INTERVIEW: JUSTYNA NAKONIECZNA | PHOTOS: AGNIESZKA PISARCZYK

Sylwia Mokrysz is the head of the family business Mokate, where the heart of tradition beats to the rhythm of innovation. She has built an empire that combines local roots with a global vision, and every cup of coffee and tea tells a story of passion, quality and the courage to push boundaries. In this interview, she reveals how she has made Mokate not just a brand, but also a symbol of values such as honesty, commitment and responsibility. Sylwia Mokrysz also shares her personal definition of success, talks about work-life balance and reveals which of the Mokate products reflects her own character. This is the story of a female leader who can warm up the world – just like a cup of Loyd chilli cherry tea.

IF MOKATE WERE A WORK OF ART, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE IT? WHAT WOULD BE ITS STYLE AND MAIN MESSAGE?

If I were to describe Mokate as a work of art, I would see it as a contemporary interpretation of Nike of Samothrace – a symbol of victory, determination and the constant pursuit of excellence. The key message is one of continuous development and the courage to take up challenges and push boundaries – the values that are the foundation of Mokate. Just as Nike of Samothrace symbolises triumph, Mokate proves that a family business can reach international heights while staying true to its roots.

WHAT VALUES GUIDE YOU IN YOUR DAY-TO-DAY BUSINESS MANAGEMENT?

The most important things for me are honesty, responsibility and commitment. I believe in building relationships based on trust, both with employees and customers. I always focus on quality, innovation and respect for tradition, which are the foundations of our success.

DO YOU SEE A DIFFERENCE IN THE WAY WOMEN AND MEN DO BUSINESS? IF SO, WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST ADVANTAGES OF THE FEMALE APPROACH?

Women often bring greater empathy and intuition to the business, which allows them to build lasting relationships and better understand their customers’ needs. The female approach also has the advantage of multi-tasking and the ability to look at a problem from different perspectives.

HOW DO YOU DEFINE SUCCESS – MORE AS A BUSINESS RESULT OR AS PERSONAL SATISFACTION IN ACHIEVING YOUR GOALS?

For me, success is a combination of both. Business achievements are rewarding, but the real value is in the moments when I see our work having a positive impact – not only on the company, but also on the people we work with.

MOKATE IS A BRAND KNOWN NOT ONLY FOR TRADITION, BUT ALSO FOR INNOVATION. WHAT INNOVATIONS HAVE YOU INTRODUCED IN THE COMPANY THAT YOU CONSIDER TO BE THE MOST GROUND-BREAKING?

One of the most important achievements was the introduction of the Loyd brand to the international forefront and the development of functional teas. An innovative approach to marketing, including the pioneering TV campaigns – led by “Mokate Cappuccino – a star among coffees” – has also had a significant impact on the recognition of our products. In 2023, I founded the Coffee & Tea Market Research Institute (based in both Ustron and London). As its president, I conduct research into corporate behaviour in the food and beverage market. It helps me a lot in creating new and interesting products.

RUNNING AN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS IS A HUGE CHALLENGE. HOW DO YOU MANAGE TO FIND A WORK-LIFE BALANCE?

I try to set boundaries between work and time for my family and my interests. Organising the day and focusing on the most important tasks is key. I draw energy from moments spent with my loved ones and my many passions. This allows me to get away from it all and recharge my batteries.

IS THERE ANYTHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO DO DIFFERENTLY IN YOUR CAREER OR IN YOUR PERSONAL LIFE?

Every experience, even a difficult one, is a lesson. That is why I do not regret any of the decisions I have made in my life, except perhaps some that I would have made earlier. It is important to look forward, not back. You cannot dwell on the past because you will miss the present. New opportunities and new challenges are always more interesting…

MOKATE’S PRODUCTS OFFER MANY FLAVOURS. IS THERE ONE AMONG THEM THAT REFLECTS YOUR CHARACTER?

If I had to name the product that most reflects my character, it would be Loyd’s warming tea with cherry, cocoa and chilli flavour from the Warming Tea range. This infusion perfectly reflects my personality – a combination of gentleness and determination. Cherry is a symbol of warmth, family tradition and the energy that I bring to my daily work. Cocoa adds depth and is associated with elegance and a passion for creation. But the key ingredient is chilli – it is a spice that stirs up emotions and adds courage. It is a product that inspires action and leaves a clear mark – exactly what I try to do in my life.

THANK YOU FOR THIS INTERVIEW.