All At Once

“I believe in form and function with colours,” Bernadine says, of her personal style. “And ladies, always wear heels. They don’t need to be high, but even tiny kitten heels make a difference.” Bernadine is her own boss, and says that how she dresses reflects what she does for a living and so she tries to bring her own style as opposed to following a trend. While most people are committed to just one job, Bernadine has her hands full running three businesses. “I know three sounds like a little too much but they’re things I’m dearly attached to and motivated by,” she says. “I run a company that represents content/media publishers; an e-tailer of eco-friendly bamboo homeware; and am also working with three other individuals to develop and retail 5-free organic nail products.” Some of the impressions that most people have about entrepreneurs like herself, Bernadine says, is that she gets to do her own things in her own time, and not worry about a boss. “But the opposite is also true,” she says. “There is a huge amount of self-reliance, motivation and discipline involved to ensure that the business grows and remains healthy.” Having a mentor is important, she adds, and suggests that everyone should find a mentor who can support and guide them as they start their careers. Bernadine also adds that a work-life balance is always going to be a delicate act to manage, but having the support of people who believe in you no matter what is crucial. “You’re bound to make mistakes or pick a decision that not everyone might agree with, but it’s important to follow your intuition and to have your closest friends and family believe in you even if fail.”