Kiko Vitals Founder & CEO Kerri-lee Taylor Shares Her Top Lessons Learnt from Running a Fast-Growing Startup
Kiko Vitals Founder & CEO Kerri-lee Taylor Shares Her Top Lessons Learnt from Running a Fast-Growing StartUp. Thanks to the exponential growth of my empowerment-driven women’s wellness company, Kiko Vitals, over the past few years, I have experienced accelerated learnings in all aspects of running a business, particularly as a young woman in South Africa in this day and age.
I am passionate about empowering other women – not just to take their health into their own hands and achieve radiant balance and vitality – but also to follow our lead in manifesting businesses and careers that really light them up, and – in turn – to share this light with their communities.
Here are a few of the most important things I’ve learnt to prioritise – both in business and in life:
Adaptability and Resilience
In a fast-paced startup environment, things change quickly. At Kiko Vitals, we’ve learned to be adaptable, embracing uncertainty and finding creative solutions to unexpected challenges. This mindset fosters a resilient culture where setbacks are viewed as learning opportunities.
Open Communication
My team and I value and practise transparency and open dialogue. Regular check-ins and feedback loops ensure that everyone stays aligned with the goals and can address issues before they escalate. This builds trust and keeps us all connected, no matter how fast we’re moving.
Workplace Wellbeing
I truly believe that the health and wellbeing of our team directly impacts the business. We provide flexible working hours, encourage healthy work-life balance, and promote self-care practices like mindfulness and physical activity. A happy, healthy team is the foundation of a thriving business!
Continuous Learning
As a startup, we’re constantly learning on the go. We encourage a growth mindset, where team members are empowered to upskill and explore new ways to solve problems. Personal development is as important as professional growth.
Empowering Autonomy
By fostering a culture of independence, we give our team members the freedom to take ownership of their projects. This autonomy empowers creativity and innovation, allowing everyone to contribute meaningfully to the company’s mission.
Celebrating Wins, Big and Small
Recognising and celebrating achievements, no matter how small, helps keep morale high. In a fast-moving environment, it’s easy to overlook progress, but we make it a point to acknowledge and appreciate every milestone.
Purpose-Driven Work
We don’t just chase numbers; our growth is driven by a shared mission. Every decision we make ties back to our core values, ensuring that our rapid pace doesn’t come at the cost of integrity or long-term vision. At Kiko Vitals, our guiding mission is to impact one million female lives in South Africa through our consciously-crafted products and educational community; to hold the largest space for holistic women’s wellbeing in the country; to close the gender health gap; and to bring about real change. What’s yours?
