Freda Sebolai, a jewellery designer whose company Eclectic Elements has taken local fashion by storm, has always had big dreams.

Freda Sebolai, a jewellery designer whose company Eclectic Elements has taken local fashion by storm, has always had big dreams.

After a stint at the SABC, Sebolai knew that she was not cut out to work for others.

She started little projects to generate her own income and the stunning beauty modelled part-time. Now she also does talent scouting and co-owns a communications company.

But it was her talent for jewellery design that finally found a place in her heart.

The creative Sebolai makes jewellery from all sorts of things, including peach stones, beads and metals.

"I am inspired and motivated by almost anything I lay my hands on," she says.

Her hard work and creativity has made a name for her in the fashion industry. Her bold and stylish pieces are worn by actresses in television soapies Generations and Isidingo.

Describing herself as a woman who is at peace with her "imperfections", Sebolai believes that everyone has some unique talent. She says one has to discover that talent and work on it to change one's life for the better.

While Sebolai discovered her talent by chance, she blesses the day she went to a flea market in Johannesburg in 2005 because shortly after that visit, her jewellery design company was born.

What is Eclectic Elements all about?

My creed is freedom of expression through stylistic fashion. I don't want to be pigeonholed into any category. I see beauty in all textures and shapes.Have you always seen yourself as an entrepreneur?

I realised I was not cut out to be an employee when I couldn't stick to a job for more than six months. I never planned to be a jewellery designer. The talent has always been there, but it took a third eye to discover it. I was at a flea market in Yeoville when I was captivated by a stunning pair of earrings made out of peach seeds. I bought them. When they broke due to excessive wear, I fixed them my way and someone admired them and placed an order.

What's unique about your pieces?

I don't limit my creativity. I explore with different textures, colours and shapes.

Who are your clients?

Women who want to look beautiful without trying too hard.

Have you had any training?

No, none at all.

What motivates you?

Seeing women's mood change when they wear my jewellery. I am also inspired by the sky and dilapidated buildings.

Did you have start-up funds for the business?

I started with nothing, but a passion and belief that someday my business will take off.

How has being an entrepreneur changed your life?

It has made me realise that we always look for answers outside, instead of inside. Find your talent, and then do what you need to do to have what you want in life.

What is the main challenge making an impact on the success of young businesswomen today?

It's sexism. Women should do what we do best and not be apologetic.

What has been the highlight of your business?

Getting my pieces worn on Generations and Isidingo soapies

What advice do you have for women aspiring to venture into your kind of business?

A: If God gave you talent and time, why waste it?