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Tabitha Karanja on humble beginnings, challenges, success and family

November 24, 2014 Melanie Hawken
Tabitha Karanja, founder and ceo of Keroche Breweries, Kenya

Tabitha Karanja, founder and ceo of Keroche Breweries, Kenya

Source: Capital FM Kenya | published on November 23, 2014 | written by Margaret Wahito

The Founder and CEO of Keroche Breweries Limited Tabitha Karanja is one woman whom I can say has gone to ‘hell and back’ to be where she is now. She has had to withstand a myriad of challenges for her business to be worth the billions of shillings it is worth at the moment....

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In Lionesses Tags Tabitha Karanja
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Quote of the Day

November 23, 2014 Melanie Hawken

“There is a special place in hell for women who don’t help other women.”

- Madeleine Albright, is a Czech-born American politician and diplomat. In 1993, Albright became a U.S. representative of the United Nations, and three years later she was appointed as the United States secretary of the state, the first ever female to hold the position, under the Clinton administration. She held the distinguished position for several years before leaving in 2001 to pursue other projects.

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In Quote of the Day Tags Quotes
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Entrepreneur Advice from Sibongile Sambo: Positive attitude has been key to my success

November 23, 2014 Melanie Hawken

Positive attitude is key to success in business.....

"You need to have a good attitude. Running a business is never easy. You will meet people that will try to run you down. You will have cases where you will want to loose your temper. Always having a good attitude will help grow with your business."

- Sibongile Sambo is a pioneering woman of South African aviation. She is founder and Chief Executive Officer of SRS Aviation Ltd., the first 100 percent black, female-owned aviation services company in South Africa. Launched in 2004, SRS is an integrated provider of private aviation services offering South African and international clients professional and personalized flight options including VIP Charter, tourist charter and helicopter services, to destinations around the world. Today, the company also provides maintenance, sales and fleet management services to private jet owners.

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Sibongile Sambo
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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.

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In Startup Story Tags Natural Wellness, Beauty & Wellness Month, South Africa
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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.

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In Startup Story Tags Agri-business, Food & Drink, South Africa
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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.

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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.

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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.

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In Startup Story Tags Khanyi Dhlomo, Media PR & Communications Month, Media PR & Communications, South Africa
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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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In Startup Story Tags Adenike Ogunlesi, Nigeria, Children's Clothing
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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 / 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 / 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 / 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 / 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

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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