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.

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 Women of Influence LinkedIn Group.

A Personal Journey of Transformation

Coral’s mission to empower mothers and primary caregivers grew from her own 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,” she shares. This personal struggle became the driving force behind her work, inspiring her to guide others toward authenticity, clarity, and a renewed sense of purpose. Her journey underscores the importance of addressing both the practical and emotional challenges of parenthood, especially for mothers navigating work and life transitions.

From Corporate Career to Heart-Work

After 15 years in marketing, including six at the same company, Coral made a bold life change. “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 journeys for a more nourishing and authentic life,” she explains. Today, she is an ICF-credentialed coach focusing exclusively on supporting mothers, combining her personal experiences with professional expertise to help women reclaim their identity and confidence while balancing multiple roles.

Advocacy and Organizational Impact

Coral’s work extends beyond one-on-one coaching to systemic advocacy. “I launched a group coaching program within a company for female leaders, and it’s amazing to see the cultural growth when multiple women are going through the curriculum and coaching together,” she says. She works with organizations such as Oxfam, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and Maternity Care Coalition, advocating for policies like the Pennsylvania Family Care Act, which will expand paid medical leave. “I want to normalize the challenges mothers face, open the lens on societal expectations, and empower people to intentionally create their life’s vision,” Coral adds.

Community Leadership

Coral serves in multiple roles that strengthen maternal and family support, including co-facilitator of the Chamber of Mothers, co-facilitator of the Philadelphia Chapter of the Perinatal Partners Network, member of Philadelphia Mompreneurs, and creator of a course for moms returning to work at Center City Pediatrics. She also contributes pro-bono coaching hours and hosts free educational workshops for the community. “Since the award, my practice has grown by 4x,” Coral notes, reflecting both her expanding impact and the growing need for maternal support.

Recognition and Philosophy

Her dedication has earned her several recognitions, including a Philadelphia Family LOVE Award for Best Parenting Educator and acceptance into the Lillian Sugarman Loyal Giving Society (Maternity Care Coalition). Coral’s approach to balance and self-care is intentional and holistic. “I spend my time with intention, nourish myself regularly, and ensure my cup is full before filling others. Self-care goes beyond superficial treatments — it’s therapy, coaching, exercise, and the small pleasures that sustain us,” she says. Her philosophy emphasizes consistency, reflection, and intentionality in both personal and professional life.

Evolving the Vision

Looking ahead, Coral is focused on growth, impact, and innovation. “I want to grow my reach, share my story through Substack, and potentially write a book or more,” she says. She plans to expand her organizational offerings, believing that coaching multiple individuals within companies creates broader cultural impact than individual sessions alone. Coral’s mission remains clear: “To continue helping moms and primary caregivers navigate their journeys for a more nourishing and authentic life, while advocating for systemic change that supports families everywhere.” Through her evolving work, she continues to uplift mothers, create supportive communities, and advocate for meaningful policy change, helping families thrive at every stage.