Hi, I’m Jacqui Bester — and welcome to One Messy Mama.
Where real life, faith, and chaos collide.

I’m a mom of five incredible humans (three boys, two girls), wife to an extraordinary man, and ring-leader of what we affectionately call the Bester Zoo. For over 20 years, our family has built a beautifully messy life that has stretched across two continents, countless adventures, and more parenting lessons than I ever imagined possible.

If there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s this: real life is rarely tidy—but it’s always meaningful.

The Heart Behind One Messy Mama

One Messy Mama began as a personal writing outlet—a quiet space to process motherhood, homeschooling, travel, and the everyday chaos of raising a big family. Over time, it grew into a trusted parenting and lifestyle platform for families who crave honesty over perfection and connection over comparison.

I write about:

  • Parenting (the good, the hard, and the laugh-until-you-cry moments)

  • Homeschooling and education

  • Family travel and life across cultures

  • Faith, identity, and emotional well-being

  • Raising resilient, kind, confident kids in an imperfect world

My writing blends warmth, insight, and gentle humour—because sometimes the only way through motherhood is to laugh, reflect, and keep going together.

Education, Psychology & the Love of Learning

I hold degrees in Education and Psychology, which deeply shape the way I approach parenting, learning, and storytelling. I’m a lifelong learner who believes that the most powerful lessons are often hidden in ordinary moments—sometimes whispered softly, sometimes arriving like fireworks.

This background allows me to write with both heart and substance, combining real-life parenting experience with emotional insight and educational understanding.

The Professional Side of the Chaos

Beyond One Messy Mama, I’ve had the privilege of working with:

  • International brands

  • Well-known publications

  • Celebrities, authors, designers, and world-renowned companies

Some of the brands I’ve collaborated with include Mattel, Pampers, Disney, Hasbro, LEGO, Nestlé, Rookie USA (Converse, Nike, Jordan), and Michael Hill USA, among others.

What started as personal storytelling evolved into respected collaborations within the parenting and lifestyle space—because audiences connect with authenticity, not polish.

Championing Parenting Voices

Community has always been at the core of my work.

I founded the South African Mommy Blogger Awards (SA Parenting Blog Awards) to recognise, celebrate, and elevate parenting voices online—highlighting the real impact digital creators have on families and society.

I later became the founding co-editor of Parenty, a former parenting platform by The Citizen (South Africa), and my work has been featured on Jacaranda FM, a South African radio station.

These experiences reinforced what I already believed: when parents share honestly, everyone grows stronger.

Author & Storyteller

I’m also the self-published author of My Forever Mommy, a gentle children’s book created to help adoptive parents and caregivers open meaningful, age-appropriate conversations about adoption.

Storytelling—whether through a blog post, a children’s book, or a shared experience—has always been my way of creating understanding and connection.

Who I Am, Really

When I’m not writing or parenting five energetic humans, you’ll likely find me:

  • Reading (always)

  • Listening to music

  • Sampling new foods

  • Planning our next family adventure

  • Dreaming up new creative projects

At my core, I’m a dreamer, a doer, a project-starter, and a creative force fueled by curiosity and purpose. I believe deeply in lifting others up, building community, and leaving space for grace—especially on the messy days.

Welcome to One Messy Mama

If you’re a parent who’s ever felt overwhelmed, unseen, or unsure if you’re doing enough—this space is for you.

Here, we embrace:

  • Real life over perfection

  • Connection over comparison

  • Growth over guilt

I’m so glad you’re here.

Jacqui. x