Ally Cohen – 4aKid

Tell us a bit about YOU and your family (where you are based, single / married, number of kids, etc)

I am married with two boys aged 2 ½ years and 9 years old. We live in Sandton Johannesburg.

What is the name of your company and when did you start your business?

My company name is 4aKid and I started it in 2007 as part-time and it has grown into a full-time national business.

What inspired you to start your own business?

My son Gabriel who is special-needs. I couldn’t find appropriate safety products in South Africa for him and also wanted to spend more time at home so I started sourcing products and getting involved with child safety.

What are the challenges you face or have faced being a working Mom and how have you overcome them?

I think that time is my biggest challenge. Dealing with a demanding business, two children of which one has complex medical needs, running a household and more. I have learnt to split my time between my family and business, and “switch off” when needed. I have also structured the business that I can work from home or the office at any time.

What is the hardest part or have been some of your struggles starting your own business?

Cash flow and building a good reputation. It has taken a while for the SA market to understand the importance of the safety products.

How do you balance your business and your family?

Not an easy task and I am still trying to juggle family life and business most days.

What or whom has been the greatest support for you and your business?

My husband has been amazing and completely supportive of everything I do and helps with business advice. My mother helps with the kids and I could have not done it if it wasn’t for both of them!

If you had to do it all over again, what would you do differently?

I wouldn’t do anything differently.

What advice can you give other Moms out there who are starting a new business?

Follow your dreams, follow your heart and reach for the stars!

If other Moms would like to keep in touch, how can they contact you?

Ally Cohen
Tel: +27 (0)11 656 8290
Fax: 088 011 656 8290
Mobile: +27 (0)83 200 6081 / +27 (0)82 447 1182
Skype name: ally43211
Website: http://www.4akid.co.za
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/4aKid/