Entrepreneur Advice from Nkemdilim Begho: My top advice to anyone starting out

March 31, 2017 Melanie Hawken

My top advice based on what I have learned in business....

"It’s crucial to listen to your customers. Deliver on time and don’t over-promise or under-promise or over-promise and under-deliver. I learnt to run my business very efficiently. It’s also important that you communicate and be responsive. Always remember that you are running a business and not a charity. Remember that you have family, friends and associates but always know that you are running a business."

- Nkemdilim Begho is founder and Managing Director of Future Software Resources Limited, an IT solutions provider focused on online solutions, e-learning and IT security. As one of a few Nigerian women in the industry, her success is founded on a passion for driving innovative thinking, building a globally recognized technology brand and setting trends in the Nigerian Technology space.

Entrepreneur Advice from Mary-Jean Treloar: My 3 best pieces of advice

March 27, 2017 Melanie Hawken

I have 3 pieces (of advice)....

1. Doubt is your biggest enemy! Keep positive by surrounding yourself with positive and encouraging people that believe in you, you are going to need to lean on them a lot!

2. Just start! Small steps every day lead up to your bigger end goals. Remember: "The man on top of the mountain didn't just fall there" - Vince Lombardi

3. Celebrate every little victory. There are going to be a lot of difficult and tough steps to climb along the way but when you do accomplish something, however small, be sure to celebrate it! This carries you through the tough times and brings joy into your entrepreneurial journey.

- Mary-Jean Treloar is the founder of MΛRY JEΛN JEWELLERY in South Africa, a designer and manufacturer of fine handmade jewellery that is inspired by patterns and symbols found across the African continent. Mary-Jean unearthed a spark for jewellery design and manufacture at a young age, but it remained a hobby she dabbled in while she completed a BSc degree in Interior Architecture at Pretoria University and worked in the Corporate Architecture industry. Eventually, in 2014 Mary-Jean decided to follow her true passion, completing a short beginners’ course in jewellery design, before embarking on a self-taught journey of design and manufacture that affords her the opportunity to learn, design and create truly handcrafted jewellery everyday.

Entrepreneur Advice from Helen Asimegbe: Put a little spark in your business

March 24, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Helen Asimegbe, founder of Stylemark Mall Enterprises (Nigeria) — **Helen Asimegbe**, founder of Stylemark Mall Enterprises (Nigeria)

Put a little spark in your business....

"My advice: It’s time to put a little spark to that business and make it shine. If you have a goal to succeed at what you are doing, then you must be committed 100 % to that business, put in your very best, and be very happy to talk about your business."

- Helen Asimegbe is the founder of Stylemark Mall Enterprises in Nigeria, a company retailing high quality children's clothing and accessories, in sizes to suit all ages, from Infants to Teens. Helen is a graduate with a B.SC in Business Administration and gained 5years working experience in the Banking Sector before launching her company. She serves as a business mentor at the Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Foundation and the Cherie Blaire Foundation for Women in Business. Helen is also a member of Toast Masters International Club.

Entrepreneur Advice from Jetto Myaba: You need a hardworking spirit

March 20, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Jetto Myaba, Founder & Managing Director of Mwaya Enterprises (Malawi) — **Jetto Myaba**, Founder & Managing Director of Mwaya Enterprises (Malawi)

You need a hardworking spirit....

"Women should not undermine themselves and their capacities. They should have a hardworking spirit as hard work pays. They should not give up if their businesses fail or are not doing well. They should rise and stand up for their businesses. And, of course, they should have passion for their businesses and clear goals."

- Jetto Myaba is the Founder and Managing Director of Mwaya Enterprises in Malawi. She is a highly successful serial entrepreneur with multiple business ventures, including being a distributor for Southern Bottlers Limited and Chibuku products; an importer of electronics and groceries; and a trade company in agricultural products. She currently employs around 30 people and is seeking to expand her operations with a vision for empowering other women in business through her distribution network.

Entrepreneur Advice from Michelle Mbilizi: My top advice

March 16, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Michelle Mbilizi, serial entrepreneur (Malawi) — **Michelle Mbilizi,** serial entrepreneur (Malawi)

My top advice to aspiring women entrepreneurs....

"To persevere. Account for each penny. Don’t spend more than you make. Hard work."

- Michelle Mbilizi is a successful serial entrepreneur in Malawi who has founded companies across multiple business sectors including retail, farming, business services and property development. Michelle comes from a business background and whilst studying in South Africa she worked part-time for a PR company which dealt with a lot of entrepreneurs who motivated and inspired her to open her own business upon completing her studies. She's never looked back and has gone on to become one of Malawi's most successful women entrepreneurs.

Entrepreneur Advice from Liz van Zyl: Let's stand on the shoulders of giants

March 15, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Liz van Zyl, founder of The Content Agency (South Africa) — **Liz van Zyl**, founder of The Content Agency (South Africa)

Let's stand on the shoulders of giants....

"Step up. Own it. Rock it. Ask yourself 'what if I succeed?' and 'what if this actually works?' And don’t let anyone tell you it can’t be done – especially not that sneaky little voice within. As I said earlier, when you do something with soul it shows! It’s contagious and people can’t help but want to plug in. Lastly, surround yourself with like-minded professionals. Come join me at Lionesses of Africa and let's stand on the shoulders of giants together."

- Liz van Zyl is the founder of The Content Agency in South Africa, a specialized content development and copywriting provider. Liz loves helping clients work out the best ways to get the word out and achieve their business goals. Over the last decade, she has crafted communications and marketing content and copy for prominent organisations and private individuals in Africa and Australia; and has also been published in a number of national publications and media channels.

Entrepreneur Advice from Diana Opoti: Find your niche and passion

March 10, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Help yourself by finding your niche and passion....

"Find a niche. Turn what you like into a business. Passion fuels business!”

Diana Opoti is founder of leading Kenyan fashion consultancy Diana Opoti PR. This doyenne of African fashion is an avid blogger, the founder and executive producer of the television series Designing Africa, with her hit campaign, 100 Days of African Fashion. Diana is a true champion of the continent’s fashion design market and one of Africa’s most formidable fashion connectors. In 2014 Diana was nominated 'Outstanding Trend Communicator of the Year' by the prestigious Africa Fashion Awards.

Entrepreneur Advice from Miranda Isaakidis: Always play fair

March 7, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Miranda Isaakidis, co-founder of Indulgence Spa Products — **Miranda Isaakidis**, co-founder of Indulgence Spa Products

Top advice for aspiring women entrepreneurs....

"Play fair – I have seen many companies fail because they are driven to make a quick buck – they rarely stay in business for long."

- Miranda Isaakidis is co-founder of Indulgence Spa Products, a South African company that wholesales, distributes and manufactures high-end products for the hotel, spa and hospitality industry. Miranda prides herself on identifying the very latest trends from the top spas, hotels and cruise liners internationally. She has been awarded the Outstanding Achievement in International Trade and Investment award by the D Group/British Foreign Office and was recently appointed Chair for WPO Johannesburg, Chapter 2.

Entrepreneur Advice from Ndaneh Howard: Step out of your comfort zone

March 2, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Ndaneh Howard, founder of Ngewormia (Sierra Leone) — **Ndaneh Howard**, founder of Ngewormia (Sierra Leone)

Step out of your comfort zone....

"Be bold enough to pursue your dream. Surround yourself with the right people who will use your weakness to embrace you. Take advantage of all opportunities and step out of your comfort zone."

- Ndaneh Howard is the founder of Ngewormia in Sierra Leone, an online store serving the United States and Europe, carrying a wide assortment of earrings, necklaces, bracelets and clothing. Their original designs are all authentically African and made lovingly by hand. Ndaneh is an artisan and entrepreneur with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology and is also a certified leasing specialist. Ndaneh is currently a student at the New York Institute of Art and despite her busy schedule, she has maintained her personal passion for creative jewelry design.

Entrepreneur Advice from Evelyne Ndabaneze-Masumbuko: It takes hard work and perseverance

February 28, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Evelyne Ndabaneze-Masumbuko, founder of Abidjan4you (Ivory Coast) — **Evelyne Ndabaneze-Masumbuko,** founder of Abidjan4you (Ivory Coast)

It takes hard work and perseverance....

"The most important advice I can give to other women who want to start is that hard work and perseverance is crucial to succeed."

Evelyne Ndabaneze-Masumbuko is the founder of Abidjan4you, a unique city guide for expats in English in Ivory Coast. Evelyne has created the no. 1 website in English in Côte d'Ivoire that answers the need for an easily accessed on-line information resource. Her inspiration for launching came after her husband was relocated to Abidjan by his company and she spotted a need for a resource that help newcomers like herself to the city.

Entrepreneur Advice from Lynda Smith: Failure is not fatal

February 24, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Lynda Smith, founder of Refirement Network (South Africa) — **Lynda Smith**, founder of Refirement Network (South Africa)

Failure is not fatal....

"I have been an entrepreneur for more than 38 years. Some lessons have been learnt the hard way through failure - but failure is not fatal. It helps build character and learning for the next round. I value people and relationships and this is my most important asset. We need to be realistic. Often we are so passionate about an idea and cannot see the pitfalls. It is important to have an advisor/coach/friend who can help you have helicopter vision rather than being stuck in the forest. Be resilient. Believe in yourself."

- Lynda Smith is a social entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of Refirement Network in South Africa, a business involved in helping organisations and Individuals 50+ to understand the opportunities and challenges that the future holds for this demographic group. She is an accredited retirement coach in South Africa through Retirement Options USA. Lynda has a real passion for children, women in leadership and understanding how South Africans can unlock skills development and grow the economy.

Entrepreneur Advice from Grace Mlimo: Do not let anyone discourage you

February 20, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Grace Mlimo, founder of Luxuria Lifestyle Africa — **Grace Mlimo**, founder of Luxuria Lifestyle Africa

Do not let anyone discourage you....

"Starting a business can be challenging, and along the journey many challenges do indeed occur. However, we encourage fellow women to follow their dreams with passion. Do not let anyone discourage you from your journey, remain focused, be determined to reach your goal. We encourage women to surround themselves with people who add value to their journeys and who influence them positively. Stay away from friends and people who are negative and do not add value to avoid being discouraged from your journeys, and nurture relationships that add value. If you have kids, make them part of your journey and celebrate with them special milestones. Let them understand your journey and they will appreciate what you do as a mother and a woman - self respect and respect for others is key. Respect and reward your team as your business is only as strong as the team behind it. Identify women support groups and forums such as LoA which can help you grow."

- Grace Mlimo is the founder of Luxuria Lifestyle Africa, an online digital platform showcasing luxury African brands and service providers globally. Grace is a seasoned traveller in Africa and internationally and is passionate about providing her readers with independent unbiased articles, features and reviews of the best high-end products and services that money can buy. Her mission is to help other businesses to grow and forge meaningful partnerships both locally and at international levels.

Entrepreneur Advice from Olukemi Omotayo Asalu: Chase the vision, not the money

February 9, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Olukemi Omotayo Asalu, founder of Daolus Organic Products (South Africa) — **Olukemi Omotayo Asalu,** founder of Daolus Organic Products (South Africa)

Chase the vision, not the money....

"There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work and learning from failure so chase the vision, not the money: the money will end up following you. A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new."

- Olukemi Omotayo Asalu is the founder of Daolus Organic Products in South Africa, a company specializing in the wholesale and supply of high quality, unrefined, raw organic natural products for the production of natural skin and hair care products. Kemi is passionate about sharing the benefits of Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter, Coconut Oil, and Africa Black Soap with the world in a way that would benefit everyone, especially the women who harvest and produce the products. She is also deeply passionate about ethics and rights and all her products adhere to Fair Trade values and principles.

Entrepreneur Advice from Febisola Okonkwo: Don't stop!

February 8, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Febisola Okonkwo, founder of Help For Mankind Initiative (Nigeria) — **Febisola Okonkwo**, founder of Help For Mankind Initiative (Nigeria)

Don't stop!...

"Keep moving, hold on to your dream and passion, don’t stop. Influence others positively. Be determined, committed, work hard and above all trust God."

- Febisola Okonkwo is the founder of Help For Mankind Initiative in Nigeria, an initiative that provides support through Education, Medical, Nutrition, Rehabilitation and Empowerment to disabled youth by identifying young people who are living with disabilities and who are highly vulnerable because of poverty, parental death or neglect due to their disabilities. Febisola is passionate about ensuring that young adults develop in an environment that will ensure that they can become fully self-supporting members of the society in future.

Entrepreneur Advice from Katherine-Mary Pichulik: Just beginning is your first step towards success

February 7, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Katherine-Mary Pichulik, founder of Pichulik, South Africa — **Katherine-Mary Pichulik**, founder of Pichulik, South Africa

Take the first step. Just begin....

"The minute you set something in motion, the moment you begin, you have this incredible situation where everyone and everything seems to come together to support it, simply because you are pointing a compass and heading towards fulfilling your dream. The process of just beginning on your entrepreneurial journey is already the first step towards achieving success."

- Katherine-Mary Pichulik is the founder and Cape Town-based designer behind the Pichulik line of accessories. Katherine's wonderfully creative designs are inspired by her travels, artist friends, and the people she loves and admires. Pichulik's bold pieces are hand-made from rope and collected materials – anything from shell to semi-precious stones. Founded in mid-2012, Pichulik has grown in leaps and bounds and has been featured on CNN and in international publications such Vogue magazine. Exporting to 14 countries across the globe, in 2015, Pichulik was also named among Vogue's top ten African fashion brands to watch.

Entrepreneur Advice from Kelechi Udoagwu: Think it and you will become it

January 30, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Kelechi Udoagwu, co-founder of Skrife — **Kelechi Udoagwu**, co-founder of Skrife

Think it and you will become it....

"My advice to other women looking to start-up is that they should visualize their perfect future everyday. Think it and you will become it. I believe that when you have a clear picture in your mind of who you want to become, the universe will work with you to make it happen."

- Kelechi Udoagwu, is the co-founder of Skrife, an online platform that helps entrepreneurs, brands, digital agencies and startups communicate and create quality written content by leveraging an exclusive community of freelance writers and editors. Kelechi, a passionate wordsmith, has experience working with hubs like MEST, CcHUB and The S Factory (Startup Chile) and organisations like ALU, Elance (now Upwork), True Africa and Bella Naija, to mention a few. She is passionate about creating relatable content that raises real emotions in people.

Entrepreneur Advice from Noxolo Peter: It takes time, sweat and tears

January 27, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Noxolo Peter, founder of CheesySteaks (South Africa) — **Noxolo Peter**, founder of CheesySteaks (South Africa)

It takes time, sweat and tears....

"Starting a business is really not easy, it sometimes feels like a bumpy road. But with passion and hard work you eventually get to the end of the road, and that's where your focus should be! One thing most entrepreneurs do not understand is that you do not get to where you want to be overnight, it takes time, sweat, and sometimes tears to get to where you want to be. The one thing I was told when I began this journey was that "Rome wasn't built in a day" and that quote has stuck with me since. I hope it resonates with you. So yes, go ahead and start-up!"

- Noxolo Peter is the founder of CheesySteaks in South Africa, a gourmet food brand that makes Philly cheesesteaks. Noxolo has taken this classic American sandwich and given it her very own spin, infusing her sandwiches with distinctly African flavours. Noxolo has long been passionate about entrepreneurship and in 2014 she was selected to represent South Africa at the Business and Entrepreneurship Envision Global Forum held in the USA.

Entrepreneur Advice from Deola Sagoe: Nothing beats CAN-DO spirit

January 26, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Deola Sagoe, haute couture fashion designer from Nigeria, on 'Entrepreneurial Mindset' — **Deola Sagoe**, haute couture fashion designer from Nigeria, on *'Entrepreneurial Mindset'*

You really need a can-do spirit and to believe in what you're doing....

“I just had this can-do spirit. I was just so convinced that my product was so genuine and would no doubt conquer the world."

- Deola Sagoe, leading lady of African fashion, is a haute couture fashion designer from Ondo State in Nigeria. Deola has been at the cutting edge of high fashion since 1989 and became the first black woman to present a collection at AltaRoma, Rome’s celebrated fashion week, back in 2004. Her "globally appealing" style has earned her an enviable clientèle that ranges from Africa's first ladies, to society girls like Lydia Hearst, top model Alek Wek, and famous personalities such as Oprah Winfrey and Will Smith.

Entrepreneur Advice from Anna Raimondo - Invest in yourself

January 24, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Anna Raimondo, founder of SMITH Jewellery — **Anna Raimondo**, founder of SMITH Jewellery

Make sure to continue investing in yourself....

".... you ARE your business. Read books, go on courses, and remember to take a break to find your inspiration. These things will help you get a clearer view of who you are and where you want your business to go."

- Anna Raimondo is a South African jewellery designer who has created a brand personality and a design style that are uniquely hers, and as a result, the SMITH Jewellery brand is truly memorable. After completing her degree in Jewellery Design & Manufacturing from Stellenbosch University, Anna won a scholarship to study luxury design at Richemont's Creative Academy in Milan. Today, she designs and crafts jewellery for women and men in her Cape Town studio.

Entrepreneur Advice from Juanita van der Merwe - Fail forward!

January 20, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Juanita van der Merwe, co-founder of Little Green Number (South Africa) — **Juanita van der Merwe**, co-founder of Little Green Number (South Africa)

Make sure to learn from your mistakes....

"Fail forward! Failure is not something to fear, just make sure you learn from your past mistakes and fail forward!"

- Juanita van der Merwe is co-founder of Little Green Number in South Africa, an award winning social business focused on sustainable job creation, via community based micro manufacturing, franchise ownership, producing a quality handbag product that is both funky and unique, yet also saves the environment - one advertising billboard at a time! Juanita's products are 100% handmade, durable and weather resistant. She is proud to be a South African business with an upcycled, innovative product that creates sustainable jobs.