Defy Your Destiny is an incredible and moving story about one woman’s resilience, grit, determination and choice to survive and thrive, despite overwhelming odds, challenges and suffering. ‘Inspirational and empowering’ doesn’t even begin to describe Fiori’s incredible memoir. A must-read for every woman, man and child, to truly understand how ordinary people are capable of the most extraordinary things.

Fiori’s harrowing and inspirational life story personifies courage against insurmountable odds, including war, death threats, abuse, racism and sexism. An ordinary person would have succumbed. Fiori demonstrates, time and time again through her story, that she is extraordinary. From a teenage boat-person refugee, to building a new life in diverse cultures across Africa, Europe and finally Australia, she now guides and mentors leading corporate achievers.

Fiori Giovanni’s story of survival demonstrates that the path out of almost impossible circumstances is built on a foundation of courage, determination and resilience.

A deeply powerful and complex personal story expressed thoughtfully and with rare candour. Fiori’s openness to life and generosity radiate throughout the text, providing insights that are both immediate and universal. Her ability to draw lessons from her past to define her own future, provides an invaluable example applicable to readers, irrespective of their unique circumstances.

Absolutely enrapturing. From the minute you open the book, you will struggle to put it down. Fiori takes you on a journey, her journey–one where you find yourself empathising, crying with her, smiling unwittingly, feeling fear for her, and ultimately rooting for her with a sense of empowerment along the way. This book was pure enjoyment to read. Highly recommended.