S2 Ep11-From Council estate to 17 Houses: Shirleyann's journey to an extraordinary life

Growing up on a council estate in the North, Shirley Ann Haig didn’t have an easy start. Raised by a single mum on benefits, she knew she wanted more out of life — even if the odds were stacked against her. From lying about detention just to do her homework, Shirley’s early years were far from glamorous.

But that didn’t stop her.

She turned her life around, joined the Prince’s Trust, and discovered the power of education and self-belief. Within three years, she went from living on a council estate to owning 17 properties. When life knocked her down again — losing her marriage and six-figure salary — she started over, stronger than ever.

Now, Shirley inspires others to do the same through coaching, mindset training, and her Inspiring Minds CIC for 16–18-year-olds.

I found Shirley’s story truly inspiring, and I think you will too.

As she beautifully puts it: “We can all be extraordinary with the right words, the right mentors, and the right knowledge.”