About Coaching Minds Global | EMCC Accredited Coach Training

Our Story. Our Mission.

Established in 2020, Coaching Minds emerged during a time of global uncertainty, offering support when it was needed most. What began as a small group of purpose-driven coaches providing pro bono services has since evolved into a global coaching school, empowering individuals across 15+ countries and advancing our mission to make coaching accessible and affordable worldwide.

 

When a hummingbird landed on the hand of our Managing Director, in a magical and meaningful moment amidst the mountains of Colombia, the hummingbird became the symbol of our vision. A symbol of growth, connection, and the belief that even the smallest moments can inspire lasting transformation.

Our Leadership Team

Paul Smith, Managing Director, EMCC Senior Practitioner, wearing a navy blue three-piece suit, white shirt, and red-wine tie, is standing straight with a hand on the button of his jacket and smiling.

Paul Smith, Managing Director

Paul is the Managing Director of Coaching Minds, leading us with a mission to make coaching accessible and affordable worldwide. A Senior Practitioner with the EMCC, he brings a structured, ethical approach to developing coaches in transformational and organisational practice. An author and educator, Paul is driven by a commitment to fairness, service, and raising standards across the profession.

Adele Jacobs, Programme Director, EMCC Senior Practitioner, headshot, white blouse, soft smile.

Adele Jacobs, Programme Director

Adele is Programme Director at Coaching Minds, specialising in training and transformational coaching to support personal and professional growth. With recognised certifications and EMCC-accredited credentials, she brings a structured and developmental approach to programme delivery. Adele is committed to developing continuous learning, designing impactful experiences that support lasting change.

Donna Burfiled, EMCC Accredited Practitioner, Coach Centre Lead. STanding in a navy suit jacket over a black sweater, phone in hand, smiling happily. Green trees in the background.

Donna Burfield, Coach Centre Lead

Donna is an EMCC accredited coach, educator, and founder of Joy and Purpose Coaching, with over 26 years’ experience supporting individuals and families. She brings a deeply compassionate, resilience-led approach shaped by both professional expertise and lived experience. As Coach Centre Lead, Donna oversees our pro-bono coaching, championing accessible, high-quality support for diverse communities.

Our Values

Our values are not simply stated; they are lived. Through our distinctive approach, Coachology, we embed these principles into every stage of the learning experience. Coaches are recognised not only for their development, but for how they uplift others, with recognition points awarded by peers who observe these values in action. Those acknowledged are featured on our recognition boards, celebrated across our global community. Click below to learn more about Coaching Minds Global programmes and Coachology.

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Testimonials from Our Coaches

The Early Days of Coaching Minds (2020-22)