Farah Moosa
Hello, I am Farah Moosa, Founder & Managing Director of Neonhive.
I am a 29-year-old hustler! I finished school at the age of 16, studied Event Management at CPUT, graduated at 20, and married the love of my life at 21. Over the years, I evolved from an Event Coordinator to an Event Manager to an Account Manager and then to a Project Manager working at reputable businesses in the agency and government sector. I currently hold 11 years of experience and have directed amazing brands such as McDonald's, rAge, and Clicks to name a few.
I am really passionate about what I do within my business, creating epic proposals and strategies for our clients. I am also passionate about women empowerment, collaboration, business, entrepreneurship, and really helping each other to move forward.
Another great passion of mine is travelling. I love seeing the world, how it's so different, creating amazing memories and experiences that will last a lifetime!
Company Name: Neonhive
Location: Western Cape, South Africa
Operating since: 2017
Company Website: www.neonhive.co.za
Company Instagram: @neonhive.agency
Tell us all about your company. What services do you offer?
Neonhive is an events and marketing agency. We deliver tailored strategies that elevate & promote meaningful connections. We offer superlative event and marketing brand experiences from start to finish through all mediums of marketing. We are specialists and experts in using a unique mix of both traditional and digital marketing channels in order to achieve our client’s goals and suit their budgets.
We are a one-stop-shop so you don’t have to deal with five different companies – only one key account manager who will manage our team and partners to get you the superlative results you want. Each one of our team members and partners is unapologetically unique and undeniably skilled, making our work something extraordinary to behold. We create the unbelievable by making your dreams a reality.
How did you get the idea or concept for your company? What was your mission at the outset? Was there anything in particular that inspired you to start at the time you did?
I really enjoyed strategizing in a brainstorm, working in the corporate ad agency space really allowed me to find my niche. I always ultimately knew I wanted to be my own boss, so once I identified and crafted my skill, I took the leap, quit my job, ([at the time] my husband was also studying full time). I can now - 3 years later, 100% say that it's totally worth it, challenging, but so rewarding! I finally realize what it means to have great responsibility for your own dreams and goals.
Growing up, did you always intend to start your own company?
I grew up with my late grandparents and they were very involved in the apartheid era. My grandmother was a strong woman, she supported my grandfather as she held the fort whilst he was fighting for human rights, he was Nelson Mandela’s (Madiba) lawyer, which then evolved into him becoming a High Court Judge. My grandfather really played a huge role in my life, he really believed in me and taught me to be a go-getter, to work for your achievements and to travel, travel, travel as much as you can, which is why it is a passion of mine. My dad, however, was an entrepreneur. He owned many of his own businesses in many different sectors which gave me the opportunity to be in that environment of working exceptionally hard, but at the same time, [made me realize] how quickly things can change in business.
How have your past personal & professional experiences helped you to run your company?
I am really grateful for all my experiences. Working for eight years in corporate and in the agency realm really provided me with a strong foundation. It gave me the confidence to identify and mould my skills as a creative and project director, and now I am in the process of building and developing my entrepreneurial mindset in business.
What is the biggest obstacle you've had to overcome?
After leaving my last job and opening up my own business, it was really challenging finding new clients as we were new in the industry. I thought, after my first year, I was going to go back to the workforce as it was extremely challenging, however, I persevered pushed and finally, after 13 months we had a breakthrough in winning a pitch for the Clicks Group. This was a game-changer for us as it was a reputable company which was great for our portfolio. This experience really taught me to be patient and to never give up, even in dark times.
What's your definition of success?
My definition of success is happiness. I believe that when you are truly happy, you are successful.
Have the women around you helped you to rise? How?
Definitely, being raised by powerful women. Also, being a part of The First Lady Chamber really gave me that female family feeling, knowing that through your daily obstacles you have women who you can share it with, it's amazing! In addition to these, I have two of the most amazing girl friends. They are both strong, business-minded, boss [women] in their own right. I'm the baby between them too but it's amazing being supported by them through thick and thin.
What are some of your future plans? Are you working on anything else right now?
I've just recently resigned from The First Lady Chamber to give priority to my business, Neonhive. I am excited to have the time to strategize and give it the attention it deserves. I've been brainstorming some epic ideas - excited to share it with you all, post-lockdown.
What advice would you give to a woman starting out in your industry or starting her own company/organization?
Find your tribe - find someone who can be your anchor and support you as being an entrepreneur is tough.
Master your craft - stay true to your niche, being in business can confuse you sometimes so always flip back to your business plan and objectives
Take time for yourself - we feel like we always have to be busy to ensure we have success. Take time out to regroup and realign.
Challenge yourself - In business, it's always about risk, don't be afraid to take calculated risks that are out of your comfort zone.
Describe yourself in ONE word. Happiness
Complete this sentence: "To be a girl or woman today is..."
Creating and shaping your own dreams, and turning them into a reality. Nothing can stop you!