4 March 2021|Meet the Successful Founder
Stacey-Rebekka Karlsson, the cheese-munching master-baker of Goho is the Founder and MD. She started Goho after becoming disillusioned with the industry and how clients were treated; the focus being on how many hours were billed rather than creative output, customer service and results. Armed with just a Macbook and a bucketload of positivity she started Goho, and has never looked back. She has over 16 years experience running award winning marketing campaigns and events, from recruiting social workers and changing opinion of employer brand of NGOs, to the Guardian Public Service Awards, the Royal Premiere of James Bond – Casino Royale and huge incentive trips abroad.
She’s the mastermind and driving force behind all things Goho. She has a BA in Interdisciplinary Performance and Media (yeah, try saying that after a few beers) from Middlesex University, can speak French and Spanish, and has Grade 8 in Saxophone! Stacey champions women and their rights in the workplace, she speaks regularly on the subject and is an active member, coach and mentor for Bloom UK, the network for women in the communications industry.
What would you love to share to encourage other women to start their own business?
Starting your own business is amazing, but it’s incredibly stressful and daunting too. Being your own boss means you can choose when, and how you work, but it also means you’re responsible for bringing home the bacon, not only for you, but for any staff you have, so make sure you recognise how much pressure comes with that. It is the most rewarding thing in the world though, making money for yourself, closing a deal and seeing that money go to what you want it to.
Plan, plan, plan – for every single eventuality, especially the bad ones.
Don’t be too hard on yourself – come to terms that you will fail at some things, but just pick yourself up, learn from it and get back on-board.
Be creative – don’t be afraid to challenge boundaries and think outside the box. Being different will be your strength and make you stand out, let your creativity shine through.
Network – your network is one of your most important assets. Have a strong network, and use it.
Ask for business – be confident, know your worth, and ask for business.
Who are the 5 women who inspire you the most?
My Mum – she brought me up on her own while working full time
Roxy Fielding – our Head of BD, she too is a single mum and she also beat Breast Cancer last year. So inspirational.
Vivien Wong – founder of Little Moons Mochi, she’s an absolute kick ass and full of energy and fabulous ideas, she treats her people really well.
Jo Miller – she’s the Chief Executive of Hutt City Council in New Zealand, but I met her when she was CEX at Doncaster council here in the UK. She’s a huge advocate for women’s rights and really took me under her wing. I’ve learnt so much from her about being a female leader in a man’s world. Check her out, she’s an absolute legend.
Chanelle Gale – Dorchester Collection. This woman is the epitome of luxury service. She is always smiling and looking immaculate. She makes whoever she speaks to feel special and is so knowledgeable about her properties, a connoisseur and shining light in the hospitality and events sector.
What is your favourite saying/inspirational quote?
Aim for the moon, even if you miss, you’ll land amongst the stars.
Website & Socials
Website: www.thisisgoho.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srkarlsson/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/thisisgohoIWD
