As the UK marks National Employability Day 2025, one vibrant Cornish woman is proving that age, adversity and a career break are no match for purpose and passion – and she’s doing it with style.
Meet Mo from Redruth in Cornwall, whose life took an unexpected turn when a physical injury and ongoing mental health challenges brought her career as a chef of many years to a halt.
“Just a short while ago, I found myself in a place I never expected to be – signed off work indefinitely,” says Mo.
“I felt lost and worthless. I didn’t know what to do or where to turn. Catering had been my whole world. It was the first time I’d ever been out of work, and I missed it more than I ever imagined.”
But Mo’s story isn’t one of defeat, it’s a comeback tale filled with colour, confidence, and creativity.
💡 Turning a Tough Chapter into a Funky New Future
After being introduced to Seetec through her local Jobcentre Plus, Mo found a lifeline.
Seetec provides free, personalised support to people facing barriers to employment, from skills training and mental health support to help with launching a business.
And what she created was Molarky; a retro-inspired clothing and homeware brand that bursts with personality.
Think seventies nostalgia, vibrant prints, humour and sustainable materials, all designed and delivered from Mo’s home studio.
👚 Introducing Molarky: Bold Prints, Big Smiles
“I’m a free-spirited Cornish woman,” laughs Mo.
“Molarky is about whipping up fresh, feel-good fashion and homeware with a vintage twist.
“Seetec gave me the confidence to dream again; they didn’t just talk about jobs – they were genuinely invested in helping me to spark my creative fire
“I want my designs to make people smile and bring a little slice of Cornish sunshine to brighten up the everyday”.
From hand-sketched t-shirts to cheerful cushions, Molarky reflects Mo’s creative soul and playful spirit.
She credits Seetec’s wraparound support, from social media guidance to financial planning, with helping her turn the dream into a business reality.
“I became a pensioner last month,” Mo adds, “but now I’m running a business I love, on my own terms.
“It makes me smile and it makes others smile too.”
🌱 Local Support Making a National Difference
Seetec’s employability services have helped hundreds of people across Cornwall find confidence, independence and meaningful work.
Mo’s story is just one of many, but her journey from low point to local entrepreneur shows the transformative power of the right support at the right time.
“Employability isn’t just about finding any job,” says Matt Loe, Business Manager for Cornwall.
“It’s about helping people find their path; even if it’s a completely new one.”
Explore Mo’s creations for yourself at www.molarky.net
National Employability Day takes place on Friday 20 June 2025.
