Maja Szotkiewicz's entrepreneurial journey has blossomed from humble beginnings from the fishing port town of Kilkeel, propelled by her love for houseplants and an unwavering determination. At the age of 18, armed with a mere £60 in savings, she embarked on her business venture, Majukooo, during the first lockdown. Ms Szotkiewicz's, who is from a Polish heritage background was listed in the prestigious 2024 Northern Irelands Top 30 under 30 Entrepreneurs by the Belfast Telegraph.
It was during this pivotal period that Maja's artistic talents flourished, as she immersed herself in drawing botanicals, primarily captivated by the allure of houseplants. Her inaugural 2021 botanical-themed calendar proved to be a resounding success, selling over 1,000 units and solidifying her aspiration to pursue entrepreneurship as a viable career path.
Undeterred by the challenges of balancing academic pursuits and entrepreneurial ambitions, Maja seamlessly navigated her Undergraduate Graphic Design and Illustration degree at Ulster University while nurturing her fledgling business. The Enterprise Placement Year Program provided her with invaluable mentorship and a generous grant, enabling her to create a remarkable array of products, including the highly sought-after 2023 calendar and meticulously handcrafted jewellery charms.
Maja would like to extend her heartfelt gratitude to Jackie Smyth, Ursula McTaggart, and Seamus McConomy from Ulster University for their unwavering support and guidance throughout her entrepreneurial journey. Their mentorship and encouragement have been instrumental in her growth and success over the past year.
Maja's tenacity and determination propelled her to confront her fears, embracing public speaking opportunities and actively participating in events that showcased her entrepreneurial prowess. Her unwavering spirit culminated in a triumphant achievement, where she secured first place in both the judge's and audience's votes during a business pitch competition akin to Dragon's Den.
Undaunted by the challenges posed by her final year, Maja continues to balance her academic endeavors with her entrepreneurial pursuits. Her recent recognition as a finalist in the Enterprising Student of the Year category at the NI Social Media awards further solidified her reputation as a rising star in the entrepreneurial landscape.
Maja's journey exemplifies the power of self-belief, resilience, and an insatiable thirst for knowledge. She actively seeks opportunities to enhance her entrepreneurial acumen through books, masterclasses, and coaching programs, exemplifying her conviction that learning is a perpetual process. Her story resonates with the ethos of EMEEN, inspiring others to embrace their passions and forge their own paths towards success.
Maja said, "Joining EMEEN has been an invaluable experience, providing me with a supportive network and valuable resources to help my business, Majukooo, thrive. I am excited to connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and learn from their experiences."
Maja's plantastic endeavors serve as a testament to the power of unwavering passion, resilience, and a commitment to continuous growth. Her journey is an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, artists, and those seeking to harmonize their diverse pursuits. We at EMEEN are thrilled to witness her continued success and the blossoming impact she will undoubtedly have on the entrepreneurial landscape.
Written By: Ruchira Rangaprasad
