Team Size
2 – 5
Revenue
Not disclosed
Location
OH, USA
STart Date
< 2 years ago
My female entrepreneur today is Dolly Clark. Dolly is the founder of Zenethica, an Eco-Friendly Art-Inspired SwimBodysuits that are made from recycled plastics to inspire a global movement to eliminate single-use plastics that pollute our ocean.
Dolly is a world traveller, ocean lover and a female entrepreneur focused on making a difference.
I hope you feel Dolly’s incredible passion and drive while reading her story the same as I did.
Mother of two, Dolly wants to set a good example for her daughters, Leah (14) & Lauren (11) that women can succeed and do anything they set their heart to.
INTRODUCTION
PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF AND THE BUSINESS YOU STARTED?
I had the opportunity to travel and live in different countries throughout my life. I explored scuba diving in the South Pacific for 18 years, traveled and lived in Europe for 4 years and currently living in North America for the past 16 years. Thus, I began the journey of my love and appreciation for our environment.
For education, I have an M.B.A. in International Business. My skills are curiosity about life, people and our planet. I have the lust for travel and exploring undiscovered places. Starting a swimwear line like Zenethica is not reliant on a college degree. Anybody with a drive and a sense of purpose can start something that they feel passionate about.
I have worn many hats. Regardless of my past successes, failures and other possible options, Zenethica is purposeful for me and I want to make a difference for generations to come.
THE JOURNEY SO FAR
HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH YOUR BUSINESS IDEA?
As a scuba diver, wanderer and ocean lover, I have seen the beauty of our seas in many parts of the world. It also breaks my heart to see the devastating effects of plastic pollution on our planet.
Zenethica started as a way to provide sustainable and eco-friendly fashion to women who can also help spread the word for this global movement. The ocean is zen-like to me and offering athletic leisurewear – Zenethica was born.
I source swim bodysuits from the manufacturer who uses fabric made from recycled plastic blend and spandex.
Most of my time is spent sharing news and inspiration on social media about our ocean and marine life. It is definitely a labor of love and passion for our planet’s natural jewel.
PLEASE DESCRIBE THE PROCESS OF LAUNCHING YOUR BUSINESS.
Get your business registered, get your brand trademarked, find sources for your products, create a website and go public!
Love what you do and work with a bigger purpose in mind.
For me it is making a difference, leading a meaningful life, empowering people and changing the world for the better.
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST ACHIEVEMENT?
The positive feedback I get from women and men about empowering sustainability. I am very glad to see many people do care about our planet. We all want to make a difference in some way.
HOW DO YOU PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS?
I have not advertised yet, I share posts on social media about the global movement we hope to achieve.
This business is a source of joy. I am addicted to it and I get to research the latest news and updates on ocean conservation around the world.
WHAT IS YOUR VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF THE BUSINESS?
I go with the flow and enjoy each phase, I do see offering more eco-friendly products and be the next ‘Amazon’ for manufacturers who develop environmentally-conscious merchandise.
We have recently included Ocean Inspired Jewelry and Plastic Alternatives (tableware, straws & Water bottle).
Part of our profits are donated to Ocean Conservancy…so we can carry out the mission of ocean clean up and protection.
Related: From Architecture to Creating an Art-Inspired Clothing and Accessories
RECOMMENDATIONS & FINAL THOUGHTS
PLEASE RECOMMEND ANY RESOURCES AND TOOLS THAT YOU USE TO RUN YOUR BUSINESS.
We work with Shopify, Facebook and Instagram.
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE BUSINESS BOOKS, PODCASTS OR BLOGS?
Book:
FINDING YOUR ELEMENT: How to Discover Your Talents and Passions and Transform Your Life by Ken Robinson
Facebook Page:
ZENOLIFY: Quotes & Inspiration for Calm, Clarity & Connection by Dolly Clark (Expressing with a community inspires me emotionally)
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WOMEN WHO WANT TO START THEIR OWN BUSINESS?
My advice to other women would be, just start and go for it. Anything is learn-able. Don’t feel intimidated by it.
Work with your heart and see what you care about and just keep going. Start by testing the waters and see where it goes.
Violeta Semenova
Founder
theBizLadies
Welcome to the Biz Ladies interview series!
If you’re new to these series, I interview women entrepreneurs on how they started their business, what was the idea behind it, how they got where they are, the struggles, the reality and more.
By sharing their stories, we want to inspire other women to get started.
If you are interested to share your own story on the Biz Ladies LET ME KNOW!