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Lionesses of Africa

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The Pride of Africa's Women Entrepreneurs

the pride of Africa's women entrepreneurs

Lionesses of Africa

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Entrepreneur Advice from Shikha Vincent: Seek out frank advice

December 10, 2019 Melanie Hawken
Shikha Vincent, founder of SHIKHAZURI (Kenya)

Shikha Vincent, founder of SHIKHAZURI (Kenya)

Seek out frank advice....

"There will be long days and nights, but if you want it to work, you’ve got to persevere. Find an experienced mentor within your industry who can guide you on your journey. Having the support of friends and family is wonderful, but more often than not they will tell you what you want to hear, and unless they have experience in your industry, they might not be able to give you the frank advice that you need."

Shikha Vincent, founder of SHIKHAZURI (Kenya)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Mentoring
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Entrepreneur Advice from Bhatupe Mhango: Start with what you have

November 18, 2019 Melanie Hawken
Bhatupe Mhango, founder of Bha’s Fragrance Boutique (Malawi)

Bhatupe Mhango, founder of Bha’s Fragrance Boutique (Malawi)

Start with what you have....

"Start where you can, with what you have, right where you are. All these brands we see out here started off as little seeds, so we should do the same. Don't compete with those who are not in your lane."

Bhatupe Mhango, founder of Bha’s Fragrance Boutique (Malawi)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Getting Started
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Entrepreneur Advice from Mo Abudu: Execution is everything

November 15, 2019 Melanie Hawken
Mo Abudu, founder and Chief Executive Officer of EbonyLife TV

Mo Abudu, founder and Chief Executive Officer of EbonyLife TV

A great business idea alone counts for nothing without execution....

"Anyone who wishes to be an entrepreneur must know that bright ideas are great, however, they are not even half of the work; execution is everything. Yes, as the saying goes, ‘there is nothing more powerful than an idea whose time has come’, but when that time comes, you must be prepared to bleed sweat, tears and blood to bring your ideas to life."

Mo Abudu founder and Chief Executive Officer of EbonyLife TV (Nigeria)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Mo Abudu, Execution
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Entrepreneur Advice from Bomanga Ngoi Longango: Believe in your dream

November 14, 2019 Melanie Hawken
Bomanga Ngoi Longango, founder of Evelea Foods

Bomanga Ngoi Longango, founder of Evelea Foods

Believe in your dream.....

"You are your own dream so every day must lead you to success. You have to believe in your dream and work hard for it."

Bomanga Ngoi Longango, founder of Evelea Foods (Democratic Republic of Congo)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Entrepreneurial Mindset
Comment

Entrepreneur Advice from Mellisa Mazinga - Enjoy the journey

November 12, 2019 Melanie Hawken
Mellisa Mazingi, Managing Director of Gone Rural Swaziland

Mellisa Mazingi, Managing Director of Gone Rural Swaziland

Don't forget to enjoy your entrepreneurial journey....

"Build a support network so you can seek advice when needed, and be meticulous about planning and execution. But most importantly, enjoy the journey."

Mellisa Mazingi, Managing Director of Gone Rural Swaziland

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Networking, Entrepreneurial Mindset
Comment

Entrepreneur Advice from Kristine Pearson: You need a compass

November 7, 2019 Melanie Hawken
Kristine Pearson, founder of Lifeline Energy

Kristine Pearson, founder of Lifeline Energy

You need a compass….

“First, define and embrace your values and goals. They must align with those of your organization and you must stick to them. You cannot imagine the curve balls that will get thrown at you along the way - often when you least expect it. You need a compass and your values are just that.”

Kristine Pearson, Founder & Chief Executive of Lifeline Energy

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Kristine Pearson, Values
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Entrepreneur Advice from Chita Mumba Zulu: Focus on what you want to achieve

November 6, 2019 Melanie Hawken
Chita Mumba Zulu, founder of Eternal Jewellery Zambia

Chita Mumba Zulu, founder of Eternal Jewellery Zambia

Focus on what you want to achieve…

“Determination and persistence are key to achieve anything in life, even when things don't seem to be working out, don't give up. Focus on what you want to achieve and with God by your side all things are possible.”

Chita Mumba Zulu, founder of Eternal Jewellery Zambia

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Perseverance
Comment

Entrepreneur Advice from Londeka Mlawuza: Go Forth and Conquer

October 30, 2019 Melanie Hawken
Londeka Mlawuza, founder of LV & Co (South Africa)

Londeka Mlawuza, founder of LV & Co (South Africa)

Go Forth and Conquer….

“Start when you are ready, you'll know when you are. Don't Worry, you'll be fine. Don't wait for opportunities, create them for yourself. And Go Forth and Conquer!”

Londeka Mlawuza, founder of LV & Co (South Africa)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Opportunity
Comment

Entrepreneur Advice from Tammy Nott: Remember why you first started

October 17, 2019 Melanie Hawken
Tammy Nott, founder of Mbiri Natural Skincare (Namibia)

Tammy Nott, founder of Mbiri Natural Skincare (Namibia)

Remember why you first started....

".... when things seem dire just remember why you first started, because you will get criticized, so just remember the core of your passion and that for me is the Namibian desert and the Himba people. I think of this and it reminds me of how far I have come."

Tammy Nott, founder of Mbiri Natural Skincare (Namibia)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Self Belief
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Entrepreneur Advice from Lilly Alfonso: Know yourself

October 11, 2019 Melanie Hawken
Lilly Alfonso, founder of Lilly Alfonso (Malawi)

Lilly Alfonso, founder of Lilly Alfonso (Malawi)

Know yourself...

"... it is important to know yourself. Understand and believe in your dreams. Give yourself room to research and plan for whatever you are dreaming of venturing into. Giving up isn’t the only way if things get tough ahead. Challenges build you up, and so does criticism. Failures make you unique, so use them and turn them into positives."

Lilly Alfonso, founder of Lilly Alfonso (Malawi)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Dream, Failure, Self Belief
Comment

Entrepreneur Advice from Adenike Akinsemolu: Start now, start right, start proud and don’t stop!

October 8, 2019 Melanie Hawken

Start now, start right, start proud and don’t stop....

"Life is a journey, with problems to solve, lessons to learn, but most importantly, experiences to enjoy. All you need is a burning passion, an open mind and a compassionate heart. There will never be a perfect time to start a business. Start now, start right, start proud and don’t stop. I recommend reading People over Profit by Dale Partridge."

Adenike Akinsemolu, founder of the Green Campus Initiative (Nigeria)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Getting Started
Comment

Entrepreneur Advice from Lizl Naude: Pursue your dreams now

October 7, 2019 Melanie Hawken
Lizl Naude, founder of Lilly Loompa (South Africa)

Lizl Naude, founder of Lilly Loompa (South Africa)

Pursue your dreams now....

"Maybe some of us think it is too late to take on our dreams. We fear that too much time has passed, or we worry what others may think. We scurry around daily to make ends meet and put off our wild dreams for later. How about pursuing them now? How about forgetting the birth pains and scars of our entrepreneurial battles and venturing into new, innovative ground?"

Lizl Naude, founder of Lilly Loompa (South Africa)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Dream
Comment

Entrepreneur Advice from Fidelis Wanjiku: Take care of yourself

October 1, 2019 Melanie Hawken
Fidelis Wanjiku, founder of Round Square Marketing Limited (Kenya)

Fidelis Wanjiku, founder of Round Square Marketing Limited (Kenya)

Take care of yourself....

"Take care of yourself, your health, and your relationships so that you don't lose yourself in the maze of start-up. Take the power - be responsive to the clients as you need them: be the best you can. Do not waste their time with false promises. Have a plan, just in case - for example a financial back-up for when things go wrong, as they likely will. Have structures in place and most of all, be passionate."

Fidelis Wanjiku, founder of Round Square Marketing Limited (Kenya)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Work Life Balance
Comment

Entrepreneur Advice from Rebecca Enonchong: Keep it all in perspective

September 30, 2019 Melanie Hawken
Rebecca Enonchong, founder and CEO of AppsTech (Cameroon)

Rebecca Enonchong, founder and CEO of AppsTech (Cameroon)

Keep it all in perspective....

"Work hard, think big and never give up. When you do experience success, stay humble. Success is not linear; you will experience ups and downs. Humility helps keep it all in perspective."

Rebecca Enonchong, founder and CEO of AppsTech (Cameroon)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Rebecca Enonchong
Comment

Entrepreneur Advice from Vicki Bain: Follow your passion

September 27, 2019 Melanie Hawken
Vicki Bain, founder of Chocoloza (South Africa)

Vicki Bain, founder of Chocoloza (South Africa)

Follow your passion....

"Trust your instinct. Follow your passion - plan in detail but don't let anyone sway you from your plans."

Vicki Bain, founder of Chocoloza (South Africa)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Passion
Comment

Entrepreneur Advice from Divine Ndhlukula: Your people are key to success

September 13, 2019 Melanie Hawken
Divine Ndhlukula, founder of Securico, Zimbabwe

Divine Ndhlukula, founder of Securico, Zimbabwe

You need your people onside to succeed....

“Success depends on employees. For me knowing and connecting with my employees is very important.” 

Divine Ndhlukula, founder of  SECURICO (Zimbabwe)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Divine Ndhlukula
Comment

Entrepreneur Advice from Phindile Ndlovu: Share your vision and go public

August 9, 2019 Melanie Hawken
0d4b37de-5faa-422b-840e-6e37307720b5.jpeg

Share your vision and go public….

“… sharing your goals can make you more accountable! Tell people you trust about your plans and ideas. Share your milestones. No one wants to look like a talker and not a doer.”

Phindile Ndlovu, founder of Bhekizenzo Foundation (South Africa)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Getting Started
Comment

Entrepreneur Advice from Carrie Leaver: Find your people

August 2, 2019 Melanie Hawken
Carrie Leaver, co-founder of Stoep Startup Co-Working & Stay (South Africa)

Carrie Leaver, co-founder of Stoep Startup Co-Working & Stay (South Africa)

Find your people.….

"As a start-up, support, understanding and some extra love make the difficult days much easier. Being an entrepreneur can be lonely and it's easy to doubt and question one’s decisions and journey. Being part of a community of like-minded people brings strength, new ideas and also an eco-system of services and potential clients. We're stronger together!”

Carrie Leaver, co-founder of Stoep Startup Co-Working & Stay (South Africa)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Entrepreneur Support
Comment

Entrepreneur Advice from Melanie Finch Keshwar and Ann Finch: Start small

July 24, 2019 Melanie Hawken
Melanie Finch Keshwar and Ann Finch, co-founders of The Chocolatiers (South Africa)

Melanie Finch Keshwar and Ann Finch, co-founders of The Chocolatiers (South Africa)

Start small…

“You don't need a loan - don't take one, if you can manage it. Start small on the side of whatever you currently do, and allow the sideline to grow to a point where it can sustain itself and later, sustain you. It is a good idea to carefully plan this route - any business takes a good few years to get onto its feet and be able to pay you a salary. Don't expect miracles, it’s many man hours and much trial and error.”

Melanie Finch Keshwar & Ann Finch, co-founders of The Chocolatiers (South Africa)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Getting Started
Comment

Entrepreneur Advice from Brigette Mashile: Make your business hours work for you and your clients

July 10, 2019 Melanie Hawken
Brigette Mashile, founder of Roka Roko (South Africa)

Brigette Mashile, founder of Roka Roko (South Africa)

Make your business hours work for you and your clients…

“When I started this business I tried to adhere to the rules of 9 to 5.  It’s a lie. A whole scam.  Your business hours are the ones that work in your business for you and your clients.”

Brigette Mashile, founder of Roka Roko (South Africa)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Management Advice
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Tech FoundHER AFRICA CHALLENGE

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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
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.

Read more →
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

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.

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

Read more →
Retang Phaahla, a pioneer for South Africa’s indigenous teas
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.

Read more →
Dr Margaret Kemigisha, a publishing entrepreneur passionate about childrens’ literacy
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.

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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 / Eloli

African luxury couture…For those who want to stand out from the crowd, Dibo Ndumbe Eyoh, co-founder and co-creative Director of Eloli, an award-winning luxury African fashion brand in Cameroon, has just what you need.
Image of the Day / KOVA

Luxury leather tote…Petrina Auino-Mwandingi is the founder and creative director of her own brand of leather products, KOVA, in Namibia. The business produces high quality leather handbags, primarily totes as well as o
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 / Amorambique

Capulana with style... If you love Capulana, then explore the new range of modern accessories from Amorambique, Mozambique, created by founder Patricia Vasco. This proudly Mozambican brand of accessories and footwear i
Image of the Day / Suzie Beauty

Marvellous Make-up…When you need to take your make-up routine to the next level, professional Kenyan make-up brand, Suzie Beauty, founded by Suzie Wokabi, has you covered. Suzie founded her successful business
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
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 / Eloli

African luxury couture…For those who want to stand out from the crowd, Dibo Ndumbe Eyoh, co-founder and co-creative Director of Eloli, an award-winning luxury African fashion brand in Cameroon, has just what you need. Image of the Day / KOVA

Luxury leather tote…Petrina Auino-Mwandingi is the founder and creative director of her own brand of leather products, KOVA, in Namibia. The business produces high quality leather handbags, primarily totes as well as o 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 / Amorambique

Capulana with style... If you love Capulana, then explore the new range of modern accessories from Amorambique, Mozambique, created by founder Patricia Vasco. This proudly Mozambican brand of accessories and footwear i Image of the Day / Suzie Beauty

Marvellous Make-up…When you need to take your make-up routine to the next level, professional Kenyan make-up brand, Suzie Beauty, founded by Suzie Wokabi, has you covered. Suzie founded her successful business 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
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.

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

Read more →
Júlia Silota, a Mozambican green business builder, focused on environmental waste management
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.

Read more →
Claudia Machaieie, a Mozambican green business innovator transforming marine waste into reading glasses
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.

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

Read more →

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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

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.

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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

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.

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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

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.

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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

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.

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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

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.

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