Discover Your Passion and Turn It into a Business

December 6, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Catia Mondlane

Discovering your passion and turning it into a sustainable business is a journey that requires courage, self-awareness, and, above all, action. It's not uncommon to feel the pressure to follow a conventional path, but it's when we connect with our true passions that we find personal and professional fulfilment. On this journey, we not only learn how to generate income but also how to impact lives.

The first steps to starting a business

November 23, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Catia Mondlane

Starting a business can seem challenging, but with passion and dedication, it's possible to turn an idea into a successful reality. The key lies in identifying a problem you can solve, developing an effective solution, and from there, building something that makes a difference in people’s lives. I'll share a bit about my personal journey, which began with my own struggle and transformed into a skincare business focused on oily and acne-prone skin.

What do you think you need to start a business?

March 8, 2023 Melanie Hawken

by Kathryn Main

Most people would list things like “money”, “a business plan”, or “an idea”. While you do need an idea and a plan, and whilst money is not a prerequisite to start a business, that is not the answer I’m looking for.

Just Get Started!

October 30, 2022 Melanie Hawken

by Nontobeko Mbuyane

We all have big dreams, big goals, and big ideas on what we think our life should look like, or how we think life will end up. Some of us meticulously plan out our lives, envisioning and letting ourselves daydream as we think about all the stuff we would love to accomplish. The problem is, a lot of us have trouble reaching the potential we have set for ourselves. Time kind of flies by, and we end up looking back and wondering what went wrong. Well, one reason stands out like a sore thumb: We never really get started doing the things we truly want to do.

Starting something

December 4, 2021 Melanie Hawken

by Thembe Khumalo

I am a person who likes to start things - conversations (if I hear anyone in the supermarket speaking Ndebele I feel compelled to join in), friendships, projects, songs, businesses, stories…. I just love the energy that comes with new beginnings. The planning and preparations, putting tools, and people and ideas together, all give me a high that is unlike anything else I have experienced. And so of course, I tend to start a lot of things.

Online home business ideas during this Pandemic

October 23, 2021 Melanie Hawken

by Catia Mondlane

The Coronavirus flare-up is stirring up the worldwide economy for huge scope, minimal expense business thoughts, and On-Demand-Delivery applications which are now all the rage. The world is scrambling hard to battle the current and impending financial results of this dark swan occasion, yet this could be a thrilling chance to ponder a business thought for what's to come.

Two Post-Pandemic Businesses You Can Start Today

October 9, 2021 Melanie Hawken

by Catia Mondlane

The current pandemic has opened up the entry way for new and extended business openings as purchasers adjust to post-COVID life. The effect of COVID-19, especially on the business world, couldn't have been anticipated yet has been an amazing learning experience—particularly for trying business people. Social distancing and remote work have constrained customary in-person businesses like eateries, physical retail and event organizers to get innovative with arrangements and stay relevant, while additionally opening a universe of opportunities s for entrepreneurs to meet shoppers' new and developing needs.

How to be a Baking Business Boss by Grace Stevens

August 28, 2021 Melanie Hawken

by Grace Stevens

Women like Julia Child, Nigella Lawson, and Martha Stewart are proof that building an empire based on your home baking skills is not only achievable but incredibly fruitful and rewarding. However, there is a big difference between having a delicious side hustle and building a baking empire.

Building businesses in the virtual world

August 14, 2021 Melanie Hawken

by Catia Mondlane

Business visionaries are inventive, imaginative and risk-taking by definition, so building up a business in or following a pandemic doesn't scare them away. The pandemic showed numerous such visionaries that keep up with their actual wellbeing and develop new business frameworks. In 2020, buyers looked to discover innovative solutions online to forget their challenges, and virtual exercise classes and online courses entered the market with a flourish.

Entrepreneur Advice from Nicole Magerman / Don’t wait for the perfect time to start

March 30, 2021 Melanie Hawken

Nicole Magerman, founder of Girl Spectrum (Mozambique)

Don’t wait for the perfect time to start!…

“Don’t wait on money or making time to kick start your journey. Start now and fuel your goals on the way! Remember, hesitation is the mind killer!”

Nicole Magerman, founder, Girl Spectrum (Mozambique)

Entrepreneur Advice from Chita Mumba Zulu / Look for a gap in the market

February 12, 2021 Melanie Hawken

Chita Mumba Zulu, founder,  Eternal Jewellery Zambia (Zambia) — Chita Mumba Zulu, founder, Eternal Jewellery Zambia (Zambia)

Look for a gap in the market!…

“Look out for a unique business idea that will help bridge the market gap of a missing business opportunity in the market place.”

Chita Mumba Zulu, founder, Eternal Jewellery Zambia (Zambia)

Entrepreneur Advice from Xoliswa Hlongwane / Put those building blocks in place

December 7, 2020 Melanie Hawken

Xoliswa Hlongwane, founder of XO Collection (South Africa)

Put those building blocks in place!

“Just put the necessary building blocks in place and if you can, save some money to take care of you whilst you give your all to your business.”

Xoliswa Hlongwane, founder of XO Collection (South Africa)

Starting something new is never easy

November 15, 2020 Melanie Hawken

by Mbaliyethu( Lisa) Mthethwa, co-founder of Frutee Belliez

When we started our journey in 2009, my sister Lona and I just wanted to sell fresh fruit salads to students in school, so we could promote a healthier lifestyle. We are meant to have a minimum of five fruits and veggies a day but some of us don't even have one. Growing up, fruit salads were always perceived as a dessert. Veggies were always seen as something that is nasty.

Entrepreneur Advice from Boikano Sikwane / Don’t get dissuaded by slow growth

November 11, 2020 Melanie Hawken

Boikano Sikwane, co-founder of Chuck Chilli Foods (South Africa)

Don’t get dissuaded by slow growth!…

“Start with what you have. Every step counts, don’t get dissuaded by slow growth, it is when you are most likely to learn big lessons, at lower cost.”

Boikano Sikwane is the co-founder of Chuck Chilli Foods in South Africa

Entrepreneur Advice from Nicoline Bole / Just start your entrepreneurial journey

November 2, 2020 Melanie Hawken

Nicoline Bole, founder of Bolnique Ltd (United Kingdom / Cameroon)

Just start your entrepreneurial journey!…

“Nothing is born out of an idea without action. It’s better to start than not to start at all, because we all have the ability to do anything we set our minds on.”

Nicoline Bole, founder of Bolnique Ltd (United Kingdom/Cameroon)

Entrepreneur Advice from Nancy Munderu / Start with what you have now

September 16, 2020 Melanie Hawken

Nancy Munderu, founder, Travel Shore Africa (Kenya)

Start with what you have now!…

“Start now. Do not give excuses or wait for the big break. Start with what you have now and follow your dreams.”

Nancy Munderu, founder, Travel Shore Africa (Kenya)

Entrepreneur Advice from Cindy Matlapeng / Start your entrepreneurial journey now

September 15, 2020 Melanie Hawken

Cindy Matlapeng, founder, The Office Team Cleaning and Support Services, (Botswana)

Start your entrepreneurial journey now!…

“Start NOW, you will figure it all out later. I am saying this because one step on the staircase leads to the other, then the other, until you finally reach your destination.”

Cindy Matlapeng, founder, The Office Team Cleaning and Support Services, (Botswana)

5 Things to Consider To Turn Your Hobby Into a Business

September 6, 2020 Melanie Hawken

by Tapiwa Matsinde

Turning your hobby into a business is a highly rewarding experience. Not only can it mean making a living doing what you love, but also learning more about yourself and just what you are capable of. Turning your hobby into a business is a big step, one that requires a shift in mindset from creating for pleasure as and when you feel like it to creating for-profit and having to put routines and goals in place.

Entrepreneur Advice from Nametso Matlhaga / Listen to your instincts

August 27, 2020 Melanie Hawken

Nametso Matlhaga, founder, Matthan Jewellery Collection (Botswana)

Listen to your instincts!…

“Don't wait for someone to tell you when to start. The right time is now! Listen to your instincts.”

Nametso Matlhaga, founder, Matthan Jewellery Collection (Botswana)

Entrepreneur Advice from Tlangelani Mathebula / Stay true to yourself

August 17, 2020 Melanie Hawken

Tlangelani Nkuna, founder, Placement Junxion (South Africa)

Stay true to yourself!…

“Stay true to yourself, some people won’t understand why you are doing what you do and that's fine. Take the first step and start.”

Tlangelani Nkuna, founder, Placement Junxion (South Africa)

Download your FREE copy of the latest Playbook: Financing Business Growth

25 leading African women entrepreneurs share practical strategies, real experiences and advice. Playbook link

Tech FoundHER AFRICA CHALLENGE

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS

LATEST PODCASTS

Episode 1: Business Funding Journeys Podcast features Melanie Hawken, founder & CEO, Lionesses of Africa and Melissa Basque-Roux, Coordinator, AFAWA, who share insights on creating greater access to finance and economic growth opportunities for women business builders in Africa. Also in conversation are three women entrepreneurs building sustainable, impact-driven businesses - Anne Rweyora, founder of Smart Havens Africa in Uganda, an enterprise creating affordable, climate-smart homes for women; and Morongwe and Michelle Mokone, co-founders of Mo’s Crib in South Africa, a high-growth, sustainable handmade decor manufacturing business.

Lioness Radio Show Interview: Listen to Mr Jules Ngankam, Group Chief Executive Officer of the African Guarantee Fund, discussing the journey from Bias to Bankable - AGF’s Case for Financing Women Entrepreneurs.

Lioness Radio Show: Five Mozambican women entrepreneurs share their experiences of building successful green businesses and creating green jobs for local people. From an environmentally-friendly, high-impact skincare brand, to an innovative green transportation business transforming marine waste into bicycles, these Lionesses are making waves in Mozambique. Listen to their stories, learn from their experiences, and be inspired by their tenacity.

LIONESS WEEKENDER COVER STORIES

LIONESS WEEKENDER COVER STORY

Vanessa Mhlom, a South African wellness brand builder

Lioness Weekender Cover Story

Pleroma Patch, a South African innovative wellness brand creating plant-based patches to support sleep, recovery, and menstrual health.

Vanessa Mhlom is the founder and CEO of Pleroma Patch and is a 2025 Veuve Clicquot Bold Future Award finalist. Pleroma Patch is a modern wellness brand pioneering a simpler, smarter way to care for your body, through transdermal vitamin patches. Pleroma’s discreet, plant-based patches support sleep, recovery, and menstrual health. Driven by her belief that dignified self-care should be a right, not a luxury, she is developing the ‘Patch It Forward’ initiative, a give-back model that channels a portion of each purchase toward expanding access to wellness essentials like menstrual and sleep support for underserved women and girls.

Morongwe and Michelle Mokone, two social impact entrepreneurs building a high-growth, premium sustainable homeware business

Lioness Weekender Cover Story

Mo’s Crib, a premium sustainable homeware brand founded by sisters Morongwe and Michelle Mokone in Pretoria, South Africa. From humble beginnings making origami at local markets, the company has grown into one of Africa’s leading exporters of handcrafted décor. Using recycled PVC waterpipes and natural materials such as banana bark, cane, and sisal, Mo’s Crib creates globally sought-after baskets, planters, furniture, and ornaments. Today, the brand supplies major international retailers including Crate & Barrel, Target, and Woolworths Home. Committed to social impact, Mo’s Crib empowers over 85 artisans, creating jobs while advancing environmental sustainability and African design innovation. The business was launched in 2019 and today employs 280 people.

Dr. Phindi Cebekhulu-Msomi, an agripreneur focused on climate-smart solutions

Lioness Weekender Cover Story

Hazile Group, a South African agribusiness focused on sustainable food systems, renewable energy, and water stewardship

Dr. Phindi Cebekhulu-Msomi is a social entrepreneur and thought leader in climate resilience, and a 2025 Veuve Clicquot Bold Future Award finalist. She leads Hazile Group, a black woman-led enterprise driving climate-smart solutions in agriculture, energy, and water. The company’s core mission is to address food insecurity, water scarcity, and energy transition while uplifting marginalised communities. Hazile's focus on rural development, empowering farmers, and integrating climate-smart technologies directly supports several UN Sustainable Development Goals, notably zero hunger, gender equality, clean water and sanitation, and climate action. She also runs Acumind Consulting, guiding organisations toward inclusive, values-driven leadership and ESG strategies.

Retang Phaahla, a pioneer for South Africa’s indigenous teas

Lioness Weekender Cover Story

Setšong Tea Crafters, an agri-business specialising in the crafting of speciality indigenous teas from the natural flora found in South Africa’s rural Limpopo

A former quantity surveyor turned social entrepreneur, Retang Phaahla is the co-founder and CEO of Setšong Tea Crafters in South Africa, and the winner of the 2025 Veuve Clicquot Bold Woman Award. Her business celebrates indigenous tea knowledge while driving rural development. Based in Sekhukhune, Limpopo, the majority women-owned social enterprise collaborates with communities to produce a range of health-promoting teas (known for calming nerves, relieving tension, and supporting balanced blood pressure), and hosts cultural tours to promote eco-tourism and preserve heritage. Setšong’s business model has created sustainable income streams for rural women while reviving ancient botanical traditions. The business was launched in 2017 and has created 30 jobs for local people.

Dr Margaret Kemigisha, a publishing entrepreneur passionate about childrens’ literacy

Lioness Weekender Cover Story

Igaaza Creations, a Uganda-based social enterprise promoting literacy through children’s storybook publishing and capacity building

Dr Margaret Kemigisha is the founder and CEO of Igaaza Creations, a Uganda-based social enterprise that promotes literacy through the publishing of children’s storybooks, offers social research consulting, and builds capacity among fresh graduates. Her work bridges development and applied research, supporting governments, development organizations, and the private sector with evidence-based solutions and creative tools for impact.

IMAGE OF THE DAY. CELEBRATING WOMAN MADE IN AFRICA.

Image of the Day / Spez Catering

Special Occasion Cakes…If you are anything like the sweet treat-loving team at Lionesses of Africa, you will love a slice of the great cakes on offer from Spez Catering in Kenya, founded by Esmeralda De Souza-

Image of the Day / Atelier Taila Carrilho

Statement Accessories…We love the power of accessories to make strong fashion statements, and Taíla Carrilho, founder of Atelier Taila Carrilho in Mozambique creates the most exquisite, eye-cat

Image of the Day / Nokware Skincare

Sustainable skincare…We love to see natural cosmetics companies with a sustainable approach to business succeeding in Africa, and Nokware Skincare, founded by Tutuwa Ahwoi in Ghana is a great example. She f

Image of the Day / Hope Distillery

Boutique gin…If you are a gin lover, then check out Hope Distillery, a South African distillery in the heart of urban Cape Town. Established by Lucy Beard and her husband Leigh Lisk, Hope Distillery is a sma

Image of the Day / Aya K Design

Sophisticated sandal style…If you love design that combines traditional with modern style, then these sandals from Aya K Design, founded by Aya Keita in Cote d’Ivoire, are a must-buy. Aya is an entreprene

Image of the Day / House of Cinnamon

Animal print pumps…These eye-catching animal print pumps from House of Cinnamon in South Africa are a great addition to any stylish wardrobe. Founded by Frances Edwards, House of Cinnamon is a proudly Afro

STARTUP STORIES. MEET THE WOMEN WHO’VE LAUNCHED.

Featured

Dr Juanri Jonck and Bernadette Kruger, co-founders of a first-to-South African-market serum-only skincare range

Startup Story

Dr Juanri Jonck and Bernadette Kruger are co-founders of Twenty 4 Skin, a unique South African medical-grade skincare brand. Juanri is a medical doctor with a special interest in regenerative medicine, so you could say she is a holistic regenerative GP, and Bernadette is a somatologist. The brand focuses on hormone optimization, aesthetic medicine, as well as skincare formulations.

Gillian Holl, a South African architectural entrepreneur building a sustainability-focused business that responds to the needs of both clients and the environment

Startup Story

Gillian Holl, founder of VELD Architects in South Africa, has built a business renowned for creating spaces that serve not as statements but as sanctuaries. It’s an architecture deeply connected to the African landscape, fostering a sense of belonging and calm.

Júlia Silota, a Mozambican green business builder, focused on environmental waste management

Startup Story

Júlia Silota is the founder and CEO of J&G Environment Ltda, a Mozambican company operating in the environmental field, focused on the purchase and sale of solid waste, and providing solid waste collection services, solid waste management training, and environmental project evaluation. It was founded in August 2020 and began operations in 2023. It employs four people, two full-time and two part-time.

Claudia Machaieie, a Mozambican green business innovator transforming marine waste into reading glasses

Startup Story

Cláudia Machaieie is the founder of Sea Glasses in Mozambique. She is a 28-year-old with a degree in Marine Biology, a postgraduate degree in Leadership and Social Entrepreneurship, and is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Biology and Conservation Ecology. She has completed several technical courses in monitoring and project management. She began her activity as a volunteer and social activist at the age of 14 and is currently a founding volunteer of SOA Mozambique and a volunteer with Solo Adventures. She has worked in public (IIP), private (SEPPA, Centro Terra Viva), and international organizations (Girl Move Academy, UN - World Food Programme) developing activities in administration, monitoring, and management of humanitarian and environmental programs. Currently, she is the social responsibility coordinator at TOPACK Mozambique.

Matilde Mawelele Rungo, a Mozambican tech-preneur helping to drive digital transformation in the country

Startup Story

Matilde Mawelele Rungo is a digital transformation consultant, cybersecurity specialist, and founder of RealityTech Advisory in Mozambique, where she leads technology-driven projects for businesses and startups. She is also an evangelist and the creator of MTI – A Triad of Hope for Children, an initiative that integrates Evangelism, Technology, and Innovation to empower young people and communities. With a global vision, Matilde is committed to advancing individuals, organizations, and ecosystems through technology, faith, and meaningful social impact. The business was launched in 2024 and today has created jobs for 6 people.

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LIONESS BOOK REVIEWS

Featured

Built on Purpose: Discover Your Deep Inner Why and Manifest the Business of Your Dreams by Betsy Fore

Book Review

Successful entrepreneur Betsy Fore, in her new book Built on Purpose: Discover Your Deep Inner Why and Manifest the Business of Your Dreams, shows how, by practicing a manifesting mindset, you can discover your deepest purpose. She calls this an “inner why” and believes finding it can unlock your greatest potential as a creator, founder, and builder of great products.

The Magnetic Female Entrepreneur: The Art of Empowered Presence, Rising to New Levels of Impact and Influence, and Financial Success on Your Own Terms by Mary Grant

Book Review

The Magnetic Female Entrepreneur by Mary Grant is a transformative guide for high-achieving women entrepreneurs, business owners, and coaches who are ready to amplify their influence, impact, and income. Written by Mary Grant, a seasoned entrepreneur and innovation expert with over 30 years in the fashion industry, this book unpacks the art of empowered presence, bold confidence, and defining success on your own terms. Through insights, strategies, and a fresh perspective on success, the author empowers women to harness their unique strengths, navigate challenges, and rise to their next level with clarity and unstoppable momentum.

Women Entrepreneurs Rewired To Rise: Powerful Habits that Break Through Burnout, Silence Your Inner Critic, and Build a Thriving Business from the Inside Out by Fiona Soutter

Book Review

Women Entrepreneurs Rewired To Rise: Powerful Habits that Break Through Burnout, Silence Your Inner Critic, and Build a Thriving Business from the Inside Out by Fiona Soutter is not just another business book. Most focus on strategies and tactics. This one rewires the woman behind the business—so your growth is aligned, sustainable, and actually feels good.

Dream Big and Win: Translating Passion into Purpose and Creating a Billion-Dollar Business by Liz Elting

Book Review

In the book, Dream Big and Win: Translating Passion into Purpose and Creating a Billion-Dollar Business, author Liz Elting, one of the most celebrated and successful women in America, has created a guide for how to not only dream big, but also win―both in business and in life.

After the Idea: What It Really Takes to Create and Scale a Startup by Julia Austin

Book Review

In her new book, After the Idea: What It Really Takes to Create and Scale a Startup, entrepreneurship expert Julia Austin shares battle-tested strategies to help founders and startup joiners build their venture from the ground up.

“Don’t wait on money or making time to kick start your journey. Start now and fuel your goals on the way! Remember, hesitation is the mind killer!”

“Look out for a unique business idea that will help bridge the market gap of a missing business opportunity in the market place.”

“Just put the necessary building blocks in place and if you can, save some money to take care of you whilst you give your all to your business.”

“Start with what you have. Every step counts, don’t get dissuaded by slow growth, it is when you are most likely to learn big lessons, at lower cost.”

“Nothing is born out of an idea without action. It’s better to start than not to start at all, because we all have the ability to do anything we set our minds on.”

“Start now. Do not give excuses or wait for the big break. Start with what you have now and follow your dreams.”

“Start NOW, you will figure it all out later. I am saying this because one step on the staircase leads to the other, then the other, until you finally reach your destination.”

“Don't wait for someone to tell you when to start. The right time is now! Listen to your instincts.”

“Stay true to yourself, some people won’t understand why you are doing what you do and that's fine. Take the first step and start.”

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