“Grief is like a moving river, it’s always changing. I would say in some ways it just gets worse. It’s just that the more time that passes, the more you miss someone.”
Michelle Williams
Losing a loved one is a heart-wrenching experience that forever changes our lives. Three years ago, I faced the devastating loss of my brother. Steven Iain Preston was not only an incredible sibling but also an extraordinary businessman, who defied the odds. From his humble bedroom in our parents’ house, he built a multimillion-rand company. Today, I carry his memory as a beacon of inspiration, motivating me to follow my dreams and create my own company. In this blog, I share my journey of turning tragedy into determination, and how my brother’s memory continues to guide and inspire me.
Steven was not only my brother but also my mentor and role model. He possessed an unparalleled entrepreneurial spirit, a visionary mind, and an unwavering determination to succeed. Despite facing numerous challenges, he transformed his bedroom into a headquarters of dreams, laying the foundation for a thriving business. I hold dear the memories of his ambition, kindness, and unwavering support, which continue to shape who I am today.
Grief is a complex and personal journey, but amidst the pain, I discovered an unexpected wellspring of inspiration. Steven’s tragic departure from this world became a catalyst for introspection and ignited a desire within me to honour his memory by pursuing my own entrepreneurial ambitions. His story taught me that life is precious and unpredictable, urging me to seize the opportunities before me and strive for greatness.
Motivated by Steven’s legacy, I embarked on a path of entrepreneurship, determined to create a company that would make a positive impact on the world. I immersed myself in learning, seeking guidance from industry experts, and honing my skills. With every step, I felt Steven’s presence, his spirit encouraging me to push boundaries, take risks, and persevere in the face of adversity.
Building a company from scratch is a formidable task, but armed with the memory of my brother, I approach it with unwavering dedication. I understand that success is not guaranteed, but I draw strength from the knowledge that Steven, too, faced challenges on his journey. I strive to embody his resilience, adaptability, and unwavering belief in the power of hard work and determination.
My brother’s life was not meant to be reduced to a mere memory. I am determined to honour his legacy by creating a successful company that embodies his values and spirit. Beyond the pursuit of financial success, I am committed to making a positive impact on the lives of others, just as Steven did. Through my journey, I hope to inspire others to transform their pain into purpose and embrace the limitless possibilities that lie within.
In the face of tragedy, we can discover a wellspring of inspiration that fuels our determination to forge ahead and achieve greatness. The loss of my brother, Steven, shattered my world, but his memory has become the catalyst for my entrepreneurial dreams. With every step I take, I carry his spirit and strive to make him proud. Steven’s life continues to inspire me to surpass boundaries, pursue my dreams, and build a legacy that will leave an indelible mark on the world. Together, let us honour the memories of our loved ones by embracing our potential and creating a future that exceeds our wildest imaginations.