Looking ahead, Alison Weihe hopes to expand the reach of her message, which she believes has the potential to become a movement of hope.
Image: Supplied
Navigating the tumultuous waters of entrepreneurship can often feel risk but for Alison Weihe, it has been a journey rich with lessons, resilience, and triumphs.
As the founder of The Creative Stone Company and author of the memoir “Belonging: Finding Tribes of Meaning”, Weihe has captured the hearts of many with her inspiring story of building an award-winning business from a modest shed in downtown Johannesburg.
Her memoir is a touching reflection on themes of love, acceptance and inspiration. It chronicles Weihe’s deeply personal journey of self-discovery, illustrating the emotional and physical transformation of a sensitive child grappling with feelings of inadequacy.
Interesting parallels are drawn between her challenging path and the turbulent road South Africa has traversed toward democracy, creating a narrative that resonates on both personal and national levels.
The memoir, 'Belonging: Finding Tribes of Meaning' is a touching reflection on themes of love, acceptance, and inspiration.
Image: Supplied
Weihe’s entrepreneurial spirit ignited in 1998 when she and her husband, Friedel, both with creative backgrounds, launched the company, which specialises in the manufacture of simulated flagstones, cobblestones and cladding.
What began as a small operation with just three employees has now burgeoned into a thriving enterprise that boasts over 150 staff members and has earned multiple accolades, including the prestigious overall best stand at South Africa’s Decorex exhibition.
However, the path to this success was littered with challenges. After twelve years of growth, Weihe and her husband faced an unimaginable setback: their bookkeeper had been defrauding them, draining significant amounts of money from the company.
The betrayal was devastating, leading to a protracted legal battle that ultimately resulted in the bookkeeper being sentenced to 15 years in prison. Yet, rather than allowing this ordeal to cripple them, Weihe took the opportunity to reflect and rebuild. “It was a huge and dramatic learning curve," she stated. "But it also ended up being my greatest gift.”
Through this challenge, Weihe not only revitalised her business systems but she also found the strength to share her story as a vulnerable storyteller. Transitioning from a political activist for nearly two decades to a global speaker and identity intelligence coach, she now passionately guides others toward discovering their potential.
“I realised that identity is the super fuel of manifestation,” she explained, demonstrating that her journey of overcoming adversity has equipped her with invaluable insights that she now shares with aspiring entrepreneurs.
At 65, Weihe embodies a newfound vitality and enthusiasm that defies her years. “I prioritise self-care and well-being,” she said, reflecting on her past struggles with anxiety and depression.
“At 52, I was on my knees. I changed my identity and never looked back.”
With this transformation, Wiehe has emerged as a champion of athletic living and holistic wellness, training for strength while leading her multiple ventures.
Her memoir chronicles her evolution from the political landscape of apartheid SA to the rollercoaster ride of entrepreneurship while highlighting the importance of resilience and community.
The narrative serves not only as a personal account but as a beacon of hope for many, targeting those who feel lost amidst their struggles. Through her writing and speaking engagements, Wiehe aims to foster a sense of belonging and inspire others to embrace their narratives.
In Wiehe’s eyes, every setback has been a stepping stone towards her greater purpose. She views the trials she faced as essential to her growth, noting:“It's been the most challenging, stretching, incredible, triumphant, humbling, and inspiring journey I could ever have imagined.” Through her endeavors, she seeks to leave a legacy built on storytelling, connection and the celebration of diversity in SA - one that embodies hope and human resilience.
Looking ahead, she hopes to expand the reach of her message, which she believes has the potential to become a movement of hope.
“It’s never too late to change your life, to believe in yourself, to own your story,” she encourages, strong in her belief that narratives can change lives.