Clare Ford is an educator-turned-coach who has spent over two decades helping young people navigate the pressures of school, self-esteem, and identity. Her journey took a profound turn after witnessing firsthand how deeply emotional well-being impacts youth — and how urgently they need guidance, tools, and safe spaces. Today, Clare’s mission is to “switch children back on” to learning and to life with compassion, confidence, and purpose. Humans of Fuzia is featuring her because her story speaks to every parent, teacher, and young person in our global community working toward a world where women — and the people they nurture — thrive together.
Q: What inspired you to start this journey? Was there a defining moment?
Clare: I’ve worked in education for over 20 years and saw so many families doing their best — and so many young people quietly struggling. The real turning point for me was when my son’s best friend died by suicide at age 15. It reminded me powerfully that self-esteem and emotional support are not optional — they’re essential. That’s when I shifted fully into holistic coaching, focusing on well-being first. When young people feel safe, seen, and supported, the academic success follows naturally.
Q: What challenges have you faced in building your brand and message?
Clare: One of the biggest challenges is that I market to parents, but I work directly with teenagers. So I actually have two audiences. Parents need to understand why this support matters, and teens need to be open, coachable, and willing to try the tools. Speaking authentically to both has taken time — but it’s worth it.
Q: What milestone makes you most proud?
Clare: It isn’t a number or a financial target. It’s the messages from teenagers saying things like, “You’re a lifesaver.” I may never fully see the ripple effect of this work — the careers they will build, the people they will help — but knowing a single mindset shift can change a life keeps me going.
Q: Do you work solo or with a team?
Clare: I’m largely a solopreneur, but I collaborate with undergraduates, graduates, and an intern. I love giving young people opportunities to grow their portfolios while contributing to meaningful work.
Q: What are your thoughts on women in leadership today?
Clare: Women make incredible leaders — often because we’re balancing so many roles at once. We adapt, we juggle, and we care deeply. Sometimes men build faster because they delegate more quickly, but I believe women bring heart, resilience, and perspective that truly shape strong leadership.
Q: What message would you share with future women entrepreneurs and leaders?
Clare: Follow your dreams and let your voice be heard. Many of us were raised to be quiet, to “not cause a fuss.” But entrepreneurship requires courage. Stand for something, speak up, and support other women — even when their message looks different from yours. Holding space for each other is powerful.
Q: What does success look like to you — personally and professionally?
Clare: Success, for me, means freedom — building passive income so I can choose when, where, and how I work. It means time with my family, the ability to travel, and living life on my terms while making a difference.
“Find your voice, use it bravely, and support others while they find theirs. The impact you create may reach further than you will ever see.”
Connect with Clare Ford: Clare Ford | LinkedIn
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