**The Magic Bus: My Life**
In the year 1950, I entered this world, a small bundle of potential and dreams, in a modest town that would shape my early years. The post-war era was a time of rebuilding and hope, and as I grew, I found myself surrounded by the vibrant energy of change. My childhood was filled with the laughter of friends and the warmth of family, but it was also marked by the curiosity that would guide me through life.
By 1960, I was ready to embark on my educational journey. School became a sanctuary where I discovered not only academic subjects but also the importance of friendships and teamwork. The classroom buzzed with ideas, and I eagerly absorbed knowledge like a sponge. It was during these formative years that I began to dream about my future—a future that would soon lead me to an apprenticeship as an Industrial Economist.
The apprenticeship marked a significant turning point in my life. It was the late 1960s when I stepped into the world of industry, armed with ambition and a desire to understand the mechanics of business. This experience laid the foundation for my career, teaching me valuable lessons about economics, market dynamics, and strategic thinking.
In 1970, amidst the backdrop of my burgeoning career, I found love in an unexpected place. Irena, a spirited woman from Poland, entered my life like a breath of fresh air. Our marriage was not just a union of two individuals; it was a blending of cultures and dreams. Together we navigated life’s challenges and celebrated its joys.
The year 1975 brought profound changes as we welcomed our first son, Marc, into our lives. Parenthood transformed me in ways I had never anticipated; it instilled in me a sense of responsibility and purpose that fueled my ambitions further. That same year marked another milestone as I began working for AGA as a Cost Accountant. This role allowed me to apply my skills in real-world scenarios while contributing to a company that valued innovation and excellence.
As time passed, our family grew with the arrival of our second son, Philip, in 1981. Each child brought their unique personality into our home—Marc with his inquisitive nature and Philip with his boundless energy. Balancing work and family life was challenging yet rewarding; every moment spent with them became cherished memories.
In 1983, after years of hard work and dedication to my studies, I proudly completed my High School Matura. This achievement opened new doors for me professionally and personally. The following years saw me transition through various roles within AGA—from Market Planner to Regional Sales Manager and eventually Business Development Manager for Central Eastern Europe (CEE). Each position taught me invaluable lessons about leadership, strategy, and adaptability.
By 1991, I had taken on the role of Marketing Sales Manager for Czech Republic and Slovakia at AGA. My responsibilities expanded as I became Managing Director and Regional Director for Manufacturing Industry CEE. These years were filled with challenges that tested my resolve but also provided opportunities for growth that shaped my professional identity.
In 2000, seeking new horizons, I joined Linde Group as SVP Program Manager eBusiness. This role allowed me to delve into the digital landscape—a realm that was rapidly evolving at the turn of the millennium. The experience honed my skills in navigating technological advancements while maintaining focus on business objectives.
From 2002 to 2010, I embarked on an exciting journey as owner of david shaping business Strategic Consultancy. This period allowed me to work closely with my two sons Marc and Philip and with various organizations across industries—helping them refine their strategies while fostering innovation within their teams.
In 2010, I founded RapidKnowHow Leadership Development Agency—a venture dedicated to nurturing future leaders through tailored programs designed to enhance their skills and capabilities. Over these years leading up to 2024, I’ve had the privilege of creating countless breakthrough business strategies that help individuals grow into confident leaders ready to tackle challenges head-on.
As life continued its course, our family blossomed further with the arrival of our grandson Leon born to Philip and his wife Roshi—and later his sister Lilian . Watching them grow has been one of life’s greatest joys; their laughter fills our home with warmth while reminding us how precious each moment is.
Reflecting on this journey—the magic bus ride through life—I realize how interconnected each experience has been: from humble beginnings in 1950 through love-filled moments shared with family; from professional milestones achieved over decades down to witnessing new generations emerge full of promise.
Life is indeed an adventure—a tapestry woven together by experiences both big and small—and as we continue this journey together as a family united by love and shared memories; we embrace every twist along this magical path ahead.