Our
Values
Transparency
Transparency is the foundation of trust—and trust is the currency of every great workplace. At The Working Optimist, we believe transparency isn’t just about sharing information—it's about creating environments where people feel safe to speak up, show up, and grow. Real optimism isn’t blind positivity. It’s clear-eyed, grounded, and built on truth.
Innovation
Innovation in workplace wellbeing isn’t about trends—it’s about progress. We’re redesigning how wellbeing shows up at work: inclusive, actionable, and available to all. Because everyone deserves to feel good at work. And when we innovate in ways that are truly human, we unlock performance, creativity, and culture shifts that last.
Empathy
Empathy is more than kindness—it’s a catalyst for connection. At The Working Optimist, we know that when people feel understood, they feel safe to show up fully. We lead with empathy, listen with intention, and create room for real human experiences at work. That’s how strong teams are built—from a place of care.
Engagement
Engagement is the foundation of every meaningful workplace. It’s how we recognise the value in others and how we communicate our own. At The Working Optimist, engagement means curiosity over judgement, collaboration over control, and inclusion over ego. It’s how we create spaces where people thrive—together.
Our team believe workplace wellbeing could be accessible to everyone.
With a career spanning high-energy fashion and global advertising styling, Daria gained unique insights into team dynamics and human behavior. This experience, coupled with her studies in Applied Positive Psychology and coaching certifications, revealed the essential role of psychological principles in workplace thriving. Recognizing a need for accessible development, Daria co-founded The Working Optimist (TWO) to offer outsourced coaching that equips individuals with tools for effective collaboration and purpose. At TWO, her passion drives workshops, content, and community building, believing that when others thrive, everyone thrives.
Natalie Stevenson
Co-Founder
Daria Maneche
Co-Founder
With a career that’s taken her from fashion sets, world music tours to boardrooms, Natalie has always championed people—whether actors, artists, musicians, or the teams behind the scenes. A creative entrepreneur and leadership specialist, she’s led high-performing teams across wellness, media, and real estate. As Co-Founder of UDEA Wellness and The Working Optimist, Natalie blends empathy, commercial savvy, and curiosity to build brands where people thrive. Her passion? Helping others feel better, work better, and live with purpose.