Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in mental wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Cindy-Lee Visagie, Owner of Renaissance Counselling Services, located in Cape Town, South Africa.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I run a counseling practice and work with children, teens, couples, groups, and wellness companies.

Tell us about yourself

I was a police officer for two years before I completed my doctorate and opened my own practice. I became a counsellor because there was such a great need for it. I wanted to adequately help ease people's emotional distress and improve their mental health so that they can survive and thrive. I am daily motivated by witnessing therapy's positive changes in their lives.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I definitely think my biggest accomplishment is the registration and running of my non-profit company - Bria Chadasha Art Therapy Centre, which allows me to serve children and teenagers in the marginalized, gang-infested communities of the Northern Suburbs. Doing therapeutic art in this community enabled me to make and manufacture my own therapeutic merchandise. My team and I make therapeutic toys like grounding dolls and calm-down kits for children with anxiety and ADHD. I have also designed a course curriculum to help with self-confidence, bullying, body positivity, and women empowerment.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

The possibility of failure in one form or another, but you need to persevere regardless.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Remain committed.
  2. Continuous learning. Do research, complete short courses, etc., to improve your competence.
  3. Become innovative and creative (think outside the box), especially when business is quiet.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I have discovered that there are indeed opportunities in these economically challenging times; we only need to find and capitalize on them.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://renaissance-counseling.business.site/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ckcv2
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/renaissance_counseling/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindy-lee-visagie-930a70a8/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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