Amelia turns a passion into a growing business

When Amelia first dreamed of turning her love of baking into a business, she wasn’t sure where to begin. As a single mum caring for her young son, she needed a way to earn an income while still being present for her family. What started as a dream soon became a reality through determination, personalised support and a passion for baking.

After hearing about Parent Pathways from a friend, Amelia joined the program looking for support to overcome one of her biggest challenges: funding.

Funding was my biggest struggle when trying to start my cookie business.
Amelia
CVGT Employment, Parent Pathways Program Participant

Through Parent Pathways, Amelia connected with Mentor Natasha, who helped her explore the practical steps needed to start a home-based business and build confidence in her goal.

A vision for the future

When Natasha first met Amelia, she saw a young parent determined to create opportunities for herself and her son.

Amelia was trying to work out how she could bring in an income while still being there for her little one.
Natasha
CVGT Employment, Parent Pathways Program Mentor

Like many people starting a business, Amelia faced several challenges. She needed information about council requirements, food business regulations and insurance. She was also unsure how she would market her products and attract customers.

One of the biggest barriers was finding a suitable kitchen that could meet council requirements. At the time, Amelia was exploring the option of using her parents’ property because her own kitchen wasn’t suitable for commercial baking.

Despite the uncertainty, Natasha could see Amelia’s determination.

I could see how much she loved baking. Her face would light up every time she talked about it during our appointments.
Natasha
CVGT Employment, Parent Pathways Program Mentor

Building confidence one step at a time

Although Amelia initially considered undertaking baking and decorating courses, she ultimately realised that her skills had largely been developed through practice, creativity and persistence.

Everything she knows today has been self-taught through her passion for baking.

Parent Pathways provided practical support that helped Amelia take important steps forward. Through Engagement Support Vouchers (ESVs), Amelia was able to purchase baking supplies, cookie cutters and decorating materials to enhance her products and expand her offerings.

Alongside the practical assistance, Amelia found ongoing encouragement through her mentoring relationship with Natasha.

The funding from Parent Pathways gave me the start I needed to build my business. Now, I am earning a slight income that helps support my son and me. It’s been good having Natasha mentor me. She’s super supportive and I always leave our meetings feeling empowered.
Amelia
CVGT Employment, Parent Pathways Program Participant

Growing The Cookie Jar

What began as the occasional order from friends and family has steadily grown into a thriving small business.

After launching her Instagram page, The Cookie Jar, Amelia began attracting new followers and customers through word of mouth and social media promotion.

Today, she regularly receives orders for birthdays, celebrations and seasonal gift packs, including Halloween, Christmas and teacher appreciation gifts.

One of the most rewarding moments for Natasha has been watching Amelia’s confidence grow alongside her business.

Seeing the happiness and excitement on Amelia’s face when she’s showing me what she has been making and how many orders she is getting has been incredibly rewarding.
Natasha
CVGT Employment, Parent Pathways Program Mentor

Since moving into a new home with more space for baking, Amelia has been able to work more efficiently and continue growing her business.

Follow on Instagram/Facebook – thecookiejar.bakes

Order via DM or email: [email protected]

Creating opportunities for her family

While Amelia says she is still building towards her long-term business goals, she is proud of how far she has come.

“Parent Pathways brought my idea to life,” she said.

“I wouldn’t have the business I do today if it wasn’t for the financial and emotional support.”

For Amelia, running her own business is about more than baking cookies. It provides flexibility around her son’s appointments, contributes to the family’s financial security and gives her a sense of pride in building something of her own.

“It gives me flexibility to work around my son’s appointment times, security and I’m proud because it’s my own.”

Amelia hopes her story encourages other parents and carers to reach out for support when they need it.

“The program is amazing and will help.”

Through Parent Pathways, Amelia transformed a passion into a growing business, proving that with determination, personalised support and the right opportunities, parents can create pathways towards the future they want for themselves and their families.