ABOUT MICHELLE I FOUNDER OF SOAR MENTORING

Meet Michelle:

The heart behind SOAR Mentoring, dedicated to providing educator support and helping educators feel confident, capable, and truly supported in their roles.

Hi, I’m Michelle, founder of SOAR Mentoring. During my time as an Educational Leader, I witnessed the barriers that hold many educators back, from confidence gaps and unclear expectations to the challenge of turning theory into meaningful, hands-on practice. Many educators feel overwhelmed, unsure, or disconnected from their team, which limits their ability to grow.

With over 15 years of experience across Early Childhood Education and leadership, I support educators by identifying these barriers, breaking them down, and guiding them through reflective mentoring conversations and role modeling. My goal is to help every educator build confidence, clarity, and capability at a pace that keeps us moving forward together.

My Mission

My mission is simple: to ensure every educator has access to meaningful educator support early in their career—building confidence, capability, and a genuine sense of belonging. Because when educators feel supported and empowered, children truly thrive.

My Journey

My journey into early childhood wasn’t a straight path. I grew up in the Western Suburbs of Sydney and, as a child, I was naturally quiet and reflective, often observing more than I spoke, but even then, I knew I wanted to become an educator. Life, however, took me in a different direction.

I spent over twelve years in banking and finance, stepping into roles where I led and supported teams. During this time, I realized my passion for helping others grow had never left me; I was simply teaching in a different way. After starting my own family, I returned to that original dream and began my journey in Early Childhood Education and Care.

Starting as a part-time educator, I immersed myself in learning, observing, listening, and growing alongside both children and educators. Over time, my confidence strengthened, and I found myself naturally supporting those around me through relationships, collaboration, and reflection. I didn’t hold a leadership title, but I was leading.

This experience shaped a belief I carry strongly today: leadership exists at every level; you don’t need a title to make an impact.

As I continued to grow, completing my Diploma and working across roles including Educator, Room Leader, Educational Leader, and Assistant Centre Manager, my purpose remained the same: to support others to grow, believe in themselves, and succeed.

My Experience

I hold a Certificate III and Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care and have worked across key roles including Educator, Educational Leader, and Assistant Centre Manager within leadership teams. I have also participated in the From the Ground Up leadership program, further strengthening my leadership practice within early childhood settings.

With over 15 years of experience in Early Childhood Education and Leadership, my work is grounded in both practical classroom experience and leadership development within early learning services. In 2023, I received both a Regional and National Mentoring Award in Early Childhood Education and Care, recognizing my contribution to mentoring services and professional practice across the business.

I believe in you because I’ve been where you are. And I’m here to support you in becoming the educator you know you’re capable of being.

Testimonials

"Michelle has been an incredible mentor not only for me but our Centre. Michelle's passion to empower everyone around her is undeniable and is seen through her conversations and interactions. Michelle has personally supported me to get where I am today, through her guidance and support through reflective conversations, role modeling, and encouragement. I could not have achieved half of what I have without Michelle’s mentoring." - Issy

"Michelle is a proactive, empathetic, humble, and incredibly supportive mentor. Her passion for the Early Childhood Education sector is infectious, and she consistently inspires her mentees to grow, reflect, and strive for excellence. She models the kind of leadership that truly elevates the standard of care and education." - Maria

Ready to take the first step? Contact us today to learn more about our educator support and mentoring services, including our SOAR Mentoring program, and discover how we can help you achieve your goals. We look forward to hearing from you!