Zoe Meredith-Brown’s journey in business began in 2013 when she participated in a yLead In School program during her Year 10 studies. This experience ignited a passion for leadership and empowerment, shaping the path she would later follow, as Prefect at St John’s Anglican College and attendee for the Australian Student Leadership Conference in 2015. Her involvement with yLead continued after graduation, where she volunteered extensively. In recognition of her dedication, she was honoured as 2018 yTeamer of the Year. That same year, she officially joined the yLead HQ team and embraced a variety of roles before stepping into the position of CEO in 2023. At EliteX, we are proud to have Zoe Meredith-Brown as part of the edition: 10 Elite Businesswomen in Australia, 2025.
Zoe Meredith-Brown | CEO | yLead
The inspiration behind her career choice stemmed from the impact yLead had on her as a student. Witnessing the transformation in young people through leadership programs fueled her determination to contribute to the same cause. She wanted to create opportunities for others to grow, develop confidence, and embrace leadership, just as she had experienced during her own school years.
Stepping into the CEO role at a young age came with significant challenges. Despite years of experience within yLead, she questioned whether she was truly ready for such a leadership position. The weight of responsibility was immense, not just for the organisation but for the team that worked alongside her. Imposter syndrome was a major hurdle, making her wonder whether others would take her seriously in such a pivotal role. Overcoming this required leaning on mentors who had witnessed her growth and believed in her abilities. She focused on her strengths—her deep understanding of yLead’s mission, her passion for leadership, and her ability to connect with others. Embracing authenticity over perfection helped her navigate this transition.
Another challenge was leading yLead through change. Any leadership shift brings adjustments, and she was committed to ensuring the organisation continued to grow while remaining true to its core values. Clear communication and teamwork were crucial. Listening to her team, valuing their input, and making collective decisions helped move yLead forward. Through this she learned to trust her instincts, reminding herself that leadership is not about having all the answers but about fostering an environment where solutions can be found together. These challenges ultimately strengthened her leadership, reinforcing the importance of resilience, self-belief, and the support of those around her.
Balancing work and personal life is a priority for Zoe. She understands the importance of self-care and ensures she takes time for activities that bring her joy. Spending time at the beach, playing board games with loved ones, and supporting her favourite sports teams help her recharge and maintain a sense of balance. For young women aspiring to start their own businesses, her advice is to believe in their potential and pursue their passions with determination. Finding mentors, building a supportive network, and remaining resilient in the face of challenges are crucial steps toward success. She emphasises the importance of authenticity and confidence, as these qualities form the foundation of strong leadership.
For Zoe, the success stories of students who have been empowered through leadership experiences are her continuous source of motivation and inspiration. Additionally, the unwavering support of her team and the yLead community fuels this passion and drive to push forward. Effective communication, adaptability, and empathy are skills not only demonstrated in Zoe’s leadership, but are skills she believes are essential skills for all successful businesswomen and men. These abilities enable leaders to connect authentically, navigate challenges, and create inclusive environments where people feel valued and supported. A strong leader is one who embodies authenticity, vision, and the ability to inspire others. Leading by example and fostering a culture of trust and collaboration are crucial to long-term success.
“You can’t be everything to everyone all the time, but you can be who you needed when you were younger.”
Technology has played a significant role in expanding yLead’s reach. Virtual programs have allowed them to connect with a broader audience, particularly those in regional, rural, and remote communities who may not have the opportunity to attend in-person sessions. The ability to engage with students through digital platforms has helped yLead continue its mission of empowering young leaders. The use of technology, particularly through platforms like Zoom, has been instrumental in ensuring their programs remain accessible and impactful.
One of the proudest moments in her career was when yLead won the Telstra Business Awards QLD in the Building Communities category. This recognition was not just a personal achievement but a testament to the entire team’s hard work and dedication. The award validated the long-term impact yLead has had on schools and communities, reinforcing the organisation’s mission of empowering young leaders. Standing on that stage with her team, she reflected on the countless hours of effort, the stories of transformation, and the belief that leadership is about building communities, not just individuals. That moment served as a powerful reminder of the meaningful work they continue to do.
Looking ahead, she is focused on the future of yLead. Working within a small not-for-profit often means spending more time managing daily operations than planning long-term growth. Over the next year, her goal is to step back and develop a strategy that will take yLead to the next level. She is excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and is committed to ensuring the organisation continues to thrive. Competition is always present, but the key to yLead’s success lies in their focus on delivering high-quality, impactful programs. Constant innovation and adapting to the evolving needs of young leaders ensure this continued growth. Building strong relationships with schools and communities also plays a vital role in maintaining yLead’s position as a trusted organisation in leadership development.
The best piece of advice she has ever received is that it is impossible to be everything to everyone all the time, but it is possible to be the person she needed when she was younger. This mindset has shaped her leadership approach, reminding her to focus on authenticity and purpose rather than trying to meet every expectation. She strives to be the mentor and role model that she once looked up to, knowing that leadership is not about perfection but about making a meaningful impact. Even the smallest moments of encouragement can leave a lasting impression, and she remains committed to creating a positive difference in the lives of young people.
“Leadership isn’t about having all the answers but about creating an environment where we find them together.”
