I’m Zoe Jones, CEO of Coastal Community Support Services and Pink Vine Support Coordination. As a passionate advocate for mental health and community support, I founded my businesses to create flexible, compassionate services that truly meet people’s needs. With a background in health and community support, I strive to inspire other mothers to achieve great things while balancing their personal and professional lives. My journey is driven by a deep commitment to giving back to the community, especially people facing homelessness, and empowering others to reach their potential.
When did you start your business?
January 2022
What was the inspiration behind starting this business?
The inspiration behind starting Coastal Community Support Services and Pink Vine Support Coordination came from my personal experiences as a mother and professional in the health and community support sector. As a mother of children who needed support, I wanted to create a service that treated people the way I would want to be treated, with compassion, flexibility, and a deep understanding of their unique challenges. My goal was to create reliable support and to create a work environment that offered flexibility, particularly for working mothers, especially for myself.
What are you most excited about in your business?
I’m most excited about the positive impact our services are having on people’s lives. Seeing our clients achieve their goals, improve their well-being, and feel truly supported is incredibly rewarding. I’m also thrilled about the growth and development of our team; nurturing a compassionate, dedicated workforce that shares my vision is a source of great pride. Additionally, I’m excited about expanding our reach and exploring new ways to innovate and improve our services, all while maintaining the personal, community-focused approach that is at the heart of our business.
What has been the most challenging thing about starting your business?
The most challenging aspect of starting my business has been balancing my professional ambitions with personal responsibilities, particularly as a mother. Managing availability and setting boundaries to ensure quality time with my children while maintaining a strong presence at work has been a constant struggle.
What advice would you give to other women thinking about starting a business?
My advice to other women considering starting a business is to believe in your vision and stay true to your values. Start small and focus on building a strong foundation before scaling up—this helps you avoid over-capitalising and gives you the flexibility to adapt as you grow. Trust yourself and your instincts, even when challenges arise, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Surround yourself with a strong support network, whether it’s mentors, friends, or family, who can provide guidance and encouragement. Remember that it’s okay to ask for help and to set boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Lastly, be patient and persistent—success takes time, but with dedication, you can achieve your goals and make a meaningful impact.
Why did you enter the AusMumpreneur Awards?
I entered the AusMumpreneur Awards to celebrate the journey of balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, and to connect with other inspiring women who are doing the same. These awards offer a platform to showcase the achievements of women who are driving change in their communities while managing the demands of family life. For me, it was also an opportunity to recognise and reflect on the growth and impact of my business, Coastal Community Support Services, and to inspire other mothers to pursue their own entrepreneurial dreams, showing that anything is possible with hard work and determination.
What did you enjoy the most about being part of the awards?
What I enjoyed most about being part of the AusMumpreneur Awards was the incredible sense of community and the friendships I formed with other like-minded women. It was empowering to connect with so many strong, passionate mothers who are also pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams. The experience fostered a supportive network where we could share our challenges, successes, and aspirations. Being surrounded by such an inspiring group of women reminded me of the strength we have when we come together to lift each other up and celebrate our collective achievements.
What surprised you most about the awards?
What surprised me most about the AusMumpreneur Awards was the overwhelming positivity and encouragement from everyone involved. From the fellow nominees to the organisers, there was a genuine sense of support and celebration for each other’s achievements. Rather than competition, the focus was on building each other up and recognising the hard work and dedication that goes into balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship.
How did the awards help you in your business?
The AusMumpreneur Awards helped me in my business by reigniting my passion for leadership and inspiring me to bring that energy back to my team. The recognition and encouragement I received boosted my confidence and reinforced the importance of strong, positive leadership. It reminded me of the value of fostering a supportive and motivated work environment, where everyone feels empowered to contribute and grow. The experience also connected me with a network of inspiring women, providing fresh ideas and perspectives that I’ve been able to integrate into my business.
What advice would you give to other mums thinking about entering the awards?
Just do it, you have nothing to lose!
What has been the best thing about starting your own business?
The best thing about starting my own business has been the ability to create a positive impact on people’s lives while aligning my work with my personal values. The flexibility to balance my professional and personal life, and the opportunity to inspire and lead others while pursuing my own entrepreneurial dreams, has been both empowering and gratifying.
What’s happening next in your business?
Next in my business, we’re focusing on building up our community’s microbusinesses. We’re dedicated to supporting local entrepreneurs with disabilities by providing resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities. By offering tailored support and creating collaborative platforms, we hope to help these microbusinesses thrive and contribute positively to the broader community
What are your big plans for the future?
My big plans for the future include becoming a published author, where I aim to share my experiences and insights to inspire and motivate others. I’m also exploring the possibility of engaging in public speaking to further connect with and impact a broader audience. Additionally, I plan to continue expanding and innovating within my businesses, strengthening our community support services, and enhancing our outreach efforts.
