Charmaine Brewis - Lady Jane

What sparked your interest in your industry? I've always believed that the most successful businesses solve a real problem, and I saw a gap in the market for a space where men and women could explore their sexuality without judgement or embarrassment. After working in New York, I returned to South Africa and decided to create a business with a competitive edge that also served a valuable purpose in the community. Lady Jane was founded out of a desire to turn something often misunderstood into something positive.

What's a key lesson you've learnt in your career? People are the heart of any successful business. Without our customers, we would not prosper, and without our staff, we would not succeed. Lady Jane has always been a family-run business, and that family culture extends to every member of our team. I've learnt that when you genuinely invest in your people, they will invest in your business.

What keeps you passionate about your career? Knowing that what we do genuinely makes a difference in people's lives. I'm most proud of how Lady Jane has become a trusted space where medical professionals can confidently refer their patients who are navigating intimate health challenges. Whether someone is experiencing erectile dysfunction, menopause, oncological conditions, trauma or other medical concerns that impact intimacy and quality of life, we can offer guidance, education, and products that help support their wellbeing.

What’s one thing about Lady Jane that’s commonly misunderstood? The vast majority of our customers are everyday people in loving, committed relationships who simply want to maintain intimacy, strengthen their connection, or explore new ways to enjoy their relationship together. We also welcome individuals who are focused on self-discovery, confidence, or overcoming medical conditions that affect their intimate wellbeing. We believe that healthy intimacy is an important part of a healthy relationship. By helping couples keep the spark alive, communicate openly, and prioritise one another, we're supporting stronger, happier, and often longer-lasting relationships.

Advice for women to build more confidence: I always encourage women to focus on progress rather than perfection. Set yourself small, achievable goals and celebrate each accomplishment along the way. Those small daily wins build confidence over time and remind you that you're capable of achieving far more than you think. I've also learnt the importance of planning. Life doesn't always go the way we expect, so being prepared and having a risk-management mindset allow you to adapt without losing sight of your goals.

Never underestimate the value of people skills. The ability to communicate with people from all walks of life, to show empathy, and to build genuine relationships is one of the greatest strengths you can develop. Finally, the moment you stop allowing other people's opinions to define you is the moment you begin to grow. You can't live your life trying to meet everyone else's expectations. True confidence comes from trusting yourself, embracing who you are, and understanding the value you bring to the world.

Email: info@ladyjane.co.za
Website: www.ladyjane.co.za