Caitlin Farquharson

Some people are still a bit afraid to talk about the “P” word,  but not Caitlin Farquharson – your self-proclaimed best friend for all things cycle-syncing and period health.

Since graduating from Glasgow Caledonian in 2018, Caitlin has been on a personal and professional journey to destigmatise menstrual health and help people take back control of their periods.

Last year she launched her own business, Caitlin Farquharson Coaching Ltd, to teach people how to work with their menstrual cycle to elevate their productivity, boost confidence and tackle period problems.

Caitlin says it’s the skills and lessons she learnt from Glasgow Caledonian’s International Fashion Business course which helped her set up her own brand and business.

“I decided not to pursue fashion as a career, but doing this course meant that I got to experience different business modules (HR being one), and this was the career I initially decided to pursue.

“My career journey has been varied but I had always felt that I was destined to set up my own business and this was my ultimate goal.

“Doing this programme only solidified for me that this was what I wanted, and I am now one and a half years into my coaching business.”

It might not seem obvious at first, but Caitlin’s experience in Human Resources was key to shaping her future in menstrual health coaching.

Working in HR gave her unique insights into how personal wellbeing – especially for women – affects performance and productivity in the workplace.

Caitlin quickly realised how essential it therefore is to normalise discussions around menstrual health in professional settings.

While she was still at school, Caitlin had taken part in the university’s Retail Branding day-release programme, which allowed her to familiarise herself with the campus, and solidified her decision to study at the university.

“I enjoyed the level of autonomy that I had as a student and the flexibility to work part time and fit in studying/extracurricular activities where it made sense for me.

“Having the option to take on extra classes throughout the programme was great, as I chose to also study Spanish which meant that the course was really well rounded.

“Glasgow Caledonian is a modern, creative and exciting place to learn, make friends and find yourself that also feels like home.”

Now the owner and director of her own business, Caitlin feels she’s found the career path she was always meant to follow.

“I think it’s really important to let yourself explore different careers and try out different passions or interests because that’s the only way you will find your calling.

“Fashion has always been something I absolutely love but it wasn’t right for me as a career. That said, studying this programme showed me I had an interest in HR which led me into recruitment and then into Higher Education, which I love.

“It also gave me the tools to follow my dream of setting up my own business.

Her journey from fashion to menstrual health coaching – and all the stepping stones in between – shows that careers don’t always follow a linear path – and that’s okay.

“There is a lesson in everything and having a varied career journey isn’t a bad thing – you pick up so many skills and valuable connections along the way.”

For Caitlin, the connection between her degree and menstrual health advocacy is clear; it’s all about taking what you know and using it to empower people, whether in their work lives or in managing their own bodies.

By blending her experience in both business and human wellbeing, Caitlin has found a way to make a meaningful impact on both fronts.

Earlier this year, Caitlin launched her newest project – The Cycle Social Club.

It’s a community for those struggling with period health who can come together at fun events and meet-ups to make friends all whilst learning from Caitlin herself about how to manage your menstrual cycle and hormones.

You can find out more and purchase tickets for upcoming events via @thecyclesocialclub on Instagram.