Learn how Nicola Du Plessis combines her passion for fitness, business, and mentoring women entrepreneurs to create lasting success.

NICOLA DU PLESSIS

Tell Us Your Story

With over a decade of experience as a model, influencer, and business owner, I’ve built a career helping brands shine. My businesses focus on connecting the right influencers to elevate brands, sourcing models for impactful campaigns, and managing social media strategies to ensure success.

Driven by my values of family, loyalty, and hard work, I strive to create a better future for my loved ones and myself. Outside of work, I’m passionate about health and fitness, enjoying outdoor adventures like mountain climbing and pushing limits at the gym. Dedicated and loyal, I believe in building relationships that last and ensuring every project I touch exceeds expectations.

What are the most common challenges you’ve observed facing women entrepreneurs in your industry, and how can we work together to create solutions and resources to overcome them?

Being a woman entrepreneur is rewarding, but it comes with its share of challenges. One of the biggest challenges? Jealousy and competition. Instead of tearing each other down, I believe in being a woman’s woman—supporting and uplifting others to succeed together.

There’s no time for negativity or bad attitudes. Business is about working hard, staying focused, and building something meaningful. My mantra is simple: loyalty, kindness, and collaboration.

To all the women hustling out there—keep going, keep growing. Together, we’re unstoppable.

What does a typical day in your life as an entrepreneur look like, and how can we share these insights to build a sense of community and understanding among women entrepreneurs?

My day starts with a workout—either at the gym or outdoors—to fuel my body and mind. Then it’s straight into work, coordinating with brands, connecting influencers, and sourcing models for shoots.

I stay hands-on with projects, ensuring every detail aligns with my vision. Supporting other women in business is a priority, whether through mentorship or collaboration.

Evenings are for family and loved ones, my grounding force. Each day is a mix of hard work, health, and relationships, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

How do you maintain work-life balance, and what strategies or resources can we share to help other women entrepreneurs prioritize their well-being?

  • Time Blocking: I dedicate specific hours to work, fitness, and personal time. This structure keeps me productive and prevents burnout.
  • Letting Go: Delegating tasks and letting go of control in certain areas frees up time for what matters most.
  • Self-Care: Staying fit and healthy is non-negotiable. Morning workouts, eating well, and taking time to recharge help me perform at my best.
  • Boundaries: I make sure to unplug during family time. Being present with loved ones keeps me grounded and reminds me why I work so hard.
  • Support Others: By uplifting other women in business, I’ve built a strong network that inspires and supports me in return.

Balance isn’t about perfection; it’s about staying aligned with your values and making intentional choices every day.

What personal and professional goals would you like to achieve in the next year, and how can we create opportunities for collaboration and mutual support among women entrepreneurs to achieve these goals?

Personal Goals

  • Health and Fitness: Take on new challenges like mountain climbing or enhancing my gym routine to stay strong and focused.
  • Family Time: Dedicate more quality time to loved ones while maintaining a healthy balance with work.
  • Personal Growth: Explore opportunities for learning and self-improvement through books, courses, or new experiences.

Professional Goals

  • Attract New Clients: Expand my business by building relationships with new brands and partners who align with my vision.
  • Empowering Women: Create opportunities to mentor and uplift women entrepreneurs, fostering a culture of collaboration and support.

How do you think female entrepreneurs can inspire and empower each other?

  • Celebrate Wins: Cheer for each other’s successes, big or small. Acknowledging accomplishments creates a ripple effect of positivity and motivation. Trust me when I say this!
  • Share Knowledge: Be open about lessons learned, strategies that work, and even failures.
  • Collaborate: Look for ways to work together rather than compete.
  • Mentor and Support: Offer guidance to those just starting out. A little encouragement or advice can make a huge difference in someone’s journey. I had this, and it helped me so much.
  • Create Safe Spaces: Foster communities where women feel heard, respected, and empowered to share ideas without fear of judgment or stealing ideas.
  • Lead by Example: Show that success is possible through hard work, resilience, and staying true to your values.
Category
South Africa
Tags
business growth, business success, career development, collaboration, confidence building, empowerment movement, entrepreneur success, female empowerment, financial freedom, fitness and business, influencer marketing, inspirational women, leadership for women, mentorship for women, Nicola Du Plessis, personal growth, startup advice, success stories, supporting women in business, women entrepreneurs, women helping women, women networking, women-owned businesses, women’s community, work-life balance