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Screen your house and pet sitters

December 6, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Jenny Reid

The holiday season is coming up and it’s time to start thinking about house sitters and pet sitters. These people will have unsupervised access to your home and your pets for the duration of your holiday. Many things could happen in a couple of days you’re away. 

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In Guest Blog Tags Jenny Reid, People Management
Comment

Discover Your Passion and Turn It into a Business

December 6, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Catia Mondlane 

Discovering your passion and turning it into a sustainable business is a journey that requires courage, self-awareness, and, above all, action. It's not uncommon to feel the pressure to follow a conventional path, but it's when we connect with our true passions that we find personal and professional fulfilment. On this journey, we not only learn how to generate income but also how to impact lives.

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In Guest Blog Tags Catia Mondlane, PT, Getting Started
Comment

The Myth of Risk Aversion: Women in Business

December 6, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Daphney Klopper

In the world of business, the narrative that women are more risk-averse than men has persisted for decades. But is this perception rooted in reality, or is it a convenient stereotype that overlooks deeper, systemic issues?

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In Guest Blog Tags Daphney Klopper, Women's Empowerment, Risk Management
Comment

Plan for Your Personal Growth

December 6, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Ronel Jooste

It was the question “What is your plan for your personal growth?” that made world-renowned leadership expert John C. Maxwell ponder about his career aspirations and that has ignited his journey becoming one of the most respected authors about leadership and personal growth.

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In Guest Blog Tags Ronel Jooste, Personal Development
Comment

The Power of Integration: Aligning Passion and Purpose in Entrepreneurship

November 23, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Sarah Dusek

Embracing who we truly are unlocks our true potential. As women entrepreneurs, we often face immense pressure to fit into certain molds—to appear a specific way, to act within socially accepted boundaries, and to pursue goals that align with what’s considered appropriate for us. We’re encouraged to be successful, but only in ways that fit society’s expectations. The truth is, when we bring our whole, authentic selves to our businesses—beyond those imposed limits—we can create opportunities not just for growth but for building something deeply aligned with who we are and the impact we want to make in the world.

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In Guest Blog Tags Sarah Dusek, People Management
Comment

Black Friday is coming: is your business ready to shine online?

November 23, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Vuyelwa Gxakushe

As Black Friday approaches, one thing is certain: your customers are already on the hunt for deals. They’re researching products, comparing prices, and planning their purchases. For you business owners, this is a golden opportunity. But here’s the catch—you won’t just magically appear in front of your customers. To stand out, your business needs to be found online, and your competitors are thinking the exact same thing. So, how do you make sure you’re the first choice when customers start searching for Black Friday deals? It all starts with getting prepared early and adjusting your marketing strategy for the busiest shopping season of the year.

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In Guest Blog Tags Vuyelwa Gxakushe, Marketing
Comment

Finishing 2024 strong and planning for 2025: you can’t hit a target you can’t see

November 23, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Margaret Hirsch

As we approach the final weeks of 2024, now is the perfect time to reflect on the year so far, assess how far we've come, and set our sights on finishing strong. But as we look ahead, we must also think about how to position ourselves for success in 2025. After all, you can’t hit a target you can’t see.

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In Guest Blog Tags Margaret Hirsch, Business Plan, Entrepreneurial Mindset
Comment

The first steps to starting a business

November 23, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Catia Mondlane 

Starting a business can seem challenging, but with passion and dedication, it's possible to turn an idea into a successful reality. The key lies in identifying a problem you can solve, developing an effective solution, and from there, building something that makes a difference in people’s lives. I'll share a bit about my personal journey, which began with my own struggle and transformed into a skincare business focused on oily and acne-prone skin.

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In Guest Blog Tags Catia Mondlane, PT, Getting Started
Comment

Time Management for Busy Entrepreneurs

November 16, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Catia Mondlane 

Being an entrepreneur is an exciting and challenging journey. However, running a business comes with an additional responsibility: managing your time effectively. Between tasks, meetings, clients, and personal life, it can be difficult to balance everything without feeling overwhelmed. Fortunately, with some practical strategies, it’s possible to optimise your time and increase productivity. Here are some time management tips for busy entrepreneurs.

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In Guest Blog Tags Catia Mondlane, PT, Productivity Time & Energy
Comment

Embrace Calm: 5 Anxiety-Fueling Habits to Let Go Of

November 16, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Lori Milner

Have you ever made a judgement about someone and then only later found out they were actually a great person, and you had more in common than you think? What if it's the same with change? What if instead of making judgements and accusations about change, you got to know it better? What if you realised it actually brought you a gift, but you were so busy avoiding it that you didn't stop to notice or even say thank you? Now, you know that you can't literally bump into change at a party. But you know change is coming, and sometimes it's voluntary.

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In Guest Blog Tags Lori Milner, Entrepreneurial Mindset
Comment

Holiday Rental Safety

November 16, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Jenny Reid

Holiday rental time is rife with scammers, fraudsters and the possibility of theft or damage. For holiday-makers, late bookings run the risk of their deposits being stolen, booking a rental that has already been booked or simply doesn’t exist. There may also be unforeseen fees that get included at the last minute.

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In Guest Blog Tags Jenny Reid, Legal
Comment

The Power of Resilience: Bouncing Back from Disappointment in Business

November 16, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Seanice Lojede

Disappointment is an inevitable part of life, especially in business. Whether it's losing a major client, missing out on a tender, or watching a deal fall through, these setbacks can hit hard. But what truly separates those who thrive in the face of adversity from those who falter is their ability to bounce back - and bounce back quickly.

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In Guest Blog Tags Seanice Lojede, Resilience
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Embracing the Unknown: 4 Wisdom-Packed Quotes for Navigating Change

November 10, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Lori Milner

Have you ever made a judgement about someone and then only later found out they were actually a great person, and you had more in common than you think? What if it's the same with change? What if instead of making judgements and accusations about change, you got to know it better? What if you realised it actually brought you a gift, but you were so busy avoiding it that you didn't stop to notice or even say thank you? Now, you know that you can't literally bump into change at a party. But you know change is coming, and sometimes it's voluntary.

Read more
In Guest Blog Tags Lori Milner, Entrepreneurial Mindset
Comment

Finding your MOJO Again

November 8, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Marjon Meyer

Are you feeling drained and lost your spark? When exhaustion, anxiety, and stress consume you, losing your MOJO can feel inevitable. However, reclaiming your vitality and enthusiasm is within reach. Begin by acknowledging your emotional state and granting yourself permission to rest. Allow your mind and body to recharge with rejuvenating activities. Reconnect with nature, whether a serene walk or simply gazing at the sky. Nourish your body with wholesome foods, hydrate with intention, and prioritise sleep. Revisit your goals and the progress you have made to achieve your important milestones.

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In Guest Blog Tags Marjón Meyer, Work Life Balance
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Overcoming The Fear of Failure as an Entrepreneur

November 8, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Catia Mondlane 

The fear of failure is one of the greatest obstacles many entrepreneurs face. Whether at the beginning of their journey or during critical moments of growth, this fear can paralyse, undermine confidence, and even prevent great ideas from moving forward. However, learning to overcome this fear is essential for achieving business success. Let’s explore how you can tackle this feeling and turn it into a driving force for your entrepreneurial journey.

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In Guest Blog Tags Catia Mondlane, PT, Fear
Comment

From CEO to Psychologist: Managing Team Dynamics in High-Stakes Environments

November 8, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Sarah Dusek

As a founder or leader, you quickly realize that the role extends far beyond setting strategy or managing operations. It’s fundamentally about leading people—understanding their motivations, managing team dynamics, navigating conflicts, and fostering a supportive, productive environment. Founders and CEOs often take on the role of “chief psychologist” in their organizations, responsible for optimizing team performance and maintaining the mental and emotional well-being of their employees. This becomes even more crucial in fast-paced environments, where high stakes and constant challenges amplify stress and emotional responses.

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In Guest Blog Tags Sarah Dusek, People Management
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New Fields

November 3, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Brigette Mashile

The other day I saw a reel that said to get something new you have to do something you have never done before. Simple, and yet so massive. I tell my friends that by changing one small thing in your day, you are shifting the entire day, week and month. If you decide to wake up 30 minutes earlier, you will soon realize you need to sleep 30 minutes earlier, which will affect the time you make supper, the time you get off work, etc. It will give you a new experience and something new about you.

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In Guest Blog Tags Brigette Mashile, Entrepreneurial Mindset
Comment

Stress management is choice management

November 3, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Lori Milner

It’s not that one choice will define your whole day or suddenly generate anxiety and overwhelm. It’s that over time, a stacking of habitual choices starts to build up and inevitably leads to exhaustion, frustration, and even burnout. Mental Health Awareness Month reminds us to self-observe these seemingly innocent habits so we can begin to self-correct. Here are the five most common anxiety-fueling habits to let go of to create calmer days that you don’t want to escape from.

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In Guest Blog Tags Lori Milner, Stress Management
Comment

Could Those End of Year Profits Cost You More Than You Thought?

November 3, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Jenny Reid

The Festive Season is coming up and it’s time to consider the casual staff you intend to hire for the holiday rush. Casual staff are a necessity to help when business picks up in various seasonal industries. However, like full-time staff members, casual staff also need to be screened and vetted prior to employment, even in a short-term capacity. 

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In Guest Blog Tags Jenny Reid, People Management
Comment

Planting seeds of thought: nurturing leadership for the next generation

November 3, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Marjon Meyer

Spring is in the air!  Time to plant seeds. Nurture talent like growing seeds.In the constantly changing business environment, the idea of “planting seeds of thought” has become increasingly significant. This metaphor highlights the need to cultivate ideas and promote a growth-oriented culture, especially as leadership styles evolve and a new generation joins the workforce. You don’t have to be a manager to be seen as a leader, each person is a leader when they allow people around them to flourish and grow.

Read more
In Guest Blog Tags Marjón Meyer, Leadership
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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 / Glo Creations

Tantalizing textiles…We love these eye-catching cushions, created by Gloria Kamanzi Uwizera who founded Glo Creations in Rwanda in 2008. Her textile design business also produces fashionable clothing and home
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 / Katy Valentine Collections

Jewels and gems…Katy Valentine is a South African jewellery designer creating jewellery collections inspired by African and Indian cultures. Katy Valentine Collections was born out of a love for I
Image of the Day / Happy Coffee

Happy Coffee Experiences…If you are a fan of great coffee you will love Happy Coffee, founded by Princess Adeyinka Tekenah in Nigeria. She is a Coffee Entrepreneur and a Mom, and the founder of this growing ind
Image of the Day / Vanhu Vamwe

Marvellous macrame…We have always been big fans of the wonderfully talented Pam Samasuwo-Nyawiri, co-founder of luxury Zimbabwean accessory brand, Vanhu Vamwe, together with husband Simba Nyawiri. This show-stop
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 / 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 / Glo Creations

Tantalizing textiles…We love these eye-catching cushions, created by Gloria Kamanzi Uwizera who founded Glo Creations in Rwanda in 2008. Her textile design business also produces fashionable clothing and home 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 / Katy Valentine Collections

Jewels and gems…Katy Valentine is a South African jewellery designer creating jewellery collections inspired by African and Indian cultures. Katy Valentine Collections was born out of a love for I Image of the Day / Happy Coffee

Happy Coffee Experiences…If you are a fan of great coffee you will love Happy Coffee, founded by Princess Adeyinka Tekenah in Nigeria. She is a Coffee Entrepreneur and a Mom, and the founder of this growing ind Image of the Day / Vanhu Vamwe

Marvellous macrame…We have always been big fans of the wonderfully talented Pam Samasuwo-Nyawiri, co-founder of luxury Zimbabwean accessory brand, Vanhu Vamwe, together with husband Simba Nyawiri. This show-stop 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 / 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

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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