Carla Pinto, a Mozambican entrepreneur creating a popular blogging platform for mothers and mothers-to-be

November 15, 2019 Melanie Hawken

Carla Pinto, founder of Arco-Íris & Borboletas (Mozambique)

Startup Story

When you are a new mom, getting access to great quality information and resources, combined with insights and opinions from other moms is so useful. So in Mozambique, one woman entrepreneur is creating the ultimate, go-to resource for parents to be and those who are already on their family raising journey. Carla Pinto, founder of Arco-Íris & Borboletas, is creating a safe space for the sharing of information and feedback so that moms and dads can learn from each other and get access to great resources too.

Hape Marite Mphale, an entrepreneur creating natural hair care products and building a great brand in Lesotho

November 15, 2019 Melanie Hawken

Hape Marite Mphale, founder of Blackhair (Lesotho)

Startup Story

The haircare business globally is big business, and in Africa, the market for high quality, home-grown brands that know exactly how to cater to the specific haircare needs of African women is exploding. In Lesotho, entrepreneur Hape Marite Mphale has created the Blackhair brand, a popular and rapidly growing natural hair care brand and range of products.

Business without a business plan

November 15, 2019 Melanie Hawken

by Catia Mondlane, founder of Isabella Estetica & Cosmeticos

Fortunately, today we have many people who talk about business and how a business plan can make your abstract ideas become a reality. There is also a range of business plan samples that are available online for free, meaning, anyone can sit down and write a business plan. Before I started my natural cosmetic company, Isabella Estetica & Cosmeticos, I tried many businesses but couldn’t get them off the ground - not because they were bad, but I was creating blockages as soon as I started to write a business plan. Let me say that I have got nothing against business plans as such, and I’m not saying that people shouldn’t plan because planning is very important when one wants to take proper steps towards achieving goals and having a successful business.

Grit is Necessary for a Successful Journey

November 15, 2019 Melanie Hawken

by Fatuma Abdullah

I get hot under the collar, when I attend seminars or conferences and entrepreneurs are presented in a romanticized fashion. Or worse, glamorizing the subject of entrepreneurship and neglecting the most important unseen component of the journey, the sleepless nights, the self-discipline, rejection, disappointments, failure, the lack of support and resources.

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)

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)

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

100 LIONESSES: Featuring Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu, founder of Africa's leading footwear brand soleRebels

November 10, 2019 Melanie Hawken

Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu, founder and Managing Director of soleRebels (Ethiopia) — **Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu**, founder and Managing Director of soleRebels (Ethiopia)

Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu is founder and Managing Director of soleRebels, the world's fastest-growing African footwear brand and the only Fair Trade-certified footwear company in the world. Growing up in a poor suburb of Addis Ababa, Bethlehem decided that there was only one way to defeat poverty – use local craftsmanship to make products that can compete in the global marketplace. She decided on footwear and today 70,000 pairs of shoes leave her factory every year.

Lioness Demo Day in Johannesburg showcases exciting, high-growth women owned brands and products

November 10, 2019 Melanie Hawken

Event Report

There is nothing quite like experiencing exciting products and services up close and in person, not to mention meeting the inspirational women entrepreneurs who are their creators. On the morning of 7 November, Lionesses of Africa, in partnership with Absa, hosted a truly memorable Demo Day showcase of 23 of the most exciting, high growth businesses and their world-class products and services. A packed audience of 100 buyers, corporate decision-makers and bankers gathered together at the Houghton Hotel in Johannesburg to meet these women entrepreneurs who are being tipped to take their businesses to the next level in 2020.

Feeling Overwhelmed By A Big (Or Small) Life Challenge? Read This…

November 10, 2019 Melanie Hawken

by Saajidah Esat, Freelancer

The challenges we experience in our lives present themselves when we’re ready to learn something. Any challenge we face, big or small, comes as a sign, to show us what we need to learn, where we need to grow and how we can adjust our sails so that we can get to where we want to be.

What grass can reveal about your financial mindset

November 10, 2019 Melanie Hawken

by Eldari Visser

I want you to hear David Attenborough’s voice* in your head. Smooth, soft and slowly describing a lioness making her way towards her prey. It goes like this, “she knows that she has this one opportunity today.…..slowly she makes her way forward using the long yellow grasslands to be her cover. The grass is her best support system. As it sways in the wind she catches a glimpse of the gazelle.….the grass protects her from being seen… here she will stay until the moment comes to charge.” Can you imagine this scene? Long, wavy, thick grass is her necessary tool for a day’s work.

Ana Loyd Vasconcelos, an Angolan fashion designer creating beautiful contemporary clothes inspired by the past

November 10, 2019 Melanie Hawken

Startup Story

Finding stunningly beautiful clothes to wear for any occasion in Angola, whether formal or casual wear, has never been easier, thanks to the creative design talent of Ana Lloyd Vasconcelos. Her fashion company and brand, AnaLoyd Lda, is bringing a touch of glamour to all her customers who want to look and feel beautiful in her clothing.

Ntsiuoa Makoae, a foodpreneur in Lesotho creating healthy, locally produced dairy products for happy local customers

November 10, 2019 Melanie Hawken

Ntsiuoa Makoae, founder of Boiphihlelo (Lesotho)

Startup Story

In Lesotho, one enterprising woman took a challenge of finding new markets for local dairy farmers and turned it into a successful business venture. Ntsiuoa Makoae, founder of Boiphihlelo, is today producing a popular range of dairy products that provide an income for local dairy farmers and a source of great nutrition for local consumers.

LIONESS LAUNCH / New golf competition launches in South Africa to celebrate the end of a busy business year

November 10, 2019 Melanie Hawken

Lioness Launch

South African entrepreneur, Didintle Motsuenyane, founder of More Than Golf (Pty) Ltd, has just announced the launch of an exciting new golfing event in the country’s economic capital, Gauteng, to mark what has been a hard, busy business year. Experienced golfers and corporate weekend golfing enthusiasts alike, are invited to participate as part of their wind down for the year. Founder, Didintle Motsuenyane, is keen to encourage women entrepreneur golfers to take part too.

Write. Publish. Market: From Idea to Published Book: The Entrepreneur’s Blueprint by Jodi Brandon

November 10, 2019 Melanie Hawken

Book Review

According to author Jodi Brandon in her latest book, Write. Publish. Market: From Idea to Published Book: The Entrepreneur’s Blueprint, so many creative business owners and entrepreneurs have ‘writing a book’ on their bucket list, but are intimated by the process. If you are one such entrepreneur, and you think you have a book just bursting to get out, but you just can’t get started or simply don’t know how, then this is a great read just for you!

Quote of the Day by Lindiwe Mafavuneh

November 7, 2019 Melanie Hawken

"The start-up journey is not for the faint hearted, have grit and believe anything is possible."

Lindiwe Mafavuneh, founder of LCM Capital (Botswana)

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

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

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

Access to markets and finance key topics at the latest Lioness Lean In Enterprise Event in Nelspruit

November 3, 2019 Melanie Hawken

Event Report

It was another city first for Lionesses of Africa on Wednesday 30 October as the latest Lioness Lean In Enterprise took place for high growth potential women entrepreneurs in the city. Once again in this important series of events, it was hosted in partnership with ABSA.

The most powerful woman in the room is you by Lydia Fenet

November 3, 2019 Melanie Hawken

Book Review

In The Most Powerful Woman in the Room Is You, Lydia Fenet takes you on her twenty-year journey from intern to managing director and global head of strategic partnerships at Christie’s Auction House. Lydia shares the revolutionary sales approach she has crafted over the years that has not only shaped her career, but helped her raise more than half a billion dollars for nonprofits around the world.

Download your FREE copy of the latest Playbook: Financing Business Growth

25 leading African women entrepreneurs share practical strategies, real experiences and advice. Playbook link

Tech FoundHER AFRICA CHALLENGE

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS

LATEST PODCASTS

LIONESSES OF AFRICA · Lioness GoTrade Podcast Episode 1

Episode 1: Lioness GoTrade Podcast: your go-to resource for growing your business beyond borders. Lionesses of Africa and DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa launch a new podcast series to help women-owned and women-led SMEs break into new markets through cross-border trade. Our launch episode features four remarkable women, each with a different view and experience of cross-border trade.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 / 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 / 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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

"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."

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

"The start-up journey is not for the faint hearted, have grit and believe anything is possible."

“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.”

“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.”

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