Leigh Sarembock and Michel Ludek literally shed blood, sweat and tears to get their businesses off the ground and make sure that they succeed in the cutthroat fashion industry. 

A dream birthed while juggling long hours in the corporate world with a healthy lifestyle

Spiritgirl is a sustainable and ethical activewear brand inspired by nature and travel. Made from high quality, innovative and sustainable fabrics, made for performance and made to feel great on.

Leigh Sarembock is the owner of Spiritgirl, a company that came to life when she was working in corporate events. “The hours were long and brutal, but I always found the time for yoga and a healthy outdoor lifestyle. I realized there was a gap in the market for fun, uniquely designed leggings for eco-conscious women. I dreamed of creating a sustainable yoga brand that represents my love of yoga, nature and wellbeing whilst incorporating my passion for art and design,” says Leigh. 

Leigh shares her advice to achieve success, “Being a woman in business involves wearing many hats - in the workplace and at home. I am an entrepreneur, a mom, and a wife. Each role is a full-time job with no off days. Resilience, hard work and outsourcing help me maintain a balance in all aspects of my life.”

Leigh says Women’s Month reminds her of how tenacious women are and how far we have come in male dominated society. “I like to remind my children that anything in life is possible regardless of gender.”

How motherhood inspired the start of one of SA’s most loved clothing brand

Michelle Ludek owns a company that sells flattering and affordable ready-to-wear feminine clothing. Each of Michelle Ludek's collections are defined by her instinctual and playful nature.

Michelle’s decision to pursue her dream of owning her own fashion label was inspired by motherhood. She explains, “I moved back to South Africa to have my son and motherhood changed my perspective on work/life balance and I had to really think about the path I wanted to choose for my career. I knew I couldn't go back to a corporate environment and that it was a sign to pursue my dream of owning my own clothing label which I created in 2007. I realised how much our bodies change after having children and that most women felt exactly the same way that I did about my changes.”

Part of Michelle’s recipe to success is that one shouldn’t let fear stop them from going for their dreams. “Don't be afraid to do anything you dream of doing. It is never too late or too early. You are the change and there will never be a right time, you just have to go for it. Grow organically and ethically, save for rainy days and love what you do - at least 90% of the time, says Michelle.” 

Michelle says she loves that Women’s Month shines a light on all the beauty and strengths that women bring to the world. “We can celebrate and honour each other's struggles, wins, creativity, motherhood, passion and strengths. Everyday should be Women's Day,” Michelle concludes. 

To shop items from Spiritgirl and Michelle Ludek, visit their stores on the VodaPay super app here.