Petra Čuřínová was a Femme Palette mentee, who just finished our Coaching and Mentoring program. She is the Founder and CEO of GIVILI, a premium organic bedding brand. In this spotlight interview, we asked Petra about what led her to become an entrepreneur, the story behind her company, the biggest challenges she faced as an entrepreneur and so much more.
My name is Petra, a business owner. I am the founder and CEO of GIVILI, a premium organic bedding brand focused on sustainability. I am passionate about providing high-quality and natural products to customers. Our mission is to create a positive impact on the environment and promote sustainable living through our products and services.
I had always had an entrepreneurial spirit and desire for autonomy. Being an entrepreneur presents constant opportunities for learning, personal growth, and professional development. I was excited about the challenge of building a sustainable business from the ground up, facing new experiences, and continually expanding my skills and knowledge.
The story behind GIVILI begins in early 2020 when I returned to the Czech Republic from Denmark amidst the global pandemic. While setting up my new apartment, I faced a frustrating problem - the lack of access to high-quality, solid-colored bed linens. I have always had a strong conviction about the importance of functional and beautiful products. Motivated by this, I decided to establish my own brand that would bring together practicality, aesthetics, and the superior quality I had experienced in Denmark. Thus, GIVILI was born, aiming to provide premium bed linens that would elevate the sleeping experience for everyone.
As a young female entrepreneur, the biggest challenge I have faced thus far is navigating and overcoming the limitations set by myself, the traditional belief systems and societal expectations. Breaking through the barriers of gender stereotypes and biases has required a resilient mindset. Building a successful business often demands frequent stepping out of comfort zones and taking risks, which can be particularly challenging without a strong support system. However, I have been fortunate enough to surround myself with like-minded individuals who provide encouragement, guidance, and inspiration, allowing me to overcome obstacles and continue pursuing my entrepreneurial dreams.
The biggest lesson I've learned from my experience as an entrepreneur thus far is the power of resilience and adaptability. Building and growing a business is a dynamic process that requires the ability to navigate through uncertainties, setbacks, and unexpected challenges.Through the ups and downs of my entrepreneurial journey, I have come to realize that setbacks and failures are not roadblocks, but rather valuable learning opportunities.
Another important lesson I've learned is the importance of building a strong network and surrounding myself with supportive mentors and advisors as you can find together with Femme Palette. Collaborating with experienced professionals and seeking guidance from those who have walked a similar path has provided invaluable insights and helped me avoid common pitfalls.
Have the courage to take that initial step. The hardest part is often getting started, but it is essential to overcome the fear of failure and pursue your dreams through perseverance.
As I mentioned before, I sought out help in order to surround myself with like-minded individuals who could provide guidance and support. Learning from those who have already walked the path you're embarking on can be invaluable in navigating challenges and gaining insights.
Their guidance has been a catalyst for growth, enabling me to make informed decisions, expand my network, and acquire new skills. In short, my mentor has played a vital role in helping me achieve my goals and has been an invaluable source of support throughout the mentoring program.
My overall mentoring experience has been incredibly enriching and transformative as my mentor has provided invaluable guidance, support, and a unique perspective that has accelerated my progress, while their belief in my potential, constructive feedback, and practical advice have fueled my personal and professional growth, ultimately affirming the importance of starting now and taking action towards my goals. Thank you for the opportunity.
Are you an entrepreneur looking to surround yourself with the support and guidance of like-minded individuals who have already walked the path you’re embarking on? Get support from your business mentor and grow your business through our mentoring program for founders, entrepreneurs and freelancers.
