1. Since your 2024 Veuve Clicquot Bold Woman Award win, how has Mo’s Crib grown – whether in customer base, investment, digital reach, revenue growth, brand collaborations or retail expansion?
Since winning the award, Mo’s Crib has experienced significant growth in both visibility and brand recognition. At the time of the win, we had approximately 40k followers across our platforms. Today, that number is close to 100k, which has expanded our reach tremendously.
Beyond audience growth, the affiliation has elevated our credibility within the industry and shifted how the brand is perceived. Being aligned with a globally respected platform like the Bold Woman Award has opened the door to larger conversations with retailers, collaborators and potential investors. It has reinforced trust in our work and positioned Mo’s Crib more firmly within the global homeware and sustainability space.
A powerful example of this network effect came through an introduction to the team at Lionesses of Africa via the Bold community. That connection led to my sister and Co-founder, Michelle, and I being invited to pitch Mo’s Crib to international investors at Startup Night Africa in The Hague. Presenting our business on an international stage was a clear demonstration of the kind of access that comes with being part of the Bold network, the sort of opportunity that might otherwise take years to reach.
2. Have you had a “pinch me” moment since winning the award?
Absolutely. One of the most defining moments was being flown to France and honoured in Verzy with a vineyard named after me. It was incredibly emotional.
Years ago, I lived in France working as a nanny and cleaner. To return twelve years later in a position of honour was deeply humbling. That moment reminded me how unpredictable and extraordinary the journey of entrepreneurship can be. It truly felt like a full-circle experience.
3. Community-building is central to your brand. How has the Bold platform strengthened your influence and
impact within your audience?
The platform has amplified my voice in a meaningful way. It has given me access to stages, media platforms and audiences who may not have otherwise heard my story.
Through radio interviews, magazine features and speaking engagements, I’ve been able to share our journey more widely. That visibility has strengthened the trust and connection within our community. It also reinforces the importance of representation in business leadership and reminds people that stories like ours matter.
4. How has your leadership evolved as your brand transitions from founder-led to scalable enterprise?
The recognition reinforced the importance of leading with clarity and long-term vision. As Mo’s Crib continues to grow, my focus has shifted more towards building systems, strengthening governance and empowering the team around me. It has encouraged me to think beyond the day-to-day operations and concentrate on building a business that can scale sustainably. The award didn’t build the business for us, but it affirmed that the work we’ve been doing holds real value. That affirmation strengthened my confidence as a leader and sharpened my strategic thinking.
5. What does it mean to you to contribute to the next chapter of South Africa’s Bold legacy?
It brings a real sense of responsibility. South Africa is filled with brilliant women building powerful businesses, oftenagainst challenging circumstances. To be part of that Bold legacy is both an honour and a reminder that our journeys can open doors for others. It shows that global recognition is possible from this part of the world, and that our stories deserve to be heard on international platforms.
6. What would you say to women building culturally relevant, community-first brands?
Be authentic. People can sense when something is genuine. Don’t try to build a brand that mirrors someone else’s journey, build from your own lived experience. Ask yourself what problem you’re solving and what perspective you bring that no one else can. South Africa, and the world, are full of challenges, which also means there are opportunities everywhere. Focus on what makes your brand distinct and lean into it with confidence. Passion, purpose and originality will always carry further than imitation.
