The Beginning: Hitting Rock Bottom
In February 2023, Joanne Howard found herself at one of life’s most difficult crossroads. After a painful divorce, she was living in her car, grappling with self-doubt, and struggling to keep her fledgling mobile coffee business, Coffee’s Hot, afloat. She hadn’t filed her tax returns in years and was unsure how to manage the complexities of running a business. However, this was not the end of her story — it was the beginning of a remarkable journey toward transformation and success.
The Turning Point: Seeking Help from ABS Institute
Joanne’s turning point came when she reached out to the ABS Institute, a decision that would change her life forever. During her first meeting with her business advisor, it was clear that Jo was determined to turn her life around. Despite the numerous obstacles she faced, she was dedicated to making her business a success.
The ABS Institute’s Self-Employment Assistance program provided Jo with the tools and support she needed to turn Coffee’s Hot from a struggling venture into a thriving business. With our guidance, Jo caught up on her outstanding tax returns and learned to manage her finances efficiently. The program helped her navigate the complexities of running a business, from understanding her expenses to keeping track of her income. These skills were crucial in helping her make her business not only legal but also viable.
A Business Blossoms: Coffee’s Hot Gains Traction
By May 2023, just a few months into the program, Jo began to see the fruits of her labour. Her mobile coffee van, Coffee’s Hot, started to gain traction. Jo’s commitment to serving high-quality, locally roasted coffee with a personal touch set her apart from competitors. She catered to a diverse range of events, from school carnivals to mine site appreciation days, building a loyal customer base along the way. Jo’s attention to detail and her ability to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere with each cup of coffee endeared her to her clients.
Her coffee van became more than just a business; it became a symbol of hope and perseverance for Jo and the community she served. Joanne reflected on how Coffee’s Hot allowed her to connect with people in meaningful ways. “Some may see it as merely serving coffee, but it’s far more than that. The smiles, laughter, and positive feedback from customers show me that I’m providing a unique and joyful experience with each cup,” Jo shared.
A Personal Transformation: Stability and Confidence
As the months passed, Joanne’s life underwent a profound transformation. She moved from living in her van to finding stable accommodation, a milestone that reflected not just financial stability but personal growth and newfound confidence. The support from the ABS Institute team played an instrumental role in her journey. Joanne often recalls the special moment when she served one of her mentors at his daughter’s sports event — a full-circle moment that underscored the value of the guidance she had received.
Empowering Herself: A Journey of Healing
Joanne’s success, however, is not solely about her business growth. It’s also a story of personal healing and empowerment. As a neurodivergent woman living with dyslexia, OCD, PTSD, and anxiety, Jo had spent much of her life struggling to believe in her capabilities. But through the process of building Coffee’s Hot, she began to realize her potential. Running the business forced her to step out of her comfort zone, take control of her future, and push herself beyond her perceived limitations.
“Starting over at 55 felt surreal. But this business has shown me that I am capable of so much more than I ever imagined,” Jo said. “It has allowed me to travel, dream, and, most importantly, believe in myself.”
The Power of Perseverance: Overcoming Challenges
Beyond her role as a coffee vendor, Jo has built a strong network of clients and friends who have supported her through her journey. She credits this network with helping her overcome challenges along the way. For instance, when her van encountered mechanical issues, one of her coffee clients, who happens to be a mechanic, stepped in to help her get back on the road. This sense of community and mutual support has been a critical factor in her success.
Jo’s journey is also a testament to the power of persistence. “The most significant achievement has been my commitment to getting up every morning and never giving up on myself,” she says. Through ups and downs, she has remained focused on her goals, learning from every setback and using each challenge as an opportunity to grow.
Looking Ahead: Dreaming Big for the Future
Looking ahead, Jo’s dreams for Coffee’s Hot continue to evolve. While she hasn’t yet achieved her ultimate goal of travelling full-time with her coffee van, she is confident that she’s on the right path. “I haven’t achieved everything I set out to do just yet, but I’m proud of the progress I’ve made. I know that good things are worth waiting for,” she said.
Her story has not only inspired her local community but also caught the attention of those in the wider business world. Joanne was recently a finalist for the BizCover Change Award, a recognition of her resilience, hard work, and the positive impact her business has made.
