Ann Mushet’s journey from teacher to successful family history entrepreneur is a testament to the transformative power of education.
Graduating with a Diploma of Family History from the University of Tasmania in 2021, Ann has turned her newfound knowledge into a thriving small business, helping others uncover their ancestral roots.
Ann’s early career was based on education. Growing up in the northern suburbs of Melbourne, she was inspired by her mother, a teacher, to pursue the same path.
“I decided I wanted to become a teacher when I was nine years old,” Ann recalls.
Despite the limited career options for women in the late 1970s, she persevered and began her teaching career in a small school in South Gippsland.
“In those days, you either became a teacher, a nurse, a typist, or you got married and had kids early,” Ann said.
However, Ann’s journey was far from linear. She took a year off to travel the world, an experience that broadened her horizons and influenced her outlook on life. This adventurous spirit would later fuel her entrepreneurial endeavours.
“I went to 24 countries in 10 months, including taking the Trans-Siberian Railway and scuba diving in the Red Sea.”
Ann’s teaching career was interspersed with various business ventures, including running a children’s clothing business and a flooring company.
Yet, it was during the COVID-19 pandemic that Ann found her calling in researching and writing family histories. With schools shut down and her teaching work halted, she stumbled upon the University’s Diploma of Family History program.
“I was really bored and started sewing face masks, but then I saw an online course on family history and thought, ‘Why not?’”
This decision marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life.
The Diploma of Family History proved to be a perfect fit for Ann. She was particularly drawn to the study of Australian convict history, being the great great-grand daughter of a convict.
“I have been researching my family tree for approximately 40 years. My involvement with Ancestry began in 2012, so I had a longstanding interest in family history.”
The potential for DNA research to revolutionise the way family histories are created and understood ignited Ann’s passion for genealogy, which has since become the cornerstone of her business.
“The courses at UTAS have guided me in exploring additional research avenues with greater detail,” she said.
Ann’s business has grown steadily, thanks in part to her involvement in networking groups like Business Network International (BNI).
“It’s good because I’ve got access to other people that can help me grow my business,” she said.
Her goal is to eventually transition from teaching to focusing solely on her genealogy business.
“BNI had to set up a whole new category for Genealogy in their business index for me and my work,” Ann shares with excitement.
Reflecting on her journey, Ann credits the University for boosting her confidence and honing her writing skills.
“I always had in my head that I wasn’t a good writer, but as I studied more, I could see my writing improving,” she admits.
This newfound confidence has led her to take on additional projects, such as writing the history of the Warrandyte Netball Club.
Her work in family history has not only been a professional success but also a deeply personal journey. Ann has uncovered fascinating stories and connections for her clients, often using DNA to reveal hidden truths.
"At the age of 76, one of my clients made a startling discovery through DNA testing: she was not biologically related to the family she had always believed was hers. She learned she had been adopted. She was raised as an only child. However, she has recently connected with her half-sister and half-brother."
Ann’s dedication to her craft is evident in the meticulous research and care she puts into each project.
“I just finished a family history for a client in Sydney, and it took me 15 months. It’s like a PhD thesis,” she notes.
Her work often involves piecing together historical records, photographs, and personal stories to create a comprehensive family history.
“I find the history of people’s lives and what they’ve been through fascinating.”
Ann’s story is also one of resilience. She has faced numerous challenges, including a difficult marriage and financial hardships.
“I lost my house and a business, and had to start over with three kids,” she recounts. Despite these setbacks, Ann’s entrepreneurial spirit never waned. She found ways to adapt and thrive, whether through relief teaching or starting new businesses.
Looking ahead, Ann is excited about the future of her business. She plans to continue expanding her services and exploring new areas of genealogy research.
“I’m really interested to learn more about DNA,” she said.
Ann’s curiosity and passion for learning are driving forces behind her success. She is also considering further studies to deepen her knowledge and expertise in the field.
Ann’s work not only helps individuals connect with their past but also builds a legacy for future generations.
“I feel like I’m doing this for my grandson or a great-grandchild who might one day want to know where they come from.”
This article featured in the monthly eNews Alumni and Friends. If you are a member of the University of Tasmania community and would like to receive this publication, please provide or update your email address.
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