When her two boys were younger, West Hoxton resident Carla Filipakis struggled to find fun, creative and high quality activities for them close to home.
“I used to flick through pages of the Sydney’s Child magazine to search the what’s on page and look for activities that I could take them to,’’ she says.
“There was nothing in my area, so I would put my children in the car and drive to the locations, which sometimes were on the other end of Sydney.
“I did it simply because I wanted my children to have the best experiences and something a bit out of the norm.’’
Ms Filipakis, an early childhood educator, had been thinking about starting her own business at the time.
She took the plunge and started hosting mobile activities, events and workshops right here in South Western Sydney.
That’s when her business Decorati was born, and Carla Filipakis has never looked back since.
Through hard work, perseverance and making connections – and the solid support of her husband – Ms Filipakis has made Decorati into a successful business in nine years.
“Families saw the value, and in no time at all I was getting booked to take my Decorati magic to locations all over Sydney,’’ she says.
“I love the fact that I have inspired and helped other young families out there wanting activities for their children too.’’
Ms Filipakis, who has lived with her family at West Hoxton for almost 20 years, is a finalist in the children’s activity business of the year category of the 2023 AusMumpreneur awards.
Presented by the Women’s Business School, the awards celebrate and recognize Australian mums who have established and run their own business.
Carla Filipakis said she was delighted to be named as a finalist and was proud of her achievements, particularly having business friends, especially in the same industry.
“It is great to collaborate and give referrals to others; Sydney, especially South West Sydney, has plenty of work for everyone,’’ she said.
The winners of the 2023 AusMumpreneur awards will be announced on August 24.
