Carol Stewart is an award-winning coach, author, speaker, and advocate for women’s leadership, with a special focus on supporting introverted women. As the founder of Abounding Solutions, Carol’s mission is rooted in social justice and the belief that confident women from all backgrounds can become powerful change-makers. Her work is helping women overcome self-limiting beliefs, navigate workplace challenges, and step into their full potential as leaders. At Fuzia, we are proud to celebrate women like Carol who are creating space for diverse voices to thrive.
What inspired you to start your entrepreneurial journey?
My journey as a coach began during a turning point in my career back in 2011. I was a senior leader in an organisation I had worked with since my teens, and my role was being made redundant. While I could have been redeployed, I saw it as an opportunity to do something I truly loved. I decided to start my own coaching business, focusing initially on women in business and leadership roles. Over time, I narrowed my focus to supporting introverted women leaders, a group that faces unique challenges in the workplace—challenges I’ve experienced firsthand as an introverted Black woman leader. That personal connection drives my work every day.
Tell us a bit about the purpose behind your business and how it makes a difference in people’s lives.
The ultimate purpose behind my business is social justice. Women, particularly introverted women and those from underrepresented groups, still face disadvantages in the workplace. I believe that when women have the confidence to pursue their full potential and access the opportunities they deserve, they become influencers for change. My work helps women develop that confidence, thrive in leadership roles, and ultimately drive positive societal impact.
Thinking back to the start of your business, what were some of the biggest challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them?
The biggest challenge was sales and marketing. As a leader within an organisation, I had extensive experience in motivating teams, making decisions, and leading change—but selling my services was entirely new. I associated sales with pushy tactics, which didn’t align with my values. That changed when I took a course called “Selling from the Heart,” which reframed sales as a service. I realised that if I wasn’t promoting my services, I was leaving women without the support they needed. Joining mentorship programs also helped me build my brand, structure my services, and grow my confidence as a business owner.
Is there a milestone or achievement you’re especially proud of?
There have been several milestones I’m proud of, but a few stand out. Writing my book Quietly Visible: Leading with Influence and Impact as an Introverted Woman was life-changing—it’s reached women globally, and I receive messages about how much it’s helped them. Delivering a TEDx Talk titled Introverts Make Great Leaders Too was another proud moment, as was being named a LinkedIn Top Voice five times, including for Gender Equality. Most recently, I hosted the first-ever conference for introverted leaders in London, with attendees traveling from across the UK and the US. Seeing that level of impact reinforces why I do this work.
What are your thoughts on women in leadership today?
There’s been progress, but we still have a long way to go. Global statistics show that only around 6.5% of CEOs are women, and many women leaders continue to face inequalities, especially in male-dominated industries. I’ve also researched how introverted women experience belonging and psychological safety in the workplace, inspired by my coaching clients. When women feel like they belong, they’re more confident and perform at their best. That’s why fostering inclusive environments is so important.
What advice would you give to future women leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs?
First, believe in yourself. You are capable of achieving incredible things, but self-belief is essential. Do the inner work to overcome self-limiting beliefs, and understand that confidence isn’t fixed—it can be developed. Confidence often comes from building skills, gaining experience, or practicing new behaviors.
Second, ask for help. We don’t have to do everything alone—whether it’s coaching, mentorship, or simply someone holding you accountable, support makes the journey easier.
Third, have a vision for where you want to go, but remain flexible. Life happens, and your direction may evolve—but a clear vision helps you stay grounded during challenges.
Finally, set boundaries and prioritise self-care. Protecting your energy ensures you stay motivated and effective as a leader.
“You can lead with quiet strength, make an impact, and influence change—your voice matters.”
Connect with the Featured Leader:
You can connect with Carol Stewart on LinkedIn or learn more about her work at Abounding Solutions.
Want to be featured?
If you’d like to be featured in the Humans of Fuzia series, email us at fuziatalent@fuzia.com
