Miss Zoe's School of Dance has once again been named a finalist in the 2025 Australian Women's Small Business Champion Awards, marking its third year of national recognition.

“I was really excited and proud because there’s no guarantee you'll be a finalist again just because you have been before,” owner Zoe McCarthy said.

The dance studio, which is located in Kiama, Wollongong and Coledale, is competing in the Champion Performing Arts category - one of the largest, featuring 18 finalists across dance, music, drama, and singing.

Miss Zoe’s holds the honour of being the only performing arts school representing the Illawarra and South Coast.

She believes their success stems from their strong community focus.

“We really aim to empower young girls and help out in the community wherever we can,” she said. “That sense of community and inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do.”

Celebrating its 20-year anniversary next year, Miss Zoe’s has built a reputation for being fun, inclusive, and non-competitive, making dance accessible to everyone regardless of background, body type or experience.

Reflecting on her journey as a female business owner, Miss Zoe described it as “a rollercoaster - but a wonderful one.”

She credits hard work and passion as the keys to longevity in the creative industry.

“If you want it to work, you've got to put in the hours,” she said.

“Not every day is easy, but most days are pretty amazing.”

Her message to aspiring women in business: “Just go for it. Work hard, believe in yourself, and don't be afraid to put yourself out there.”