Gaby Keabetswe Motshidisi

What does your company do?

Shewood Luxury Furniture is dedicated to producing high-quality, stylish and durable furniture pieces that enhance the beauty and comfort of living spaces. With a year of experience in the furniture industry and a commitment to excellence, we aim to be a leading player in the market. Our furniture is designed and manufactured using the finest materials and advanced techniques, ensuring that every piece meets the highest standards of quality and durability. We specialize in producing a wide range of furniture, including chairs, tables, sofas, cabinets, and beds, among others, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of our customers. Our target market comprises homeowners, interior designers, and businesses who value quality, style, and durability in furniture. We aim to provide our customers with personalized service, working closely with them to understand their needs and preferences and delivering customized solutions that exceed their expectations. Our team comprises experienced professionals who are passionate about creating furniture that combines style, comfort, and functionality. We also aim to create jobs for the youth of South Africa and provide training for individuals who are interested in learning how the furniture industry runs. We have a manufacturing facility equipped with tools and technologies, enabling us to produce furniture efficiently and at a competitive price. We are committed to sustainability and ethical practices, using environmentally friendly materials and ensuring that our production processes adhere to the highest ethical standards. Our goal is to make a positive impact on the environment and society while delivering exceptional furniture products and services and creating more jobs for the youth. In summary, we are centered around producing high-quality, stylish, and durable furniture, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of our customers. We aim to be a leading player in the market, delivering exceptional products and services that exceed our customers' expectations.

What is your biggest success?

1. Establishing my own business - Starting a successful furniture making business as a 25 year old, young female entrepreneur is a significant achievement in itself. 2. Creating jobs - creating jobs and adding value to the economy and saving families living in poverty and also helping with training which advances skillsets for people which can also open doors for them. 2. Creating unique and innovative designs: Developing a distinctive style or innovative pieces that showcase my craftsmanship and creativity. 3. Building a loyal customer base-: Attracting and retaining customers who appreciate my work and recommend my business to others. 4. Collaborating with prominent clients or brands: Working with well-known designers, architects, and brands on high-profile projects. (Houghton hotel, Gemelli restaurant, Musa Keys etc. 5. Receiving industry recognition or awards: Earning accolades or nominations from industry organizations, publications, and events. Speaking to 100 school girls at the women's day talk at AfGri is still one of my biggest achievements to date. 6. Developing sustainable or eco-friendly practices: Implementing environmentally conscious methods and materials in my furniture making process. 7. Mentoring or inspiring others: Sharing my skills and experience with apprentices, students, or fellow female entrepreneurs. 8. Expanding my product line or services: Diversifying my offerings to include new types of furniture, restoration services, or design consulting. 9. Overcoming challenges and persevering: Successfully navigating obstacles, such as equipment failures, supply chain issues, or economic downturns. 10. Building a strong online presence: Creating a professional website, social media following, or online store to showcase and sell my work.

What has been your biggest hurdle?

1. Gender bias and stereotypes: Encountering assumptions or skepticism about my ability to work with power tools or manage a physically demanding business. 2. Lack of experience or training: Overcoming limited access to mentorship, apprenticeships, or industry connections. 3. Financial constraints: Securing funding, managing cash flow, or affording equipment and materials. 4. Workshop or studio space: Finding affordable and suitable space to work and store your equipment and inventory. 5. Marketing and self-promotion: Building a brand, networking, and confidently promoting my work. 6. Balancing creativity and business tasks: Managing the administrative and financial aspects of the business while still allowing time for design and making. 7. Physical demands and safety: Dealing with the physical strain of working with heavy materials and tools, and prioritising safety in the workshop. 8. Industry competition and saturation: Differentiating yourself in a crowded market and competing with established businesses. 9. Access to resources and supplies: Sourcing high-quality materials, tools, and equipment, particularly if we're working in a niche or specialty area. 10. Self-doubt and imposter syndrome: Overcoming internal doubts and fears about my abilities and legitimacy as a furniture maker.