My name is Hope, and I’m a self-employed Graphic Designer running my own studio, Blanc Design Studio. Through Blanc, I offer a comprehensive, end to end branding experience, guiding businesses from concept to a fully realised identity. My services encompass strategic branding, custom website design, professional brand photography and tailored design solutions, ensuring every element of my clients brand is cohesive and intentional.

I officially launched my business on the 17th of August 2023, a little over two years ago now. My decision to become a graphic designer came from a lifelong love of design, a fascination with branding and a natural knack for anything tech related. After becoming a single mum at 23, I needed a career path that would allow me to support my family while still having the flexibility to show up for my daughter around her school schedule. Graphic design felt like the perfect path, something creative, meaningful and adaptable. I set my sights on eventually working for myself so I could build a life with more freedom.

I enrolled in a TAFE course and started learning the skills I needed. Not long after beginning my Certificate IV in Graphic Design, I landed a role with an Australian fashion label as a graphic designer, which allowed me to continue learning and upskilling in a real-world environment. Once I completed my course and felt the timing was right, I made the leap. I resigned from my job to launch Blanc Design Studio and pursue my dream of running my own business.

At the time, I was still a single mum and in regular communication with Centrelink, who mentioned the Self-Employment Assistance program to me. I’d also heard great things about it through a friend. With a big dream and a determination to make it work, I was open to all the support I could get. I decided to give the program a try and I’m so glad I did. It played a big role in helping me build the business I have today.

“As this was my first time running a business, everything felt scary and unfamiliar. I found myself second guessing so many decisions because I had no previous experience to draw from. Working with Sydney Business gave me the support and reassurance I really needed in those early months. Having someone validate that I was on the right track and that my business was genuinely viable made such a big difference to my confidence.

The program also gave me structure and accountability, which helped me keep moving forward even when things felt overwhelming. The combination of ongoing guidance, the opportunity to gain a formal qualification, and the added benefit of the Business Cost Reimbursement and Small Business Allowance meant I could continue to upskill while reinvesting back into my business.

Now that I’ve gone through the program, I feel far more confident and grounded in the direction of my business. My hope moving forward is to continue growing Blanc Design Studio sustainably, take on more aligned clients and eventually build a small team.”

I absolutely recommend the Self-Employment Assistance program. The support, clarity and confidence it gave me were invaluable and it would be a real shame to miss out on such a great opportunity. If you’re starting your self-employment journey, take the help that’s available. It makes all the difference.