Have you ever been faced with a challenge that tested your limits, both physically and mentally? That’s exactly what a group of nine women experienced when they took on the White Collar Aerial Challenge last month. Below you can see what they achieved and hear what they thought. One of the stars, Jo Ferbrache (pictured), tells us more about the experience.
As someone who was a part of this incredible journey, I can attest to the challenges and rewards that come with pushing beyond our limits. Our training with Hayley from Aerial Antics began in December, and from the start, we knew it wasn’t going to be easy.
Most of us couldn’t even lift ourselves up the first week! The thought of getting up on stage and performing in 14 weeks felt impossible. The physical demands of the training were significant, but it was the mental challenges that truly pushed us to our limits.
Each week, we pushed ourselves to achieve new heights, confronting our fears and insecurities head-on. And while the journey was difficult, the rewards were immeasurable. We built a sense of camaraderie that will last a lifetime, and we learned the true value of coaching and support.
The feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction that came with our performances in front of an audience was indescribable. The White Collar Aerial Challenge showed us that we are capable of so much more than we think, and that pushing beyond our limits can lead to incredible rewards. It’s an experience that will stay with us forever and serve as a reminder to always reach for the sky.
SOPHIE
Drama teacher
I wanted a challenge to commit to each week that would strengthen my body and mind as well as socialise with new and likeminded people. I wanted the opportunity to perform again on Island so this was a fab opportunity to dive into! It has been exciting, and self-validating in a strange way. I am strong and my body has done some epic things over these training weeks.
ANNETTE
Youth worker
I’ve seen aerialists at a couple of events and thought it looked amazing! When I saw Hayley promoting her White Collar Cabaret I decided I was up for the challenge… to show myself and others that we shouldn’t put limits on what we’re capable of! It’s been challenging, and at times painful, but most of all it’s been an amazing journey!
LISA
Accountant
As a full time working mum of two I wanted a challenge for me that would also take me out of my comfort zone and I have always had a passion for gymnastics. The challenge has been amazing. I feel stronger, fitter and more confident but terrified about the end show!
JO R
Accountant
My daughters did aerial with Hayley and they loved it, so when I heard about the White Collar Cabaret, I thought it would be a great opportunity to be more active and challenge myself. It has been a challenge both physically and mentally, but I loved every second!
CHES
Regulatory Consultant
The ad for White Collar Cabaret came up at just the right time for me, as I really felt like I needed an exciting challenge and to do something for myself. This looked completely outside of my comfort zone but I thought, why not give it a go and see what happens. It has been so tough, but I’ve met a wonderful group of ladies and I’m loving the buzz of achieving new things and getting stronger and more confident each week.
CERI
Senior People Partner
I really wanted to challenge myself and White Collar Cabaret brought together multiple areas that would put me to the test. Building enough self confidence to walk out on stage and perform. Trusting myself enough that I could remember a routine and stay safe. Putting my full trust into someone else. Sharing an experience with a group of people I had never met before. The journey so far has been inspiring and exciting!
LEANNE
Mental health worker
I wanted to do White Collar Cabaret for a personal challenge, to help boost confidence and to feel empowered. It has been tough and exhausting but I’ve slowly started to find strength I didn’t know I had. Falling from a height and hanging upside down genuinely terrified me at the start, but now I absolutely love it. Going to these classes each week and being surrounded by wonderful women has honestly been the best experience. I’ve enjoyed every minute, including the pain, bruises and calluses I’ve gained. It’s been a blast.
ZANDY
Lawyer
I was looking for something different to get my fitness levels up again and to challenge myself. This is something that was well out of my comfort zone and I needed that. I wanted something to give me a confidence boost and WCC has been perfect for that. It has been tough and I have been pushed to my limits, but White Collar Cabaret has been amazing at the same time. It is the best thing I have done in a long time! I am surrounded by a group of amazing women and we have all supported each other from day one.
JO F
Coach with a passion for sobriety
I’m new to exercise, let alone aerial and I wanted to overcome stage fright. I love a challenge and pushing myself outside my comfort zone, exploring new heights literally and figuratively! I have been on a transformative journey of pushing past the limiting beliefs that have held me back in the past.
