At our recent Find a Job You Love event in Croydon, we were delighted to welcome Successful Mums graduate, Sam Blakeman back as a guest speaker. Sam wasn’t just there to share her story – she shows what’s possible when mums have got the right support and encouragement behind them.

Stepping Outside Her Comfort Zone

“I was outside my comfort zone today,” Sam admitted  “Jane invited me to speak to a room full of amazing mums who are on their own journey back to work.”

For us at Successful Mums, these moments are what it’s all about. When women like Sam stand up and share their experiences – the highs, the lows and everything in between, it’s real and relatable and helps other mums think, ‘If she can do it, maybe I can too.’

As Jane Knight, our Founder, puts it – “You need to see it to be it. Guest speakers like Sam bring the event alive and show mums what’s truly achievable.”

From learner to guest speaker

Sam’s journey began when she joined one of our digital courses. Like so many small business owners, Sam has learned that running the day-to-day is only half the story – promoting what you do is just as important.

With plans to open two more pre-schools, she was looking at how to reach more families in her community, she was already using Instagram and Facebook but knew that wasn’t enough. Sam said “I’d love to design my own website, learn how social media can really engage with parents and understand how analytics work. In the long term, I want to increase my market area, support the community of Monks Hill and provide more job opportunities for local mums.”

“When Jane asked me to speak, I was nervous but also excited to share the amazing opportunities in the early years sector, the qualifications, the career options and the rewards of helping young children grow.”

Her passion was contagious and the audience of mums, many just starting out on their own career journeys, left feeling inspired and reassured.

Creating Opportunities for Others

What makes Sam’s journey so inspiring is not just her ambition for her business but her commitment to giving back. By growing Small Explorers, she’s not only providing childcare but also creating family-friendly jobs for other mums in her area.

“Thank you so much for the opportunity, Jane,” Sam said. “Your ethos and dedication inspire so many.”

The Ripple Effect of Successful Mums

From learner, to business owner, to guest speaker – Sam’s story is a brilliant example of the ripple effect we see every day. When one woman gains skills and confidence, she lifts others with her – her family, her staff, her community.

Sam is proof that with the right training and support, mums really can create change for themselves and those around them.