International Women’s Day Spotlight: Grace Cooper

Next in our IWD Series is Grace Cooper. Grace is the owner and founder of Soi Body, a Melbourne-based small business that creates thoughtful essentials for those who suffer from chronic illnesses.

Grace, what inspired you to pursue your creative passion? 

Since I was 12, I have struggled with a range of chronic illnesses, including an Overactive Thyroid, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, POTS, and Endometriosis. 

While access to medical support has been so important—particularly in light of my recent Endo diagnosis after more than a decade of searching for answers—I have spent the majority of my life navigating it all, which has been really challenging, yet informative.

My experiences inspired me to create the Soi Body hot water bottle, a completely natural product designed to relieve pain while providing enough comfort to feel more like a soothing companion than a medical device.

How do you stay motivated, especially during the more challenging times in your career? 

I am fairly self-motivated when I am passionate about what I am doing. 

In challenging times, however, I remind myself as to why I started Soi Body, and how many lives I have already impacted through the product. I read emails from my customers about how much they love the product, and how it has helped improve their day-to-day symptom management. It makes me feel proud that I am building a community for people who suffer from Endometriosis.

What advice would you give to other women who want to pursue their creative endeavours? 

Go for it! It can be scary, but back yourself, your talent, and your ideas—they are valid, and the world wants to see your creativity.

Check out Grace’s website to get your own Soi Body hot water bottle, or pick one up from our Ivanhoe store.