The Mojo Workshop

Zesta Pienaar is proud owner of ‘The Mojo Workshop' an exciting Graphic Design business based in the West of the city.

Before starting her own business, Zesta was working as a Senior Designer at a planning consultancy for nearly 8 years. She was made redundant from her previous job as a result of the recession and its impact on the development sector. She admits that this was a huge blow to her confidence as employment opportunities in the sector were limited, and she struggled to find work. However, using her design experience, she decided to start her own business.

"As a result of the redundancy I was very demotivated. However, I have had so much support from the Job Centre, InBiz and FIN, that they really helped to turn things around for me, not just in terms of business support but also on a personal level. Chris Walker at FIN helped me to apply for a grant to help me buy the software and some office furniture, which I wouldn't have been able to buy myself, as industry standard design software is very pricey! I was then able to turn a spare room into my 'hoffice' (home office) as I call it! "

The Mojo Workshop can work with any size business, and Zesta especially enjoys working with other small and start-up businesses.

"A lot of these businesses are in the same position that I was, and I can relate to what they are going through, and offer practical advice and support where needed."
Because The Mojo Workshop operates from home there are no major overheads, so superb work can be commissioned for a lot less than many commercial design companies charge.

"I am also a good listener and work with clients to understand their needs, and the needs of their business. This, together with my creative flare and extensive experience, enables me to offer clients a fantastic and professional service."

"Overcoming my shyness and lack of confidence which was affected by the redundancy was a challenge. However, I have received so much fantastic feedback from clients that it has built up my confidence tremendously. It has evolved from just 'something to do to earn a living' to a very exciting and fulfilling personal journey."

Zesta would also like to expand her experience of web design, and is also learning how to use Actionscript, along with software such as Flash.

"I am happy with the way The Mojo Workshop is progressing, I am hoping to expand the business, and along the way, I will hopefully help also and inspire others that have been in the same position that I was".

Zesta (Zee) can be contacted by telephoning 07812386662, and more information can be found at The Mojo Workshop's website www.themojoworkshop.co.uk.