Bold Hero: Franzi von Hardenberg

An interview with Franzi von Hardenberg:

Dear Franzi, what motivated you to start your own business? How did your journey begin?

Jewellery is not just an accessory, it often has a high emotional value for its wearer. It is therefore not uncommon for them to be given as gifts or even inherited on special occasions or as a memento of personal events. At The SISS BLISS, women tend to buy their own jewellery and the company is changing a whole narrative as a result. When my daughter was born, I wanted a real gold necklace with her name engraved on it. But it was impossible to find one of the right quality and at a fair price. So I decided to have it made by a goldsmith in Hamburg. Thrilled with the result, I have been wearing this personalised necklace ever since and decided to put it on the market: the birth of The SISS BLISS! Besides, German households have the second largest gold reserves in the world! So why mine new gold to make beautiful jewellery? With BLISS BANG CAPITAL we simply buy scrap metal and use it to make new, beautiful pieces of jewellery. 100% transparent and fairly valued by experts, no middlemen, sustainably recycled and made in Germany.

What achievements are most important to you as an entrepreneur and how do you celebrate personal and professional successes?

The appreciation of my team is very important to me. That is why I am always very touched when I experience it. Being honoured as 'Entrepreneur of the Year' by the Association of Family Entrepreneurs in 2022 was a special milestone for me. It not only recognised my hard work, including the many setbacks, but also my dedication over the past 10 years. It was also a motivational moment. When it comes to celebrating personal and professional successes, I have learnt that it is important to consciously enjoy these moments. I have not done this enough in the past. I also think it's important to recognise small successes on a regular basis. Whether it is through a short break or through recognition from those around me.

What advice would you give to young women who want to break into the business world?

An important piece of advice I would give to young women who want to break into the business world is to recognise and use the power of empowerment. The ability to take charge and make decisions is a key factor in personal and professional success. Women are often faced with certain expectations and stereotypes that exist in the business world. My advice would be not to be influenced by these limitations and to have the courage to go your own way. It is important to trust yourself and find your own voice. Women should not be afraid to speak up, put forward ideas and take on leadership roles. Making your own decisions allows you to be authentic and bring your own personality to the business world. I also encourage young women to actively seek out networks and mentors. Interacting with experienced women in the industry can provide valuable insights and support to overcome challenges and move forward successfully. Overall, the strength of young women lies in their ability to embrace their uniqueness and not be deterred by existing barriers. By forging their own path, they contribute not only to their personal growth, but also to change and development as a whole.

What is your biggest dream?

My biggest dream is to make a difference in the world and help people, especially women, to make empowered choices. As an entrepreneur and founder, I am passionate about innovative projects that are not only economically successful, but also make a social and environmental contribution. At the same time, it is my heart's desire to balance my role as a mother with my entrepreneurial passion. My dream is to find an inspiring balance between professional success and a fulfilling family - HAVE IT ALL! If I can help my children grow up in a world of responsibility, sustainability and positive change, I will have achieved my greatest dream.

Who or what inspires you?

My own daughters are one of my greatest inspirations. They have taught me time and time again that perceived limits and obstacles are often just illusions. The many times I or they have been told "it can't be done" have shown us that it's often just a temporary obstacle. Determination and the unshakable belief that one can move forward despite difficulties and opposition are a constant source of motivation for me. The ability to see challenges as opportunities and to persistently pursue goals reminds me that the will to achieve often makes all the difference. It's the small successes and the big ones - every time I achieve something that initially seemed unattainable, I realise that the power of believing in yourself and the willingness to keep going despite setbacks can open up amazing opportunities. Furthermore, inspiration often comes from the people around us, especially those who are willing to swim against the tide and not be discouraged by perceived limitations. Their tenacity and optimism are a constant reminder to me that we have the power to achieve even the most seemingly impossible things if we believe in ourselves and keep going. HAVE IT ALL!

Where will the journey take us? What is your vision for the future of your companies?

The journey of my companies, The Siss Bliss and Bliss Bang Capital, is characterised by a clear vision - I strive for a future where innovation, sustainability, German craftsmanship and social responsibility go hand in hand. The Siss Bliss will continue to lead the way in real gold jewellery by not only offering high quality products, but also promoting a movement for empowerment and authenticity. At the same time, Bliss Bang Capital will make a significant contribution to the sustainable and innovative circular economy. We are building the world's first closed-loop gold cycle! I see the future of business as a journey of change, progress and shared responsibility. We will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible and commit to a positive future. Through this combination of innovation, sustainability and responsibility, we strive for a future where our success is measured not just in numbers, but in the positive change we make.