In 2011 Dina Maktabi set up Kensington Mums, an online platform designed for mums where they could share their knowledge and experience with others.  We speak to Dina about how it all started.

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How did the idea for Kensington Mums come about?
I set up Kensington Mums over eight years ago as a way to connect with other like minded mothers with the aim of sharing knowledge and experiences. What inspired me I would say would be my own experience.  I went through periods of loneliness and isolation not being around my family for the support that I needed. I was also the first one from my group of friends to have children. Kensington Mums was created as a way to meet and mingle with other mothers whilst working flexibly around my children.

How would you describe Kensington Mums?
It is a vibrant community that connects and supports mothers in their motherhood journey. We also like to keep mums in the loop with the local scoop from the latest trends to family outings, offers and great competitions

How has your business changed since you first launched?
The vision is still the same, to empower mothers because we know how hard it can get at times. The team has grown which has helped a lot and they have become part of the Kensington Mums family.

What’s been your biggest challenge?
As a working mother it’s juggling the work/life balance. The challenges change from year-to-year, but what’s important is to always do what you want with passion.

What have been the highlights (and the low points)?
My proudest achievement is growing the business organically and reaching out and connecting with local mums, international mothers, celebrities and royal family members too. This gives me great joy and also to all the friends I have made along the way, who have pushed me and inspired me along the way.

The low point is all the organising and planning that goes on behind the scene – sometimes it can feel overwhelming. Having a good team in place does help, so choose them wisely!

How do you juggle running a business with being a mum?
It’s hard, there is a lot of multitasking! I wear different hats throughout the day which keeps things busy and exciting.

What advice do you have for others wanting to set up their own business?
Do it with passion (or not at all).  Make sure you do your research and try to outsource where possible.

How have you had to adapt your business in the current climate?
As our business is mostly online we are able to keep in contact with our mums providing them with articles to help them during lockdown.   Unfortunately we’ve had to cancel most of our events and meet-ups so have instead shifted these online so that mums can stay in the loop with us.

What have you personally learnt in lockdown?
Health has always been a top lesson in life because without health, you can’t really function or do anything so I would say above all, the lockdown has taught me that health is wealth. Prioritise your time with close family and friends around you that empower, support and inspire you.

Do you have a motto for life?
Yolo- you only live once.

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