In a world that often rewards hustle over heart, Raelene Park stands out as a radiant force of purpose, compassion, and quiet strength. Originally from South Africa, Raelene’s journey as a social entrepreneur began with a deep desire to empower youth and spark meaningful change. That calling has led her across continents—from working with rural communities in her home country to co-founding a youth-led innovation firm acquired by Deloitte, and ultimately planting new roots in Asia. Today, she is the founder of KOA Activewear, a brand born from love, courage, and the unwavering belief in a girl’s power to shine.
From South Africa to Southeast Asia: A Life Built on Impact
Raelene’s story began with youth advocacy work during her reign as Miss South Africa Teen, running school campaigns against drug and alcohol abuse. With a degree in psychology and a passion for personal growth, she later joined a financial literacy company creating real change in rural communities—work she remains deeply connected to even 17 years later.
But it was during her time at Avocado Vision that Raelene felt the pull to work even closer with young people. That spark led to Springage, a youth-led innovation hub that brought forward bold solutions from the next generation. After the company’s acquisition, a new chapter opened as her growing family relocated to Indonesia, then Hong Kong, and finally the Philippines—where KOA would find its heart.
“The Philippines captured my heart with its warmth, entrepreneurial energy, and deep sense of community.”
A New Chapter, A New Rhythm
Moving to the Philippines was both exhilarating and humbling. “It felt like standing at the edge of a great adventure,” Raelene shares. As a mother of four daughters, her first priority was making sure her children felt safe and supported in their new home. The country’s openness made the transition smooth, giving her space to find her footing and begin building KOA from the ground up.
“There were moments of total inspiration,” she says, “and others where I had to trust myself all over again.”
Motherhood: A Mirror and a Masterclass in Leadership
Raising four daughters has been Raelene’s most cherished role—and also the most enlightening. “Each one of them has their own light, their own dreams, and their own way of seeing the world,” she says, marveling at how uniquely each child has grown under the same roof.
She nurtures this individuality by spending intentional one-on-one time with each daughter and practicing small rituals of connection. To keep her own cup full, she leans on movement, journaling, and time with girlfriends. “The more I nurture my spirit,” she reflects, “the more present and strong I can be for them.”
Motherhood has also shaped her leadership philosophy: “It’s not about control—it’s about service. Whether you’re leading a child or a team, the question is always: How can I help you thrive?”
KOA: A Brand Born from Brave Hearts
KOA Activewear was sparked by a single statistic that rocked Raelene to her core: girls’ confidence drops by 30% between the ages of 8 and 14. That insight, from The Confidence Code, moved her to action. “I wanted to create a brand that didn’t just sell clothing,” she says, “but sent a message: You are brave. You are enough. You are powerful just as you are.”
KOA stands for more than style. The name, drawn from the Japanese word for bravery, carries with it values that define the brand: confidence (letting your light shine), bravery (acting despite fear), and kindness (lifting others along the way). KOA’s sustainable, bamboo charcoal fabric reflects a commitment to protecting the planet the next generation will inherit.
Building KOA in a New Country: The Challenges and the Joys
Launching a business in a new country came with challenges—navigating new systems, starting fresh without a local network, and building trust in a new market. But Raelene leaned into her purpose and chose joy over fear. “When you’re driven by love and vision,” she says, “the right people and opportunities find their way to you.”
Wellness, Simplicity, and Everyday Strength
With so much on her plate, Raelene keeps her wellness routine simple but consistent: walks after school drop-off, running, strength training, and seeing wellness as a gift rather than a chore. “It doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful,” she says. Her philosophy? Just keep moving—literally and figuratively.
KOA’s Message to Women Everywhere
Through KOA, Raelene hopes to speak to every woman who has ever doubted her worth, questioned her timing, or felt overwhelmed by her dreams.
“Bravery isn’t always loud. Sometimes it’s quiet, steady, and deeply personal. My journey with KOA has been slow and self-compassionate—and I hope other women see that there’s no ‘right’ pace for living out your dream.”
KOA is more than a brand. It’s a movement—a celebration of resilience, self-belief, and showing up just as you are.
What’s Next: A Vision for KOA, Her Daughters, and Herself
Looking ahead, Raelene dreams of growing KOA into a global platform that empowers girls through activewear, storytelling, and meaningful connection. For her daughters, she dreams of a world where they grow up rooted in their worth and bold in their dreams. And for herself, she’s committed to continuing a life of purpose, joy, and service.
“I want to keep growing, keep learning, and keep showing my girls what it looks like to lead with heart and strength.”