My journey of transformation began when women in Kenya opened up to me, profoundly altering my life’s path. After completing my degree, I decided to move internationally, aiming to make my mark as a journalist. Soon, I found myself embraced by a community of 25 remarkable, courageous women who shared their aspirations and challenges with me. Their stories shed light on the struggles faced by women and girls worldwide, igniting a passion in me to create Ethos Designs, a socially responsible fashion brand dedicated to producing high-quality leather goods, clothing, and footwear. My commitment was to support these women in achieving their educational goals, and I vowed to fund their college tuition.
With no business acumen, I started with just three women crafting shoes beneath a mango tree. Today, Ethos Designs employs talented women in Kenya to produce high-end accessories, apparel, and footwear, allowing them to earn a wage while receiving scholarship assistance directly for their college education. So far, we have supported 120 women in their journeys to university, empowering them to become influential leaders in their communities.
At the heart of our mission is the creation of community and opportunities for women. In 2018, we introduced the Ethos Fellows program, designed for both aspiring entrepreneurs and full-time mothers seeking meaningful connections and supplemental income. Our company has flourished into a seven-figure enterprise, establishing a legacy of empowerment for women across the globe.
However, my life took a significant turn when I became a mother. Balancing the responsibilities of running an international business across multiple countries with the demands of motherhood reshaped my approach to both work and family life. The societal pressures that once seemed manageable became more pronounced. Surprisingly, I found that motherhood has not hindered my ambitions but has instead enhanced my capabilities as a business leader.
The experiences shared with me by the women of Kenya paved the way for my personal growth. Here are the key lessons and adjustments I’ve made to lead a global company while parenting a toddler:
- Release the Illusion of Perfection. The pressure to be the “ideal mom” with a flawless work/life balance can be overwhelming, leaving many feeling inadequate. I realized that a fulfilling professional life and a nurturing family can coexist harmoniously. My work challenges me to take risks, innovate, and inspire others—qualities that benefit my son and set a strong example of resilience and ambition.
- Embrace Integration and Alignment. Motherhood encourages me to cultivate patience, creativity, and resourcefulness, qualities that enhance my leadership skills. As most of my customers and team members are mothers, my experiences give me valuable insights that influence our business strategies. Instead of seeking a rigid balance, I focus on integrating both aspects of my life seamlessly.
- Favor Curiosity Over Criticism. In moments of vulnerability and risk, it’s easy to succumb to defensiveness. Instead of blaming external factors or myself during setbacks, I view challenges as opportunities to explore and learn. This mindset shift makes the journey more enjoyable and increases the likelihood of success.
- Understand That Failure Is Not the End. As an entrepreneur and mother, I must remain grounded in my identity. A failed event or a challenging situation doesn’t define my worth as a parent. It signifies my willingness to try, adapt, and persist. The same principle applies to entrepreneurship; failure is simply a step toward growth.
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In summary, my experiences living abroad have not only reshaped my understanding of motherhood but have also enriched my professional journey. The lessons I’ve learned from the women of Kenya continue to inspire me in both realms of my life.