How do you turn personal struggle into strength and use it to uplift others?

In this Inspire Future Leaders interview, hosted by Amos Madra, we meet Ricardo Erasmus, founder of Paradigm Shift Academy Ltd and a transformational life coach. Originally from South Africa and now based in Wales, Ricardo shares how he overcame career loss, depression, and uncertainty to help young people discover their true potential.

Who is Ricardo Erasmus, and what does he do?

Ricardo Erasmus is a transformational life coach, mentor, and motivational speaker. Through his work at Paradigm Shift Academy, he helps young people build confidence, discover their identity, and make empowered life choices.

His journey began on a very different path, as a semi-professional footballer and table tennis player in South Africa. But following a career-ending injury, Ricardo found himself battling depression and hopelessness. Rather than give in, he redirected his energy toward youth coaching and mentoring and trained at the Animas Coaching Centre to become a qualified life coach.

Today, his mission is clear:

“To help the next generation go further than I did.”

What is transformational coaching, and how does it help young people?

Transformational coaching helps individuals understand themselves on a deeper level, break through mental and emotional barriers, and make lasting change. Ricardo uses this approach to work with students and young adults who may feel lost, overwhelmed, or unsure of their future.

Key areas Ricardo focuses on:

• Self-discovery and identity
• Resilience building and mental wellbeing
• Goal setting and vision mapping
• Confidence and decision-making skills
• Positive mindset and emotional growth

His coaching isn’t about telling young people what to do; it’s about helping them realise what’s already within them.

What can students learn from Ricardo’s journey?

Ricardo’s life is a powerful reminder that your biggest setbacks can become your greatest breakthroughs. Losing his football career could have ended his story, but instead, it gave him a new purpose.

“In tough times, you need to hold onto that dream, that goal, and that vision… the outcome will be, you will win.”

– Ricardo Erasmus

He encourages students to start with one key question: “Who are you?”
Because when you understand who you are, you can make choices that align with your values and purpose.

Ricardo’s advice to future leaders

Whether students dream of a sports career, want to work in youth development, or are simply trying to find their place in the world, Ricardo’s message is universal: you are capable of more than you think.

Ricardo’s advice in a nutshell:

• Know yourself, everything begins with self-awareness
• Don’t give up when things get hard, growth comes through struggle
• Keep your vision in sight, your dream still matters
• Ask for support, you’re not meant to do life alone
• Be the change, use your story to help others

Your Journey Isn’t Over, It’s Just Beginning

Ricardo Erasmus proves that even when life takes an unexpected turn, you still have the power to create something meaningful. His story is one of transformation, resilience, and purpose, and it’s one that every young person can learn from.

Want your students to hear more stories like Ricardo’s?
Book a demo to explore how The Changing Education Group delivers inspiring, Gatsby-aligned careers content that motivates the next generation.

FAQs

Who is Ricardo Erasmus?
Ricardo Erasmus is a transformational life coach, mentor, and founder of Paradigm Shift Academy Ltd. He supports young people through personal development and empowerment coaching.

What is Paradigm Shift Academy?
Paradigm Shift Academy is Ricardo’s coaching and mentoring platform that helps young people develop confidence, purpose, and resilience through workshops, talks, and one-to-one coaching.

How can coaching help students or young people?
Transformational coaching helps students understand themselves, make better decisions, build confidence, and set meaningful goals for life and work.

What inspired Ricardo to become a life coach?
After losing his football career to injury and facing depression, Ricardo found new purpose in helping young people grow beyond their circumstances.

How can students get involved or connect with Ricardo?
Students or educators can connect with Ricardo via Instagram @paradigmshiftacademyltd or by attending his youth-focused workshops.