Founded by Julia Muniz Robinson, a passionate Brazilian entrepreneur, surfer and model, Maoi Swim seeks to celebrate diversity, inclusivity and sustainability through it’s unique swim designs.
Comfortable, chic and crafted from all sustainable materials, the range offers up everything from coveted one pieces to vibrant bikinis, providing the perfect swimwear solution for modern beach women.
Below, Muniz opens up about the Maoi swim journey, including the 'pinch-me' moment that brought her community together to the lessons she’s learnt along the way.
“Maoi’s idea was born on a boat, in the Mentawai Islands (Indonesia). As a surfer, I spent most of my mornings in the ocean and always struggled to find sustainable, high quality swimwear that was comfortable and flattering. During COVID, I had a lot more free time and was able to successfully launch Maoi online.”
“One of the most unforgettable moments in my journey was at a women’s community event we hosted for Maoi. We had women of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels come together for a day of surfing and empowerment. Watching these women encourage and support one another was an awe-inspiring experience. It was a beautiful moment of unity and support that truly embodied the spirit of community.
“Seeing these women come together in such a positive and uplifting way was a pinch-me moment that I will never forget. It reminded me of the incredible power of community and the importance of supporting and empowering one another, especially in male-dominated spaces like the surfing/swimwear industry. The energy and passion in that moment was electric, and it left me feeling inspired and grateful to be a part of such an amazing group of women.”
“When I first started my business, there were three key things that I wish I knew that would have saved me a lot of time, energy, and resources.
"1 - the importance of asking for mentorship and guidance from those who have been in your shoes. Having someone to turn to for advice and support can make all the difference in your journey as an entrepreneur.
"2 - to focus on what I’m good at and delegate the rest. Until not long ago, I was doing everything from customer service to marketing to finance. While it was a valuable learning experience, it also left me feeling stretched thin and overwhelmed. Learning to delegate tasks to others who are experts in their respective areas allowed me to focus on what I’m truly passionate about and excel in.
"3 - the power of adaptability as a strategy. The business world is constantly changing, and it’s important to be able to pivot and adjust your approach as needed. Sourcing new strategies and ideas can help you stay ahead of the curve and make the most of opportunities as they arise.
"Overall, these three lessons have taught me the value of seeking guidance, focusing on my strengths, and staying adaptable in the face of change. By embracing these principles, I’ve been able to grow my business and achieve success on my own terms."
“Supporting female-founded businesses is crucial not only for the success of those businesses but also for the greater good of society as a whole. As a woman of colour from Brazil and the founder of my own self-funded swimwear brand, Maoi, I understand firsthand the challenges that female entrepreneurs face in a male-dominated industry.
"Female entrepreneurs bring unique perspectives and experiences to the table, which can lead to innovation and growth in all industries. When you support a female-founded business like MAOI, you are not only helping to support a woman’s dream but also promoting inclusivity and diversity in the business world. By embracing the value and potential of female-led businesses, we can create a better future for all women and inspire the next generation of female entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams.”
“Turning your business idea into a reality can be a challenging yet incredibly rewarding journey. It takes courage, perseverance, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. My own journey with Maoi started with a passion for sustainable fashion, a desire to create something unique, and a willingness to take risks. Along the way, I encountered obstacles and faced setbacks, but I never gave up. I sought mentorship and advice from those who came before me, focused on my strengths, and adapted to the changing needs of my business.
"Remember that you have a unique perspective and story to tell, and your business idea is a reflection of that. It’s your opportunity to make a difference in the world, and the journey is just as important as the destination. So take that leap of faith, and don’t let anyone or anything hold you back. With determination and perseverance, you too can turn your business idea into a reality."