Meet Sylvie
Helping Young Adults
Find Their True Path
My
Story
Welcome! I’m Sylvie Barr, the founder of Holisto®.
Originally from France, I’ve spent half of my life in the UK. I’m married to a Scot (I love Scotland!) and we have a wonderful 19 year-old daughter, Felicity.
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been on a quest - wondering what I’m truly meant to do. As a teenager, I dreamed of becoming an English teacher. But when I was advised against it, I was left thinking, what now?
I ended up studying business, nearly went into finance, and eventually landed in marketing and branding, working in senior roles across various companies. While I enjoyed many aspects of my career, I always felt there was something more - a deeper way to make a difference.
A Turning Point
Becoming a mother was life-changing. Raising a child with learning difficulties taught me patience, resilience, and the importance of seeing people for who they truly are - focusing on their strengths, not their struggles.
Then came a major turning point: burnout. After years in the corporate world, I knew I needed a change. So, in 2019, I launched Holisto®, initially helping small businesses build authentic brands. It was fulfilling work, allowing me to connect with people, hear their unique stories, and uncover what made them THEM.
Yet, something was still missing.
The Missing Piece
Looking back, the answer had been with me all along. I’ve always been drawn to guiding young people - helping them navigate their path and make choices that align with who they truly are.
That’s when it clicked: I am here to help young adults discover their natural strengths and step onto a career path that is right for them.
No more following someone else’s expectations.
No more feeling lost, stuck, or unsure about the future.
No more wasted time, energy, or money on a path that doesn’t excite you.
With the Holisto® method, I help young adults break free from confusion and step confidently into a career that feels fulfilling, meaningful, and that is theirs.
Why I Do This
People often say, “You are not your ideal client.” And while that’s true - everyone’s journey is unique - there’s something powerful about working with someone who’s been there.
I know what it’s like to feel uncertain about the future. I know what it’s like to take a winding road to find what truly lights you up. And now, I want to help you get there sooner, with clarity and confidence.
If you’re unsure of which path to take, I’ve got YOU.
I’d love to walk alongside you on this journey of self-discovery - helping you uncover what excites you, what makes you feel alive, and how to turn that into a fulfilling career and life.
I cannot wait to get to know YOU.
Awards & Certifications
I am a certified Business mentor and as such I still mentor business owners in the UK, under the Help to Grow programme from Enterprise Nation.
I have a degree in Business Administration.
During my career in Marketing and Branding, I received the prestigious Marketeer of the Year Award from the Marketing Society, for my work at Cafedirect.
The Roots of Holisto®
My Dream
A world where young adults confidently step into a career that aligns with their authentic selves - leading meaningful, fulfilling, and successful lives.
My Mission
To help young adults uncover their natural strengths and choose a career path that is truly theirs.
What I Believe
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Everyone has talents and natural gifts.
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Staying true to yourself is the key to success and fulfilment.
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Everything is connected - mind, body, soul; past, present, future; personal life, work life, social life.
My Values
Freedom – To be who you are, to explore, to experiment, to learn through success and failure.
Appreciation of Beauty & Excellence – Everyone has unique talents that make them shine.
Love – Self-love first; when we take care of ourselves, we thrive in all areas of life.
Honesty – Speaking our truth encourages others to do the same.
Lifelong Learning – Growth never stops; every experience is an opportunity to learn.
Creativity – Finding new ideas and solutions to life’s challenges.
Who I Am
✔ Curious
✔ Enthusiastic
✔ Loving & Caring
✔ Practical
✔ Straightforward
✔ Unconventional