The Story Behind Maya Soele® – From a Personal Moment to a Unique Business Concept

12 August 2025 | Maya Soele®

• Focus on sustainability
• Design
• Home accessories
• Branding supplies

downloadFor editorial use only

The idea for Maya Soele® was born in the summer of 2021, during a day of family celebration.
Our eldest son had just graduated from high school – a milestone marked with traditions, decorations, champagne, and the unmistakable feeling that society celebrates this achievement in a big way.

Our youngest son, then training as a car mechanic, came straight from work to join the festivities – still in his work clothes. When I suggested he change, his reply struck a chord:

"Mom, I’m proud to be a mechanic – that’s why I’m keeping my work clothes on."

It made me think. Why is academic graduation surrounded by so many traditions and visible symbols, while completing a vocational education often passes with far less recognition? When we went to buy decorations, the difference was clear: an abundance of products for academic graduations – but nothing to mark the day you qualify in your trade.

I shared this reflection on LinkedIn, and the response was overwhelming: more than 400,000 views, 13,000 likes, and nearly 300 shares. The comments confirmed that many people had experienced the same imbalance – and that there was a real gap in the market for celebrating vocational pride equally.

That’s when the foundation for Maya Soele® was laid:
A design series of timeless Danish wooden figures celebrating both vocational and higher education achievements. With generic English titles, the collection is suitable for a broad market – nationally and internationally – and is sold for everything from trade graduation gifts and diplomas to weddings, anniversaries, and personal milestones.

Each figure can be customized with an engraving, making it a perfect personal gift – or a branded corporate gift for companies and organizations. For retailers, this creates a product that resonates on both an emotional and quality level, with a long shelf life and strong sales potential.

At Maya Soele®, we believe every education deserves to be celebrated with the same respect, joy, and visible recognition – and we’ve created a product that makes it possible.