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High-Value Ideas - the power of thinking different

September 29, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Thembe Khumalo

When Apple launched its legendary "Think Different" campaign, it didn’t just promote a product—it showcased a mindset that has defined the company’s success for decades. This campaign, with its bold celebration of creativity and innovation, exemplifies the power of innovative thinking and how being willing to step outside the box can result in high-value ideas. By daring to think differently, Apple not only redefined its brand but also set the stage for transformative growth that would shape the tech industry for years to come.

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In Guest Blog Tags Thembe Khumalo, Passion, Management Advice
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Master Your Business: 17 Proven Strategies for Turning Passion into Profit

August 31, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Thembe Khumalo

Starting and running a business is no small feat. It requires more than just passion; it demands a strategic approach, continuous learning, and an unwavering commitment to growth. Let’s delve into some essential strategies that will help you handle your business like a pro.

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In Guest Blog Tags Thembe Khumalo, Passion, Management Advice
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Finding and following my Passion!

November 11, 2023 Melanie Hawken

by Yolanda Matine

Finding and following my passion! For me this is a controversial topic because I believe few people have found theirs from the word GO and are already positively impacting people’s lives. I struggle every day to understand this phenomenon. At times I think only a few were privileged to be guided to their passions, but as for me I had to roam around to arrive at what I believe is my Passion (Cooking and loving the people around me through it). The question is how do we arrive at our passion ‘hustle free’?

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In Guest Blog Tags Yolanda Matine, Entrepreneurial Mindset, Passion
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Keep the beat, keep your passion, keep your vision in the groove!

January 30, 2021 Melanie Hawken
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By Mbalenhle Ndaba

Is there a future in blaming your past for your present? You are now aware of the past and its experiences, it is time for you not to ignore the past so you cannot repeat it, and it is time to incorporate push with stillness

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In Guest Blog Tags Mbalenhle Ndaba, Passion
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Entrepreneur Advice from Siwela Sweetness Masoga / Be passion driven

January 11, 2021 Melanie Hawken
Siwela Sweetness Masoga, founder of Siwela Wines (South Africa)

Siwela Sweetness Masoga, founder of Siwela Wines (South Africa)

Be passion driven!…

“Always do what you are passionate about. Being passionate about what you do will always force you to work hard and remain persistent when times get tough.”

Siwela Sweetness Masoga, founder of Siwela Wines (South Africa)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Passion
Comment

Entrepreneur Advice from Rumbi Serima-Fowler / Be passionate about what you do

November 12, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Rumbi Serima-Fowler, founder of Mimi’s Organics (UK/Zimbabwe)

Rumbi Serima-Fowler, founder of Mimi’s Organics (UK/Zimbabwe)

Be passionate about what you do!…

“It is true when they say it is not easy to be successful, but if you are passionate about what you do, that will carry you over the obstacles.”

Rumbi Serima-Fowler, founder of Mimi’s Organics (UK/Zimbabwe)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Passion
Comment

Quote of the Day by Margaret Hirsch

November 2, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Margaret Hirsch, co-founder and Executive Director, Hirsch’s (South Africa)

Margaret Hirsch, co-founder and Executive Director, Hirsch’s (South Africa)

“I am passionate about South Africa. We live in a country of wealth and abundance and it’s up to us as entrepreneurs to ensure this country goes from strength to strength.”

Margaret Hirsch, co-founder and Executive Director, Hirsch’s (South Africa)

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In Quote of the Day Tags Margaret Hirsch, Passion
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Entrepreneur Advice from Angela Franklin / Have passion for what you do

October 23, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Angela Franklin, founder of Chez Alpha Books (Senegal)

Angela Franklin, founder of Chez Alpha Books (Senegal)

Have passion for what you do!…

"Starting a small business is simply based on filling a niche or void, but most important have a passion for what you do."

Angela Franklin, founder of Chez Alpha Books (Senegal)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Passion
Comment

Entrepreneur Advice from Nereyda Ah-Hoy / Share your passion

October 13, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Nereyda Ah Hoy, writer, author & founder of Indika platform and digital magazine (Mozambique)

Nereyda Ah Hoy, writer, author & founder of Indika platform and digital magazine (Mozambique)

Share your passion!…

“Business is to make money, otherwise it would not be business. Above all, business should be the best way for someone to share with the world their passion and their gifts, otherwise it is a business empty and devoid of purpose.”

Nereyda Ah Hoy, writer, author & founder of Indika platform and digital magazine (Mozambique)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Passion
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Entrepreneur Advice from Petrina–Auino Mwanding / Your passion will keep you going

October 5, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Dr. Petrina–Auino Mwandingi, founder & creative director of KOVA (Namibia)

Dr. Petrina–Auino Mwandingi, founder & creative director of KOVA (Namibia)

Your passion will keep you going!…

“You have to be passionate about your business idea. When things aren't working out and challenges overwhelm you, this is what will fuel you to keep going.”

Dr. Petrina–Auino Mwandingi, founder & creative director of KOVA (Namibia)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Passion
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Quote of the Day by Neo Mkwebane Chatyoka

July 31, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Neo Mkwebane Chatyoka, founder, Uhuru Botanicals (United Kingdom / South Africa)

Neo Mkwebane Chatyoka, founder, Uhuru Botanicals (United Kingdom / South Africa)

“My children helped me to find my purpose and passion, and now I am also making a profit.”

Neo Mkwebane Chatyoka, founder, Uhuru Botanicals (United Kingdom / South Africa)

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In Quote of the Day Tags Passion, Purpose
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 It is passion before it is business

June 5, 2020 Melanie Hawken
pablo-91.png

by Thozama Ponti

For most entrepreneurs, finding our passion makes us feel alive and follow our inner guidance. Even though the journey is a difficult one, it’s a journey worth taking. Before we ventured into the business world, we started by deciding to discover our passions. It’s not as easy as it sounds, to find your passion.

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In Guest Blog Tags Thozama Ponti, Passion
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Quote of the Day by Eva Sonaike

May 28, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Eva Sonaike, founder, Eva Sonaike, UK

Eva Sonaike, founder, Eva Sonaike, UK

“If you have a passion, believe in something and work smart, you can reach your goals and make your dream a reality.”

Eva Sonaike, founder, Eva Sonaike, UK

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In Quote of the Day Tags Passion
Comment

Entrepreneur Advice from Ruth Wewura Guribie / Be passionate about what you do

May 28, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Ruth Wewura Guribie, founder of Sava Shea Company Limited

Ruth Wewura Guribie, founder of Sava Shea Company Limited

Be passionate about what you do...

“You will have many reasons to quit at some point, but don’t. Be passionate about what you do and communicate it in the way that feels most inspired, natural and unique to you.”

Ruth Wewura Guribie, founder of Sava Shea Company Limited

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Passion
Comment

Entrepreneur Advice from Annette Cassy / You must like what you do

May 13, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Annette Cassy, founder, Kidz Kare Centro Médico Infanto-Juvenil, Mozambique

Annette Cassy, founder, Kidz Kare Centro Médico Infanto-Juvenil, Mozambique

You must like what you do…

“Do something that you really enjoy doing and preferably in your area of expertise.”

Annette Cassy, founder, Kidz Kare Centro Médico Infanto-Juvenil (Mozambique)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Getting Started, Passion
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Entrepreneur Advice from Abiola Olaonipekun / Do something that will outlive you

May 12, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Abiola Olaonipekun, Founder, BanahGrace Nigeria Limited

Abiola Olaonipekun, Founder, BanahGrace Nigeria Limited

Do something that will outlive you…

“If you love it so much, go for it! Be ready to do something that will outlive you. Be excellent”

Abiola Olaonipekun, Founder, BanahGrace Nigeria Limited

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Passion
Comment

Entrepreneur Advice from Denise Umunyana / Listen to your heart

April 23, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Denise Umunyana and Celine Uwineza, founders of RightSeat (Rwanda)

Denise Umunyana and Celine Uwineza, founders of RightSeat (Rwanda)

Listen to your heart…

“Listen to your heart, find what you care most about, and don’t be afraid of making a decision to follow your passion.”

Denise Umunyana, co-founder and managing partner, Right Seat, Rwanda

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Passion
Comment

Entrepreneur Advice from Faith Dzwinamurungu / Push yourself

April 10, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Faith Dzwinamurungu, founder, Fay’s Kitchen (Eswatini)

Faith Dzwinamurungu, founder, Fay’s Kitchen (Eswatini)

Push yourself…

“To any woman out there with a passion for anything, I say to you the sky is the limit. Push yourself, do not procrastinate, just be a go-getter and everything will work out, only if you push, push, push!”

Faith Dzwinamurungu, founder, Fay’s Kitchen (Eswatini)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Passion
Comment

Quote of the Day by Narcissi Madisha

March 17, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Narcissi Madisha, founder of Kameo Kids (South Africa)

Narcissi Madisha, founder of Kameo Kids (South Africa)

“If you plan to go into business, choose something that you are absolutely passionate about.”

Narcissi Madisha, founder of Kameo Kids (South Africa)

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In Quote of the Day Tags Passion
Comment

Entrepreneur Advice from Abai Schulze: Think big, but start small

March 3, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Abai Schulze, founder of ZAAF (Ethiopia)

Abai Schulze, founder of ZAAF (Ethiopia)

Think big, but start small....

"Find something that you are truly passionate about and build a vision for it – think big, but start small. Surround yourself with people who can challenge you and hold you accountable for your actions and progress."

Abai Schulze, founder of ZAAF (Ethiopia)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Passion
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Tech FoundHER AFRICA CHALLENGE

MEET THE 10 FINALISTS — We look forward to announcing the winning women founders on 19 November 2025.


CELEBRATING 10 YEARS


LATEST PODCASTS

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
Vanessa Mhlom, a South African wellness brand builder
Morongwe and Michelle Mokone, two social impact entrepreneurs building a high-growth, premium sustainable homeware business
Morongwe and Michelle Mokone, two social impact entrepreneurs building a high-growth, premium sustainable homeware business
Dr. Phindi Cebekhulu-Msomi, an agripreneur focused on climate-smart solutions
Dr. Phindi Cebekhulu-Msomi, an agripreneur focused on climate-smart solutions
Retang Phaahla, a pioneer for South Africa’s indigenous teas
Retang Phaahla, a pioneer for South Africa’s indigenous teas
Dr Margaret Kemigisha, a publishing entrepreneur passionate about childrens’ literacy
Dr Margaret Kemigisha, a publishing entrepreneur passionate about childrens’ literacy

IMAGE OF THE DAY. CELEBRATING WOMAN MADE IN AFRICA.

Image of the Day / Dathonga Designs

Traditional craft elevated…We love the impact-driven accessories created by Márcia Nangy O’Connell, founder and artistic director of Dathonga Designs in Mozambique. Since 2010, she has establis
Image of the Day / Dounia Home

Statement lighting… from Dounia Home, the home of innovative, handcrafted and ethically made Moroccan lighting and home decor founded by Dounia Tamri-Loeper. Her company designs, produces and brings to market hi
Image of the Day / Mash. T Design Studio

Award-winning furniture design…We are big fans of talented South African designer Thabisa Mjo, founder of Mash. T Design Studio in Johannesburg, and these fabulous side tables are firm customer favouri
Image of the Day / Quazi Design

Sustainable Home Decor…If you want to make a statement with your interior design and home decor, and at the same make a contribution to supporting eco-friendly enterprise, then these unique decor pieces from Qu
Image of the Day / Eki

Silk Sensation…Nothing is quite as luxurious as silk, that’s why we love the ‘Africa on Silk’ collections from Eki, founded by Hazel Eki Osunde. Eki is known for its signature soft silks and ethereal c
Image of the Day / ‘57 Chocolate

Bean to bar luxury chocolate… Taste the difference with the finest chocolate lovingly produced by ‘57 Chocolate, the pioneer bean to bar chocolate manufacturer in Ghana, created by sisters Kimberle
Image of the Day / Kebe Home

Handcrafted home decor …We are big fans of the work of Manuela Kamadjou, an interior architecture and design entrepreneur who transforms homes and spaces in Cameroon through her business, Kebe Home. Her new Echo V
Image of the Day / Pichulik

Beautiful bracelets… Introducing The Aruba Bracelets by Katherine-Mary Pichulik, the founder and designer behind the Pichulik line of accessories. Pichulik is an ethical jewellery, accessories and womenswear atelie
Image of the Day / Eva Sonaike

Vibrant textile design…This striking textile design by Eva Sonaike caught our eye this morning. Like the rest of the world, we love the African aesthetic which is increasingly finding its way into global interio
Image of the Day / Adèle Dejak

Luxury statement accessories…We are big fans of luxury jewellery and accessories made with love and passion on the African continent, and Adèle Dejak in Kenya is the epitome of handmade luxury. The
Image of the Day / Dathonga Designs

Traditional craft elevated…We love the impact-driven accessories created by Márcia Nangy O’Connell, founder and artistic director of Dathonga Designs in Mozambique. Since 2010, she has establis Image of the Day / Dounia Home

Statement lighting… from Dounia Home, the home of innovative, handcrafted and ethically made Moroccan lighting and home decor founded by Dounia Tamri-Loeper. Her company designs, produces and brings to market hi Image of the Day / Mash. T Design Studio

Award-winning furniture design…We are big fans of talented South African designer Thabisa Mjo, founder of Mash. T Design Studio in Johannesburg, and these fabulous side tables are firm customer favouri Image of the Day / Quazi Design

Sustainable Home Decor…If you want to make a statement with your interior design and home decor, and at the same make a contribution to supporting eco-friendly enterprise, then these unique decor pieces from Qu Image of the Day / Eki

Silk Sensation…Nothing is quite as luxurious as silk, that’s why we love the ‘Africa on Silk’ collections from Eki, founded by Hazel Eki Osunde. Eki is known for its signature soft silks and ethereal c Image of the Day / ‘57 Chocolate

Bean to bar luxury chocolate… Taste the difference with the finest chocolate lovingly produced by ‘57 Chocolate, the pioneer bean to bar chocolate manufacturer in Ghana, created by sisters Kimberle Image of the Day / Kebe Home

Handcrafted home decor …We are big fans of the work of Manuela Kamadjou, an interior architecture and design entrepreneur who transforms homes and spaces in Cameroon through her business, Kebe Home. Her new Echo V Image of the Day / Pichulik

Beautiful bracelets… Introducing The Aruba Bracelets by Katherine-Mary Pichulik, the founder and designer behind the Pichulik line of accessories. Pichulik is an ethical jewellery, accessories and womenswear atelie Image of the Day / Eva Sonaike

Vibrant textile design…This striking textile design by Eva Sonaike caught our eye this morning. Like the rest of the world, we love the African aesthetic which is increasingly finding its way into global interio Image of the Day / Adèle Dejak

Luxury statement accessories…We are big fans of luxury jewellery and accessories made with love and passion on the African continent, and Adèle Dejak in Kenya is the epitome of handmade luxury. The

STARTUP STORIES. MEET THE WOMEN WHO’VE LAUNCHED.

Featured
Isabel Mandofa, a Mozambican woman entrepreneur building a successful, high-impact agri-food business
Isabel Mandofa, a Mozambican woman entrepreneur building a successful, high-impact agri-food business
Lerato Masuku, a South African construction business builder with a passion for infrastructure development and job creation
Lerato Masuku, a South African construction business builder with a passion for infrastructure development and job creation
Olamide Alade, a Nigerian fashion brand builder with a passion for weaving cultural heritage into every garment
Olamide Alade, a Nigerian fashion brand builder with a passion for weaving cultural heritage into every garment
Mirza Jamal, a Mozambican marcomms expert empowering businesses and brands
Mirza Jamal, a Mozambican marcomms expert empowering businesses and brands
Lovable Dladla, a South African entrepreneur turning a passion for baking into a growing business
Lovable Dladla, a South African entrepreneur turning a passion for baking into a growing business

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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
Built on Purpose: Discover Your Deep Inner Why and Manifest the Business of Your Dreams by Betsy Fore
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
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
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
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
Dream Big and Win: Translating Passion into Purpose and Creating a Billion-Dollar Business by Liz Elting
Dream Big and Win: Translating Passion into Purpose and Creating a Billion-Dollar Business by Liz Elting
After the Idea: What It Really Takes to Create and Scale a Startup by Julia Austin
After the Idea: What It Really Takes to Create and Scale a Startup by Julia Austin

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