As an evidence-based coach, and the founder and CEO of Coral Edwards Coaching & Consulting, Coral Edwards‘ powerful mission to support and uplift mothers across the community inspires hope and empowerment for mothers navigating the complex journey of parenthood and careers.

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Celebrating exceptional local women making significant impacts in our community.

Our 2024 Women of Influence Award Winners were nominated by peers and selected by the Family Focus Media team based on their achievements and dedication to creating positive change, as revealed through comprehensive questionnaires. Their profiles showcase their inspiring journeys and accomplishments.

Beyond the awards, our Women of Influence Luncheons and Speed Networking Night attendees form our growing “Women of Influence Network,” a community fostering connections, collaboration, and mutual support. We invite you to explore our Award Winners’ stories and leverage our Network Directory in the Women of Influence Guide. Reach out to fellow members to harness the power of our network through shared growth and support. For further engagement, we welcome business and nonprofit leaders to join our Family Focus Media Community Builders Group on Facebook and our NEW Women of Influence LinkedIn Group.

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A Personal Journey of Transformation

Coral’s desire to become a champion for mothers was born out of her own challenging experiences. “After having two children and returning to work, I felt completely lost and directionless — my identity had shattered, and I didn’t know who I was anymore,” Coral shares. This personal struggle became the catalyst for her mission to empower parents, particularly mothers and primary caregivers.

From Corporate Career to Heart-Work

After 15 years in marketing, including six years at the same company, Coral took a significant risk. “I quit to go back to school, become an evidence-based coach, and pursue my heart-work — to help moms and primary caregivers navigate their own journeys, for a more nourishing and authentic path through life,” she explains. This bold move led her to become an ICF-credentialed evidence-based coach, focusing exclusively on serving mothers.

Advocacy for Better Parental Support

Coral’s experiences as a working mother fueled her passion for advocacy. She became a vocal proponent for improved parental leave policies and support in the workplace. Her efforts contributed to positive changes in her former workplace, including extended paid leave and access to family support platforms. However, recognizing that these improvements were still insufficient, Coral expanded her mission to include coaching, internal organization policy and culture advocacy, and public policy advocacy.

Community Involvement and Leadership

Coral serves in various roles that contribute to maternal and family support:

• Co-facilitator of the Chamber of Mothers, advancing maternal rights in America
• Co-facilitator of the Philadelphia Chapter of the Perinatal Partners Network
• Member of Philadelphia Mompreneurs
• Active supporter of Philadelphia Family and Main Line Parent communities
• Creator and facilitator of a course for moms returning to work at Center City Pediatrics

She also donates pro-bono coaching hours to local auctions and holds free educational workshops for the community.

Recognition and Impact

Coral’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. She has received several recognitions, including:

• Acceptance to the Lillian Sugarman Loyal Giving Society (Maternity Care Coalition)
• Philadelphia Family Best Parenting Educator LOVE Award
• Maternity Care Coalition donor spotlight

A Unique Approach to Balance and Self-Care

Coral’s philosophy on balancing various roles and responsibilities is refreshingly practical. “I practice what I preach: I spend my time with intention, I am generous with my self-care – regularly nourish myself, ensuring my cup is full before filling others – and I lean into (productive) flow when it’s available,” she explains. Her definition of self-care goes beyond superficial treatments, encompassing therapy, coaching, exercise, and even simple pleasures that feel nourishing.

Client Testimonials

The impact of Coral’s work is best reflected in the words of her clients:

“Coral helped me develop and implement strategies to manage difficult working relationships, disrupt negative thought patterns, and helped me achieve clarity on my career goals. Her work is enlightening, affirming, and actionable.”

“As someone with a busy career and small children, I was feeling scattered and in need of more support. Coral has helped incredibly. I look forward to our sessions, I think about them afterward and use them to make real changes in my life.”

Looking to the Future

Coral’s aspirations remain focused on evolution and expansion. “To keep evolving – professionally and personally, to continue living with intention and authenticity, to continue expanding my reach and impact of mothers, and to continue serving my mission to help moms and primary caregivers navigate their own journeys, for a more nourishing and authentic life,” she states.