Startup Story

Safia Shatta is the founder and CEO of Mango Gate in Sudan, a specialist language learning platform. She is an urban planner, education activist, and a passionate polyglot, and is also proud to be an alumni of Orange Corners Sudan, a member of Women in Africa (WIA) and eTrade for Women. Additionally, she has been recognized as a UNDP-4YFN women innovator and the winner of North Africa's Most Promising Entrepreneur Award at the AfricArena Summit 2022. Through Mango Gate, Safia is dedicated to empowering people through language learning and breaking down communication barriers. She started the business in 2020 and today it employs 12 people.

LoA spoke to Safia about her business, her passion for language skills, and her commitment to empowering individuals and contributing to a better future for Sudan and beyond.

What does your company do?

Mango Gate is a language learning platform that provides live and online language classes taught by experienced teachers. We offer learners in Arabic-speaking nations in North Africa and the Middle East a flexible, accessible, and fun learning experience.

“I am extremely enthusiastic about the transformative capacity of languages. I am convinced that language skills influence our experiences and expand our horizons.”

What inspired you to start your company?

I am extremely enthusiastic about the transformative capacity of languages. I am convinced that language skills influence our experiences and expand our horizons. Languages have played a significant role in my own existence, opening avenues I never would have imagined. Languages have a one-of-a-kind way of expanding our world, from establishing meaningful relationships with others to gaining access to new career opportunities to discovering new cultures and creating enduring memories. I am motivated by a desire to empower others to embrace the limitless opportunities that language learning provides and to share this incredible experience with others.

Why should anyone use your service or product?

At Mango Gate, we take pride in teaching actual languages with the utmost flexibility. Our commitment to innovative and interactive language learning distinguishes us in the education sector.

“I am motivated by a desire to empower others to embrace the limitless opportunities that language learning provides and to share this incredible experience with others.”

Tell us a little about your team

Mango Gate is powered by a passionate and dedicated team of language lovers, instructors, and technology professionals. We work relentlessly together to create and offer high-quality language programs that enable our students to speak effectively and authentically in a worldwide society.

Share a little about your entrepreneurial journey. And do you come from an entrepreneurial background?

My entrepreneurial journey has been a rewarding and challenging one. While I didn't come from an entrepreneurial background, my passion for education and language learning guided me on this path. I have participated in various entrepreneurship programs and gained invaluable knowledge and skills that have helped me navigate the startup landscape.

What are your future plans and aspirations for your company?

We are excited about Mango Gate's future and the opportunities that lie ahead! We have remained resilient and committed to having a positive impact despite the ongoing conflict in Sudan. The obstacles we have encountered have only increased our motivation to expand our reach and markets, ensuring that more people can benefit from our language learning experiences. We are committed to empowering individuals and contributing to a better future for Sudan and beyond.

“At Mango Gate, we take pride in teaching actual languages with the utmost flexibility. Our commitment to innovative and interactive language learning distinguishes us in the education sector.”

What gives you the most satisfaction being an entrepreneur?

Being an entrepreneur is incredibly fulfilling because we get to witness the amazing impact we have on people's lives. Empowering students to conquer language barriers and achieve their dreams fills us with boundless joy and fulfillment. Mango Gate has been an incredible journey, fueling my passion and expanding my horizons. It has encouraged me to be a courageous entrepreneur, instilling in me the power of resilience and empathy. I'm grateful for the opportunities and challenges that have shaped me. I'm thrilled about the future of Mango Gate and the lives we'll touch through languages and education!

What's the biggest piece of advice you can give to other women looking to start-up?

I would like to encourage any future female business owners to have faith in themselves and their goals. Don't be scared to try new things and grow from your mistakes. Build a strong network of people who have your back, and never stop expanding your knowledge. You can make a difference and build a great business if you're determined and consistent.

Contact or follow Mango Gate

EMAIL safia@mango-gate.com

Why LoA loves it….

At Lionesses of Africa, we love to see women entrepreneurs who are building businesses that empower and upskill others so they can fulfill their own potential and realize their career ambitions. Safia Shatta is playing an important role through her business to empower others through language, and by harnessing the power of innovation and digital learning tools, she is making language education accessible. She is making a real difference to people’s lives and their economic potential through language learning, and we look forward to seeing how this business grows and continues to make even greater impact in the future. — Melanie Hawken, founder & ceo, Lionesses of Africa