Alexie Better is a dedicated developmental educator and literacy and numeracy specialist with a passion for facilitating learning and fostering learning. With a background in education and counselling, Alexie has over 14 years’ experience and she brings a unique perspective to her work, striving to create inclusive and engaging learning environments where all students can thrive.
Throughout her career, Alexie has honed her expertise in developmental education, focusing on understanding the individual needs of learners and implementing effective strategies to support their growth and development. Whether working with students who have learning disabilities, language barriers, or other challenges, Alexie approaches each individual with patience, kindness, and a commitment to finding solutions that meet their unique needs.
As a developmental educator, Alexie is dedicated to promoting literacy and numeracy as a fundamental tool for empowerment and success. She works tirelessly to instill a passion for reading and writing in her students, providing them with the skills and confidence they need to navigate the complexities of the modern world.
Alexie is known for her compassionate approach to teaching and her ability to connect with students on a personal level. She believes in the power of education to transform lives and is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of her students, empowering them to reach their full potential and become lifelong learners.
When did you start your business?
2018
What was the inspiration behind starting this business?
The inspiration behind starting my business, Better Multisensory Learning, stems from my personal journey that began in childhood. Growing up, I faced numerous obstacles in school, battling challenges with reading, writing, and learning due to undiagnosed dyslexia. Despite having tutor after tutor and lesson after lesson, it took immense effort and determination to make progress. However, I gradually found my way, thanks to the persistence my parents instilled in me and their unwavering belief in my potential.
As I grew older, the lingering question of what I wanted to pursue in life became more pressing. It wasn’t until I reflected on my own struggles and the limited resources available to help neurodiverse learners like myself that I realized my true calling. I wanted to create a business that would provide others with the support I had once needed but had to search so hard for. My goal was to ensure that children, parents, and educators had access to the tools and strategies that would make learning not only possible but enjoyable and empowering.
Better Multisensory Learning was born out of a deep desire to make education inclusive and accessible for all learners, regardless of their challenges. The knowledge I gained from my personal experiences, combined with the drive to help others who are navigating similar paths, became the foundation for my business. Now, I am able to support neurodiverse individuals and their families in a way that I wish had been available to me when I was younger.
What are you most excited about in your business?
What excites me the most about my business, Better Multisensory Learning, is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families who are navigating the challenges of neurodiversity. Every day, I get to witness those “lightbulb moments” when a child realizes they are capable of achieving things they once thought were impossible. Knowing that our approach, using multisensory techniques, truly helps unlock their potential and builds their confidence is incredibly fulfilling.
I’m also excited about the growing awareness and understanding of neurodiversity within the educational space. Being able to contribute to this shift by providing parents and educators with practical tools and resources to support learners is something I’m deeply passionate about. I love that my business creates a safe, encouraging environment where every child can thrive, regardless of the obstacles they face.
What drives my excitement further is the possibility of expanding our reach. As we continue to grow, the idea of being able to impact even more children and families excites me. I want Better Multisensory Learning to be a beacon of hope for those who might otherwise feel left behind by traditional education systems. The journey ahead is full of potential, and I am excited to continue helping individuals discover their strengths and embrace their unique learning paths.
What has been the most challenging thing about starting your business?
The most challenging aspect of starting my business, Better Multisensory Learning, has been navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship while staying true to the mission of supporting neurodiverse learners. Building a business from the ground up required me to step outside of my comfort zone and learn skills that I had little experience with, such as marketing, finances, and managing the day-to-day operations. Juggling these responsibilities while also developing the core programs and services for my clients has been an ongoing challenge.
Another major challenge has been raising awareness and breaking through the misconceptions surrounding neurodiversity and alternative learning methods. Many people still aren’t familiar with how multisensory learning can benefit neurodiverse children, so educating the public and creating a space where parents, schools, and educators see the value of these approaches has been crucial but difficult at times.
Additionally, finding the right balance between being a business owner, a parent, and an advocate for neurodiversity has been demanding. There are moments when it feels overwhelming to manage it all, but my passion for making a difference in the lives of children and families keeps me motivated, even when the challenges seem daunting. Each obstacle has provided valuable lessons, and overcoming them has made the business stronger and more resilient.
What advice would you give to other women thinking about starting a business?
If I were to give advice to other women thinking about starting a business, I would say this: trust in your vision, and don’t be afraid to take that first step, even if the path ahead seems unclear. Starting a business is daunting, and there will be moments when doubt creeps in, but you need to believe in the unique value you bring to the world. Know that your passion and purpose will guide you through the challenges.
One of the most important things I’ve learned is the power of resilience. There will be setbacks and obstacles, but each of those experiences is an opportunity for growth. Be prepared to pivot, adapt, and learn from every experience. Surround yourself with a strong support system, whether it’s family, friends, mentors, or a network of like-minded women in business, because having people who understand and uplift you is essential for your success.
Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help. You don’t have to have all the answers right away, and seeking advice or collaborating with others can make a huge difference. Build a team or network of people who complement your strengths and fill in areas where you may not have as much expertise.
Lastly, take care of yourself. Running a business can be all-consuming, but self-care is vital for longevity and sustained passion. As women, we often feel the need to juggle many roles, but it’s essential to prioritize your well-being. Remember, you are your business’s greatest asset, so make sure you invest in yourself as much as your business!
Why did you enter the AusMumpreneur Awards?
I entered the AusMumpreneur Awards because I wanted to celebrate and highlight the journey that led me to create Better Multisensory Learning. It wasn’t just about recognition; it was about sharing my story and showing that women, especially mothers, can succeed in business while juggling the demands of family and personal challenges. My business is rooted in a deep passion for helping neurodiverse learners, and entering these awards felt like an opportunity to amplify that mission and inspire others who might be facing similar struggles.
The AusMumpreneur Awards also represent a community of strong, supportive women who are making a difference, and I wanted to be a part of that. Connecting with other like-minded women who are changing the world through their businesses was a major motivator for me. The awards gave me a platform to not only share my achievements but also to continue advocating for neurodiversity and inclusivity in education.
On a personal level, entering the awards allowed me to step outside my comfort zone and celebrate how far I’ve come, overcoming learning challenges and building a business that truly makes a difference. It was a way to honor the work and persistence that went into creating Better Multisensory Learning, while also inspiring others to follow their own passion and purpose.
What did you enjoy the most about being part of the awards?
What I enjoyed the most about being part of the AusMumpreneur Awards was the incredible sense of community and connection with other women who share a passion for making a difference through their businesses. It was empowering to be surrounded by such inspiring, purpose-driven women, each with their own unique stories of perseverance, creativity, and innovation. The camaraderie and support from this community were truly uplifting.
I also loved having the opportunity to share my journey and mission with a broader audience. Being able to highlight the work I’m doing with Better Multisensory Learning, and raising awareness about neurodiversity and inclusive education, was incredibly fulfilling. The awards provided a platform for me to showcase how far I’ve come, and it was heartwarming to know that my story resonated with others.
Another highlight was the recognition itself—it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day challenges of running a business, and being part of the awards gave me a moment to reflect on the progress I’ve made and the impact I’ve had. It was a powerful reminder to celebrate the wins, big and small, and appreciate the journey.
Overall, the most rewarding part was feeling like I was part of something bigger than just my own business. It was about celebrating women in business as a whole and contributing to a movement that encourages and empowers more women to follow their dreams, no matter the challenges they face.
What surprised you most about the awards?
What surprised me most about the AusMumpreneur Awards was the overwhelming sense of community and support that came with being a part of it. I had expected the competition to be more about individual achievement, but what I found instead was a genuine spirit of camaraderie and collaboration among the participants. The women I met were not just celebrating their own success, but also cheering on others, offering advice, and sharing their experiences in such a heartfelt way. It felt less like a competition and more like a collective celebration of women who are making a difference.
I was also pleasantly surprised by how much the awards focused on the personal stories behind each business. The judges and audience were genuinely interested in the “why” the passion, challenges, and motivations that drove us to start our businesses. It wasn’t just about the bottom line or business numbers; it was about the journey and the impact each of us was making in our communities.
Another surprise was how much the awards boosted my confidence. While I entered the awards to share my story and hopefully inspire others, I didn’t anticipate how empowering it would feel to have my work and journey recognized on such a platform. It gave me a fresh perspective on what I’ve accomplished and motivated me to dream even bigger for the future of Better Multisensory Learning.
Overall, the most surprising aspect was how deeply personal and supportive the entire experience was, from the connections I made to the recognition of my business’s purpose. It was truly more than just an awards event it was an empowering journey of growth and celebration.
How did the awards help you in your business?
The AusMumpreneur Awards helped my business, Better Multisensory Learning, in several meaningful ways. First and foremost, the recognition provided increased visibility for my business, helping to raise awareness about the work I’m doing to support neurodiverse learners and their families. Being part of such a well-respected platform opened up new opportunities to reach more people who could benefit from our services, as well as connect with other professionals in the field of education and neurodiversity advocacy.
The awards also provided credibility, validating the effort and passion behind my business. When potential clients, partners, or collaborators see that we placed 3rd in the People’s Choice Awards, it adds an extra layer of trust and confidence in what we do. This recognition has been a great way to reinforce the value of multisensory learning and the impact it has on students.
On a more personal level, the awards experience has helped boost my confidence as a business owner. It reaffirmed that I’m on the right path and that the work I’m doing is not only needed but also appreciated. This sense of validation gave me the motivation to keep pushing forward, even when things get tough.
Additionally, being part of the awards connected me with an incredible network of other women in business. These connections have led to valuable collaborations, mentorship opportunities, and shared experiences that have helped me grow both personally and professionally. The support from this community continues to be a source of encouragement and inspiration as I expand my business.
In short, the awards have been instrumental in growing my business by increasing visibility, building trust, boosting my confidence, and connecting me with a network of amazing women who share similar goals and values.
What advice would you give to other mums thinking about entering the awards?
A: If you’re a mum thinking about entering the AusMumpreneur Awards, my advice is simple, go for it! Don’t let doubt or fear hold you back from recognizing your achievements and sharing your story. Here are a few key pieces of advice:
- Believe in your journey: Even if you feel like you’re not quite where you want to be yet, entering the awards is a way to celebrate how far you’ve come. Every step in your journey matters, and your story can inspire others in ways you may not even realize.
- Be authentic: Share your personal journey openly, your struggles, your successes, and everything in between. People connect with authenticity, and the awards provide a platform to showcase the passion and purpose behind your business. Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable and real about the challenges you’ve faced and how you’ve overcome them.
- Connect with the community: One of the most valuable aspects of the awards is the sense of community you’ll gain. You’ll have the opportunity to connect with like-minded women who are also balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship. The support, encouragement, and networking opportunities are incredible, so take full advantage of this by being open to building relationships.
- Celebrate your wins: As mums, we often downplay our achievements, but the AusMumpreneur Awards are a great reminder to take pride in your accomplishments. Whether you win or not, entering the awards is an opportunity to reflect on your successes and give yourself credit for all the hard work you’ve put in.
- Use it as a learning experience: The process of entering the awards can be a learning experience in itself. It helps you reflect on your business, articulate your mission, and refine your story. Even if you don’t take home an award, the exposure, connections, and insights you gain can propel your business forward in ways you might not expect.
Ultimately, the awards are about more than just recognition, they’re a chance to be part of a supportive community, to gain confidence in your entrepreneurial journey, and to inspire others with your story. So take the leap, share your passion, and trust that your work is making a difference!
What has been the best thing about starting your own business?
The best thing about starting my own business, Better Multisensory Learning, has been the freedom to create something that truly aligns with my passion and purpose. I’ve been able to design a business that reflects my values and directly impacts the lives of neurodiverse learners and their families, which is incredibly fulfilling. Watching children develop confidence in their abilities and seeing families experience hope and relief as they find effective strategies for learning has been the most rewarding part of the journey.
Another amazing aspect has been the personal growth that comes with entrepreneurship. Starting my own business has pushed me to learn new skills, overcome challenges, and step outside my comfort zone in ways I never imagined. It’s been a continuous learning process, but one that has helped me grow not just as a business owner, but also as a person and a parent.
I also love the flexibility that comes with being my own boss. As a mum, being able to create a business that allows me to balance family life while pursuing my passion has been a gift. It’s empowering to know that I can shape my business in a way that works for both my personal and professional goals.
Finally, the connections and community that have come from starting my business have been invaluable. I’ve met so many incredible people, parents, educators, and fellow business owners, who share a similar passion for supporting neurodiverse individuals. These relationships have enriched my journey and continue to inspire me as I grow my business.
In short, the best thing about starting my own business has been the ability to create a positive impact, experience personal growth, and find balance between my passion and family life all while building a supportive community along the way.
What’s happening next in your business?
The next chapter for Better Multisensory Learning is filled with exciting growth and expansion. One of the primary focuses is to continue expanding our reach to support even more neurodiverse learners and their families. We’re working on developing new programs and resources that are tailored to different learning needs and age groups, ensuring that we can provide a more personalized and effective experience for every individual who comes to us.
In addition, we’re exploring opportunities to collaborate with schools and educators to bring multisensory learning strategies into the classroom. By working closely with educational institutions, we hope to create a more inclusive learning environment for all students, not just those who come to us directly. This includes offering professional development and training for teachers so they can better support neurodiverse students in their own classrooms.
We’re also looking at expanding our online presence to make our services more accessible. This includes developing digital resources, webinars, and online workshops so that families who may not be able to attend in person can still benefit from the tools and strategies we offer.
Another exciting development is the potential to partner with other professionals in the field of neurodiversity and education. By collaborating with speech therapists, occupational therapists, and psychologists, we can offer a more holistic approach to supporting children’s learning and development.
Ultimately, what’s next for Better Multisensory Learning is about continuing to innovate, expand, and collaborate so that we can make an even greater impact on the lives of neurodiverse learners. There’s so much potential ahead, and I’m excited to see how we can continue to grow and evolve to meet the needs of our community.
What are your big plans for the future?
My big plans for the future of Better Multisensory Learning revolve around expanding the impact and reach of the business, both locally and globally. One of the most exciting goals is to scale our services so that we can help even more neurodiverse learners and families. This includes opening additional learning centers in different regions to make our programs more accessible to those who need them most.
Another major focus is to develop a comprehensive, online platform that will allow us to offer our multisensory learning methods to families, educators, and schools worldwide. This digital expansion would include interactive courses, workshops, and resources that can be accessed by anyone, regardless of their location. I envision creating a space where parents, teachers, and children can come together to learn effective strategies for overcoming learning challenges in a supportive and engaging environment.
In the future, I also plan to deepen our collaborations with schools and educational institutions. My goal is to implement multisensory learning strategies into mainstream education by providing training programs and resources for teachers. I want to ensure that every classroom has the tools to support neurodiverse students, helping create more inclusive learning environments on a larger scale.
Additionally, I’m passionate about advocating for greater awareness and support for neurodiversity in education and beyond. I hope to take a more active role in public speaking, writing, and advocacy work to help shift societal perspectives on learning differences and highlight the strengths and potential of neurodiverse individuals.
Lastly, I envision partnering with other experts in the field of education and neurodiversity to develop holistic, multidisciplinary programs that address not only the academic needs of children but also their social, emotional, and psychological well-being. By creating a network of support that encompasses all aspects of a child’s development, we can offer more effective, well-rounded solutions.
Ultimately, my big plans are about continuing to innovate and grow Better Multisensory Learning so that we can have a broader, more lasting impact on neurodiverse learners, families, and the educational system as a whole.
