IMAGE OF THE DAY
“They say that a picture says a thousand words, and we couldn't agree more. In the world of Lionesses of Africa, we celebrate women's entrepreneurship in all its forms on the continent, and we love the powerful images that conjure up the spirit of women-owned businesses and the products and services they create. These images give us an insight into the unique creativity that exists here in Africa and that is capturing the imagination of the world. Each Monday to Friday, Lionesses of Africa features a striking 'Image of the Day' that celebrates the work, or a moment in the life of, a talented African woman entrepreneur. Enjoy!”
— Melanie Hawken, LoA founder and editor-in-chief
Image of the Day / International Women's Day 2023
#EmbraceEquity…Today is International Women's Day 2023 and this year’s campaign theme is: #EmbraceEquity. Equity isn't just a nice-to-have, it's a must-have. A focus on gender equity needs to be part of every society's DNA, and it's critical to understand the difference between equity and equality. The aim of the IWD 2023 #EmbraceEquity campaign theme is to get the world talking about Why equal opportunities aren't enough. True inclusion and belonging require equitable action. Being included, and a sense of belonging, feel right. When we embrace equity, we embrace diversity, and we embrace inclusion. We embrace equity to forge harmony and unity, and to help drive success for all. Equality is the goal, and equity is the means to get there. Through the process of equity, we can reach equality. So let’s give equity a huge embrace this International Women’s Day.
Image of the Day / International Women's Day
#BreakTheBias - Today we are supporting International Women’s Day and it’s campaign to get everyone to imagine and work towards a gender equal world, free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women's equality. Collectively we can all #BreakTheBias. Read More →
Image of the Day / Ruff n Tumble
Image of the Day: Young fashionista style…We love the confident, youthful style of clothes designed and produced by leading premium children’s clothing brand, Ruff n Tumble in Nigeria, founded by Adenike Ogunlesi. She has been redefining and blazing the trail in the children’s fashion industry with over 35 years’ experience in the Fashion and Retail Business. Ruff ‘n’ Tumble has shared happiness with over a million children and families across the globe, because she dared to dream and pursue her vision fearlessly. Read More →
Image of the Day / Food Lounge Mz
Chocolate Bliss…For all those lovers of great hand-made chocolates, look no further than Food Lounge Mz in Mozambique, founded by Kátia Agy. Previously known as a singer and TV presenter, Kátia is now an entrepreneur, focused on building her business that makes beautiful edible bouquets using fresh fruits and chocolates. The Food Lounge Mz now has its sights on growth and becoming the largest chocolate maker in Mozambique. Read More →
Image of the Day / Ruahh
Beautiful Boho Style…If you are in search of some relaxed weekend style, then look no further than this great accessory combo from Ruahh, a great accessory brand founded by Michelle Hammond in Ghana/USA. The brand is known for its bold, unique and stylish accessories which add a cultural twist to style the comfort-loving versatile woman and her adventures. Read More →
Image of the Day / Vanhu Vamwe
Macrame Luxe…For all those who value traditional craftsmanship combined with cutting edge design and a touch of luxury, the new Macrame Luxe on Wheels collection from Vanhu Vamwe in Zimbabwe, co-founded by Pam Samasuwo-Nyawiri, is just the thing. This multi-award-winning sustainable brand combines its love of storytelling, traditional craftsmanship and community to bring for the first time a ‘Made in Zimbabwe” 100% handcrafted collection of luxury and uniquely designed handbags. Read More →
Image of the Day / Marini Naturals
Spritz those locks…For all those in need of a great moisturising treatment for their hair, we think this daily spritz from Marini Naturals in Kenya, founded by Michelle Ntalami, is simply wonderful. The company, which was inspired by the Swahili word for "Naturally Beautiful”, produces 100% natural and organic quality hair-care products which are a hit with all hair lovers. Read More →
Adele Dejak / Kenya
Image of the Day: African Renaissance Accessories… We are crazy about this statement beaded neckpiece from the talented Adele Dejak, founder of the Adele Dejak brand in Kenya. This authentic jewellery and fashion accessories brand offers direct access to the true premium African experience. Founder Adele is renowned for creating a wide variety of lovingly designed and handcrafted pieces including bracelets, earrings, necklaces and handbags. Every piece tells a story and is inspired by African textiles, cultures and traditions. Read More →
Midunu Chocolates / Ghana
Image of the Day: Moroccan spiced chocolates… We are big chocolate lovers at Lionesses of Africa, so we love these Laila chocolates from Midunu Chocolates in Ghana, handcrafted by entrepreneur and chocolatier, Selassie Atadika. Midunu Chocolates capture the essence of nature’s tastes and scents, and are visually evocative of their ingredients too, all wrapped in the finest chocolate and always made with love! Read More →
Miminat
Image of the Day: Lighting reimagined… We all love a little style in our homes and in our lives, and these fabulous new Ice Wall Sconces are style personified, designed by British Nigerian entrepreneur, Mimi Shodeinde, founder of Miminat. This groundbreaking UK based interior architecture and design business reimagines form and function. Working on projects in the UK and globally, Mimi’s philosophy is simple: to constantly innovate and explore and push the boundaries of the furniture and design world. Read More →
Lilly Alfonso
Image of the Day
Sharp dressing… What better way to end the week than wearing a beautifully designed and crafted suit from the Lilly Alfonso 2021 Collection in Malawi. Lilly Alfonso is a renowned fashion brand and its founder and Head Designer, Lilly Alfonso, is a two-time International Fashion Award winning designer for her contributions to the fashion industry.
Rio Largo
Image of the Day: Olive oil heaven… We have been huge fans for many years of the award-winning, extra virgin olive oil produced by Rio Largo in South Africa, the business and brand co-founded by Brenda Wilkinson and husband Nick. The Rio Largo Olive Estate, located in the beautiful Scherpenheuwel Valley, between Worcester and Robertson on the Southern banks of the Breede River in South Africa, has 18,000 olive trees made up of various cultivars. The end result is delicious tasting, well-balanced olive oil. Read More →
Femi Handbags
Image of the Day: The Ameena Mini… Who wouldn’t love this latest mini accessory creation from the ever-talented Femi Olayebi, founder of Femi Handbags in Nigeria? Femi is a self-taught handbag and accessories designer, trainer, mentor and the creative force behind the eponymous Femi Handbags brand. A translator turned designer and manufacturer, her entrepreneurial journey started in 1992 when she tried her hands at making a diaper bag for her first daughter. Since then, she has consistently pushed design boundaries, emerging as a leader in the Nigerian leather manufacturing and retail accessory space. Read More →
Midunu Chocolates
Image of the Day: Fresh truffle heaven… Who doesn’t love a beautiful handmade truffle filled with fresh natural tastes such as lemongrass and ginger? These lovingly hand-made chocolate beauties created by entrepreneur and chocolatier, Selassie Atadika, founder of Midunu Chocolates in Ghana, tick all the boxes for us. Her Seynabou truffles, all wrapped in dark chocolate, capture the essence of nature’s tastes and scents, and are visually evocative of their ingredients too. Read More →
Bold in Africa
Image of the Day: Beaded brass cuffs… If you want to make a statement, go big and go bold with your accessories, and these Nairobi Brass cuffs from the team at Bold in Africa in Uganda are simply stunning. Bold in Africa founders Ngyenzi ‘Nunu’ Mugyenyi, Janet Mugume and Angel Kalisa, have built an award-winning retail outlet, housing over thirty clothing and accessory brands from six different African countries. BOLD in Africa’s mission is to increase the awareness, appreciation and active support of African brands, both locally and internationally. Read More →
The House Of Agness
Image of the Day: Happy Valentine Roses… Romance is in the air as we prepare for Valentine’s Day this weekend, and we have fallen in love with these incredible floral boxes designed by the talented Mariana Agness Francisco Eria, founder of The House Of Agness in Mozambique. Her unique contemporary floral design company is inspired by minimalism and sustainability, and is a pioneer of floral luxury in the country and beyond its borders. Read More →
Reform Studio
Image of the Day: Nomadic Cushions… We love showcasing women innovators, so this morning we are featuring the work of sustainable lifestyle brand Reform Studio in Egypt. Founders Hend Riad and Mariam Hazem are reviving the country’s weaving industry, producing a range of high-end, eco-friendly furniture, fashion and home accessories, using the brand's invented fabric, Plastex, made out of waste plastic bags interwoven with cotton. Read More →
Keyara Organics
Image of the Day: Natural beauty… We are celebrating natural skincare today, so who better to feature than Keyara Organics in Kenya, a great natural skincare range that is sourced ethically from Africa's premium oils and natural scents. Founder Terryanne Chebet is passionate about Africa and growing a product that will change how the world and its consumers look at Africa, beautifully. Read More →
Image of the Day: Coffee Excellence… We love the magic of Ethiopian coffees, hand-roasted at their source by Ethiopia's finest coffee artisans at Garden of Coffee, Africa’s first indigenous coffee brand. Founder Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu believes that once you taste Ethiopian coffee that has been lovingly hand roasted by traditional Ethiopian coffee artisans your coffee perspectives are forever changed. Read More →
Design for Love
Image of the Day: Breezy Batik Style… The Arike Hi-Low Top created by Design for Love founder Wunmi Amokeodo in Nigeria, is breezy and easy-to-style wear for any occasion, from shopping in the local market to lunch with friends. Design for Love designs and manufactures female apparel and accessories using Ankara and other fabrics that are synonymous with the Nigerian and the African market. Read More →
YoCoco
Image of the Day: Granadilla Gelato… Vegan ice cream lovers are treated to vibrant taste sensations from YoCoco in South Africa, founded by the talented entrepreneur Sinenhlanhla Ndlela. YoCoco ice cream products are dairy free, hand made, and each flavour is designed according to a chakra and made with love. This exciting artisanal dairy free ice cream is tantalizing tastebuds in South Africa with fabulous flavour combinations. Read More →
Deola
Image of the Day: Ethereal couture… Fashion that makes a statement from Deola Sagoe Limited, the premier authentic African based luxury products provider, founded by the inspirational Adeola Ade-Ojo. The company’s interests span the whole fashion value chain from manufacture to retail. Deola Sagoe Limited offers a unique approach to fashion by engaging the use of sustainable and authentic African craftsmanship and techniques of heritage in the production of distinct contemporary silhouettes of global appeal. Read More →
Lunar
Image of the Day: Sophisticated elegance… The Kari dress from Lunar in South Africa, created by owner Nicola Luther and her talented creative team shows all the hallmark signatures of this ethical brand. Lunar has firmly established itself as one of the country’s top design labels over the past two decades. Drawing inspiration from nature and the African landscape, Lunar crafts clothing to be as natural as possible, both in fabrication and in design. Read More →
Mash. T Design Studio
Image of the Day: Lighting with drama… Light up your life and your favourite room with a dramatic piece of lighting design from Thabisa Mjo, founder and owner of Mash. T Design Studio in South Africa. This innovative furniture and design studio has a focus and philosophy to tell uniquely South African stories using the medium of design that makes a real statement. Read More →
Afrobotanics
Image of the Day: Nature inspired haircare… Banish dry hair with the Afrobotanics moisturising leave-in conditioner created by Ntombenhle Khathwane, a South African entrepreneur and advocate for natural hair and body products. She was inspired to launch her natural hair and body care product brand as a result of the frustration of not being able to buy high quality products locally - the rest, as they say, is history! Read More →
Bold in Africa
Image of the Day: Bold Pottery… Brighten up your morning coffee with handmade pottery mugs from Bold in Africa based in Uganda, founded by Ngyenzi ‘Nunu’ Mugyenyi, Janet Mugume and Angel Kalisa. The company is an award-winning retail outlet, housing over thirty clothing and accessory brands from six different African countries. BOLD in Africa’s mission is to increase the awareness, appreciation and active support of African brands, both locally and internationally. Read More →
The Nanjala Company
Image of the Day: Perfect pot plants… Give the gift of plants that will last, such as the stunning succulents in beautiful pots from The Nanjala Company in Kenya, founded by Teresa Nanjala Lubano. This online store creates customized gifts items and eye catching potted plants, all locally sourced and made in Kenya. The business joins hands with small scale artisans and craftsmen across Kenya to produce and deliver high quality handmade gifts and accessories for men and women. Read More →
AAKS x Liha Beauty
Image of the Day: AAKS x Liha collaboration,,,. Limited edition handwoven clutch bags from AAKS in Ghana, founded by Akosua Afriyie-Kumi, in collaboration with Liha Beauty, the British/Nigerian natural beauty brand founded by Liha Abi Oyepitan and Lina Okunniwa. These perfect holiday gifting ideas support two women-owned sustainable businesses that make an impact and make African luxury available to every discerning customer. Read More →
Nokware
Image of the Day: Beautiful Beard Balm… Premium shea butter meets finest grade natural oils like castor oil, hemp seed oil and argan oil in this brand new product specifically formulated to care for men’s beards by Nokware in Ghana, founded by Tutuwa Ahwoi. Packaged in signature bamboo packaging, with a tin lining and embossed with the brand’s ubiquitous leaf motif, Nokware Beard Balms is sure to be a firm favourite amongst beard wearers. Read More →
Amorambique
Image of the Day: Festive Capulana Decorations… Bringing a little festive cheer to home decor is Amorambique Home, founded by serial entrepreneur Patricia Vasco in Mozambique. Her home decor items celebrate the world-renowned and loved capulana fabric, and this latest collection of festive decorations for the holiday season is going to win over new and loyal fans alike. Read More →
Midunu Chocolates
Image of the Day: Chilli Chocolate Bliss… Handcrafted in Ghana by the talented Selassie Atadika, founder of Midunu Chocolates, these artisanal chilli scented chocolate truffles feature the flavors and essences of Africa, using the Ethiopian chilli blend known as berbere. Selassie and her team incorporate the complex flavor profiles that embody the beautiful patchwork of Africa’s culinary heritage into every beautifully crafted chocolate. Read More →
Khokho Collection
Image of the Day: Jabu Basket Bag…Artistry and craft in handbag design from Khokho Collection in eSwatini, founded by social entrepreneurs Philippa Thorne, Sapna Shah and master weaver Zinhle Vilakati. Khokho - the siSwati word for great-grandmother - is a handbag and accessories company committed to celebrating and supporting the development of local artisans, while preserving the spirit of traditional craft. Read More →
Dear Rae Jewellery
Image of the Day: Gorgeous gems… The latest Lucy collection of one-of-a-kind engagement rings from Dear Rae Jewellery, created by the talented Karin Rae Matthee who founded her Cape Town-based business in 2010. Karin crafts jewellery that celebrates the beauty and ease of simplicity and this translates into functional jewellery that can be worn every day. Read More →
Anita Quansah
Image of the Day: Art Meets Accessories… Another uniquely crafted accessory collection from the talented Anita Quansah, founder of the award-winning, UK based, sustainable wearable art brand Anita Quansah London that carries her name. Anita creates eye-catching handmade jewellery, footwear and accessories that are inspired by love, created with respect, and underpinned by passion and excellence. Read More →
The Joinery
Image of the Day: Safari Style… The Future Felt™ Safari Hat created by Natalie and Kim Ellis, founders of The Joinery in South Africa. This revolutionary and stylish hat is made from recycled plastic bottles and is the perfect accessory for those sunny days ahead! Like all other products from The Joinery, the Safari Hat has been handmade by women artisans who have been upskilled to produce beautiful, environmentally friendly products. Read More →
A A K S
Image of the Day: Handwoven Shopper Luxury… The Sese bag brings colourful luxury to everyday shopping, created by the talented Akosua Afriyie-Kumi, founder of A A K S. The brand was founded with the goal of introducing the world to Akosua’s favourite weaving techniques done by the women of Ghana, while also creating and igniting sustainable jobs within Africa. Handcrafted in Ghana, A A K S creates bags in styles that maintain the spirit and durability of their ancestral counterparts characterised by bright exuberant colours. Read More →
Burgundy Fly
Image of the Day: Sensational sleeves…The Lovisa Bell Sleeve Dress grabs attention with these dramatic sleeve details, showcased by Nobesuthu Ndlovu and her team at Burgundy Fly in South Africa. Burgundy Fly is a clothing boutique that retails the finest fashion created by South Africa’s top designers and a gallery for designers to showcase their talents and express their love for the art of design. Read More →
Timabee
Image of the Day: Evening handbag glamour… The Sara bag from Timabee in Nigeria, brings a little sparkle to any special occasion. This luxury women's handbag brand was launched in 2014 when Fatima Babakura decided to bring to reality one of the sketches that she couldn't forget about after she had drawn it. It was special and different from the others in her sketchbook. That sketch turned out to be Timabee's very first handbag design, 'The Classic'. The response from people was just amazing and that was when Fatima decided to turn her hobby into a business. Read More →
Soko
Image of the Day: Effortless simplicity… Earrings beautifully crafted by Shop Soko, Kenya, a women-led, people-first ethical jewelry brand and tech-powered manufacturing platform built to connect artisans in Kenya with the global market. As a certified B-Corp, Shop Soko, co-founded by Ella Peinovich, Gwendolyn Floyd, and Catherine Mahugu in 2011, believes in using business as a force for good to balance profit with purpose. Read More →
Katy Valentine Collection
Image of the Day: Drop leaf earrings… from Katy Valentine Collection. Katy Valentine is a South African jewellery designer creating collections inspired by African and Indian cultures. Her pieces combine antique African beads with Jaipur gemstones and minimalist design. Katy hopes to also expand her product range into interior design and homeware in the near future. Read More →
Dounia Home
Image of the Day: 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 high-quality, modern Moroccan lighting, operating ethically and helping to empower the artisan community behind her products. Dounia also ensures her products are made from sustainable materials, incorporate the most eco-friendly components, and are made with the highest quality materials. Read More →
ZAAF
Image of the Day: Luxurious Leather Dress… Afro-luxe brand ZAAF, founded by Abai Schulze, are renowned for creating beautiful, handcrafted luxury leather handbags and accessories produced by artisans in Ethiopia. Now the brand is launching into a designer collection of luxury leather clothing, and this Soft Tiger Orange Leather Dress is a stand-out example. Abai’s creative designs are inspired by Ethiopia’s precious cultural relics and she allows them renewed expression through fresh, uplifting and modern designs. Read More →
Keyara Organics
Image of the Day: Natural coconut skincare… Keyara Organics, founded by Kenyan entrepreneur Terryanne Chebet, is a natural skincare company inspired by Africa and its wealth of natural oils and scents. It is a brand with a soul and a real passion for the continent. Terryanne has a vision to grow the company to be among the world’s leading Natural Skincare brands, understanding that everyone needs a natural skincare routine. Read More →
Amorambique
Image of the Day: Clutch & Laces…A fabulous clutch accompanied by trendy laces, created by designer and founder Patricia Vasco and her brand, Amorambique. This proudly Mozambican brand of accessories and footwear is made entirely by hand by local artisans. The favorite raw material for Amorambique products is capulana. This 100% much loved Mozambican brand combines the modern and the traditional at the same time, and can be used on formal or casual occasions. Read More →
Zola Eve
Image of the Day: Cool Activewear… Zola Eve, founded by Ncheta Dasilva, is an African print inspired activewear brand with a conscience. The products are sustainably made from recycled materials, ethically manufactured in London, ensuring fair treatment and wages for workers. Entrepreneur Ncheta harnesses her Nigerian heritage to produce a memorable, eco-driven clothing range for yoga and exercise lovers alike. Read More →
Benji + Moon
Image of the Day: Innovative pet accessories…South Africa’s Benji + Moon, founded by Karen Carr and Hanneke Schutte, introduce their Elevated Feeders in 15cm and 20cm for cats and small to medium dogs. Mix and match them with their range of ceramic white, galaxy, eclipse and spilled milk bowls. This is designer dining for discerning pets! Read More →
HeraCloset Online
Image of the Day: Algerian artisan style… Entrepreneur Shaden Abushaera, founder of HeraCloset Online in Algeria strives to be a dedicated platform for women desirous of fashionable items of clothing, especially the brands that are local and emerging. She is on a mission to make it a one-stop-shop for local brands that reflect Arabian and Khaliji look, personality and taste. HeraCloset is a platform where you can launch a custom store and discover local artisans offering one-of-a-kind products not available on the market elsewhere. Read More →
Savanna Premium Chocolate
Image of the Day: Proudly Zambian Chocolate… Savanna Premium Chocolate is Zambia’s 1st bean-to-bar chocolatier. This woman-owned and run business was co-founded by two award winning chocolate makers, Chiinga Musonda and Lynn Musonda Phiri. Today they are an internationally recognized award-winning brand.Their goal is to build a global brand of luxury African chocolates while extending the value chain of the cocoa beans industry in Africa. Read More →
Spez
Image of the Day: Marvellous Mandazis… A tasty traditional Swahili treat, created by entrepreneur Esmeralda De Souza-Obwaka, founder of Spez Limited in Kenya, a premium outside catering service. This thriving business is renowned for its decadent cakes and pastries under the brand 'The Missing Slice’ and today boasts a client list that includes many of the leading corporates and multi-nationals in Nairobi. Read More →
Rokus London
New AURA earrings… By Rokus London, a fine jewellery brand founded by Marie-Paule Tano, and offering a selection of handcrafted pieces inspired by Africa. ROKUS jewellery is handcrafted between London and Abidjan, combining traditional and artisanal African metalwork with modern Western jewellery making techniques and design to create unique fine and demi-fine jewellery pieces with a trademark bold vintage look. Read more.
Naturals Beauty
Image of the Day: Fruit Enzyme Exfoliators…Tanya du Bois, founder of Naturals Beauty in Cape Town, South Africa has created an exciting range of fruit enzyme based exfoliators. These wonderful products contain papaya and pineapple extracts which create a brightening effect by breaking down the keratin proteins attached to dead skin. There is a lotion enzyme exfoliator in the Essential Collection Range and a Gel enzyme exfoliator in the Teen Range, all made with certified organic ingredients. Read More →
Nokware
Image of the Day: Luscious lip butters…from Nokware in Ghana, founded by Tutuwa Ahwoi. [“Knock-Wah-Ri”] means “Truth” in Twi, a local Ghanaian language. Originating from Africa’s rich traditions and resources, Nokware is a 100% natural brand committed to providing customers with a blend of the finest natural ingredients, sourced from sustainable local farms in West Africa and packaged with sustainable materials. Read More →
Image of the Day: Japenese flower inspiration… South Africa’s Smith Jewellery, founded by the talented Anna Raimondo, launches its beautiful new Kadō Collection. An exploration in natural shapes, graceful lines, and the implied meaning of the plants, this new collection echoes the fine details found in traditional Japanese flower arranging. Cherry blossoms for life and bamboo plants for growth, this collection was born for new beginnings. Read More →
EKI Africa On Silk
Image of the Day: Silk inspiration… Being submerged in Nature is precisely where most of the EKI print ideas are birthed by founder Hazel Eki Osunde. EKI, with its brand tag line Africa On Silk, is known for its signature soft silks and ethereal chiffons that form delicate drapings and flowing silhouettes. Designed with the modern woman in mind, the collections feature a combination of versatile separates and gorgeous kaftans that make for easy travelling and lounging. Read More →
African Things
Image of the Day: Trendy backpack… Colourful African textiles celebrated in a functional and fashionable backpack, created by Oluwatosin Lawson, founder of African Things in Nigeria. The business makes contemporary African inspired lifestyle products with innovative designs in a manner that empowers Africans. Read More →
Chocoloza
Image of the Day: Chocolate happiness… Treat yourself and your loved ones to a box of pure chocolate heaven from Chocoloza in South Africa, founded by entrepreneur and passionate chocolatier, Vicki Bain. The Chocoloza team create Seriously Belgian, Naturally African, handmade chocolates that are a delight to both the eyes and the tastebuds. Read More →