One year since I left journalism: A reflection on change, growth and building the life I want

Kimberley Caines • July 11, 2025

One year ago, I closed the door on my 12-year career in journalism.


From the newsroom to Parliament House, I lived and breathed breaking news, told stories that mattered, and worked alongside some of the most talented people I know.


But somewhere along the way, a quiet voice kept getting louder:

Was this still the life I wanted?


The answer surprised me.


It was no.


Not because I didn't love journalism - I did.


But because I was ready for more. More freedom. More creativity. More control over the life I was building.


So, I took the leap.


What's happened since


In the 12 months since leaving journalism, my life has changed in ways I couldn't have imagined. I've:


- Acquired a sustainable underwear brand, NICO Underwear, and learnt every aspect of the business.


- Launched PreservHer - a platform empowering women to understand their fertility options and take control of their future.


- Immersed myself in business education - everything from private equity to leadership, acquisition, marketing and mindset.


- Travelled across New Zealand, the United States, and Canada.


- Created a life built on freedom, flexibility, and purpose.


It's been the most challenging and fulfilling year of my life.


I've made mistakes. I've questioned myself. I've grown - quickly and deeply. And I've never felt more aligned.


What I've learned


Here are a few things this past 12 months has taught me:


1. You're allowed to evolve.


It's okay to outgrow a path, even a successful one. Your identity isn't fixed - and that's a beautiful thing.


2. Starting over isn't starting from scratch.


I didn't leave 12 years of journalism behind - I brought it with me. The skills, the stories, the instinct. All of it now fuels my work in business.


3. You don't need all the answers to begin.


You just need a vision, and the willingness to learn fast. The rest happens step-by-step.


What's next


I'm only just getting started.


With NICO, we're continuing to grow our community and push boundaries in sustainable design, comfort and inclusivity.


With PreservHer, I'm on a mission to change the way women talk about egg freezing and fertility - through education, empowerment, and honest storytelling.


There are more projects on the horizon. More pivots, no doubt. But for now, I'm proud of where I've landed.


A note to anyone dreaming of change


If you're in a season of uncertainty - if you're feeling pulled towards something different - this is your reminder:


- You're allowed to choose a new path.

- You're allowed to back yourself.

- You're allowed to build something you're proud of.


It won't always be easy. But it will be worth it.


Thanks for being part of the journey.

Kimberley Caines meets with Dr Mike Freelander in Parliament House.
By Kimberley Caines November 4, 2025
Today marks a historic moment for PreservHer – and for Australia’s reproductive future. We officially launched our education and awareness campaign in Parliament, advocating for a future where every woman has access to proactive fertility care, not just those who can afford it.
Kimberley Caines meeting a senior policy adviser in Parliament House.
By Kimberley Caines October 16, 2025
As Australia's fertility rate hits a century low, it's time we stop pretending women are the problem. Supporting egg freezing and fertility education isn't just about women's health - it's about our country's future.
PreservHer Founder Kimberley Caines takes fertility policy to Parliament House.
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As Australia's fertility rate hits record lows, meaningful policy change has never been more urgent. Today, I met with a Senior Policy Adviser at Parliament House to discuss practical reforms to make egg freezing more affordable and accessible for all women.
Kimberley Caines swapped media deadlines for fabric swatches to become the owner of NICO in 2024.
By Kimberley Caines October 7, 2025
It's been one year since I took over NICO Underwear - a sustainable Australian label. After 12 years as a journalist, I wanted to tell a different kind of story: one about design, purpose, and women feeling comfortable in their own skin.
Kimberley Caines wins the Sustainability Award at the Sansoniverse Awards.
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Less than a year into business, I was honoured with the Sustainability Award at the Sansoniverse Awards. Here’s what this recognition means to me, to NICO Underwear, and to the future of sustainable fashion.
Kimberley Canes froze her eggs at age 28.
By Kimberley Caines September 8, 2025
Freezing my eggs at age 28 felt isolating, but it became one of the best decisions I’ve made.
Women’s Health Week
By Kimberley Caines September 2, 2025
As Women’s Health Week and Fertility Week collide, it’s time to ask - are we really putting ourselves first?
Journalist Kimberley Caines is writing interview questions down.
By Kimberley Caines August 7, 2025
As someone who cut her teeth digging for truth without AI, I'm glad I learned how to think before learning how to prompt.
Owner Kimberley Caines is visiting NICO Underwear's makers in India.
By Kimberley Caines July 31, 2025
So much goes into making a single garment - and it's easy to forget just how many hands, hours, and decisions are involved in creating something that feels simple, soft, and effortless to wear.
Kimberley Caines is the owner of NICO Underwear.
By Kimberley Caines July 28, 2025
Good underwear is about more than what you see in the mirror. It’s about how you feel.
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