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the pride of Africa's women entrepreneurs

Lionesses of Africa

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Lifestyle Audits to Uncover Insider Threats

September 5, 2023 Melanie Hawken

by Sonya Skipp

A lifestyle audit is a check that looks at the way that someone lives and compares that to their known revenue stream. These checks look at elements like home ownership, cars and vehicles, visible luxury items owned by the person in question, and more to determine whether that person is living within their means.

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In Guest Blog Tags Sonya Skipp, People Management
Comment

The 6 Habits of Calm and Content People

September 5, 2023 Melanie Hawken

by Lori Milner

Why do some people always appear to have it together? They are calm in the chaos and take life in their stride. They dance with life's challenges rather than go to war with them; it's not to say they don't feel stress, but how they navigate their days sets them up for success.

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In Guest Blog Tags Lori Milner, Entrepreneurial Mindset
Comment

Do You Understand the Insider Threat?

September 3, 2023 Melanie Hawken

by Sonya Skipp

In today's rapidly evolving landscape, organisations face a multitude of security challenges, one of which is the insider threat. The insider threat refers to the risk posed by individuals within an organisation who have authorised physical or cyber access to an organisation but intentionally or unintentionally misuse or compromise them. No company, regardless of size, is immune to this security concern.

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In Guest Blog Tags Sonya Skipp, People Management
Comment

Why You’re Not Getting the Opportunities You Want Even Though You’re Good at What You Do

September 3, 2023 Melanie Hawken

by Thembe Khumalo

The truth is, being good at what you do is just the beginning — it’s like the minimum entry requirement. Many talented individuals like yourself often find themselves wondering why they aren’t getting the opportunities they truly desire, despite their skills and expertise. The answer lies in the importance of personal branding. Here’s why this might be happening and what you can do to unlock the opportunities you deserve.

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In Guest Blog Tags Thembe Khumalo, BU Marketing & Communications
Comment

The Success Is in The Succession

September 3, 2023 Melanie Hawken

by Margaret Hirsch

As you know I am a huge advocate for family businesses. Where do they start? Well with a couple getting married and one or both deciding that they want out of the usual routine of working for someone else and making a living, they decide they want to work for themselves and make a fortune. 

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In Guest Blog Tags Margaret Hirsch, Entrepreneurial Journey, Family Business
Comment

Three Questions to Create Clarity, Confidence and Courage

September 3, 2023 Melanie Hawken

by Lori Milner

Questions are a conduit to unlocking the resources within you. They are an essential coaching tool because they are a permission device between what someone already knows and what they want to acknowledge. Change happens when a client reaches a new insight, a perspective they never considered previously. However, the insight can only reveal itself when the person is completely honest with themselves.

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In Guest Blog Tags Lori Milner, Entrepreneurial Mindset, Productivity Time & Energy
Comment

What Banks Can Learn From Nurses

August 26, 2023 Melanie Hawken

by Thembe Khumalo

In Africa, we talk a lot about the unbanked. In certain circles, this group is considered evidence of the opportunities for innovation that abound on the continent, and in others, they are considered a problem that we need to solve. What interests me most though, is looking at some of the reasons why these people are not choosing banks as their preferred financial partner.

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In Guest Blog Tags Thembe Khumalo, Customer Experience
Comment

The Power of Vulnerability

August 26, 2023 Melanie Hawken

by Refilwe Sebothoma

Starting and growing businesses without many resources is very scary to say the least, and through my start-up years I learned the power of being vulnerable to the right people. Start-up businesses often carry the pressure of looking, talking and behaving like big businesses because they are worried that their weaknesses may disqualify them from opportunities. While this is true, I have experienced that there are corporates which are not looking for perfect suppliers and are willing to invest and support SMEs grow and become sustainable.

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In Guest Blog Tags Refilwe Sebothoma, Entrepreneurial Mindset
Comment

Happiness is not about positive thinking but creative thinking

August 26, 2023 Melanie Hawken

by Lori Milner

Your thoughts are the turbines that generate the energy of happiness. Affirmations and positive thinking are 'part of the furniture' of personal growth. You can tell yourself you're terrific, but if you don't inherently believe it, there's always an inner critic inside whispering to you – what a load of rubbish, no you're not. If you can't always rely on positive thinking when you need it most, what if you experimented with creative thinking instead?

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In Guest Blog Tags Lori Milner, Entrepreneurial Mindset
Comment

Paving the way to a brighter business future 

August 26, 2023 Melanie Hawken

by Rochelle Roos

Ten important tips for women in business 

Rochelle’s advice for other women looking to find their niche in the tech and business world can be summarised in these ten simple points: 

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In Guest Blog Tags Rochelle Roos
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Advancing Diversity and Inclusion in Leadership: A Multifaceted Approach

August 20, 2023 Melanie Hawken

by Nkemdilim Uwaje Begho

In May, I had the honour to speak at the 1st Annual Corporate Governance Triangle Annual Colloquium with the theme “Diversity and Inclusion; Adopting A Multi-Stake holder approach in the promotion of good governance”. I spoke on a panel with the focus on Breaking Barriers: Advancing Diversity and Inclusion in Leadership Roles, which is a topic that is close to my heart both as a woman and as an advocate for equity and overall good corporate governance.

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In Guest Blog Tags Nkemdilim Begho, People Management, Governance
Comment

How You’re Stealing the Future From Young Women

August 20, 2023 Melanie Hawken

by Thembe Khumalo

“Who me?” You might ask. Yes, you!

You’re stealing the future from the next generation of young women professionals by refusing to make yourself visible. Here’s the thing — you can’t be what you don’t see. So if we want our young women to become leaders in business, in entrepreneurship, in politics, or in the community, we need to give them the opportunity to see such people in action — people like you and me. We need to provide them with visible, accessible role models.

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In Guest Blog Tags Thembe Khumalo, Mentoring
Comment

Building Teams and Networks

August 20, 2023 Melanie Hawken

by Kathryn Main

A few years back, I remember listening to a female business owner share her success story. She said something that has stuck with me for over 10 years. She said “People do business with people, not businesses. Build and maintain your relationships with your customers, suppliers and teams, these are the people who will help you succeed.” At that moment my sales strategy for my own business changed drastically. I was so over cold calling and decided to build a real network and team for my business. I changed my approach and started going to more networking events. Its pretty daunting walking into a room full of people and you don’t know anyone, but this is a great way to meet people. You are forced to talk to strangers, so you don’t look like the outcast in the corner.

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In Guest Blog Tags Kathryn Main, People Management
Comment

Is Your Social Media Habit Getting Worse? This Is My Solution

August 20, 2023 Melanie Hawken

by Lori Milner

If you're honest with yourself, how much time do you spend scrolling social media? Your intention is to do an innocent 'quick' check-in, but before you know it, you're well over the thirty-minute mark despite having more urgent tasks. This insight has come up repeatedly when I ask my clients to do a time audit of a typical day. These are not fresh-out-of-college graduates but professionals across all levels and industries.

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In Guest Blog Tags Lori Milner, Entrepreneurial Mindset, Social Media
Comment

Unleashing the Potential of Generative AI: Exploring the Path to AI-Driven Success

August 11, 2023 Melanie Hawken

by Nkemdilim Uwaje Begho

In the age of digital transformation, the rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) have revolutionised industries across the globe. For me there is one remarkable branch of AI that stands out — Generative AI — it holds tremendous potential for organisations seeking to optimise processes, unlock new opportunities, and create personalised experiences.

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In Guest Blog Tags Nkemdilim Begho, AI
Comment

From Success to Sisterhood: Why African Women Leaders Thrive in Community

August 11, 2023 Melanie Hawken

by Thembe Khumalo

“When women come together with a collective intention, magic happens. We shape our world, we make things happen. That’s what I believe in.” — Graca Machel

We hear often enough about how lonely it can be at the top, but what we don't hear as often is what one should do when one gets there, and finds so many other things to think about. In the realm of leadership, African women are rising to the forefront, breaking barriers, and reshaping the narrative. While they possess inherent strength, resilience, and an unwavering determination to make a difference, African women leaders face unique challenges and obstacles. This is why it’s useful to be part of a community of women in similar positions.

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In Guest Blog Tags Thembe Khumalo, Leadership
Comment

Using Hiring AI to Bridge the Pay Gap

August 11, 2023 Melanie Hawken

by Sasha Knott

The gender pay gap is a persistent problem in South Africa, with women earning on average 23% less than men. This gap is even wider for women in certain industries, such as technology and engineering. There are several factors that contribute to the gender pay gap, including unconscious bias, occupational segregation, and lack of access to opportunities. AI recruitment can help to address some of these factors and improve the gender pay gap in South Africa.

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In Guest Blog Tags Sasha Knott, Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Comment

Ladies, We Are Enough

August 11, 2023 Melanie Hawken

by Margaret Hirsch

As we celebrate Women’s Day this week, I thought I would devote this to all of you wonderful women out there. My favourite story of all time - the first part happy - the second part sad. Our job as women is to change this narrative!

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In Guest Blog Tags Margaret Hirsch, Entrepreneurial Mindset
Comment

Building Your Personal Brand: A Step-by-Step Guide for African Leaders

July 29, 2023 Melanie Hawken

by Thembe Khumalo

Are we still debating the importance of building your brand in a fast-paced and interconnected world? Didn’t think so! It’s an essential tool for African leaders looking to stand out, make an impact, and unlock new opportunities. One more time, for those who are new here — your personal brand is how you show up in the world; how you present yourself, your values, and your unique attributes to those you wish to influence. Now for the how-to: here are some step-by-step strategies you can leverage to build a strong personal brand.

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In Guest Blog Tags Thembe Khumalo, Communication Skills
Comment

Growth and development of people is the highest calling of leadership

July 29, 2023 Melanie Hawken

by Margaret Hirsch

When starting a new job or career very few people think of themselves as leaders and I was one of these. For a while I was happy to be a follower, but as I progressed in companies I always took the initiative, went the extra mile, and was very soon frustrated by the red tape and protocol of corporate companies.

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In Guest Blog Tags Margaret Hirsch, People Management
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Tech FoundHER AFRICA CHALLENGE

Five female founders win over $100,000 in TechFoundHER Africa Challenge. Read more


CELEBRATING 10 YEARS


LATEST PODCASTS

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

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


LIONESS WEEKENDER COVER STORIES

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

IMAGE OF THE DAY. CELEBRATING WOMAN MADE IN AFRICA.

Image of the Day / The Joinery

Sustainable Tote Bags…We have always been big fans of The Joinery, the sustainable and ethical product design brand based in South Africa founded by Natalie and Kim Ellis, and their exciting Future Tex™ fa
Image of the Day / Barbara McKenzie

Classic meets contemporary…If you are in the market for classic-inspired yet modern clothing which is both stylish and ultra-feminine and trans-seasonal to wear throughout the year, then Kendi Sapepa, found
Image of the Day / Adèle Dejak

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

Stylish sustainable clothing…We have always been big fans of Lunar in South Africa, the sustainable clothing brand created by owner Nicola Luther and her talented team. Lunar has firmly established itself as one of th
Image of the Day / Dathonga Designs

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sustainable Tote Bags…We have always been big fans of The Joinery, the sustainable and ethical product design brand based in South Africa founded by Natalie and Kim Ellis, and their exciting Future Tex™ fa Image of the Day / Barbara McKenzie

Classic meets contemporary…If you are in the market for classic-inspired yet modern clothing which is both stylish and ultra-feminine and trans-seasonal to wear throughout the year, then Kendi Sapepa, found Image of the Day / Adèle Dejak

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

Stylish sustainable clothing…We have always been big fans of Lunar in South Africa, the sustainable clothing brand created by owner Nicola Luther and her talented team. Lunar has firmly established itself as one of th Image of the Day / Dathonga Designs

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

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

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

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

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

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

STARTUP STORIES. MEET THE WOMEN WHO’VE LAUNCHED.

Featured
Júlia Silota, a Mozambican green business builder, focused on environmental waste management
Júlia Silota, a Mozambican green business builder, focused on environmental waste management
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
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
Yanara Tavares Viana, a Mozambican entrepreneur developing a smart urban housing solution in the country
Yanara Tavares Viana, a Mozambican entrepreneur developing a smart urban housing solution in the country
Isabel Mandofa, a Mozambican woman entrepreneur building a successful, high-impact agri-food business
Isabel Mandofa, a Mozambican woman entrepreneur building a successful, high-impact agri-food business

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LIONESS BOOK REVIEWS

Featured
Built on Purpose: Discover Your Deep Inner Why and Manifest the Business of Your Dreams by Betsy Fore
Built on Purpose: Discover Your Deep Inner Why and Manifest the Business of Your Dreams by Betsy Fore
The Magnetic Female Entrepreneur: The Art of Empowered Presence, Rising to New Levels of Impact and Influence, and Financial Success on Your Own Terms  by Mary Grant
The Magnetic Female Entrepreneur: The Art of Empowered Presence, Rising to New Levels of Impact and Influence, and Financial Success on Your Own Terms by Mary Grant
Women Entrepreneurs Rewired To Rise: Powerful Habits that Break Through Burnout, Silence Your Inner Critic, and Build a Thriving Business from the Inside Out  by Fiona Soutter
Women Entrepreneurs Rewired To Rise: Powerful Habits that Break Through Burnout, Silence Your Inner Critic, and Build a Thriving Business from the Inside Out by Fiona Soutter
Dream Big and Win: Translating Passion into Purpose and Creating a Billion-Dollar Business by Liz Elting
Dream Big and Win: Translating Passion into Purpose and Creating a Billion-Dollar Business by Liz Elting
After the Idea: What It Really Takes to Create and Scale a Startup by Julia Austin
After the Idea: What It Really Takes to Create and Scale a Startup by Julia Austin

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