Varda Shepherd was born in Zimbabwe in 1956.

In 1986 she completed a music performance and teaching degree at Tel Aviv University while studying the Alexander Technique, then trained as an AT teacher, graduating in 1990. Later she studied music and movement therapy.

Varda learnt Qi Gong with Master Peng Jiu Ling and the basics of Chinese medicine with Nili Bassan. In 1997 Varda migrated to Australia, and studied narrative and art therapy.

She runs a private practice in Byron shire, teaching the Alexander Technique and counseling individuals, couples and families employing a range of therapeutic modalities. As the Director of BAC she is the primary teacher, receiving guidance and support from foremost proponents of the Alexander work from around the globe.