Entrepreneur Advice from Gwendolyne Gosselin: Believe in yourself

January 15, 2018 Melanie Hawken

Gwendolyne Gosselin, founder of Mathilde & Co. (South Africa) — **Gwendolyne Gosselin**, founder of Mathilde & Co. (South Africa)

Believe in yourself…

“If you believe in your idea and you've done the research, do it. But don't expect it to happen over night and don't give up when times are tough, because they will be. It may sound as a cliche, but believe in yourself and never give up, it will happen.”

- Gwendolyne Gosselin is the founder of Mathilde & Co. in South Africa, a women’s empowerment project based in a small rural village in the Klein Karoo that makes high quality Shweshwe fabric toys and clothing for babies, children and adults. Back in 2010, with an old vintage sewing machine and $20 worth of fabrics, Gwendolyne started Mathilde & Co., teaching herself how to sew along the way. One thing led to another and 4 years later she now provides part time work for 5 ladies in her small community.

Entrepreneur Advice from Nicola Bokaba: Find an empathetic mentor

January 12, 2018 Melanie Hawken

Nicola Bokaba, founder of Earthy Cook (South Africa) — **Nicola Bokaba**, founder of Earthy Cook (South Africa)

Find an empathetic mentor…

“One of the most invaluable things to have is a knowledgeable, empathetic mentor who pushes you beyond your comfort zone… Almost every successful entrepreneur I’ve heard of has recounted experiences of rejection and even ridicule on their journey. A great mentor can act as a buffer during those and other challenging times.”

- Nicola Bokaba is the founder of Earthy Cook in South Africa, a company that makes hand-made, personalized and customer branded products for the home kitchen and the hospitality industry. She currently employs 4 people and plans to work with a local college to bring in qualifying students to help meet her expansion plans in exchange for work opportunities.

Entrepreneur Advice from Dené Carlile: Build a solid foundation

January 10, 2018 Melanie Hawken

Dené Carlile, founder of BluMallow Social & Design (South Africa) — **Dené Carlile**, founder of BluMallow Social & Design (South Africa)

Set up your foundation!…

“Do your research and do it well. Planning is so important. Take the time to give your business the best possible chance of success. Don't be afraid to ask questions, learn how to network, read articles, listen to podcasts, work late hours building up those first customers and give them a great experience! Without a solid foundation, you will simply be blown over.”

- Dené Carlile is the founder of BluMallow Social & Design in South Africa, a company providing social media management, marketing, advertising and design to companies of all sizes at affordable rates. Dené has over 7 years experience in Graphic design and Social Media Management and has worked for clients ranging from SMEs right up to Multi-national Corporates, and has been awarded several Service Excellence awards.

Entrepreneur Advice from Sihle Hlophe: Go for it!

January 9, 2018 Melanie Hawken

Sihle Hlophe is the founder of Passion Seed Communications in South Africa — **Sihle Hlophe** is the founder of Passion Seed Communications in South Africa

Go for it!…

“Do your research and just take the plunge. Believe in yourself and others will do the same. You are enough. Be diligent with your finances. Don’t be intimidated by the sales process. Don't allow anything or anyone to dim your light. Shine! Read about the journeys of other female entrepreneurs and draw strength and inspiration from them. Life is too short to turn your back on your dreams. Gratitude is the key to true happiness. Most importantly, as we always say at Passion Seed Communications, do it with passion or not at all.”

- Sihle Hlophe is the founder of Passion Seed Communications in South Africa, a film and television production company that is geared towards giving a platform to minority languages and minority groups. Sihle produces fiction and non-fiction content for theatrical release, live event coverage and corporate videos. Passion Seed has been commissioned by organizations such as the National Film & Video Foundation, the Foundation For Human Rights, SAB Miller, the Hot Docs Blue Ice Group Fund, and the New York Times.

Entrepreneur Advice from Que Lebatha: Build your brand

January 8, 2018 Melanie Hawken

Que Lebatha, founder of Que Lebatha Consulting (South Africa) — **Que Lebatha**, founder of Que Lebatha Consulting (South Africa)

Build your brand…

“… it’s very important to believe in what you have to offer in the world, and then to wear that on your sleeve and completely be about that thing. This means ensuring things like having a professional email address (Google Business, for example), a business card, cleaning up your LinkedIn profile, and setting up a website - these are all simple steps that tell the world that you are taking yourself seriously. Once that happens, any business you start from there already has a solid foundation on which to stand.”

- Que Lebatha is the founder of Que Lebatha Consulting in South Africa, an integrated Marketing Communications agency that provides companies with Public Relations, Social Media and Event Management services. Que specializes in strategy development and implementation in the marketing communication field. She has worked on a number of campaigns with brands such as Montecasino, Tsogo Sun, Absa, Tsheto Leadership and Coaching Academy and Three Ring Circus.

Entrepreneur Advice from Bev Missing - Stay authentic and true to your brand

January 5, 2018 Melanie Hawken

Bev Missing, founder of RAIN (South Africa) — **Bev Missing**, founder of RAIN (South Africa)

You need to stay authentic....

"The challenge as a business is to stay authentic and true to your brand. How do we achieve this? By having formalized mission statements, clear vision and company ethos and by revisiting our values each time we make critical direction altering decisions."

- Bev Missing is the founder of South African body and bath product brand RAIN. Back in 1999 Bev saw a gap in the market to start making soap as it was labour intensive and all the lovely soap at that stage were imported. Bev started the project in her garage hoping to help solve unemployment in her hometown of Ladybrand, and to make a difference in the lives of the poor and jobless. Today, RAIN has eight stores across South Africa, two unique wellness spa's, and two stores in New York. Bev has recently signed two huge contracts to open a further 70 Rain stores in the USA and Canada and then 40 in the UK and Ireland.

Entrepreneur Advice from Anna Cole Ojukwu: Start small

January 4, 2018 Melanie Hawken

Anna Cole Ojukwu, founder of Pernia Couture (Ghana) — **Anna Cole Ojukwu**, founder of Pernia Couture (Ghana)

Start small....

"Start, no matter how small. Don’t sit down waiting for a very huge amount of capital because you might not have it, but starting small will rather let people around you see how determined you are and might push them to invest into your business. Also starting small minimizes your losses just in case the worst happens…"

- Anna Cole Ojukwu is the founder of Pernia Couture, an exciting fashion brand from Ghana using African beads to design and manufacture ladies’ accessories like neck pieces, bags, slippers and also transforms different African prints into beautiful ladies clothing. Anna's love for fashion began at an early age, originally inspired by her mother, Mrs. Mary Coleman, a seamstress who created rich and vibrant garments. She is passionate about growing her brand both locally and internationally and to promote African culture through her works.

Entrepreneur Advice from Terryanne Chebet: Tough times help us grow

January 3, 2018 Melanie Hawken

Terryanne Chebet, founder of Keyara Organics (Kenya) — **Terryanne Chebet**, founder of Keyara Organics (Kenya)

Tough times help us grow....

"When times are tough, and there are many such times, we are forced to think, be creative, and then for sure we can really grow from both a personal perspective and as a woman entrepreneur."

- Terryanne Chebet is a household name in Kenya, having worked as an actress, television news anchor, reporter and producer. Outside the glitz and glamour of television, Terryanne is also a successful entrepreneur having founded two businesses. Scarlet Digital is an advertising, communications and digital branding agency; and Keyara Organics, is a natural skin and hair care brand.

Entrepreneur Advice from Shereen Makhanye: Be the best of yourself

January 2, 2018 Melanie Hawken

Shereen Makhanye, founder of Nubian Nature (South Africa)

Be the best of yourself....

"If you have an idea you believe in, just start. There's no secret or trick to it. The universe is conspiring on your behalf, all you need to do is show up with the best of yourself."

- Shereen Makhanye is the founder of Nubian Nature, a natural hair care business she launched in South Africa in 2013. Her struggle to source local natural African hair care products was the driver to start Nubian Nature. Shereen's dream of sharing the experience and richness of Africa with Africans and the rest of world by putting together the best of Nature & Science brought Nubian Nature to life. Her love for hair and science stems from having grown up known as her local township’s resident stylist and her dream of one day becoming a Scientist.

Entrepreneur Advice from Ana Alecia Lyman: Be courageous

December 21, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Ana Alecia Lyman, founder of Bio Óleos de Miombo and Grupo Trichilia (Mozambique) — **Ana Alecia Lyman**, founder of Bio Óleos de Miombo and Grupo Trichilia (Mozambique)

Be courageous....

"Seek out mentors and skilled expertise. And, be courageous. If it was easy, everyone would be doing it."

- Ana Alecia Lyman is a specialist in value chain development for non-timber forest products. She is the founder and Managing Director of Bio Óleos de Miombo, a company producing high-quality, natural skin care products based in locally available ingredients from the Mozambican landscape. She is also a co-founder of Trichilia Group, a startup focused on bulk processing of indigenous oilseed species for the local and international markets. She has done extensive consulting work in the field, including market research, business plan development and supply chain planning for inclusive business models focused on engaging rural women. For the last three years, Ana Alecia has sat on the Board of Directors for PhytoTrade Africa, the Southern African natural products trade association. She is also a graphic designer with 20 years of professional experience.

Entrepreneur Advice from Deidrè Akaloo and Lynnette Murua: Believe!

December 20, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Deidrè Akaloo and Lynnette Murua, founders of Earth Elements (South Africa) — **Deidrè Akaloo and Lynnette Murua**, founders of Earth Elements (South Africa)

Believe!...

"Believe in what you do and the rest will follow. Live fearlessly with the vision only to succeed, in any way or form which positively contributes to all."

- Deidrè Akaloo and Lynnette Murua are the founders of Earth Elements in South Africa, a company that hand-makes organic and natural body products. This family business established in 2016 by sisters, Deidrè Akaloo and Lynnette Murua is on a journey to create environmentally friendly products. They are passionate about creating products that are handcrafted, organic and chemical-free using only the best quality natural, raw ingredients that are ethically sourced from fair community trade.

Entrepreneur Advice from Agata Karolina: Follow your intuition

December 19, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Agata Karolina, founder of House of Gozdawa (South Africa) — **Agata Karolina**, founder of House of Gozdawa (South Africa)

Follow your intuition.....

"It is the strength of women that puts us in a much better position than a lot of men - we are more sensitive towards our work, which means that we really understand our market spaces. So it is all about believing in what you do, not being afraid to stand out, standing up for what you want, and following your intuition."

- Agata Karolina is the founder of House of Gozdawa, a small batch perfumery company founded in Cape Town in 2015, dedicated to creating high quality epicene scents, following a strict production utilising only natural essential oils and carriers. Each scent is personally developed by Agata, a design initiator and curator who studied Contextual Design Masters at the Design Academy Eindhoven in 2009 before returning to Cape Town to pursue her passion for perfumery and natural scents.

Entrepreneur Advice from Raksha Mahabeer: Embrace collaboration

December 18, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Raksha Mahabeer (R) is the co-founder of SummerTime (South Africa) — Raksha Mahabeer (R) is the co-founder of SummerTime (South Africa)

Embrace collaboration....

"Embrace a stance of collaboration instead of competition. As women, we’ve got so much of work to do on this continent. Let’s work together, to learn new things, to welcome new entries into the market, to compliment and complement each other’s product and service offerings, and to hold each other up. Together, we can achieve so much more!"

- Raksha Mahabeer is a co-founder of SummerTime in South Africa, a vibrant creative design studio that specialises in fresh graphic design, comprehensive brand development and innovative marketing support services for both SMEs and corporate clients. Raksha is a connector, a communicator, a purpose-driven, inspired inspirer! She prides herself in partnering with SME’s in establishing new South African brands with a view to creating jobs in South Africa.

Entrepreneur Advice from Monica Musonda: Be innovative

December 15, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Monica Musonda, founder and CEO of Java Foods, Zambia — **Monica Musonda**, founder and CEO of Java Foods, Zambia

Be innovative....

"There is no such thing as a free lunch, and there is no substitute for hard work. Be open to new ideas, especially with marketing tools. Choose the best way to sell your business effectively and efficiently. Take advantage of social media as well."

- Monica Musonda is founder and Chief Executive Officer of Java Foods, a food processing company based in Zambia. Monica's vision is to revolutionize the eating habits of the youth market by offering them affordable and nutritious food options made from local products. Monica is a dual-qualified English solicitor and Zambian advocate with over 15 years of experience in legal practice and corporate management, including being corporate counsel at the International Finance Corporation and for Aliko Dangote of Dangote Industries Limited.

Entrepreneur Advice from Ancha Salvador: Pursue your idea

December 14, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Ancha Salvador, founder of Anchaa's Gluten Free (Mozambique) — **Ancha Salvador**, founder of Anchaa's Gluten Free (Mozambique)

Pursue your idea....

"If you think you have a good idea go after it, never give up, and try to get help from the right people."

- Ancha Salvador is the founder of Anchaa's Gluten Free in Mozambique, a company that produces a range of gluten free food products. Ancha's journey to building her health food business has followed a very personal quest to finding solutions and alternatives to overcoming her intolerance to gluten, lactose and sugar. Her deep understanding of the problem has led her to create a range of exciting food products for people with similar dietary needs to enjoy.

Entrepreneur Advice from Thokoza Mjo: Back yourself

December 13, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Thokoza Mjo, founder of Beyond the Lemonade Stand (South Africa) — **Thokoza Mjo**, founder of Beyond the Lemonade Stand (South Africa)

Back yourself....

"Starting a business, for me, is the best expression of backing yourself (taking a chance on you), believing that you have the ability to create value for yourself and for others. Don't put it off any longer, there's no better time than now."

- Thokoza Mjo is the founder of Beyond the Lemonade Stand in South Africa, a social venture that finds and accelerates teenage led enterprises. Thokoza is a finance graduate and worked in the investment field for 3 years before choosing to pursue her entrepreneurial aspirations. Her first entrepreneurial project was in high school where she and a friend sold sweets to their peers.

Entrepreneur Advice from Nthabiseng Mosia: You can be the change

December 12, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Nthabiseng Mosia, co-founder of Easy Solar (Sierra Leone) — **Nthabiseng Mosia**, co-founder of Easy Solar (Sierra Leone)

You can be the change....

"Never apologize for wanting a seat at the table and pursuing your dreams. For African women in particular, there will be times, in fact more often than not, when you look around a room (whether it’s of investors, fellow entrepreneurs, or potential partners) and wonder where your place is in this world of white men, this world that you want to be a part of, one of innovators, rebels, adventurers, game-changers. Don't let feeling like an outlier deter you from being the change in representation that you want to see in the world."

Nthabiseng Mosia is the co-founder of Easy Solar, a Sierra Leone based social venture, that makes clean energy affordable to those off-the-grid by offering solar-powered devices on a “rent-to-own” financing structure, enabled by embedded Pay-As-You-Go technology and mobile money. Nthabiseng is passionate about crafting solutions that address challenges at the nexus of energy and development. The idea for Easy Solar originally arose while pursuing her Masters Degree at Columbia University in the United States.

Entrepreneur Advice from Rahel Mwitula Williams: It can be done!

December 11, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Rahel Mwitula Williams, founder of ILAVA (Tanzania/Kenya) — **Rahel Mwitula William**s, founder of ILAVA (Tanzania/Kenya)

It can be done!...

"Go ahead, DREAM BIG but have an ACTION PLAN. Every day do something towards realizing that dream. But, be aware of dream killers. You will always have people that will give you millions of reasons as to why your dream will not happen, but you can always find millions of reasons as to how you can make it can happen. Therefore, choose your company wisely. You will work hard for what you believe in, and there will be times when you will doubt yourself and you will want to quit, but don’t give up - press forward - it can be done!"

- Rahel Mwitula Williams is the founder and lead designer of ILAVA. As a social entrepreneur, she was born and raised in Tanzania, East Africa. She migrated to the USA with her family when she was 12 years old and held her Tanzanian heritage near to her heart. She obtained her bachelor of science degree in psychology from Loyola University and went on to receive her Master’s of Science from DePaul University in Chicago, Il. Rahel believes that women entrepreneurs are key in enhancing both women’s and overall community development. She aims to incorporate her culture into fashion and give back to her native country every chance she gets. While popular culture may see African attire as a trend, Rahel sees it as a lifestyle.

Entrepreneur Advice from Anila Mussá: Plan, focus and persist

December 8, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Anila Mussá, founder of IZYSHOP (Mozambique) — **Anila Mussá**, founder of IZYSHOP (Mozambique)

Plan, focus and persist....

"Plan and prepare a small business plan (write your idea on paper, how you want to run the business, how much you will sell, who your audience is, etc.) and execute your plan. Do not overthink things, and do not be afraid of failure. Only the day-to-day operation of the business will tell you the needs, the problems, the positive aspects, etc. And with focus and persistence, it is possible to overcome or circumvent any obstacles."

- Anila Mussá is the founder of IZYSHOP in Mozambique, a multi-award winning online supermarket, connecting local small and medium size producers to consumer markets, giving producers access to a broader market and income increase, and consumers a more convenient shopping experience. Born in the small city of Inhambane in Mozambique, Anila learned from a young age the art of getting things done and the value of hard work. Her first business at the age of 12 years old was selling cookies at school so she could buy her school lunch.

Entrepreneur Advice from Helen Njoroge - Start innovating

December 7, 2017 Melanie Hawken

Helen Njoroge, founder of Tenders Kenya — **Helen Njoroge**, founder of Tenders Kenya

Start innovating....

"I encourage women, especially the young women, to come up with innovative products and services and deviate from engaging in "traditional" entrepreneurial opportunities."

- Helen Njoroge, is the founder of Tenders Kenya, Kenya’s Number 1 Tender Site, where she is in charge of overseeing the strategic growth, profitability and development of the business. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Moi University and a Masters degree in Population Studies from the University of Nairobi. She has extensive experience in the NGO sector and in particular, women economic empowerment, policy advocacy and lobbying.

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

Tech FoundHER AFRICA CHALLENGE

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS

LATEST PODCASTS

LIONESSES OF AFRICA · Episode 1: Business Funding Journeys

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.

LIONESSES OF AFRICA · Episode 2: Business Funding Journeys

Episode 2: Business Funding Journeys Podcast focuses on women entrepreneurs in the agribusiness sector who are in growth mode. In conversation with host Melanie Hawken, founder of Lionesses of Africa, are Yvette Dickson-Tetteh, co-founder of Pure and Just Food in Ghana, a high-impact business transforming fresh fruit into premium tropical dried fruit products; and Hadija Jabiri, founder of GBRI Business Solutions in Tanzania, which specialises in growing, processing and selling premium fruits and vegetables for local and export markets.

LIONESSES OF AFRICA · Episode 3: Business Funding Journeys

Episode 3: Business Funding Journeys Podcast co-hosted by Melanie Hawken, founder of Lionesses of Africa, and Melissa Basque-Roux, Coordinator, AFAWA, focuses on the important topic of how to advance smart, inclusive investment in WSMES for sustainable economic development on the African continent. Guests in conversation and sharing their considerable insights include: Dipuo Phakathi, founder of Denic Cabinets in South Africa, Mariam Zein, MD of MAFCI in Mauritania, and Aniela Koffi, SME/SMI Manager, Commercial Banking Division, Ecobank.

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

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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.

“If you believe in your idea and you've done the research, do it. But don't expect it to happen over night and don't give up when times are tough, because they will be. It may sound as a cliche, but believe in yourself and never give up, it will happen.”

"The challenge as a business is to stay authentic and true to your brand. How do we achieve this? By having formalized mission statements, clear vision and company ethos and by revisiting our values each time we make critical direction altering decisions."

"When times are tough, and there are many such times, we are forced to think, be creative, and then for sure we can really grow from both a personal perspective and as a woman entrepreneur."

"If you have an idea you believe in, just start. There's no secret or trick to it. The universe is conspiring on your behalf, all you need to do is show up with the best of yourself."

"Seek out mentors and skilled expertise. And, be courageous. If it was easy, everyone would be doing it."

"Believe in what you do and the rest will follow. Live fearlessly with the vision only to succeed, in any way or form which positively contributes to all."

"There is no such thing as a free lunch, and there is no substitute for hard work. Be open to new ideas, especially with marketing tools. Choose the best way to sell your business effectively and efficiently. Take advantage of social media as well."

"If you think you have a good idea go after it, never give up, and try to get help from the right people."

"Starting a business, for me, is the best expression of backing yourself (taking a chance on you), believing that you have the ability to create value for yourself and for others. Don't put it off any longer, there's no better time than now."

"I encourage women, especially the young women, to come up with innovative products and services and deviate from engaging in "traditional" entrepreneurial opportunities."

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