than heading straight to university to study Civil Engineering, I began my career in a three-year 'Trainee Scientist' role at the Science and Engineering Research Council in the UK. That experience sparked a lifelong passion for learning—and for supporting others in their learning journeys. I went on to study Physics, transitioned into IT as a Systems Programmer, and later earned a First-Class Honours Degree in Applied Computing. I also became a mentor to new trainees, and it was there that I began to recognise my true calling: empowering others to grow, achieve, and flourish.

Over the years, I’ve worn many hats—from IT professional and technical author (including an incredible IBM residency in Austin, Texas), to Senior Fellow Adjunct at the University of Canterbury, where I’ve taught postgraduate courses since 2009. I’ve also enjoyed pursuing my love for photography, capturing special moments for families and local businesses. More recently, I’ve been serving as a volunteer Ambulance Officer with St John, now leading a dedicated team of First Responders in my community.

Through all of these experiences, one belief has guided me: the Law of Cause and Effect—what you give to the world comes back to you. That philosophy is what inspired my work with ANZCAL. From the beginning, our aim was to build a supportive, authentic coaching community—one that empowers others to make a meaningful difference, one conversation at a time.

After many rewarding years, it felt like the right time to hand over the reins to someone who shares that same passion and vision. I’m delighted that Samantha Hannah is now leading ANZCAL into its next chapter. Sam brings wisdom, integrity, and a heartfelt commitment to the coaching profession. I have every confidence she’ll continue to nurture this community with care and purpose.

Thank you for being part of the journey so far—and for your ongoing support.

Warm regards,
Paul Walmsley
Co-Founder, ANZCAL