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the pride of Africa's women entrepreneurs

Lionesses of Africa

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Linda Cronje - The start up story of a South African quail egg entrepreneur

November 23, 2014 Melanie Hawken
Linda Cronje, founder of Tweeter Quail Products

Linda Cronje, founder of Tweeter Quail Products

The story of one woman’s vision to make quail eggs an everyday healthy food item of choice, whilst at the same time, helping others to build their own successful businesses in her company’s supply chain.

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In Startup Story Tags Agri-business
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Quote of the Day

November 22, 2014 Melanie Hawken

"... women just make it work. We juggle a crazy amount of things and we make it work. So much of launching your own startup is dealing with all the things that come at you from all these angles and you have to make it work. Women already do that every day. I don’t think women should be intimated by it, I think they should think they are at an advantage."

- Cynthia Breazeal is an inspirational American entrepreneur, MIT Professor, and founder and CEO of Jibo Inc., the maker of the world’s first family robot. Jibo is a new personal robot to be sold commercially in 2015. Cynthia is best known for her work in robotics where she is recognized as a pioneer of Social Robotics and Human Robot Interaction.

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In Quote of the Day
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Tanya du Bois - The startup story of a South African natural beauty product entrepreneur

November 21, 2014 Melanie Hawken
Tanya du Bois, founder of Naturals Beauty

Tanya du Bois, founder of Naturals Beauty

An inspiring story of a women entrepreneur dedicated to creating natural and organic skincare products for those with highly sensitive skin.

Read more
In Startup Story Tags Natural Wellness, Beauty & Wellness Month, South Africa
1 Comment

Entrepreneur Advice from Danae Ringelmann: Be Your Authentic Self

November 21, 2014 Melanie Hawken
Danae Ringelmann co-founder of Indiegogo on 'Leadership for Entrepreneurs'

Danae Ringelmann co-founder of Indiegogo on 'Leadership for Entrepreneurs'

People are more likely to follow you as a leader if you are your authentic self....

“Don’t be afraid to be you and own it. If you think being a leader is about having some agenda, it’s not. Being a leader is actually being completely with who you are and speaking from that place, giving feedback, sharing opinions from that place. That’s why people follow you .... It doesn’t come from any title or position … a true leader is someone who is wholeheartedly willing to be their authentic self.”

- Danae Ringelmann co-founded Indiegogo in 2007 with a mission to democratize fundraising and has since helped to propel the company into the world’s largest crowdfunding platform. Today, this inspiring American woman entrepreneur leads Indiegogo's industry development efforts, while steering the company’s employee culture and values initiatives. Danae was listed as one of Fortune Magazine's 40 under 40, as well as SF Business Times' 40 under 40 in 2014. ELLE Magazine named Danae to its Woman in Tech Power List in 2014; while Fast Company included her in its Top 50 Women Innovators in Technology in 2011.

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Danae Ringelmann, Leadership
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Brenda Wilkinson - The startup story of an award-winning olive oil producer

November 20, 2014 Melanie Hawken
Brenda Wilkinson and her daughter, the amazing women behind Rio Largo olive oil company

Brenda Wilkinson and her daughter, the amazing women behind Rio Largo olive oil company

An award winning olive oil producer with a talent for innovative packaging, combined with a passion for supporting women-owned businesses.

Read more
In Startup Story Tags Agri-business, Food & Drink, South Africa
Comment

African And African-Diaspora Startups Sought For Accelerator

November 20, 2014 Melanie Hawken

Not every startup in sub-Saharan Africa and beyond has what it takes to become a successful multinational business. But with a $2-trillion economy, Africa is home to some of the world’s most disruptive technology, with new startups and early-stage entrepreneurial activity that have caught the eye of Ghanian and Zimbabwean business partners Ethel Cofie and Dave Chakombera. They have created Africa Twenty 10, a startup accelerator they said will bridge the gap between great ideas, talent and the global market.

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In Social Impact Tags Ethel Cofie
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Dr Victoria Kisyombe: Perspectives on Women's Entrepreneurship Day

November 19, 2014 Melanie Hawken
Dr. Victoria Kisyombe, founder of SELFINA (Tanzania)

Dr. Victoria Kisyombe, founder of SELFINA (Tanzania)

Source: Vital Voices | by Dr. Victoria Kisyombe | 19 November 2014

Since I founded my company SELFINA 20 years ago, I have seen the enormous impact a small investment can make in the life of a woman. And it doesn’t stop there — from one modest lease, a woman can create dozens of jobs, touching the lives of dozens more.

Read more
In Lionesses Tags Victoria Kisyombe
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U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker honours women entrepreneurs in Marrakesh, Morocco

November 19, 2014 Melanie Hawken
Penny Pritzker, U.S. Secretary of Commerce

Penny Pritzker, U.S. Secretary of Commerce

Marrakesh, Morocco, November 19, 2014 --- U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker delivered remarks to approximately 300 women entrepreneurs to kick off Women’s Entrepreneurship Day in Marrakesh, Morocco. Secretary Pritzker discussed America’s leadership in empowering entrepreneurs at home and abroad, addressed the importance of the Presidential Ambassadors for Global Entrepreneurship (PAGE) which she chairs, and touted how a strong entrepreneurial society can lead to greater economic growth, stability and security, and a rising middle class. 

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In Lionesses Tags Ethel Cofie
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Zikhona Tefu - The startup story of a talented handmade soap crafter

November 18, 2014 Melanie Hawken
Zikhona Tefu, founder of O’live Handmade Soaps

Zikhona Tefu, founder of O’live Handmade Soaps

This Cape Town handmade soap maker harnesses the unique natural qualities of indigenous herbs and plants from the world famous Cape Floral Kingdom to produce world-class skincare products.

Read more
In Startup Story Tags Maker & Crafter, Beauty & Wellness Month, #ChooseArtisan, Artisans, South Africa
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Monica Musonda - The startup story of a real food pioneer in Africa looking to provide affordable nutrition to the mass market

November 18, 2014 Melanie Hawken

The journey from advocate to entrepreneur has been an incredible one for Monica, who today is winning recognition around the world for her innovation and leadership in Zambia and beyond.

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In Startup Story Tags Monica Musonda, Manufacturing, Food & Drink, Zambia
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Janet Shaw - The startup story of a social entrepreneur and her Zulu Beadwork Project

November 18, 2014 Melanie Hawken
Janet Shaw, founder of the Zulu Beadwork Project

Janet Shaw, founder of the Zulu Beadwork Project

A social entrepreneur creates a Zulu beadwork collaboration that empowers, uplifts and celebrates the talents of South African craftswomen. 

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In Startup Story Tags Janet Shaw, Social Entrepreneur, Social Impact, #ChooseArtisan, Social Entrepreneurship Month, Artisans, South Africa
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Khanyi Dhlomo - The startup story of a South African media mogul turned luxury brand retailer

November 18, 2014 Melanie Hawken

Following her highly successful journey in the world of television, media and magazine publishing, this leading South African entrepreneur has now launched her latest business venture in luxury retailing.

Read more
In Startup Story Tags Khanyi Dhlomo, Media PR & Communications Month, Media PR & Communications, South Africa
Comment

Wendren Setzer - The startup story of a woman crafting beautiful bags from recovered and repurposed materials

November 17, 2014 Melanie Hawken
Wendren Setzer, founder of The Wren Design

Wendren Setzer, founder of The Wren Design

This creative woman quit her job as a textile designer at a clothing factory to pursue a passion for creating beautiful and functional bags from discarded materials.

Read more
In Startup Story Tags Fashion, Eco-preneur, #ChooseArtisan, Artisans, South Africa
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Moria Kasher & Christine Tozer - The startup story of the creators of beautiful table linens good enough to wear

November 16, 2014 Melanie Hawken
Christine Tozer, co-founder of Toka Linen (Top left)

Christine Tozer, co-founder of Toka Linen (Top left)

Two South African women with a background in fashion are today using their unique design aesthetic and manufacturing experience to create beautiful table linens.

Read more
In Startup Story Tags Home Accessories, South Africa
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Deola Sagoe - The startup story of this leading lady of the African haute couture fashion

November 16, 2014 Melanie Hawken
Deola Sagoe, founder of Deola fashion house

Deola Sagoe, founder of Deola fashion house

With top models, A-List celebrities and famous society personalities making up her clientele lists, Deola Sagoe, founder of haute couture fashion house Deola, is an entrepreneurial success story of note.

Read more
In Startup Story Tags Deola Sagoe, Fashion, Nigeria
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Wendy Ackerman- The start up story of a retail doyen and a committed philanthropist

November 16, 2014 Melanie Hawken
Wendy Ackerman, co-founder and executive director, Pick n Pay

Wendy Ackerman, co-founder and executive director, Pick n Pay

This incredible woman not only contributed to building Pick n Pay Group as a socially responsible retail empire, but has also devoted her life to making a difference to others in South Africa.

Read more
In Startup Story Tags Wendy Ackerman
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Adenike Ogunlesi - The startup story of a market leader in designer children’s clothing in West Africa

November 16, 2014 Melanie Hawken
Adenike Ogunlesi, founder and ceo of Ruff'n Tumble

Adenike Ogunlesi, founder and ceo of Ruff'n Tumble

This highly successful Nigerian designer went from selling clothes from the boot of her car to becoming a world class children’s clothing brand.

Read more
In Startup Story Tags Adenike Ogunlesi, Nigeria, Children's Clothing
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Quote of the Day

November 16, 2014 Melanie Hawken

“If it doesn’t scare you, you’re probably not dreaming big enough.”

- Tory Burch is an American fashion designer and entrepreneur. In addition to being the CEO behind an internationally-renowned clothing line bearing her name, she is also the philanthropic driving force of the Tory Burch Foundation which aims to support women business owners and their families.

Read more
In Quote of the Day
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Kofo Akinkugbe - The startup story of a Nigerian innovator and technology market leader

November 14, 2014 Melanie Hawken
Kofo Akinkugbe, founder of Secure ID

Kofo Akinkugbe, founder of Secure ID

This remarkable Nigerian woman founded a company that is recognised globally as a market leader in Africa's smart card technology and digital security industry.

Read more
In Startup Story Tags Kofo Akinkugbe, Technology, Manufacturing, Nigeria
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Caroline McCann - The startup story of a butcher with a passion for ethically reared meat

November 14, 2014 Melanie Hawken

This lawyer turned butcher is passionate about the 100% certified free-range, grass-fed and ethically reared meat she sources from farmers she gets to know and trust.

Read more
In Startup Story Tags Caroline McCann, Food & Drink Month, Food & Drink, South Africa
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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 / 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
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
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

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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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