Get to Know the Founder: The Story Behind Estiel & Co.

Today is my birthday, and as I turn 26, I have taken some time to reflect on how far God has brought me and what He has done through Estiel & Co. so far. This business means more to me than words can explain. It is not just a company; it is a ministry. It is a space God placed in my heart to help others grow, to inspire faith, and to show what is possible when you stop running from your calling and say yes to His plan.

If you have been following Estiel & Co. for a while, you will know that our focus is on creating resources that help young people discover who they are in Christ, grow in their relationship with God, and build a strong foundation of faith. But what you might not know is how this all began.

Where It All Started

The journey began when I was 24. I was serving in my church’s youth department, as the Youth Director, and wanted to help young people understand the Bible in a way that felt fun, engaging, and real. So I created my first youth Sunday school workbook.

At the time, I did not think much of it. I simply wanted to create something useful for the group I was leading. But once others saw it, I kept hearing the same words, “This is really good, you should sell these.”

I smiled politely but brushed it off every time. The truth is, I did not like the idea of putting myself out there. I preferred to stay behind the scenes, quietly doing what needed to be done. The thought of sharing my work publicly felt uncomfortable.

But deep down, I knew those comments were not just people’s opinions; they were confirmation. God was trying to show me that the gift He gave me was not meant to stay hidden.

Running from the Gift

Even after hearing encouragement from others, I ran from the idea of turning my resources into something bigger. I told myself it was not the right time. I convinced myself I was not ready. But I could never shake the feeling that God had placed something greater inside me.

That year, everything began to shift. Through prayer, reflection, and a few gentle pushes from people around me, I realised that what I had started was not just a creative project; it was part of God’s plan. I began to see that writing and designing faith-based resources was one of the ways He wanted to use me to make a difference.

So later that year, I stopped running from the gifts and passion God had given me and started working on what would soon become Estiel & Co.

The Birth of Estiel & Co.

Estiel & Co. did not happen overnight. It took a full year of planning, researching, designing, and praying. There were moments I doubted myself and thought about giving up. There were times I wondered if anyone would even care about what I was creating. But every time I felt like stopping, God reminded me that He started this work for a reason; and He would finish it.

In the summer, after a year of preparation and a few delays on my part, I officially launched Estiel & Co. with my first workbook, Ignite the Flame. That workbook was more than just a product launch; it was an act of obedience. It represented me saying yes to God’s vision and stepping out of my comfort zone.

Ignite the Flame and Beyond

Ignite the Flame was created to help young people develop a deeper relationship with God; to learn how to pray, read the Bible, and grow in their faith with confidence. Seeing how people have connected with it has been overwhelming in the best way. The messages, reviews, and encouragement I have received since launching have reminded me why I started this journey in the first place.

I am so grateful for every single person who has supported Estiel & Co., from those who bought a workbook, shared a post, or simply sent a message of encouragement. Your support means more than you know.

But this is only the beginning. God has placed so many ideas in my heart for what is next. I have plans to expand Estiel & Co. into new areas, from more books and study planners to courses for schools and churches. Every idea I have for the year ahead connects back to one purpose; to use this platform to advance God’s kingdom and carry out His work.

A Ministry, Not Just a Business

Estiel & Co. has never been about making money or building a name for myself. It has always been about purpose. It is about helping people grow in faith, understand who they are in Christ, and realise that they too can be used by God in amazing ways.

I believe God gave me this vision on purpose. Every challenge, every delay, and every idea has been part of His plan. He reminded me that I do not have to have it all figured out; I just have to trust Him and take the next step.

The verse that often comes to mind is Philippians 1:6, “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” This is my reminder that God is not finished with Estiel & Co., and He is certainly not finished with me.

Looking Ahead

As I celebrate my 26th birthday, I feel both grateful and expectant. Grateful for how far God has brought me, and expectant for what He will do next. I have so many hopes and dreams for Estiel & Co., and so many ways I want to use it to impact others.

I believe this next chapter will be one of growth, creativity, and divine purpose. I want to keep creating resources that inspire, encourage, and strengthen others in their walk with God. I want to see Estiel & Co. become a light, a brand that not only equips but transforms lives through faith.

A Thank You from My Heart

To everyone who has supported Estiel & Co. in any way, thank you. You have played a part in helping me walk in obedience to what God has called me to do. Your support, prayers, and encouragement have meant everything.

As I step into this new year of life, I am choosing to continue trusting God with every dream, every idea, and every plan. Because He started this work, and I know He will complete it.

So here is to the next chapter; to faith, growth, and purpose. I cannot wait to see where God takes Estiel & Co. next.

With love,
Shenell Lewinson
Founder and CEO