Making positive moves in the conscious consumption space, the founder of SoL Cups is one to watch.
Name, age, location: Rebecca Veksler, 25, Sydney
Job title: Founder of SoL Cups
Can you explain your career path to date? What led you to be doing what you are doing today?
The idea of SoL was an incredibly special one! It’s a family business, so it has a lot of love behind it. The real passion and idea came from a bit of a difficult time in my life. I was hit by an intense autoimmune disease, and my body and nervous system essentially crashed. My family had always taught me about health, environment and the body growing up; we never had sugar, preservatives or unnecessary plastic in the house. They really instilled a desire to educate and invest in me. So I put my passions for the environment, body and love to inspire into a small passion project, while I was stuck in bed for months. It is inspiring to see where it has taken us.
Previously to this, I had always been entrepreneurial, I managed gyms and a successful personal training business, as well as a startup in creating and facilitating talks on mental health in offices, universities and schools. I am now the Youngest Vice President of the Bondi and Districts Chamber of Commerce. With SoL I took my passion for inspiring and empowering people, coupled with my love for the business to create a product that I truly believed in. I love everything about my job because it is not a job, it’s my life, it fulfils every element of my soul.
What is your biggest accomplishment at work or a moment you’re most proud of?
I am so incredibly proud of my team, and our connectivity, our energy and the innovation that happens in house.
What is the biggest obstacle you’ve overcome, as it relates to your career or industry?
To be fair, as a business owner, there are obstacles every day, but nothing that is specifically targeted or relevant. My brand is built on authenticity, positive relationships and honesty, I feel that is easily seen in our growth and partnerships.
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What motivates you?
Knowing that I get to fulfil my passions every day. My entire mission is to inspire, empower and educate as many people as possible. That each day I get to create a positive impact.
What do you believe has been the key to your success?
Authenticity, courage, resilience and passion.
What is your life motto?
There is always a solution.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Think laterally and always surround yourself by better, smarter people.
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing women in the work place?
I personally have never experienced this, but I know this is a huge issue, Not being taken seriously, and being sexualised. It is so important to stand up for yourself and assert your presence, but this can be done in an eloquent smart way.
How do you find the ideal work/life balance?
You don’t! You take everything day by day, set boundaries for yourself, listen to your body and take small moments each day to meditate, exercise and do something that brings you joy.
What are your top three tips for landing a job in your industry?
Do the work, seek mentorship, be passionate, energetic and proactive.
In another life, what would you want to do for a job?
I have a huge passion for neuroscience and psychology, so I’d love to explore that world someday soon, but otherwise I couldn’t do anything other than what I’m doing now, I’m living and creating my dreams. Okay, maybe a stand-up comedian.
How do you relax away from work?
I walk, long, mindful walks along the soft sand at Bondi Beach.
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When do you go to bed and when do you get up?
If I am lucky, I’m in bed before 10, and I’m up at 6:45.
When did you last act fearlessly?
Every single day of my life!
Who do you most admire in business? Why?
My brother. He’s an incredible businessman and always has the ability to think laterally and rationally – we love to sit down and debrief.
What are your favorite traits you are drawn to at work or when hiring?
Energy, passion, and a clear desire for growth and longevity within the business. Most skills can be taught, common sense and passion cannot.
You have already achieved so much, but what’s next for you?
I have some huge goals, ideally I would love to have a TED talk within the next two years. Possibly get involved in politics, as I am currently the Vice President of The Bondi and Districts Chamber of Commerce, and I feel very connected to what we are achieving locally. I am also working on a book, but naturally between all of that, building a family.
