At OBrien, family is at the core of everything we do. Throughout our network, we are proud to have so many caring, inspiring and determined women who are dedicated to their local communities, clients, families and careers. This Mother’s Day, we acknowledge and celebrate the mothers who motivate, support, teach and lead in our offices. We interviewed a selection of our wonderful OBrien mothers who are committed to upholding our company values and inspire us with their strength and passion.
Lena Molinaro - Blackburn Office
Director/Officer in Effective Control
Tell us about your family.
I’m incredibly proud to be part of a close-knit, supportive family. My two wonderful children, Anthony and Anna, joined my husband Frank and me in the business, and it’s been so rewarding to watch them grow into such hardworking and dedicated adults. I also feel truly blessed to be a Nonna to Ariana, who’s almost 13, and Isaac, who’s nearly 11 – they bring so much joy and laughter into our lives. Family has always been at the centre of everything I do and seeing that connection continue through the generations is something I treasure deeply.
Family has always been at the heart of everything I do – and seeing that bond carry through the generations is something really special.
What’s your favourite thing about working closely with your children and husband at OBrien Blackburn?
Working alongside my husband and children is sometimes challenging however incredibly rewarding. We’ve built more than just a business together – we’ve created a shared vision grounded in trust, understanding, and a whole lot of love. Each of us brings our own unique strengths, and it’s been amazing to watch the next generation step up with such passion and pride. There’s always plenty to do, but we never miss a moment to share a laugh – plus, there’s always a good laugh (and plenty of coffee and tea!).
What’s a family tradition you’re proud to see continuing through your grandkids?
Weekly family dinners have always been a special tradition for us, and it fills my heart to see my grandchildren so excited to join in – helping set the table and simply enjoying that time together. It’s never just about the food; it’s about being present, sharing stories, and creating lasting memories. I also truly cherish the moments spent cooking and baking, especially now that I get to share that time with my daughter Anna and granddaughter Ariana – it’s a beautiful way to pass down recipes (such as Italian Amaretti biscotti), laughter, and love.
What’s one thing you hope your grandchildren learn through you?
I hope they grow up understanding the importance of kindness, hard work, and respect. Life moves quickly, but if you lead with care, stay true to your values, and put your heart into everything you do, you’ll build a life to be proud of. More than anything, hopefully, they’ll always remember that family is the greatest gift of all.
Melanie Martens - Joyce Wangaratta Office
Business Manager
Tell us about your family:
I’ve been married to my wonderful husband for 21 years, and together we have two gorgeous daughters, aged 18 and 14. Our family recently grew by one with the arrival of Ivy, our adorable cocker spaniel who is an expert in cuddles and stealing hearts. We live in beautiful Wangaratta, regional Victoria, and love the lifestyle it offers.
What’s been your proudest moment as a mum?
There have been so many proud moments as a mum that it’s hard to choose just one. But one that really stands out is receiving the Administrator of the Year award for the OBrien Group in 2023. That moment meant so much because it was recognition not just of my work, but of the balance I’ve managed to maintain between being a dedicated professional and a proud mum. Juggling both isn’t always easy, but that moment reminded me it’s worth it.
How has OBrien supported you in being both a mum and a professional?
One of our five core values at OBrien Joyce is family, and that value is truly lived, not just spoken. Our director, Peter Joyce, is incredibly supportive—he genuinely understands the importance of work-life balance and has created a culture that allows us to thrive in our roles while still being present for our families. It makes all the difference when you work somewhere that values who you are at work and at home.
Alicia Toland - Berwick Office
Personal Assistant to Dean O'Brien
Tell us about your family.
I have been married to Sean for 22 years. We have created and continue to make many memories together over our journey. Our son Denzel is 20, he is independent and going into adulthood with a quiet confidence. Our daughter Payton is 18 and she is in the thick of Year 12 currently. She is growing into an amazing young lady. I couldn’t be prouder of both of them.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to other working mums in the industry?
Real estate can be 24/7, but your family time isn’t negotiable. Set boundaries early.
What do you love most about being a parent?
The random hugs, the late-night talks, the laughter around the dinner table. Watching them grow into their own people—seeing their quirks, their strengths, their hearts—that’s everything.
Parenting isn’t always easy, but it’s hands-down the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done. You learn as much about yourself as you do about them. The love you have for them is deep, it’s fierce and it’s unconditional. At the end of the day, knowing that you’re their safe place… that’s what makes it all worth it.
Xenia Ambatzidis - Chelsea and Seaford Office
Leasing Team Manager
Tell us about your family.
Witnessing my children grow from babies to the most beautiful adults has been the greatest gift of my life! Seeing how caring and kind they have grown to be, makes me very proud and all the sacrifices over the years, worthwhile. Seeing my family grow both by gaining another son when Konnie got married Matt last year and with the arrival of baby Ari early this year, is fulfilling and brings many more opportunities for happiness and fun! We are already are having so much fun with baby Ari and she is only three and a half months old!
This is your first Mother’s Day as a grandmother - how does being a grandmother feel different from being a mum?
Although I love being a mother, being a grandmother ROCKS! I have so much fun with baby Ari but when she starts crying because eg. she’s hungry, I get to hand her to her mother. A lot less stress attached to being a grandmother, for sure. I am a lot more relaxed with her than when I was a young mum. I think it’s because I’ve been there, done that so nothing fazes me. I am more able to take in the little moments, the milestones, and appreciate every day I spend with her! I can’t wait to watch baby Ari grow. Also being there for Konnie to help her and support her has been not only lovely but has brought us closer together. There is an old Greek saying “My child’s child is twice my child”. It is true. I never quite understood it in the past but now I do. It’s just one of those things that unless you experience it, you won’t get it.
Adele Ewan - Chelsea Office
Office Manager
Tell us about your family
I’m the proud parent of two incredible young men who mean the world to me. My eldest, Dylan, is 23 and currently pursuing a degree in Aerospace Engineering, while his younger brother, Connor, 21, is studying Civil Engineering—both at RMIT University. Watching them grow into kind, compassionate, and driven individuals has been one of the greatest joys of my life.
Both boys were born in South Africa, we emigrated to Australia when the boys were just 4 and 5 years old.
What’s one of your fondest memories of being a mum?
One of our most cherished traditions was what we called our “get lost days.” During school holidays, when the boys were little, we’d jump in the car and head for the hills without a map, a GPS, or any particular destination. The only rule? No Melways, no Google Maps—just us, the open road, and a sense of adventure.
We’d spend hours winding through the Dandenong Ranges, exploring backroads and villages, stopping wherever something caught our eye. The goal of these trips was always to find our way to the candy shop in Sassafras. The boys would each grab a basket and excitedly fill it with their favourite local and international lollies.
What’s the one lesson your children have taught you that you apply at work?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that everyone is unique, and it’s not for me to impose my expectations on others. Instead, it’s about meeting people where they are, understanding their perspective, and approaching situations with patience and empathy. I’ve come to realise that understanding and patience hold far more value than always being “right.” Every day, I carry this mindset into my work as well, recognising that true growth comes not from rigid expectations, but from embracing the differences that make each person and situation special.
Tash Degrassi - Somerville Office
Operations Manager & Sales Associate
Tell us about your family?
My family is my greatest love. My husband, Trent, and I have two awesome boys—Cruz, who is 14, and Lincoln, who is 11. Life with two energetic sons is always busy, full of ups and downs and never dull! We love spending time together, especially at the footy, cheering on the Melbourne Demons and making memories in the stands. Whether we're at a game, or hanging at home, being a mum is my favourite role, and I cherish every moment with my boys and Trent.
How has being a mum made a positive impact on your career?
Becoming a mum has had such a positive impact on my career. It’s taught me the importance of work-life balance and helped me develop a deeper sense of empathy and understanding—qualities that are invaluable in real estate. I’ve become more organised, adaptable, and resilient, and I find that my experiences as a parent help me connect with clients on a more personal level. Being a mum has also given me a greater appreciation for the significance of ‘home’—not just as a place, but as a feeling—which I bring into my work every day.
How do you balance a fast-paced career in real estate with the busyness of being a mum?
Balancing a fast-paced career in real estate with being a mum definitely has its challenges, but I make it a priority to carve out quality time for my boys. I’m very intentional about setting boundaries and making sure that when I’m with Cruz and Lincoln, that time is special and undistracted. I plan ahead, stay organised, and lean on my support network when needed. I also remind myself that it’s okay to ask for help and that self-care is important too. Ultimately, my family is my ‘why’—they motivate me to work hard, but they also remind me to slow down and enjoy the moments we share together.
Thank you to the amazing mothers of the OBrien network - we are so grateful for your patience, determination, care and passion that you carry across your personal and work lives. We wish you all a very happy Mother’s Day.