Beyond the Label: Women, Leadership, and Success on Our Own Terms by Maureen Chiquet

December 30, 2018 Melanie Hawken

In her book Beyond the Label, Maureen Chiquet, the former global CEO of Chanel charts her unlikely path from literature major to global chief executive, guiding readers to move beyond the confines of staid expectations and discover their own true paths, strengths, and leadership values.

My ABC of business: It’s time to forget about your business! Understanding the art of taking that well-deserved break without feeling guilty

December 30, 2018 Melanie Hawken

by Lizl Naude, founder of Lilly Loompa

The holiday season signifies such a special time of year and hopefully most of you will have time to rest and recoup after the busy year. As an entrepreneur it is so important to take a well-deserved break without feeling guilty!

From fashion in France to philanthropy in Guinea Bissau - the business of giving back

December 30, 2018 Melanie Hawken

Lucille Gomes, founder of AUA HELP NOMA - (Photo Credit: Nathalie Fina) — Lucille Gomes, founder of AUA HELP NOMA - *(Photo Credit: Nathalie Fina)*

by Maryanne Njeri Maina

A former advocate for the world of fashion, Lucille Gomes decided to give back to society by providing for children suffering from Noma, or Vincent’s disease as it is often known. A national of Guinea Bissau, and today based in France, she shares the story of her work.

Entrepreneur Advice from Mo Abudu: You must be able to execute your ideas

December 28, 2018 Melanie Hawken

Mo Abudu, founder and Chief Executive Officer of EbonyLife TV (Nigeria) — **Mo Abudu,** founder and Chief Executive Officer of EbonyLife TV (Nigeria)

The most important piece of advice I can give to any entrepreneur….

“You must make sure your ideas are grounded, make sure they are realistic, and you must be able to execute them. Why are they going to switch to your channel? Why are they going to buy your product or your service? What makes you different? What makes you unique?”

Mo Abudu, founder & ceo of EbonyLife TV (Nigeria)

Catherine Shipushu, a Namibian entrepreneur helping clients to build strong, sustainable brands

December 23, 2018 Melanie Hawken

Catherine Shipushu, founder of Azania Communications (Namibia) — **Catherine Shipushu**, founder of Azania Communications (Namibia)

For many companies and organizations, building a brand that will stand the test of time and still be relevant for years to come, takes specialist expertise and experience. In Namibia, Azania Communications, founded by Catherine Shipushu, brings both of those essential elements to any client serious about investing in their brands for the long term.

Deyzes Pereira, a Mozambican entrepreneur helping small companies to grow and thrive

December 23, 2018 Melanie Hawken

Deyzes Pereira, founder of Startups Consulting (Mozambique) — **Deyzes Pereira**, founder of Startups Consulting (Mozambique)

Any young startup knows how hard it is in the early days to build a strong business foundation. In Mozambique, that’s where Startups Consulting comes to the rescue. Founder Deyzes Pereira and her team bring years of experience and specialist knowledge to help any new business to put the right strategy and organisational structure in place to increase the odds of success.

Going green is important

December 23, 2018 Melanie Hawken

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by Yolanda Ndlovu, founder of South African lifestyle brand Essy Sandisiwe

I run an eco business and have consciously chosen to do so because of my background. I have always loved nature, the preservation of the environment, and I have always been an activist. I make accessories out of discarded fabrics and/or materials that are biodegradable. This has been my life for the past five years and I don’t think I am about to change anytime soon.

10 tips to reduce festive season stress

December 23, 2018 Melanie Hawken

December holidays and the festive season can be stressful for many people, and for a number of different reasons as I outlined in a previous blog here on Lionesses of Africa - How to Deal with Festive Season Holiday stress.

Three Simple Habits to Be Much More Confident on a Daily Basis

December 23, 2018 Melanie Hawken

by Laura Camacho

The reason you don’t feel confident at the precise moments you need it is because stress shuts down your brain’s memory. When facing the unexpected, many people are unable to remember how they handled past challenging events.

The Secret Ingredient: Recipes for Success in Business and Life by Gigi Butler

December 23, 2018 Melanie Hawken

In her new book The Secret Ingredient, Gigi Butler of the uber successful Gigi’s Cupcakes shares her personal success story, her hard-won business acumen, and the life-changing inspiration that she’s gained from a challenging life. Each chapter includes a delicious dessert recipe for cupcakes and more!

LIONESS LAUNCH: Amorambique launches the 'clutch', which is made of capulana and interlaced fabric

December 21, 2018 Melanie Hawken

Patricia Vasco, founder of Amorambique (Mozambique)

Amorambique in Mozambique recently launched their new clutch called ‘Méryda Mini’, which is made of capulana and interlaced fabric. It is a small size clutch, ideal for both formal and casual events.