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Lionesses of Africa

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the pride of Africa's women entrepreneurs

Lionesses of Africa

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When Next You Review Your Employee Screening Policy Consider Making Skills Assessment Part of It

September 7, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Jenny Reid

Employee Screening is an ever-evolving process, no employee screening policy should be cast in stone and remain that way long term. This process should be regularly reviewed and updated to evolve as the human risk factor evolves. 

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In Guest Blog Tags Jenny Reid, People Management
Comment

Master Your Business: 17 Proven Strategies for Turning Passion into Profit

August 31, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Thembe Khumalo

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

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In Guest Blog Tags Thembe Khumalo, Passion, Management Advice
Comment

The Art of Bouncing Back and Sustaining Real Change

August 31, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Phindile Ndlovu

We don’t know our strength until we are tested! We do not know what we can achieve until we start getting to work. Imagine a situation where the world as you knew it, has changed. Your whole family structure, living arrangement, and budget changed. This was me. I woke up one day, and my life was changing. I was divorcing. I remember feeling depressed and down and out. I remember feeling suicidal and hopeless. I saw how I was losing myself and I knew I had to make a choice. I could either keep ruminating or I could get up and take things step by step. As much as I did not know where it came from, I found that deep in my broken heart, I had hope. I believed that a better ending would prevail, and so, I got up. At first, I knew I had to refuel because I had nothing to pour into my business. I also knew I must heal and be whole to be creative in my craft.

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In Guest Blog Tags Phindile Tapula, Entrepreneurial Mindset
Comment

Request for Tenders, Bids, Quotes, and Proposals - Understanding the Differences

August 31, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Ilse Sfreddo

This blog discusses the intricacies of procurement documents like tenders, proposals, and quotes, emphasising the types and importance of each, especially in the South African context. It outlines the differences between Expressions of Interest (EOI), Requests for Information (RFI), Requests for Quotation (RFQ), Requests for Tender (RFT), and Requests for Proposal (RFP). It simplifies decision-making by detailing the rules and thresholds for procurement actions under South African public sector guidelines (MFMA and PFMA).

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In Guest Blog Tags Business Development, Proposal Writing, llse Sfreddo
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Understanding Email Compromise and Scams: Prevention and Response

August 31, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Nicolene Schoeman-Louw

Email compromise scams are a growing threat in the digital world. These scams can have devastating financial and reputational consequences for individuals and organisations.

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In Guest Blog Tags Nicolene Schoeman–Louw, Legal, Cybersecurity
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The Newbie Toolbox Kit for Your Journey

August 19, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Yolanda Matine

How I wish I knew half of the things I know now, when I started my entrepreneurial journey back in 2016 with my paper flower business (Goldendreams). Looking back,  it made me realize that while passion and determination are important, there are certain skills that every entrepreneur should possess to better position their business for growth and success. I call it the Starter Kit Toolbox – a unique set of skills to succeed in today's competitive market. In this article, we will explore the essential skill set that newbie entrepreneurs should have and how to apply them at different stages of their entrepreneurial journeys.

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In Guest Blog Tags Yolanda Matine, Entrepreneur Smarts, PT
Comment

A Wiser Way With Stress

August 19, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Ashika Pillay

Most of us don't like the feeling of stress. We don't like the body sensations, the feeling of anxiety, and most importantly, we don't like a sense of being out of control. It seems like there could be a threat in our immediate environment, and we appraise that situation as something that could be dangerous to us, could take something away, or could have long-lasting consequences.

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In Guest Blog Tags Ashika Pillay, Stress Management
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10 Life Lessons they don't teach you in Harvard Business School

August 19, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Margaret Hirsch

Most people go to Business School first and then go into business. I did it the other way around. There was no money to pay for any tertiary education, so I went straight to work and then I went into business not knowing anything about business or how it worked. I always tell people I attended the school of hard knocks!!  Remember, in the words of the great Rocky, ‘It’s not how many times you get knocked over, it’s how many times you just keep getting up!’ However, once I made it and made my fortune, I went back to school and did my Business Degree, my Honours, and ultimately my MBA which I received the year I turned 70.

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In Guest Blog Tags Margaret Hirsch, Dream, Entrepreneurial Mindset
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5 Ways a Strong ESG Proposition Can Create Brand Value

August 19, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Nkemdilim Uwaje Begho

ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) is officially no longer a buzzword like most people thought that it was for a really long time. ESG is a necessary factor for companies and businesses striving to succeed and create lasting brand value. According to Forbes, companies with strong ESG ratings have outperformed the market by an average of 3.5% per year over the past decade. Additionally, BusinessWire reported that 85% of millennials say they are more likely to buy from companies that are committed to ESG.

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In Guest Blog Tags Nkemdilim Begho, ESG
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The Power of Meditation and Spiritual Practices in Entrepreneurial Life

August 11, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Catia Mondlane 

In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, maintaining mental clarity, reducing stress, and boosting productivity are essential. A powerful way to achieve this balance is through meditation and other spiritual practices. Let’s explore how practices such as meditation, Ho'oponopono, and creative visualisation can transform your entrepreneurial journey, enhancing your well-being and success. I will also share personal experiences of how these practices have positively impacted my life and career.

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In Guest Blog Tags Catia Mondlane, Financial Management, PT
Comment

5 Powerful Questions for Specific Situations

August 11, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Laura Camacho, PhD

As a leader, telling people what to do is easy. I love it. The only problem is it doesn't work. Asking questions engages the brain at a deeper level than simply listening. Questions also foster co-creation, build better relationships, and spark new ideas.

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In Guest Blog Tags Laura Camacho, Communication Skills
Comment

Are There Risks Associated with Real-Time Verifications?

August 11, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Jenny Reid

We are often asked for real-time information when conducting background checks for clients, but with the rise of Artificial Intelligence and new global legislation pertaining to this, it is essential that companies understand the risks they face with this information.

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In Guest Blog Tags Jenny Reid, People Management, AI
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Halfway there - ditch the hype, embrace the unlearning

August 11, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Zanele Njapha

We've all been there. January 1st rolls around, bursting with possibility. Our vision boards are plastered with dream vacations, career milestones, and that elusive "get-fit" goal. But by mid-year, that initial enthusiasm often fizzles. Life gets busy, unforeseen hurdles arise, and those resolutions start to feel like a distant memory.

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In Guest Blog Tags Zanele Njapha, Entrepreneurial Mindset
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10 Questions to Harmonise Work, Life, and Time - Part 2

August 3, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Lori Milner

The real way to harmony is to interrupt the inner conflict between how you would like to spend your time and how you think you should be spending it. I am not here to provide a magic formula to create harmony with how you divide your time. However, I can gift you ten questions from Oliver Burkeman's book, Four Thousand Weeks, which provide some thought-provoking questions to help you determine what matters for you now. I say now because these choices will ultimately change based on life stage, circumstances and values, which are constantly evolving.

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In Guest Blog Tags Lori Milner, Work Life Balance, Productivity Time & Energy
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The Journey of Empowerment: From Single Mother to Successful Entrepreneur

August 3, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Catia Mondlane 

The journey of a single mother to becoming a successful entrepreneur is a story of resilience, determination, and courage. It is a journey that can inspire and motivate many other women to believe in their potential and pursue their dreams, regardless of the challenges. In this article, we will explore the essential steps of this transformation, offering practical tips and inspiring stories to empower each reader to follow her own path to success.

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In Guest Blog Tags Catia Mondlane, Financial Management, PT
Comment

ESG Integration: A Game-Changer in Corporate Governance

August 3, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Nkemdilim Uwaje Begho

The nature of business has evolved, and corporate considerations are not what they once were. Gone are the days of profitability and outsized returns at all costs. The world is currently facing many urgent challenges, from climate change to environmental degradation, and social inequality. These challenges are putting a significant strain on organisations, and governments alike. A study by the World Economic Forum found that 85% of CEOs believe that environmental risks will have a significant impact on their businesses in the next five years.

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In Guest Blog Tags Nkemdilim Begho, ESG
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Empowering Growth: Businesswomen and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

August 3, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Tsitsi Mutendi

In 2015, the United Nations adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which includes 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals serve as a blueprint for achieving a better and more sustainable future for all. For women entrepreneurs, aligning their businesses with the SDGs presents a unique opportunity to drive positive social, environmental, and economic impact while also fostering business growth. This article explores how women entrepreneurs can contribute to the SDGs, and offers practical strategies for integrating these goals into their business operations.

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In Guest Blog Tags Tsitsi Mutendi, SDGs
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Step into the Spotlight: How to Overcome Your Fear of Visibility and Showcase Your Expertise

July 28, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Thembe Khumalo

Fear of public speaking is said to be more terrifying than death for many. I grew up as a very shy child, but once I entered the competitive word of work, I quickly realised that shyness was a luxury I couldn't afford. Especially as an entrepreneur, and particularly in the knowledge economy, stepping into the spotlight is non-negotiable. So how you can overcome your fear of visibility and showcase your expertise with confidence?

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In Guest Blog Tags Thembe Khumalo, Pitching, Presentation Skills
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10 Questions to Harmonise Work, Life, and Time - Part 1

July 28, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Lori Milner

Consider how you feel when you perceive that you have wasted your time versus used it efficiently; it's not really about the quantity of time available but the choices you make on how to invest it that create the illusion of harmony. Unfortunately, it's not that simple. Even when you enjoy what you're doing, you may feel guilty because you feel like you should be working on something else.

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In Guest Blog Tags Lori Milner, Work Life Balance, Productivity Time & Energy
Comment

Overcoming Financial Challenges with Creativity and Determination

July 28, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Catia Mondlane 

Facing financial challenges is a reality for many of us. However, with creativity and determination, we can turn these difficulties into opportunities for growth and success. Let’s explore practical and inspiring strategies to overcome these obstacles, which, with resilience, transform adversities into impressive achievements.

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In Guest Blog Tags Catia Mondlane, Financial 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 / 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 / Kebe Home

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

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

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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