'A space where moms can feel held': Inside Marise Pollard's 'Mom Era' community

May 17, 2026 - 16:17

A mother of two has launched a new platform dedicated to helping moms across South Africa feel seen and heard as they navigate the precious yet difficult journey of motherhood. Marise Pollard, the creator behind the "Mom Era" community, says the idea was born from her own experience of feeling isolated and overwhelmed after having children.

"I realized there was a gap for a space where moms can feel held, without judgment," Pollard explained. "Motherhood is beautiful, but it can also be lonely and exhausting. I wanted to create a community that acknowledges both sides."

The platform offers a mix of online support groups, local meet-ups, and resource sharing. Pollard emphasizes that the goal is not to offer perfect advice, but to provide a safe environment for honest conversations. Members can share their struggles with sleep deprivation, postpartum mental health, or simply the pressure to be a "perfect" parent.

Early feedback has been positive, with many moms saying they finally feel understood. Pollard plans to expand the community by hosting workshops on topics like managing mom guilt and setting boundaries. For now, she is focused on building a foundation of trust and empathy. "We don't have all the answers," she said. "But we have each other."