I am an entrepreneur, I am a small business owner, I am a creative mind, and I turn 26 today.
I was born in Oudtshoorn, Western Cape, and grew up with a desire for learning, and a passion for creating. I attended my first art class before the age of 6 and, upon the invention of camera-phones, I quickly fell in love with photography. I shot my first wedding at the age of 16, and simultaneously began my juvenile art career.
When it was time to grow up, I began studying Behavioural Genetics at the University of the Free State. Before I knew it, I was busy with my master’s dissertation on the subject of human behaviour and the genetics behind our behaviour. I soon realised that career opportunities in this field are very limited. However, this was a blessing in disguise.
A number of factors began to work together and eventually resulted in my move to Bethlehem, Free State. One of these factors was an amazing career opportunity. I was in a management position at a large local company, where I learnt countless lessons about business, customer service, and marketing. Here I also realised the value of time, especially for business owners. This is one of the cornerstones of the value that Perspective offers.
Finally, after three wedding postponements since 2020 (thanks to the pandemic), I am now happily married to a loving and supportive husband. We live in a lovely, happy home with our two English Bulldogs, and our rescue ginger cat. On Saturdays we braai, and on Sundays we smoke ribs or brisket and watch Formula 1. My husband and I try to stay active by running or mountain biking, while also balancing our family life, social life, and work. I love being a part of the local community, and I have made wonderful friends here.
I started Perspective, practically overnight, in September 2021. The goal is to assist businesses with their online presence because
"If your business is not online, then your business will be out of business."
Most business owners realise this, but do not have the time or resources to allocate towards creating a quality online presence whilst focussing on other important aspects of their business. This is where Perspective comes in.
I am overwhelmed by the positive response to Perspective, which has been more than I could ever have hoped for. The scope of my services keeps expanding as I realise how much we are capable of accomplishing together. Perspective has partnered with local, South African, and even international businesses to build brands recognised by their audiences. Deciding to start my own business was the biggest leap of faith I have taken in my 26 years, and I am so grateful that it is already paying off.
Thank you for taking the time to get to know more about me, and also about the origins of Perspective. I am excited about what the future may hold for me and my Boutique PR Agency.
- Paula-Mari Coetzer