Choirs4Kids was founded in 2016 and has since expanded from 4 local students to a global community of over 200 children. We provide singing classes tailored for ages 4 to 15, reaching diverse groups such as schooled, homeschooled, travellers, and neurodivergent children across
every continent.

At Choirs4Kids, we embrace the uniqueness of every child. Our empathetic approach, combined with personalised attention and a ‘no performance required’ policy, supports children in overcoming social anxiety and breaking down barriers. We provide flexible learning options including online, in-person, and individual classes.

When did you start your business?

2016

What was the inspiration behind starting this business?

I was inspired to start my business because of my experiences as a music teacher within the education system. I witnessed firsthand how traditional approaches often failed to accommodate the diverse needs and talents of students, especially when it came to inclusive singing programs
for children of all abilities and ages. This glaring gap was the spark that started the business and continues to fuel it today.

Transitioning my classes online further solidified my vision. It allowed me to break down barriers of accessibility and connect with a broader audience of young people worldwide. Additionally, societal misconceptions about singing ability, requests from supportive friends, and the desire to
be a role model for my daughter, all contributed to my decision.

Together, these factors propelled me to turn my dream into a reality, developing a community where music is a tool for empowerment and self-expression.

What are you most excited about in your business?

I love waking up each morning with a song in my head. Currently we have our ‘Singing September’ event where we create a new vocal warm up every day for 30 days. I have been doing this for the past 5 years but this year we decided to make it all about the kids and so they
are also composing songs.

I feel incredibly proud when I have parents tell me about their child’s latest ‘win’. These have ranged from speaking to peers (we have some young people with situational mutism) to others who are now performing in musicals and performing at weddings! We love the diversity and
where singing can take you. I love the confidence it is giving these kids.

What has been the most challenging thing about starting your business?

Not following current business trends has been challenging this year and probably the most challenging aspect to date. Most businesses are embracing AI but we take pride in our commitment to genuine human interaction. This enables us to interact in real-time and to adapt to the unique environment of each class.

Navigating cluttered inboxes of parents and the ever-shifting algorithms of social media has also become more challenging each year. We manage this by leveraging Instagram reels and stories and collaborating with other businesses. This has amplified our presence, enabling a wider
audience to discover the benefits of Choirs4Kids.

What advice would you give to other women thinking about starting a business?

Starting a business is a thrilling journey that brings both opportunities and challenges. Embrace the rollercoaster ride of entrepreneurship. Remember to celebrate your successes and learn from your setbacks. Cultivating resilience is key. Stay focused on your long-term goals and maintain a positive mindset through the ups and downs.

Family support is invaluable. Involve your loved ones in your journey. Open communication about your business commitments helps manage expectations and creates a supportive environment at home. Look for ways to integrate business activities with family time, whether through joint decision-making or sharing achievements together.

Remember, starting a business is not just about the venture itself but also about creating a balanced and fulfilling life. Embrace the journey with enthusiasm and determination, and enjoy the rewards of building something meaningful.

Why did you enter the AusMumpreneur Awards?

Entering the AusMumpreneur Awards is such a great opportunity to step up with the business. It helps you take apart your goals and aim that little bit higher each year. It makes you accountable too. I also love connecting with the other mums in the categories that I enter and often find we have so much in common. These mums become business besties and that in itself boosts you up for the next year.

What did you enjoy the most about being part of the awards?

This year, finally, I was able to actually attend the awards in person. For the past 4 I have attended online and whilst that has been amazing, it lacked something. This year, being there and meeting all the other womens in business, as well as Peace and Katy for the first time was incredible. I loved being able to attend with my daughter too. She has watched the business grow to where it is today through her 12 short years and it was wonderful to share this award with her.

What surprised you most about the awards?

The love in the room. The support for each other as something that you can’t experience online so actually being at the conference and awards was very special.

How did the awards help you in your business?

This award has really helped boost the local in person singing group classes again. We have been in the local media and have reached out to the National media too. We hope that it springboards Choirs4Kids to greater heights.

What advice would you give to other mums thinking about entering the awards?

Go for it!
Other mums this year actually said to me that they didn’t think that they had anything or were ‘worthy’ of entering. You can’t think like that. You have to Go For IT and embrace every opportunity. The connections through this awesome group of women will help your business 100%.

What has been the best thing about starting your own business?

Being able to work from home and make my own decisions and be an inspiration to my daughter.

What’s happening next in your business?

We are working on creating diverse thematic singing programs, such as cultural songs, holiday specials, and historical event songs. These programs will be professionally recorded and available for purchase by learning centres, accompanied by downloadable resource kits. To enhance engagement, live online sessions will be included, providing real-time interaction and personalised feedback.

What are your big plans for the future?

To have 1000 young singers in my singing program. This will mean reaching out to find clones of myself for our USA families as I can’t be everywhere all of the time! We have a big plan in progress too. We are starting a plan for a nationwide singing festival for children, featuring various age categories and regional events. The festival will focus on participation and celebration rather than competition. Inclusive workshops and clinics will be organised, providing all children with opportunities to learn and engage. A community platform will allow participants to share their experiences, post-performance videos, and connect with peers. This initiative aims to promote music education, inclusion, and community engagement on a national scale, ensuring every child has the chance to experience the joy of singing.