A resilient and creative entrepreneur Lizelle Jacobs has turned challenge into opportunity, building an internationally recognised coaching business rooted in authenticity, courage and helping leaders unlock their full potential.
Business coach from MindAlive Lizelle Jacobs, says if her business had a personality, she would describe it as authentic, grounded and a bit stubborn.
“When Covid-19 arrived in South Africa in early 2020, I thought my business would pause for three weeks and then resume as usual. At the time, training large groups of people for three days or more was the norm. But as my clients phoned one after another to postpone training temporarily and then cancel all planned activities, I realised that life as we knew it would never be the same again,” she says.
Lizelle explains she adapted quickly by earning a TEFL certificate and moving into online English tutoring.
“I met the most interesting people from all over the world, and before long, my Business English classes had evolved into Business Coaching sessions.”
This sustained her for two years while helping her expand her work internationally.
She says when she first started, success looked like being fully booked, a full diary felt like proof that she was good enough. Now, however, success looks very different.
“It’s quieter and harder to photograph. It’s the leader who sends me a voice note at some strange hour, saying something has shifted for them. It’s watching an organisation move from blame and control to one where people can breathe and do their best work.
“The calendar still matters – I run a business, not a charity – but it’s no longer the scoreboard.”
When asked what people often misunderstand about her work, Lizelle points to coaching.
“Firstly, coaching is not therapy. We don’t talk about problems; we talk about potential.”
Lizelle says a coach helps uncover what people already know, not provide answers.
“Both individuals and teams can benefit from coaching. Most successful and influential business leaders use coaches to guide and empower themselves.”
She says one of the most inspiring parts of her work is the women she encounters.
“Every woman who sits across from me, sharing her brave journey and challenging her self-belief and boundaries.”
Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple: “Charge what you’re worth from day one.”
After a long day, she enjoys an ice-cold Sauvignon Blanc on a hot Bloemfontein summer evening, or a smooth red wine in winter.
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Byline: Text: SIBONGILE SELOMANE
Photograph: GYPSEENIA LION
