#FollowMajukooo
Meet Maja Szotkiewicz, the creative force behind Majukooo, a business born out of passion and persistence. Hailing from Poland and now calling Kilkeel, Northern Ireland, home, this dynamic entrepreneur has an unwavering love for plants and a talent for illustration.
In this interview, we delve into her journey from a young artist experimenting with various subjects to a confident female founder who turned her art into a thriving business. Discover her insights, challenges, and the empowering lessons she's learned along the way.
Maja’s membership is sponsored as part of our partnership with Ulster University.
To get us started - how would you describe yourself in 6 words or less?
Persistent, Passionate, Plant-Loving, Creative, Authentic and Fun!!
Describe your business and what prompted you to start it?
I started Majukooo, when I was still doing my A Levels in school, I had a huge passion for illustration, and after doing work experience in a few 9-5 style jobs (and hating it), I wanted to try out running my own business! I am also currently studying Graphic Design & Illustration at Ulster University.
Tell us a little bit more about you?
I moved to Northern Ireland from Poland when I was 6, so for me, NI feels like home. I grew up in quite a rural area in NI, and maybe that's where my love for plants comes from. I remember buying my first ever houseplant in IKEA as a teen, and at this point, I loved drawing and illustration, but nothing 'clicked' yet, I was experimenting with different subjects like landscapes, portraits, still life etc. but I never felt a true connection to these things. It all clicked when I drew my first houseplant, I just absolutely loved the idea that I am taking care of this living plant, seeing it grow new leaves and lose old leaves, and I get to enjoy it and its beauty in my home! Capturing that beauty on paper (or now digitally - since I use my iPad for drawing) is what keeps me going! Now that's what Majukooo is all about - helping you live a plantastic life, and helping you express your love for plants in your daily life.
Fill us in on your female founder journey…
Starting my entrepreneurial journey at a young age posed significant challenges. Initially, I viewed my business more as a hobby than a viable career option. It wasn't until a pivotal moment when I sold over 1,000 units of my illustrated Indoor Jungle 2021 calendar, which gained viral attention on social media. This surge of interest left me exhilarated but also exposed my lack of business knowledge, leading to uncertainty about sustaining the momentum. My confidence heavily relied on external validation, and as the initial hype subsided, my motivation dwindled.
However, a turning point arrived during my Enterprise Placement Year at Ulster University. I seized the opportunity to educate myself extensively by diving into business books, attending workshops, and immersing myself in podcasts. This newfound knowledge gradually liberated me from the constraints that had held my business back.
During this transformative year, I devoted months to crafting a comprehensive Business Plan for Majukooo, a step I had overlooked initially. The process of understanding my target market through in-depth research ignited a fresh vision for Majukooo. It no longer felt like a hobby destined to fail; instead, it became a tangible endeavor with a clear action plan.
None of this would have been possible without the incredible support of my mentors at Ulster University, including Jackie, Seamus, and Ursula. They played an indispensable role in guiding me through the entrepreneurial maze over the past year.
With my business plan in place and continuous learning as my driving force, I recognized the need for a visual rebrand for Majukooo. Leveraging my background in Graphic Design and Illustration, I undertook this rebranding journey myself. I meticulously crafted a new brand identity and revamped my website and social media presence. This transformation instilled profound confidence in my business, and I operated with a clear sense of purpose.
The newfound self-assuredness propelled me to create fresh illustrations and innovative products tailored to my target audience. No longer dependent on external validation, my confidence emanated from within, rooted in the tireless effort I invested.
As I neared the end of my Enterprise Placement Year, the ultimate challenge emerged in the form of a business pitch competition. Knowing that a cash prize was at stake, which I intended to invest in a sales coaching program led by the exceptional Elizabeth Stiles, I immersed myself in rigorous preparation. To my astonishment, I emerged victorious, winning both the Audience's vote and the Judge's vote. This victory enabled me to access Elizabeth Stiles's transformative sales coaching program, which equipped me with invaluable sales skills and further solidified my business acumen.
Today, I stand at a juncture in my journey as a female founder. It's a path defined by self-discovery, relentless education, and the willingness to seek assistance when needed. This experience has been profoundly empowering, shaping my identity as an entrepreneur determined to navigate the complexities of the business world.
Why have you joined AwakenHub?
I'm very grateful to Ulster University for sponsoring my AwakenHub membership, I've only been part of AwakenHub for a few months, but I've absolutely loved attending their SheGenerate 2.0 final ceremony, what stuck with me the most was the talk by the fabulous Aine Kilkenny co-founder of Riley who create organic & toxin free period products, it's very inspiring to me how their business idea started from passion, and how they have created such an amazing community around their product now.
Have you an ‘ask’ which we can share with fellow #Awakenhubbers?
I'd simply love to know, do you like houseplants? If so, what is your favourite plant?
As a founder - what do you know for sure?
As a founder, one thing I'm certain of is that a business is always in beta mode. This means perpetual learning, embracing challenges, and cherishing the rewarding moments. I never want to perceive my business as 'complete' or devoid of opportunities for improvement.
Where do you see yourself in 12 months and 5 years time?
In 12 months, I will have graduated from my degree, and my goal is to run Majukooo full-time, I really want this to be my full-time job, and I believe that I can do it. In 5 years, I would love to have my own studio where I can pack my orders, create my illustrations and do general admin work. I feel like separating my work/ personal life space within my home will help me be able to focus even more on my goals. I am a bit of an extroverted-introvert so I do love working from home!
What are your top three tips for other women founders?
Find Your Purpose: A must-read for budding entrepreneurs is 'Start With Why' by Simon Sinek. Sinek's TEDTalk on this topic is equally inspiring. These resources helped me truly understand the purpose of my business and why I'm passionate about what I do.
Never Stop Learning: Continuous learning is key. Don't underestimate the potential of podcasts and books to ignite fresh ideas. Attend networking events, even when it's tempting to cancel last minute – your future entrepreneurial self will thank you for it.
Believe in Yourself: Trust your ideas and abilities. Avoid second-guessing yourself. Your ideas are valuable, and your self-confidence is your greatest asset.
To finish up with what are six words to live by?
Without rain, there are no flowers.
