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On Perseverance: How a Dream to Visit Fiji Became a Testament to Never Giving Up

February 5, 2025 Melanie Hawken

by Dr. Memuna Williams, DBA

Last year, Victor and I finally made it to Fiji on our first trip to the Pacific. But the journey to get there was one filled with patience, perseverance, and a little bit of life’s detours.

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In Guest Blog Tags Dr. Memuna Williams, Perseverance
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Consistency

October 2, 2022 Melanie Hawken

by Brigette Mashile

Consistency: acting or done in the same way over time, especially so as to be fair or accurate - Google

Every guru in every speciality will tell you that you can do anything you set your mind to, and you will excel if you are consistent in it. If you have a strategy and you follow it religiously, over time it becomes easier and you start seeing the results of your efforts. The simplest example is gym. A lot of posts on social media on the subject of weight loss talk about being consistent. Even if the exercise is 5 minutes long, as long as you are consistent daily, at some point you start seeing a difference.

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In Guest Blog Tags Brigette Mashile, Entrepreneurial Mindset, Perseverance
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Perseverance is not always the answer

July 10, 2022 Melanie Hawken

by Kathy Mann

I enjoy reading entrepreneurial books and articles. I have a fascination with people’s passions and what makes them do what they do. I’m also a fan of research and while running a business I wanted to know more and to ensure I was doing the right things. I remember reading some quote about how success is just on the other side of feeling like giving up. Reading that advice was really detrimental for me, in fact. You see, I’m not a quitter. I persevered so much that my health collapsed. To be fair, I didn’t heed the advice in the same articles of weeding out toxic elements and doing what you love.

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In Guest Blog Tags Kathy Mann, Perseverance
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Keep moving!

June 18, 2022 Melanie Hawken

by Nontobeko Mbuyane

Most of us will experience hard choices, stressful events and difficult situations that will impact us in one way or another for the rest of our lives. Hard times happen and they teach us lessons, make us stronger, and give us a deeper sense of self. After all, would sitting in the sun mean as much if you hadn’t experienced the storm first? Elizabeth Taylor once said: “You just do it. You force yourself to get up. You force yourself to put one foot before the other, and darn it, you refuse to let it get to you. You fight. You cry. You curse. Then you go about the business of living. That’s how I’ve done it. There’s no other way.”

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In Guest Blog Tags Nontobeko Mbuyane, Resilience, Perseverance
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It gets better - just persevere

April 10, 2022 Melanie Hawken

By Lionesses of Africa Operations Department

Following on from our article last week about changing the flow of Luck through working on the ‘little things’, this week we look at how this can actually be achieved. We’ve all heard the adage - ‘How do you eat an Elephant? - One bite at a time!’, to show that even the most monumental task can be brought down to bite-sized chunks and indeed at that level the chances of success if you persevere is far greater than sitting in front of a massive ‘Nellie’ and wondering what next?! This has been recognised through time and it is certainly no wonder that one of the most famous and well-known Chinese sayings is "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step”.

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In Team Lioness Tags Perseverance, Entrepreneurial Mindset
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Keep Pushing 

February 19, 2022 Melanie Hawken

by Claudia Folgore-McLellan

It quite aptly feels like January and February are one long, drawn out month and I’m sure most of us are suffering latent fatigue from having had to push that much harder in the past year. As solopreneurs and freelancers, the demands on us are just that much greater, it’s literally a permanent no work, no pay situation. The ‘holidays’ also often feel like an extension of the year that casually morphs into a new one with the only change being the date. With Covid fatigue we’ve all felt the exhaustion from being hyper virus vigilant. The easy option is to simply give up (even just a bit to have a rest) – the better option, though, is to KEEP PUSHING!

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In Guest Blog Tags Claudia Folgore-McLellan, Perseverance
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Entrepreneur Advice from Chrissa Amuah / Get ready for the long haul

December 9, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Chrissa Amuah, founder of AMWA Designs (UK/Ghana)

Chrissa Amuah, founder of AMWA Designs (UK/Ghana)

Get ready for the long haul!…

“Be ready to be in it for the long haul; they say building a company from scratch takes 3-5 years. It may take longer. Dig deep and breathe deeply.”

Chrissa Amuah, founder of AMWA Designs (UK/Ghana)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Perseverance, Entrepreneurial Journey
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Entrepreneur Advice from Bitania Amare / Just keep going

November 10, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Bitania Amare, founder of Orbit Consulting PLC (Ethiopia)

Bitania Amare, founder of Orbit Consulting PLC (Ethiopia)

Just keep going!…

“I have learnt it takes a lot of work and patience to succeed as an entrepreneur. The key is to keep going even when things do not go your way.”

Bitania Amare, founder of Orbit Consulting PLC (Ethiopia)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Perseverance
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Entrepreneur Advice from Dr Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka / Keep reaching for your dreams

October 27, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Dr Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka

Dr Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka

Keep reaching for your dreams!…

“There will be times when it becomes really difficult and you're thinking this is hard, but keep reaching for your dreams and the rest will follow.”

Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka, founder, Gorilla Conservation Coffee (Uganda)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka, Perseverance, Dream
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Quote of the Day by Anita Quansah

September 28, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Anita Quansah, founder, Anita Quansah London (UK)

Anita Quansah, founder, Anita Quansah London (UK)

“You only know how strong you are when being strong is the only option you have.”

Anita Quansah, founder, Anita Quansah London (UK)

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In Quote of the Day Tags Perseverance
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Entrepreneur Advice from Lisa Videira / Keep moving

September 23, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Lisa Videira, founder of LV Digital Lda, (Angola)

Lisa Videira, founder of LV Digital Lda, (Angola)

Keep moving!…

“Whenever you feel you are sinking, ask for help, advice, tips - scream and cry if necessary - but keep in mind that the storm will pass and you will keep moving.”

Lisa Videira, founder of LV Digital Lda, (Angola)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Perseverance
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Entrepreneur Advice from Tiguidanke Camara / Never give up

September 14, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Tiguidanke Camara, founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Tigui Mining Group (TMG)

Tiguidanke Camara, founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Tigui Mining Group (TMG)

Never give up!…...

“Surround yourself with experts, work hard and always remain professional. Most of all, never give up.”

Tiguidanke Camara, founder & CEO of Tigui Mining Group (TMG)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Tiguidanke Camara, Perseverance, Work Ethic
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Entrepreneur Advice from Shabana Habibo / Believe in yourself

August 31, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Shabana Habibo, founder, Enviro Green Lda (Mozambique)

Shabana Habibo, founder, Enviro Green Lda (Mozambique)

Believe in yourself!…

“Just don’t give up. There will be days that we can't seem to handle, but believe in yourself and take that leap of faith that things will happen!”

Shabana Habibo, founder, Enviro Green Lda (Mozambique)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Perseverance
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Entrepreneur Advice from Kathy Mann / Remember why you started your business

August 25, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Kathy Mann, author, speaker and stress management expert (South Africa)

Kathy Mann, author, speaker and stress management expert (South Africa)

Remember why you started your business!…

“Connecting with the reason you started the business is a great method to kickstart your enthusiasm in times of struggle.”

Kathy Mann, author, speaker and stress management expert (South Africa)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Perseverance
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Quote of the Day Dana Mroueh

August 24, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Dana Mroueh, founder, Mon Choco (Cote d’Ivoire)

Dana Mroueh, founder, Mon Choco (Cote d’Ivoire)

“I get great satisfaction seeing my team strongly espouse courage and persistence.”

Dana Mroueh, founder, Mon Choco (Cote d’Ivoire)

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In Quote of the Day Tags Perseverance
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Ignore the NO, focus on the YES

August 1, 2020 Melanie Hawken
pablo-281.png

by Brigette Mashile, founder of Roka Roko

Two weeks ago I submitted my writing to an organization that is looking for content writers. I was referred by a friend. After 2 weeks I was about to ask if they had received my work for the opportunity but I received the reply first. And it was a NO. I will admit, I feared that it was a no before I opened the email; I tried to reprimand myself. Why am I expecting the worst? Well I did receive the worst.

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In Guest Blog Tags Brigette Mashile, Perseverance
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Entrepreneur Advice from Petrina Auino-Mwandingi / Have patience and reap the rewards

July 31, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Petrina Auino-Mwandingi, Founder, KOVA (Namibia)

Petrina Auino-Mwandingi, Founder, KOVA (Namibia)

Have patience and reap the rewards!…

“They tell you it's hard to start a business, but often you don't hear about just how long it takes. It can take time, a long time, to really see your business thrive and it takes real patience to keep waiting to finally reap the fruits of your labour.”

Petrina Auino-Mwandingi, Founder, KOVA (Namibia)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Entrepreneurial Journey, Perseverance
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Quote of the Day by Alisha Rabbipal

July 13, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Alisha Rabbipal, Managing Director, KZN Law Offices, (South Africa)

Alisha Rabbipal, Managing Director, KZN Law Offices, (South Africa)

“Perseverance is all it takes. Never give in to defeat without a challenge. Claim your reign.”

Alisha Rabbipal, Managing Director, KZN Law Offices, (South Africa)

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In Quote of the Day Tags Perseverance
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Entrepreneur Advice from Sophia Richter / Do not give up!

July 10, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Sophia Richter, founder, Section Thirty-Five Legal and Business Solutions (South Africa)

Sophia Richter, founder, Section Thirty-Five Legal and Business Solutions (South Africa)

Do not give up!…

“It is not an easy journey, and can be a very lonely one at times, however do not give up. It is all SO worth it at the end.”

Sophia Richter, founder, Section Thirty-Five Legal and Business Solutions (South Africa)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Perseverance
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Entrepreneur Advice from Lisa Videira / Be flexible with your business plans

June 19, 2020 Melanie Hawken
Lisa Videira, founder, LV Digital Lda, (Angola)

Lisa Videira, founder, LV Digital Lda, (Angola)

Be flexible with your business plans…

“Be flexible to adapt your plans to the reality and obstacles you will encounter on the way. Besides this, keep walking, it won’t be easy but it will definitely be worth it.”

Lisa Videira, founder, LV Digital Lda, (Angola)

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In Entrepreneur Advice Tags Perseverance
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Older Posts →

Tech FoundHER AFRICA CHALLENGE


CELEBRATING 10 YEARS


LATEST PODCAST

LIONESSES OF AFRICA · AI Series Ep. 2 : AI-Human Collaboration in the Workplace

Lioness Radio Show: AI Series Ep. 2 : AI-Human Collaboration in the Workplace - Tune in for an engaging conversation designed to equip you with the knowledge to embrace AI and unlock its possibilities for your business.


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 / Sari for Change

Sustainable Shawl Glamour - If you want to wear a shawl that makes you feel and look glamorous, Rayana Edwards, founder of Harem in South Africa, offers a range of fabulous shawls made from sari fabrics. She has be
Image of the Day / The House of Agness

An elegant floral gifting idea… Mariana Agness Francisco Eria is a creative force in contemporary floral design. Her business, The House of Agness, is a luxury florist and gifting boutique nestled in Map
Image of the Day /  Lunar

Summer kaftan reinvented…We have always been big fans of Lunar in South Africa, the stylish sustainable clothing brand created by owner Nicola Luther and her talented team. Lunar has firmly established itself as one
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 / The Joinery

The Laptop Pouch…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™ fabric
Image of the Day / Margaux Wong

Sustainable statement jewellery…We love the strong’ Eve 2 Collection’ designs of the hugely talented Margaux Rusita, founder of Margaux Wong in Burundi. This international, multi-cultural jewellery
Image of the Day / The House of Agness

An elegant floral gifting idea… Mariana Agness Francisco Eria is a creative force in contemporary floral design. Her business, The House of Agness, is a luxury florist and gifting boutique nestled in Map
Image of the Day / Pichulik

Statement earrings… Introducing Earrings from the Mamatongue Collection by Katherine-Mary Pichulik, the founder and designer behind the Pichulik line of accessories, in collaboration with Italian designer Matteo Ci
Image of the Day / Rokus London

Sculpted statement jewellery…If you want to make a statement with your accessories, then these uniquely crafted pieces by Rokus London, a fine jewellery brand founded by Marie-Paule Tano, are just for you. Roku
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 / Sari for Change

Sustainable Shawl Glamour - If you want to wear a shawl that makes you feel and look glamorous, Rayana Edwards, founder of Harem in South Africa, offers a range of fabulous shawls made from sari fabrics. She has be Image of the Day / The House of Agness

An elegant floral gifting idea… Mariana Agness Francisco Eria is a creative force in contemporary floral design. Her business, The House of Agness, is a luxury florist and gifting boutique nestled in Map Image of the Day /  Lunar

Summer kaftan reinvented…We have always been big fans of Lunar in South Africa, the stylish sustainable clothing brand created by owner Nicola Luther and her talented team. Lunar has firmly established itself as one 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 / The Joinery

The Laptop Pouch…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™ fabric Image of the Day / Margaux Wong

Sustainable statement jewellery…We love the strong’ Eve 2 Collection’ designs of the hugely talented Margaux Rusita, founder of Margaux Wong in Burundi. This international, multi-cultural jewellery Image of the Day / The House of Agness

An elegant floral gifting idea… Mariana Agness Francisco Eria is a creative force in contemporary floral design. Her business, The House of Agness, is a luxury florist and gifting boutique nestled in Map Image of the Day / Pichulik

Statement earrings… Introducing Earrings from the Mamatongue Collection by Katherine-Mary Pichulik, the founder and designer behind the Pichulik line of accessories, in collaboration with Italian designer Matteo Ci Image of the Day / Rokus London

Sculpted statement jewellery…If you want to make a statement with your accessories, then these uniquely crafted pieces by Rokus London, a fine jewellery brand founded by Marie-Paule Tano, are just for you. Roku 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

STARTUP STORIES. MEET THE WOMEN WHO’VE LAUNCHED.

Featured
Lerato Masuku, a South African construction business builder with a passion for infrastructure development and job creation
Lerato Masuku, a South African construction business builder with a passion for infrastructure development and job creation
Olamide Alade, a Nigerian fashion brand builder with a passion for weaving cultural heritage into every garment
Olamide Alade, a Nigerian fashion brand builder with a passion for weaving cultural heritage into every garment
Mirza Jamal, a Mozambican marcomms expert empowering businesses and brands
Mirza Jamal, a Mozambican marcomms expert empowering businesses and brands
Lovable Dladla, a South African entrepreneur turning a passion for baking into a growing business
Lovable Dladla, a South African entrepreneur turning a passion for baking into a growing business
Gladys Kgorane, an entrepreneur creating special events and wellness retreats for those looking for rest and relaxation
Gladys Kgorane, an entrepreneur creating special events and wellness retreats for those looking for rest and relaxation

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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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