Cayley Wood, 30, grew up in Johannesburg in a family that valued integrity, service and education. From an early age, she knew she wanted to make a difference — even if the path was unclear. From wanting to be a paediatrician to a teacher, she was drawn to roles that empowered others. After facing bullying at school, Cayley developed a deep commitment to kindness and resilience — values that now shape her work. Today, she is the founder and chief executive of Ingage Support, a digital mental health platform, and a registered counsellor with the Health Professions Council of South Africa. She supports children, teens and adults dealing with trauma, grief, stress and identity struggles, while building tech-based tools to make emotional care more accessible. Cayley holds an honours degree in psychology (cum laude) and continues advanced training in trauma-informed practice. Her work is guided by one belief: healing multiplies — and every conversation has the potential to change a life.
I admire my parents immensely. Their example of quiet strength, humility and unwavering integrity has grounded me throughout my life. My mother taught me empathy, kindness and the importance of showing up for people. She is the kind of person who makes everyone feel seen, and that shaped my desire to make others feel heard and valued too. My father taught me to think critically, stay humble and always follow through on my word. They have both supported me unconditionally, while also challenging me to step into my potential and trust my voice. Their influence reminds me daily that leadership is not about status or power — it is about how you treat people, how you hold yourself in moments of difficulty and how you stay rooted in who you are. Two other people I look up to are my younger sister and my husband. My sister’s strength, emotional intelligence and unwavering authenticity have taught me so much about what it means to live boldly and lead with heart. My husband’s quiet strength, unwavering support and belief in me have been a constant source of encouragement. Having someone who truly sees and supports your purpose is a gift I never take for granted. In the professional world, I am inspired by leaders in mental health who challenge the status quo — those who push back against stigma, fight for equity and create systems of care that are inclusive and transformative. I am also moved by people who may not be on magazine covers but are doing the deep work in schools, clinics and communities every day. They remind me that impact is not always visible, but it is always valuable.