Shan Co-Founder & CEO of MomSays | Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 | Building Communities & Empowering South African Moms

Shanèy is the visionary behind the renowned and award-winning blog, You Baby and I. With this platform, she has captured the hearts of countless readers by sharing her personal experiences and insights on motherhood. Through her authentic storytelling, Shanèy has created a community of support and inspiration for mothers across South Africa. Additionally, Shanèy is the brilliant mind behind MomSay

s, an award-winning startup that has gained recognition for its innovative approach to parenting recommendations. This groundbreaking platform has helped parents make informed choices about products and services for their children, providing valuable insights and reviews from real users. Recognized as a Forbes Top 30 Under 30 recipient, Shanèy's accomplishments speak volumes about her entrepreneurial prowess and commitment to making a difference. With her TikTok account, she ventured into the world of travel and food, sharing her passion for exploring hidden gems within South Africa and her love for cruising. Through this platform, Shanèy connects with her community, reminding fellow South Africans of the beauty within their country and the importance of embracing local travel experiences. Shanèy's true passion lies in storytelling and fostering connections with her fellow South Africans. Her mission is to inspire and encourage others to appreciate the wonders of their country and embark on new adventures. Through her various endeavors, Shanèy continues to be a driving force in promoting unity, empowerment, and a love for all things South African.

Cruise season with MSC Cruises is back this November in South Africa! 🚢 If you’ve ever wanted a holiday and a party all ...
18/07/2025

Cruise season with MSC Cruises is back this November in South Africa! 🚢 If you’ve ever wanted a holiday and a party all in one, a themed cruise is it.

From DJs to comedy shows and non-stop party vibes — it’s all happening while you’re out at sea. 🎶🍽️💃

I’ve rounded up all the themed cruises sailing this season so you know what’s worth booking. Thinking about it but not sure where to start? Pop me an email: [email protected] 💌

A is for adventure... but what’s B? 👀💌 Join me on the Alphabet Dating Challenge — where every letter unlocks a new memor...
12/07/2025

A is for adventure... but what’s B? 👀💌 Join me on the Alphabet Dating Challenge — where every letter unlocks a new memory in Gauteng! 👫✨

From A to Z, I’m building the ultimate date list — and I need your help! 💬 Drop your best C-themed date ideas below (think: chocolate tasting, comedy nights, candle-making...).

📌 Save this post for future date inspo or send it to your partner as a not-so-subtle hint. 😏💕

Let’s make memories, one letter at a time! What’s on your alphabet list?

06/04/2025

When a mom goes on a trip without her kids, suddenly the whole world gets loud.
“Must be nice.”
“Where are the kids?”
“I could never leave mine.”
And the classic: “Wow… I guess some moms just need a break more than others.”

Let’s cut the passive-aggressive crap and call it what it is:
We’re uncomfortable with moms prioritizing themselves.

Because when a man travels without his kids, no one bats an eye.
He’s “working hard.”
He “deserves a break.”
He’s “providing for the family.”

But a mom books a flight, and suddenly she’s selfish? Detached?
Less maternal?

Listen—being a mom doesn’t mean dissolving into your role and disappearing.
It doesn’t mean your passport expires the day you give birth.
And it definitely doesn’t mean you owe the world 24/7 access to your body, your energy, or your presence.

You can love your kids with your whole soul…
and still crave quiet.
Still miss your old self.
Still want to sit somewhere beautiful and not be touched, talked to, or needed.

That doesn’t make you a bad mom.
That makes you human.

We scream “self-care” from the rooftops—but when a mom actually practices it in a way that’s loud, bold, and unapologetic, suddenly she’s too much?

Nah.

Normalize moms going on solo trips.
Normalize moms chasing joy.
Normalize moms having full, rich lives outside of motherhood.

You don’t stop being a mother when you’re on a beach alone.
You just remember you’re a person, too.

If I met this version of myself again, I’d say: you thought that was your peak… but the real wake-up call was still comi...
28/03/2025

If I met this version of myself again, I’d say: you thought that was your peak… but the real wake-up call was still coming.

Four years ago, I thought I had made it. Success felt certain. But this past year reminded me how quickly things can shift — from 100 to 1 in a heartbeat.

What I’ve learned since? I was born to be an entrepreneur. I tried to walk away, to silence that drive. But it’s still here — louder than ever.

This is my public promise to start again. To rebuild. To rise — not to who I used to be, but to who I’m meant to become.

Because entrepreneurs have a fire that not everyone understands. And once it’s in you, it never leaves.

21/01/2025
20/01/2025

POV: You post a question to spark discussion… only to realise that you're just talking to yourself in the comments. 😅

🐾 "Mom, is that a cat just like me?" Never thought I’d be a cat mom, but here we are – and Nala is adored by the whole f...
20/12/2024

🐾 "Mom, is that a cat just like me?" Never thought I’d be a cat mom, but here we are – and Nala is adored by the whole family! 💜 So many special memories with him... The holidays are even more magical with him bringing joy to every moment.

Don’t forget to spoil your furry friend with Whiskas goodies and create purr-fect festive memories together. Here’s hoping the Christmas tree survives this year! 🐱🎁

18/12/2024
12/12/2024
🌱 When deadlines are piling up and I’m running on fumes, this Ultimate Recovery smoothie is my go-to! Whether it’s power...
31/10/2024

🌱 When deadlines are piling up and I’m running on fumes, this Ultimate Recovery smoothie is my go-to! Whether it’s powering through a packed schedule or bouncing back after a workout, it helps me refuel, rehydrate, and feel ready for whatever comes next. 💪💧

Packed with pineapple, mango, banana, coconut milk, baby spinach, and a recovery blend of BCAA, L-glutamine, and electrolytes, it’s everything I need to stay strong and focused through the chaos! 🌿✨

Who else needs a boost?

#

31/10/2024

Diwali: The Festival of Light and New Beginnings. 🪔 May your home glow with love and happiness this festive season.

What have you baked this Diwali using some of Willowton’s favourites? Share your tasty treats with us in the comments below! 👇

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