About Genevieve Theseira-Haese
Genevieve Theseira was born and raised in Singapore to Eurasian parents. Her early years were influenced by her parents and her father’s library where she became an avid reader. Her learning through books continues to this day but at the age of 17 she was introduced to the psychology of advertising when she read ‘Ogilvy on Advertising’ by Sir David Ogilvy, who Genevieve describes as a modern-day Merlin (he even had his own castle!).
Inspired by the potential to positively influence people to action through story-telling and imagery, Genevieve moved to Los Angeles where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) in Communication. Her thesis was 'The Art of Influence and Persuasion' and her interest in psychology and metaphysics has become a lifelong passion.
Genevieve moved to London in 1986 where she lived and worked in the advertising industry for 10 years. In 2000 her father passed away at age 59, so Genevieve moved back to Singapore to be with her family. She was very close to her father and his death led her on a more spiritual journey, away from the world of advertising. She started reading books that nourished her mind and soul, books that spoke of listening and synchronicity and Genevieve was particularly drawn to author Lee Coit, who also came from the world of advertising but began a quest that led him deeper into the uncovering of his own spiritual being.
Genevieve’s life took on new meaning, yet one where everything she had learned and experienced from the world of advertising merged with holistic healing, family and spirituality to create a purpose and vision of her future. Genevieve’s passion for helping others saw her join the Board of the Home Nursing Foundation in Singapore and develop a number of holistic healing retreats across Asia.
Genevieve is the founder and owner of BreathingSpace Inc, a healing arts portal designed to promote the healing arts to corporate executives globally. Genevieve first met Martin Haese in 2000 at a Global Entrepreneur’s Organisation event and they were married in Melbourne in January 2010 before moving to Adelaide, South Australia.
In 2014, Martin was elected Lord Mayor of Adelaide following a successful campaign in which Genevieve took an active role in strategy and marketing. Following a motion passed through Council, Genevieve became Lady Mayoress of Adelaide in November 2014 where she worked tirelessly with the community in creating a multicultural city.
“I was grateful to be a voice for multi-culturalism, community wellbeing and women’s achievement.”
She opened the doors of Adelaide Town Hall and her heart to the people of Adelaide achieving something few other Lady Mayoresses had - breaking down the barriers between ‘them and us’ and created ‘us’.
As Lady Mayoress, Genevieve created the HerStory South Australia movement to share the untold stories of women in South Australia.
As Lady Mayoress, Genevieve achieved much to raise the profile of small and large organisations through fundraising, advocacy and community support.