African Business Stories

Chioma Okotcha-Faloughi: Co-founder and COO Rivy - Hard Stops, Bold Restarts: Rebuilding After Setbacks

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Resilience takes on new meaning in my conversation with Chioma Okotcha-Faloughi, Co-founder of Rivi (formerly PayHippo), whose entrepreneurial journey embodies the grit required to build transformative businesses in Africa.

Chioma never planned to become an entrepreneur. With her computer science background and experience spanning finance, policy, and education, she initially saw herself driving change through government channels. But a chance conversation about Nigeria's credit access problems led to co-founding PayHippo in 2019, where they moved from concept to customers in just weeks. After completing Y Combinator and raising $4 million, they were supporting thousands of small businesses with crucial financing.

Then came the storm. A devastating fraud attack combined with the departure of both co-founders pushed the company to the brink. "I had investors ask why I didn't just walk away," Chioma reveals. Her decision to stay and fight – while managing a newborn at home – ultimately led to one of Africa's most remarkable business pivots. Recognizing Nigeria's energy crisis following subsidy removals, she transformed the company into Rivi, financing clean energy solutions for businesses across the country.

What makes Chioma's story particularly powerful is her transparency about the darkest moments. From letting go 60% of her workforce to months without paying herself, she shares the painful realities rarely discussed in entrepreneurship circles. "Before this, I was just a nice tech founder. After hitting rock bottom, I became a fully certified entrepreneur," she laughs. Her advice to women building in Africa resonates deeply: "Stay the course, don't give up too soon, drill deeper."

Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or simply fascinated by Africa's business evolution, this episode offers rare insights into building purpose-driven companies that survive existential threats. Follow Rivi's continuing journey at @RiviHQ and subscribe for more stories of African business innovation.

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Kudzayi Hove: Co-Founder & CEO, Amayi Foods - From Private Equity to Purpose in Africa’s Food Ecosystem

Tue, 13 May 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Kudzayi Hove's entrepreneurial journey from Zimbabwe to Nigeria represents a masterclass in adapting, pivoting, and building with purpose in Africa's challenging business landscape. As co-founder and CEO of Amayi Foods, meaning "mother" in her native Shona language, Kudzayi and her co-founders have transformed what began as a passion for Ghanaian Shito sauce into a mission to reclaim value from African agricultural commodities.

The path hasn't been straightforward. After leaving her finance career at AFC, Kudzayi and her co-founders discovered that their initial focus on premium condiments and modern retail channels was limiting their growth potential. This realization prompted a fundamental strategic shift toward mass-market essentials like tomato paste that could reach consumers through traditional markets, which account for 90% of retail volume in Nigeria. Today, Amayi's products are distributed across 29 states, with 99% of sales flowing through these traditional channels.

What sets Amayi's approach apart is their deep understanding of vertical integration. Rather than simply manufacturing consumer products, Kudzayi recognized that sustainable growth required building lasting partnerships with farmers and aggregators. This infrastructure not only secures consistent inputs for their retail products but has evolved into a broader vision of processing African commodities for international markets – capturing substantially higher margins than exporting raw materials.

The company stands at a transformative moment with plans to acquire an established manufacturing operation that will dramatically scale their capabilities. Looking ahead, Kudzayi envisions Amayi as a $100 million enterprise within 5-7 years, built on three pillars: a strong FMCG platform with leading market positions, a nutritional commodities business serving domestic and international markets, and a commodity processing operation that maximizes value from African agricultural products.

For fellow entrepreneurs, particularly women, Kudzayi offers wisdom earned through a decade of building: take care of yourself while you build. Even in the midst of survival-level challenges, finding moments for rest and renewal isn't a luxury but a necessity for sustainable success.

Discover Amayi's products in markets across Nigeria or connect with them through social media @amaifoods_ng and at www.amaifoods.com.

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Kikelomo Fola-Ogunniya: CO-Founder, Cargoplug Logistics - From Car Trunks to Cargo Hubs: Building Proprietary Tech for Global Trade

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Kikelomo Fola-Ogunniya's entrepreneurial journey proves that sometimes the most successful businesses begin by solving your own problems. What started as a simple solution to cross-border shopping frustrations has evolved into Cargo Plug, a tech-enabled logistics company transforming how African businesses connect to global markets.

When Kike and her co-founder Ama couldn't find reliable ways to ship purchases from the UK to Nigeria, they created their own solution. Operating from the trunks of their cars during lunch breaks from their oil industry jobs, they bootstrapped a side hustle that would eventually become a full-fledged international logistics company. Their company, initially called Jand to Gidi, has since evolved into CargoPlug, offering comprehensive shipping solutions from virtually any country to Nigeria and vice versa.

What makes their story remarkable isn't just business growth, but the sustainability of their partnership. In an ecosystem where co-founder relationships often fracture under pressure, Kike and Ama have maintained a thriving partnership for 13 years. Their secret? Clear role definition based on natural strengths, transparent communication, and unwavering trust.

The Cargo Plug journey offers practical wisdom for entrepreneurs everywhere. They diligently tracked financials from day one, which positioned them perfectly when seeking funding opportunities. They've weathered economic fluctuations, a global pandemic, and technological shifts while continuously evolving their services. Most impressively, they've built proprietary technology in-house, including user dashboards and shipping APIs that integrate with global platforms.

Through their 'RICE' core values – Reliable, Intelligent, Customer-focused, and Exciting – they've created a company culture that keeps team members engaged for years, some approaching a decade with the company. Their story stands as powerful evidence that African entrepreneurs can build sustainable, tech-enabled businesses that solve real problems while creating meaningful economic opportunity.

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Sarah Dusek: Co-Founder & MP, Enygma Ventures - Scaling Visions: From Startups to Venture Capital

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Sarah Dusek's entrepreneurial journey reads like an adventure novel – from studying law in the UK to selling her glamping company for over $100 million and then dedicating herself to funding female entrepreneurs across Africa. Her story proves that business can be the most powerful vehicle for driving meaningful change in the world.

After a heartfelt connection with Zimbabwe during her nonprofit days addressing the AIDS crisis, Sarah experienced a profound sense of belonging that would later draw her back to the continent. When her nonprofit work felt incomplete, she made a pivotal realization: perhaps business, rather than charity, could create more sustainable impact.

This mindset shift led her through several entrepreneurial ventures, including the devastating failure of her first business during the 2008 financial crisis. Rather than surrender to conventional employment, Sarah and her husband relocated to Montana and bootstrapped what would become Under Canvas – luxury safari-inspired accommodations near America's national parks. The business struggled initially until Sarah made the crucial decision to pursue venture capital rather than continue growing slowly.

"I realized I couldn't play small," Sarah explains. "If this business was going to last and build something of value, significance, and impact, we had to go big or go home." This perspective shift catapulted Under Canvas to a successful exit, but the fundraising journey exposed Sarah to the challenges female founders face in accessing capital.

True to a promise she made herself during those difficult fundraising days, Sarah created Enygma Ventures after her exit – a fund exclusively backing female entrepreneurs across Africa. Her investment philosophy prioritizes determined founders who demonstrate exceptional execution abilities above revolutionary ideas.

Today, Sarah continues building with Few and Far, a regenerative travel company developing eco-lodges in South African wilderness areas. Her message to female entrepreneurs remains consistent: think bigger, don't let anyone tell you no, and remember that when women create and distribute wealth, only good things happen.

Subscribe for more conversations with the pioneering entrepreneurs reshaping Africa's business landscape and driving continental transformation through bold, innovative ventures.

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Banke Kuku: Founder & Creative Director, Banke Kuku - Fashion with Purpose: Sustainability & Innovation in Luxury Design

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Banke Kuku's extraordinary transformation from textile designer to luxury fashion entrepreneur offers a masterclass in creative evolution and business resilience. After honing her craft at prestigious institutions like Central Saint Martins and Chelsea College of Arts, Banke's journey took an unexpected turn when customers began requesting to wear her vibrant prints rather than just display them as home décor.

What followed was a remarkable story of adaptation and growth. Having launched her fashion line just months before the pandemic, Banke faced what could have been a business-ending disruption. Instead, she quickly pivoted to online sales, discovering that her colorful, joy-filled designs resonated deeply with customers seeking brightness during dark times. This pivot not only saved her business but fueled its expansion from a team of five to approximately 45 people today.

At the heart of Banke's brand is storytelling through design. Her prints draw inspiration from Nigeria's rich natural environment, challenging stereotypes and showcasing the country's beauty. "Not everything in Nigeria is concrete," she notes, explaining how her work educates people to see her homeland differently. This commitment to positive representation extends beyond fashion through her initiative "Prints for Purpose," supporting environmental conservation and community development.

The Banke Kuku brand now enjoys global reach with stockists across Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and North America. Her collaborations with celebrities like Gabrielle Union highlight how African designers can build international luxury brands while maintaining authentic cultural connections. For aspiring entrepreneurs, Banke offers simple yet powerful advice: be patient and consistent. As she reminds us, "Good work takes time," especially when weaving dreams into reality.

Subscribe to African Business Stories to hear more inspiring conversations with the female entrepreneurs shaping Africa's economic future.

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Chilufya Mutale-Mwila: Co-Founder & CEO, eShandi - Building a Challenger Bank: Scaling Financial Solutions Across Africa

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0400

The path to financial freedom shouldn't be a privilege reserved for the few, but a right accessible to all. Chilufya Mutale-Mwila, co-founder and chief visionary officer of eShandi, is on a mission to make this vision a reality across Africa.

Growing up in Zambia, Chilu witnessed firsthand how access to financial services could transform families and communities. After joining a microfinance institution as an intern, she spent six years immersed in understanding the challenges faced by small business owners in underserved communities. This experience, followed by leadership roles expanding fintech operations across Southern Africa, revealed both the power of technology and the limitations of existing financial models.

The breakthrough came when Chilu realized that combining the efficiency of technology with the personalized approach of microfinance could create something revolutionary. eShandi (meaning "mine" in local language) was born as a pan-African challenger bank putting financial power directly into customers' hands. The company serves those often overlooked by traditional banks – market vendors, cross-border traders, and small-scale entrepreneurs who operate primarily in cash economies without formal financial records.

What makes eShandi's approach unique is their deep understanding of customer needs. Rather than forcing digital-only solutions on communities accustomed to cash, they've created accessible pathways to financial inclusion. Their impact is measured in tangible success stories – women expanding from one market stand to three, entrepreneurs purchasing their first delivery vehicle, or families buying their first refrigerator.

With operations in Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, Chilu has ambitious plans to expand eShandi's reach and services. The vision of "banking without borders" aims to connect African entrepreneurs across national boundaries, allowing seamless transactions and expanding opportunities. By adding insurance products, remittances, and new market entries, they're building a comprehensive ecosystem for financial empowerment.

Ready to discover how innovative financial solutions are transforming Africa's economic landscape? Listen now to learn how eShandi is bridging the $330 billion financing gap and creating pathways to prosperity for underserved communities across the continent.

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Adesuwa Okunbo Rohdes: Founder & CEO Aruwa Capital Management - From Vision to $60M AUM: How Gender-Lens Investing is Reshaping Africa

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Imagine raising $60 million to back female entrepreneurs in Africa when less than 2% of venture capital flows to women across the continent. That's exactly what Adesuwa Okunbo Rohdes accomplished with Aruwa Capital Management, one of Africa's few female-led growth equity funds specializing in gender lens investing.

From boarding school in the UK at age 11 to investment banking at JP Morgan, Adesuwa's path took a pivotal turn when she identified a crucial gap in the market: the severe underfunding of businesses led by or serving women across Africa. In 2019, pregnant with her first child, she took a leap that many called crazy – leaving the security of traditional finance to launch her own fund focused on backing women.

The timing couldn't have been more challenging. After securing their first investment, COVID hit, forcing a complete strategy pivot. "We had to tweak our fund structure, reduce our minimum ticket size, and prove ourselves over and over," she reveals. Through persistence and creativity, Aruwa mobilized capital from non-traditional sources, primarily women investors willing to trust a first-time fund manager over Zoom during a global pandemic.

Today, Aruwa's portfolio spans 13 companies across health, essential consumer goods, financial inclusion, and renewable energy – all either female-founded, female-led, or significantly benefiting women in their value chain. One standout success, Koolboks, provides solar-powered refrigeration for market women in off-grid areas. Since Aruwa's investment as their first institutional backer, they've grown revenue five-fold and expanded from Nigeria to 25 countries worldwide.

Beyond financial returns that exceed global benchmarks, Adesuwa's vision extends to transforming Africa's investment landscape. She advocates powerfully for mobilizing African institutional capital to fund African fund managers, arguing that Western investment models often fail to address the continent's unique realities. "Until we have more African pools of capital driving this discussion, there is no skin in the game to go beyond just ticking boxes," she explains.

Listen now to discover how persistence, purpose, and a deep commitment to gender equity can transform not just businesses, but entire economic systems. As Adesuwa puts it: "We don't need seats at the table. We need to create our own tables."

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Africa’s Business Outlook for Female Entrepreneurs and What to Expect in Season 4.

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Welcome back to African Business Stories, where powerful narratives meet practical insights about the women reshaping Africa's entrepreneurial landscape. Season 4 arrives at a pivotal moment: Africa stands as a dynamic frontier for growth and innovation with maturing startup ecosystems and increasing investment flows, yet female entrepreneurs continue facing a staggering $42 billion funding gap despite driving transformation across technology, agriculture, healthcare, and finance sectors.

This season takes you deep into the strategies and stories behind Africa's female-led business revolution. You'll hear directly from founders who've expanded beyond borders to create global impact. We'll explore innovative funding mechanisms, venture capital trends, and how women navigate complex financing challenges. From fintech innovations to AI applications, we'll examine how technology adoption is accelerating growth for women-led ventures across fashion, logistics, energy, and beyond.

Beyond business mechanics, we're uncovering the power of connection – how mentorship, strategic partnerships, and global networks create pathways to scale. Each episode brings you the raw, resilient journeys of women defining success on their own terms while breaking industry barriers and creating new possibilities across the continent.

Whether you're building a business, considering investment in Africa's growing markets, or simply passionate about economic transformation, these conversations offer invaluable perspectives from the frontlines of entrepreneurship. The challenges are real, but so is the determination and creativity of Africa's female founders. Join our community that champions these voices, subscribe on your favorite platform, and become part of the movement supporting women at the heart of Africa's economic future. Together, we're not just telling stories – we're changing narratives and opening doors for generations of entrepreneurs to come.

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Amb. Nimi Akinkugbe: Founder, Bestman Games - Navigating Pivots: From Corporate Success to Diplomatic Impact

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Ambassador Nimi Akinkugbe's extraordinary journey from a Pan-African childhood to becoming an influential entrepreneur and diplomat is nothing short of inspiring. Raised amidst diverse cultures across East Africa, her unique upbringing instilled a passion for international relations and business, setting the stage for her later achievements. In this episode, we unpack her remarkable transition back to Nigeria, her academic pursuits at the prestigious London School of Economics, and how nostalgia for childhood board games sparked the creation of the first African City edition of Monopoly. Witness Ambassador Akinkowe's commitment to financial literacy and the powerful lessons she learned from her diverse career path.

Discover the fascinating story behind the local Lagos edition of Monopoly—a project that brilliantly entwined Nigerian culture with an iconic global board game. Ambassador Akinkugbe shares her exhilarating journey from the banking sector to entrepreneurship, emphasizing the challenges of securing Hasbro's distribution rights and the joy of seeing local landmarks on the Monopoly board. Her father’s teachings on financial literacy and strategic savings paved the way for a cautious yet rewarding business growth strategy. Through candid reflections, she highlights the importance of patience, partnerships, and personal investment in achieving entrepreneurial success.

In a world where personal finance literacy is crucial, Ambassador Akinkugbe's initiative, "Money Matters with Nimi," is a beacon of knowledge. Motivated by real-life experiences, she has dedicated herself to simplifying complex financial concepts for the everyday individual, culminating in her book, "The A to Z of Personal Finance." Her transition from corporate life to public service as Nigeria's ambassador to Greece demonstrates the power of adaptability and continuous learning. As she embraces a new chapter filled with mentorship, personal growth, and an interest in technology, Ambassador Akinkugbe encourages listeners to overcome imposter syndrome and confidently connect past experiences with future aspirations.

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Jade Oyateru: Co-Founder & COO, Uncover - Beyond Skincare: A movement to Prioritize Melanated Skin

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Jade Oyateru, co-founder and COO of Uncover, as she shares her remarkable journey of creating a skincare brand that beautifully blends African botanicals with Korean beauty technology. Discover how Jade, influenced by her beginnings in Lagos and her educational experiences in the UK, is reshaping the skincare industry for women of color. From her corporate career with giants like Nestle and Unilever to co-founding a groundbreaking brand, Jade's story is one of perseverance, cultural influence, and a relentless mission to empower and elevate African beauty on a global platform.

Explore Jade's transition from a structured corporate environment into the dynamic world of entrepreneurship and how a pivotal career moment, guided by a mentor, led her to Unilever Kenya and eventually to launching Uncover. With a strong foundation in marketing and brand ownership, she unveils the art of building and scaling a brand, emphasizing the power of strategic partnerships and the importance of a shared vision. Get a front-row seat to the challenges and triumphs of scaling a female-focused brand in a market saturated by FinTech, and learn how storytelling can be a powerful tool in attracting investment and fostering growth.

In the realm of beauty supply chains, Jade provides a candid look at the complexities of sourcing, manufacturing, and logistics in the African market. Hear her discuss the strategic decision to partner with Korea to offer top-notch, affordable skincare solutions to African women. As Jade navigates the hurdles of balancing quality with cost, her commitment to delivering value stands out, even in the face of economic challenges. This episode is a treasure trove of insights, advice, and encouragement for aspiring entrepreneurs and those passionate about redefining beauty standards.

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Anna Ekeledo: Executive Director, Afrilabs - Building Africa's Innovation Ecosystem

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Anna Ekeledo's journey is nothing short of inspiring. Born in Russia to Nigerian and Senegalese parents, Anna's path has been shaped by vibrant multicultural experiences in her formative years. From a childhood spent in Nigeria and Senegal, she carries a legacy of passion for business and development. Anna's role as the Executive Director of AfriLabs has her working tirelessly to support over a million entrepreneurs across Africa, aiming to create a lasting impact on the continent's innovation landscape. Her story is a testament to resilience and determination, offering listeners a glimpse into the life of a woman dedicated to elevating African entrepreneurship.

Listeners will be captivated by Anna's diverse career journey, filled with roles in real estate, business development, and consulting with organizations like the World Bank. Through strategic partnerships and innovative programs, Anna and her team at AfriLabs have expanded their network to over 400 hubs across 53 African countries. Her work involves collaborating with governments, corporates, and other stakeholders to address various challenges, such as education technology and maternal health, by leveraging local innovation. Anna shares the highs and lows of navigating funding hurdles and leadership challenges, providing valuable insights into the complexities of leading in a culturally rich environment.

Anna's vision for AfriLabs continues to grow, with aspirations for global expansion and stronger ties with the African diaspora. Despite facing biases and obstacles, her focus remains on empowering women entrepreneurs and formalizing multi-stakeholder partnerships. Anna's ambition is not just about recognition but about contributing significantly to the African economy, targeting a trillion-dollar impact through digital initiatives. Her journey has established AfriLabs as a cornerstone of innovation in Africa, and her unwavering commitment promises to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs across the globe.

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Lucy Msukwa: Founder & Executive Director Uchembere Wabwino Maternity - Beyond Birth: Bridging Gaps in Rural Healthcare

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 02:00:00 -0400

What if you could transform a small healthcare startup into a thriving clinic serving thousands, even amid a global pandemic? Hear from Lucy Msukwa, the inspiring Founder and Executive Director of Uchembere Wabwino Maternity in Malawi, who did just that. Motivated by her parents' health struggles, Lucy saved diligently for four years before launching her clinic in 2019. In our conversation, she walks us through the hurdles she faced, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the practical strategies she employed to turn challenges into opportunities. Lucy’s story is a vivid testament to resilience and community engagement, offering valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Lucy’s journey is a masterclass in overcoming financial and operational challenges. Discover how she raised initial funding through personal savings and a bank loan, and how her innovative use of social media and community-centered marketing helped her patient base skyrocket from 500 to nearly 3,000 within just two years. Lucy opens up about the unique hybrid model that allows her clinic to balance for-profit and non-profit services, ensuring both affordability and sustainability. She also shares insights from her experience with the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs, revealing how continuous learning and adaptation have been key to her clinic's growth.

But Lucy's impact goes far beyond her clinic. As a Mandela Washington Fellow, she secured significant funding and channeled her success into mentoring over 120 female entrepreneurs in Malawi. She discusses her strategic focus on rural healthcare services and reflects on leading a team of 20 employees as a young woman defying traditional expectations. Lucy's passion for reducing high maternity and under-five mortality rates in Malawi is palpable throughout our discussion. Her story is not just about business success; it’s about making a tangible difference in her community and inspiring other women to chase their dreams with unwavering determination.

Lucy holds a bachelor's degree in nursing and midwifery. As an entrepreneur, she is a laureate for Women in Africa 54 (WIA54) 2021 from Malawi, an alumna of the African Women Entrepreneurship Cooperative cohort 3 (AWEC) and the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs Cohort 1(AWE). She is social Impact Incubator Malawi and Mandela Washington Fellow 2022 alumina.

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Chipo Mabota: Founder & CEO Cooper & Jones Global Logistics - Breaking Barriers and Navigating New Frontiers

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0400

What if you could break barriers in a male-dominated industry while balancing the demands of single motherhood? This episode of African Business Stories brings you the compelling journey of Chipo Mabota, the founder and CEO of Cooper & Jones Global Logistics in Zimbabwe. From her initial hesitation about entrepreneurship to handling a groundbreaking $40 million full vessel cargo, Chipo's story is one of resilience and triumph. Listen as she recounts her early career experiences, her childhood dreams, and her love for Zimbabwe's serene environment.

Chipo candidly shares the hurdles she faced in gaining market acceptance and her strategic pivot from customs clearance and forwarding to becoming a truck owner. The episode highlights her transformative experience with the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs program, funded by the US Embassy and USADF, which played a pivotal role in her business expansion. We also celebrate her significant milestone of managing a national project with 593 trucks, a first for a female-owned business in Zimbabwe. Additionally, Chipo reflects on the dual impact of her success on her daughter and the critical role of partnerships and funding in her entrepreneurial journey.

For those interested in the broader logistics landscape in Zimbabwe, Chipo offers a detailed perspective on key trading partners and the importance of ethical business practices. She discusses her ambitious vision for global growth and her inclusive recruitment strategy aimed at empowering marginalized people through skills training. This episode is not just a story of business success; it's a testament to the power of perseverance and the unique charm of Zimbabwe, providing valuable insights and motivation for aspiring entrepreneurs. Don't miss out on Chipo's inspiring narrative and practical advice for women looking to make their mark in the business world.

Chipo has an MBA from the University of South Wales and is a Member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply. She is a grantee of the 2019 Inaugural Cohort Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) funded by the U.S African Development Foundation (USADF) and in 2022 won the Women In Logistics (FFI-MEA) endorsed by UN Women. She was named Top 100 Most Influential African Women in Supply Chain in 2022 and top 50 CEOs in Zimbabwe by Zimbabwe CEOs Network in 2023.

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Ifeoma Uddoh: Founder & CEO Shecluded - Innovating Finance: The Journey of Africa's First Female-Centric Fintech

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 02:00:00 -0400

What if the key to financial empowerment for women in Nigeria lies in one woman's journey from a police barracks to the boardroom? Join us as we welcome Ifoma Uddoh, the founder and CEO of SheCluded, a pioneering fintech credit company transforming the financial landscape for Nigerian women. Ifoma shares her poignant personal story of resilience, shaped by the early loss of her father and her mother's strength, to the highs and lows of her career—from PwC to launching SheCluded. Her narrative is a testament to grit and innovation, offering invaluable lessons on overcoming adversity and the power of determination.

Discover how a chance conversation pivoted Ifoma from a pharmacy hopeful to a tech trailblazer, despite not owning a personal computer during her studies. Her internships at Echo Bank and Diamond Bank fine-tuned her resilience and work ethic, while her role at PwC opened doors to a wider world of tech investing and exposed the glaring gender disparities in funding. Ifoma's eye-opening experiences in tech investing revealed how women juggle multiple roles and face unique challenges in entrepreneurship, igniting her passion to create a financial platform catered specifically to women.

In our conversation, Ifoma delves into the genesis and growth strategy of SheCluded, spurred by the personal challenges she faced during her third pregnancy. She lays out her vision for scaling the company and forming strategic partnerships across Africa to enhance women’s banking services. The discussion also tackles the subconscious biases in lending and the innovative use of alternative data to support female entrepreneurs. Ifoma’s insights on mindset shifts, business coaching, and networking provide a blueprint for aspiring women entrepreneurs. Tune in for an inspiring episode that underscores the transformative power of perseverance and vision.

Ifeoma studied Industrial mathematics at the Federal University of Technology (FUTO), Owerri in Nigeria and has a Masters in Management Science and Operational research from Lancaster University in the UK. She was named Top 5 female Entrepreneurs by UK Tech Hub in 2020. The recipient of the Google Black Founders Fund in 2021 and winner of the 2022 Select USA Tech Pitch competition, she was recently named a 2024 Echoing Green Fellow.

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May Abdel Asim: Founder & MD HerStory Films - Empowering Women: Transforming Narratives, Inspiring Change

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 02:00:00 -0400

Ever felt like the existing media just doesn’t get you? That’s exactly how May Abdel-Essam felt, and instead of just complaining, she did something about it. Born in Egypt and raised in Germany, May returned to Egypt at 16 and turned her dissatisfaction with women's magazines into the creation of "What Women Want," a groundbreaking publication that evolved into a highly successful media agency. In this episode, she takes us through her remarkable journey from a young intern feeling unfulfilled in traditional roles to becoming a media mogul and empowering voice for female creatives.

May opens up about the ups and downs of her entrepreneurial journey, from launching her magazine without any investors to navigating ethical dilemmas in advertising. She shares poignant stories about rejecting lucrative deals to maintain high standards and the personal toll it took on her. We also cover the evolution of her ventures and her current passion project, Her Story Films, designed to uplift female creatives. This conversation is a treasure trove of insights on how to balance professional ambitions with personal well-being, and the transformative decisions that helped her prioritize mental health while achieving business success.

We also dive into the collaborative efforts that have amplified her impact, including her partnership the government of Netherlands to support female entrepreneurs through the Film Incubator initiative. May's journey underscores the importance of support networks and staying true to one’s values. If you're looking for inspiration, valuable advice for aspiring businesswomen, and a heartfelt reminder to embrace imperfection, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we uncover the lessons May has learned over nearly two decades of forging her own path in the media world.

May has a BA in Mass Communication with a specialization in integrated marketing from Misr International University in Egypt. She is a VV Grow MENA Fellow, VV Global Network Leader and a TedxCairoWomen 2016 Speaker. She has been appointed the WED Egypt Ambassador for 2016 to 2018 (Women Entrepreneurship Day) creating a network of female entrepreneurs in Egypt.

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Agang Ditlhogo: Co-Founder the Clicking Generation - Training and Mentoring the Innovators of Tomorrow

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 02:00:00 -0400

Have you ever wondered how childhood curiosity can shape a career in tech entrepreneurship? Our latest episode features Ahang Ditoho, co-founder of the Clicking Generation, whose journey from a curious young girl in Botswana to a trailblazing tech entrepreneur will leave you inspired. Ahang shares her story of leveraging Botswana's diamond-funded education system to pursue her passion for engineering and computers, ultimately founding a social enterprise that empowers underserved children through digital skills training.

Join us as Ahang discusses the pivotal role of funding and mentorship programs like the Mandela Washington Fellowship and the Tony Elumelu Foundation, as well as partnerships with giants like SAP and Google, in propelling her business forward. Explore the strategic shift to corporate training during the COVID-19 pandemic and dive into the advocacy initiatives that promote STEM education for girls. Finally, get an inside look at the Clicking Generation’s aspirations for the future and Ahang's heartfelt advice to fellow African women entrepreneurs on finding joy and validation in their journey. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in social impact, STEM, and the resilience of women in business.

Agang holds a bachelor’s in computer information systems from the University of Botswana and a masters in data science and AI from the European Business University. She is a Tony Elumelu Entrepreneur 2016, Mandela Washington Fellow 2016, Atlas Corps Fellow in 2018, Futurelect Fellow 2022 and a Presidential Precinct, Corporate Leaders Program Fellow 2024.

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Sandrine Nzeukou: Founder & CEO Playbook - Sports Media, Driving Investment in Emerging Sports Economies

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 02:00:00 -0400

Ever wondered how to bridge the gap between sports and business in emerging markets? Join us as we chat with Sandrine Zoku, the inspiring founder and CEO of Playbook, who brings her unique journey from Cameroon to the United States and beyond to life. Sandrine shares her personal story of cultural adaptation, the childhood dreams that shaped her, and the profound influence of her parents in keeping her connected to her Cameroonian roots. From aspiring chef and fashion designer to college athlete, discover how her diverse experiences laid the foundation for her entrepreneurial spirit.

Get ready to learn how Sandrine transitioned from a corporate career at Vanguard to impactful roles at Invest Africa and NBA Africa events, driven by intuition and the right connections. Listen to how a serendipitous internship turned into a stepping stone for her career, highlighting the importance of being present in the right geographical locations. Through her narrative, you'll gain insights into the challenges and triumphs of her professional journey, including a pivotal co-founder breakup that tested her resilience and ultimately led to the creation of Playbook.

Explore the genesis of Playbook, a groundbreaking media company focused on the sports business in emerging economies, particularly Africa and the Middle East. Sandrine takes us through her move to Nairobi, the strategic partnerships she's formed, and her vision for the future of Playbook. She offers invaluable advice to women entrepreneurs, emphasizing the power of personal branding and social media. This episode is a treasure trove of actionable insights and inspiring stories for anyone looking to make an impact in the sports and business landscape.

A former professional athlete, Sandrine represented her home country of Cameroon in the 2011 and 2015 FIBA Olympic qualifying women’s basketball tournaments in both Bamako, Mali and Yaounde, Cameroon. She holds an MBA in Management and B.S. in Marketing from the University of Nevada Las Vegas where she served as a captain of the women’s basketball team.

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES WEBSITE:

www.africanbusinessstories.com

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Ndia Magadagela: CEO & Co-Founder, Everlectric - Driving the growth of electric vehicles as a service in Africa

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Ever wondered how a young girl from a village in Limpopo could co-found a pioneering electric vehicle business in South Africa? Join us as we sit down with Ndia Magadagela, the visionary behind EverElectric, and unravel her inspiring journey from her roots in Africa's Eden to the forefront of electric mobility. India shares captivating stories of her childhood, the entrepreneurial spirit imbued in her by her parents, and the pivotal experiences that set her on the path to innovation.

Discover the meticulous planning and strategic pivots that helped India transition from a corporate career in mergers and acquisitions to launching a startup in the electric vehicle industry. Learn about the initial challenges of targeting the taxi industry, the clever pivot to logistics, and how India and her co-founders leveraged each other's strengths to navigate the ups and downs of their venture. This episode is packed with insights on the importance of having co-founders, mutual respect, and the dynamics of working together to overcome obstacles like high import duties and inadequate charging infrastructure.

We also delve into the unique challenges and opportunities for female entrepreneurs in South Africa. Ndia opens up about her arduous journey of raising capital, facing numerous rejections, and the eventual triumph of securing seed financing. Hear about the evolving landscape for manufacturing electric vehicles in South Africa, recent policy reforms, and the collaborative spirit within this emerging industry. This episode is a heartfelt testament to the power of perseverance, collaboration, and the remarkable impact of women in business. Don't miss this deep and enriching conversation that promises to inspire and inform.

Ndia, a Qualified Chartered Accountant, holds a B.Compt (Hons) degree in Accounting Sciences and a post graduate diploma in Auditing both from the University of Pretoria. She started her career at Deloitte in Pretoria after which she went into Development finance. She is an ex Senior Deal Maker at the Industrial Development Corporation where she spent 7 years and later became a Principal in Mergers and Acquisitions at the JSE listed Momentum Metropolitan Holdings.

In 2016 she was nominated for the Top employee in manufacturing divisions at the Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa. She was named 2023 Leading Entrepreneur by the African Women Chartered Accountants (AWCA) and one of the Top women in Mobility in Africa for 2023. Ndia is a non-executive director on a number of Boards. She is a guest lecturer on Mergers and Acquisitions and has worked as a member of the Technical Advisory Panel to Infrastructure South Africa under the Department of Public works.

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES WEBSITE:

www.africanbusinessstories.com

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https://www.instagram.com/afribizstories/

Welcome back to the Africa Business Stories Podcast - Season 3

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Welcome to Season 3 of the African Business Stories Podcast, a show dedicated to curating and sharing the stories of women building businesses in Africa. We took a short break but excited to be back with more stories of business success from across the continent.

I started this show 4 years ago because I saw an under representation of women in the African business narrative. This was unfortunate as we have World Bank data that indicates that Africa has more female entrepreneurs than any other region in the world. Where are these women and why don’t we know their stories? So I set out to find these women and tell their stories. The goal to showcase the African Business woman and inspire others to reach for their dreams and leave legacies for generations to come.

This journey to inspire and elevate the Africa woman is dedicated to the memory of my mother and mentor Ezim.

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES WEBSITE:
www.africanbusinessstories.com

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES INSTAGRAM:
https://www.instagram.com/afribizstories/

Dr. Martha Namundjebo-Tilahun: Co-Founder & Chairperson The United Africa Group - The Winning Mindset, Defying the Odds to Build a Multi-Billion Dollar Conglomerate.

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 01:00:00 -0400

On this weeks episode, I chat with Dr. Martha Namundjebo-Tilahun, Co-Founder and Chairperson of the United Africa Group, a privately owned multi-billion-dollar business conglomerate in Namibia that has been in operation since 1992.

We talked about the enduring impact her late father has had on her both in life and in business. She shared his 4 guiding principles which she continues to live by and also her own business lessons having built and sustained multiple successful businesses over the past 29 years.

Martha obtained an MBA in Finance from the University of California Berkley, USA; an MBA from the University of California, Santa Clara, California, USA and Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration and Management from St. Paul’s College, Lawrenceville Virginia, USA.

In November 2015, Martha was conferred with a Doctorate Degree Honoris Causa in Business Administration from the University of Namibia, as a tribute to her contribution to the economy of Namibia and thereafter she founded the Dr. Martha Namundjebo-Tilahun foundation aimed at nurturing the African Girl Child to be a key architect of society and a cradle of hope.

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES WEBSITE:
www.africanbusinessstories.com

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES INSTAGRAM:
https://www.instagram.com/afribizstories/

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Zainab Ashadu: Founder & Creative Director, Zashadu - The Business of Self Care: From Handcrafted Leather Goods to Holistic Wellness

Tue, 18 May 2021 00:00:00 -0400

On this weeks episode, I chat Zainab Ashadu, Founder and Creative Director of Zashadu a leading sustainable luxury brand that specializes in handcrafted leather pieces all designed and manufactured in Lagos Nigeria.

We talk about starting her career as an actor, how a chance meeting with an old acquaintance helped her connect with her passion and begin the journey to what is today Zashadu. Zainab is one a few bag makers who still utilizes ancient artisanry techniques and it was interesting to learn about the craft and the leather industry in Nigeria.

Zainab has a BA in English and Modern Drama Studies from Brunel University and studied Fashion/Apparel Design at London College of Fashion .

All Zashadu products are available for global shipping on their website- https://zashadu.com/

Ambassador Dr. Kema Chikwe: Founder, Women Leadership Institute - Lessons & Legacy, A Mother's Day Special

Tue, 11 May 2021 01:00:00 -0400

On this weeks episode, I chat with Ambassador Dr. Kema Chikwe, a dynamic politician, distinguished public administrator, educationist, gender and social engineer and activist, writer and diplomat. She is the Founder and Chairperson of the Women Leadership Institute (WLI) - WLI is an international leadership development organization focused on developing the leadership capacity of women across Africa.

Dr. Chikwe shared memories from her childhood and insights into her approach to parenting. She reflected on her career accomplishments, the gap she identified in governance and the work she is doing through WLI to close that gap- raising a critical mass of women who are leadership conscious and equipping them with the skills they need.

Dr. Chikwe studied French at the Advanced Teachers' College Owerri and obtained a further degree in French from Queens College, City University of New York. She has a doctorate in Curriculum Education from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

Dr. Chikwe is a renowned writer; her books are included in both the Nigerian and American curriculum. The books include Kema Chikwe: Across Borders, Women of My Era, Village Boys, First School Day for Adaeze, Kame Chameleon tours the garden, My Precious Book and other publications. She served as Nigerian Ambassador to Ireland from 2008-2011, a former Nigerian Federal Minister of Transportation and Federal Minister of Aviation. The first woman to hold either position in Nigeria.

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES WEBSITE:
www.africanbusinessstories.com

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https://www.instagram.com/afribizstories/

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Chigozirim Otefe-Edebi: Co-Founder Gracehill Behavioral Health Services - Seizing Opportunities, The Journey To Enhancing Mental Health Care in Nigeria

Tue, 04 May 2021 07:00:00 -0400

On this weeks episode, I chat with management consultant and author Chigozirim Otefe-Edebi, Co-Founder Gracehill Behavioral Health Services providers of comprehensive mental health and wellness solutions in Lagos Nigeria.

We talked about her 12 year career in telecoms, experiencing burnout and quitting suddenly. Her drive as a side hustler and what led her to write her first book - The Side Hustle Workbook and now dedicating her time to building a legacy business with her husband - Providing jobs for medical professionals, enhancing the quality of healthcare and building a world class mental health practice in Lagos, Nigeria.

Chigo studied Biochemistry at University of Benin, Nigeria. She is currently pursuing an MBA in Leadership and Management at York St John University in the UK. She is a certified counsellor, an advocate for Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) and authored two books: ‘The Side Hustle Workbook and Strategies for coping in a toxic environment – lessons from the animal kingdom’.

Bunmi Olunloyo: Founder & Creative Director, Bailamos Dance Company - Challenging Perceptions and Empowering Women Through Dance

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 01:00:00 -0400

On this weeks episode, I chat with lawyer, dancer, actress and choreographer, Bunmi Olunloyo the Founder & Creative director Bailamos Dance Company a professional dance training fitness and wellness centre in Lagos Nigeria. She is also the creative and managing director for FIT BY BUNMI an active and Athleisure clothing line.

We talk about how her passion for dance led her away from a career in law. How she has dealt with and overcome the stereotypes associated with professional dancing in Nigeria, going from being body shamed to being a body confidence coach and her new venture Fit By Bunmi.

Bunmi holds a Bachelor of Law (LLB) from the Faculty of Law University of Lagos, Nigeria and is also a qualified lawyer in Nigeria. She is currently an Associate member and certified teacher and judge under the International Dance Teachers Association UK. With over 17 years experience she has produced, choreographed and directed various showcases. She performs and plays Lead in the Internationally acclaimed theatre production FELA AND THE KALAKUTA QUEENS produced by BAP PRODUCTIONS and is a judge in WORLD OF DANCE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES for the West Africa Region.

Saray Khumalo: Executive Coach & Founder, Summits With a Purpose - Lessons From the Mountain, First Black African Woman to Summit Mount Everest

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 01:00:00 -0400

On this weeks episode, I chat with award winning Mountaineer, philanthropist and Executive Coach Saray Khumalo. Saray is the Founder of Summits With a Purpose an initiative that has raised funds and built physical and digital libraries in disadvantaged African schools. She believes that literacy and education have the power to change the narrative for the next generation. She is also the Founder and Host of the Podcast, Because It's There.

On May 16, 2019, on her fourth attempt, Saray summited Mount Everest, becoming the first Black African woman to summit Mount Everest. We talked about how suffering personal loss caused her to lean into a life of service and purpose. What it means to discover ones why, failing forward and the fact that we are all extraordinary and being ordinary is a choice we make. Saray is also a fully certified Executive Coach. She uses lessons from her mountaineering triumphs to help businesses and individuals explore and unleash their full potential and achieve set goals.

Saray's African Business Story is about being deliberate in breaking the shackles of convention. It is about triumph.

To learn more about Saray and the work she does - https://saraykhumalo.com/

Nkemdilim Uwaje Begho: Founder & CEO Futuresoft Nigeria - Driving Digital Transformation in Africa.

Tue, 13 Apr 2021 01:00:00 -0400

On this weeks episode, I chat with serial entrepreneur Nkemdilim Uwaje Begho Founder & CEO Futuresoft Nigeria a leading digital & technology solutions company, Co-Founder SkillupAfrica focused on training and helping Africans launch their tech careers and Co-Founder of Alwaysme a children's clothing and lifestyle brand.

We talk about how she went from bio technology to providing digital solutions, how entrepreneurs can leverage personal branding, the need to close the digital skills gap in Africa and how she manages serial entrepreneurship in multiple sectors. Nkem also shared her expert opinion on the marketing and communication trends she sees in 2021. Here is a LINK to the full article on the trends.

Nkem is recognized as an Obama African Leader, Forbes’s Top Ten Female Tech Founders in Africa, Global Digital Women top 10 Most Inspiring Women in Africa, Lionesses of Africa top 100 Women and Ventures Africa 42 most Innovative Africans. She serves on the board of Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC as well as the board of the Society for Corporate Governance in Nigeria where she chairs the Digital and Innovation Committee. She also serves in the leadership of the NESG Digital Economy Thematic group; is a member of The Nigerian National IT Software Committee and the Nigerian Electronic Voting Think Tank where she actively contributes to the advancement of digitalization and shaping policy to support its inclusive delivery.

Nkem's African Business Story is dedicated to impact.

Jumoke Dada: Founder & Creative Director Taeillo - Building an E-Commerce Furniture Business in Nigeria

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 22:00:00 -0400

On this weeks episode, I chat with award winning entrepreneur, Jumoke Dada the Founder, CEO and Creative Director of Taeillo a tech enabled business that leverages mixed reality to sell furniture in Nigeria.

We talk about how her love for the creative process led her away from architecture to furniture design. How she has distinguished herself in the market using technology and the path to building a direct to customer online furniture retail business in Nigeria.

Jumoke graduated with a first class in architecture from University of Lagos, Nigeria, She was part of the Fall 2020 Nasdaq Milestone Maker. She is a Tony Elumelu Foundation Awardee, a Diamond Bank Building Entrepreneur Awardee and a She Leads Africa Accelerator Awardee. She was featured on Elle Decoration South Africa, BBC World News and listed in 100 Most Inspiring Women in Nigeria.

Jumoke's African Business Story is dedicated to creating a brand Africans all around the world can be proud of and ensuring all Africans have access to affordable furniture.

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES WEBSITE:
www.africanbusinessstories.com

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES INSTAGRAM:
https://www.instagram.com/afribizstories/

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Hetty Boachie-Yiadom: Co-Founder P&H Boutique - Empowering African Entrepreneurs Through Mentorship.

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 01:00:00 -0400

On this weeks's episode, I chat with Hetty Boachie-Yiadom, an award winning entrepreneur and Co-Founder of P&H Boutique, South Africa's largest African print retail brand.

While working for a leading South African bank, Hetty and her husband Papa started a fashion retail business. They would eventually leave their day jobs and scale P&H Boutique from their home to 7 stores across South Africa.

Hetty is also the Lead Coach at Hetty The Entrepreneur, where she guides entrepreneurs to achieve their goals through results-based mentorship. She has set an ambitious goal to produce 300 African-led businesses who will earn in multiple currencies through digital products.

Hetty graduated from University of Pretoria with a major in Political Science and a minor in English. She was named a Top 200 Young South African by Mail & Guardian in 2019, Top 50 Thriving Female Founders, and ranked number 1 on Vusi Thembekwayo's Top 40 mentorship programme.

Hetty's African Business Story is dedicated to empowering African led businesses and helping them thrive.

Fatmata Binta: Founder Fulani Kitchen - Promoting Fulani Cuisine to the World

Tue, 23 Mar 2021 01:00:00 -0400

On this weeks's episode, I chat with Fatmata Binta - popularly known as Chef Binta. She was born and raised in Freetown, Sierra Leone, to Fulani parents of Guinean descent. Binta is the Founder of Fulani Kitchen - the first African nomadic pop-up dining experience in Ghana. A dining experience that is both a culinary and cultural journey.

Chef Binta describes herself as a modern nomadic chef. Her culinary style combines her nomadic Fulani roots, classical training at the Kenyan Culinary Institute and love for rural life and nature. Her passion to share African cuisine is based on her experiences as a child growing up during the darkest period of Sierra Leone’s history, the civil war. She experienced first hand how food can break down barriers and bring people together. She continues to do this today by organizing dinners to broker peace between Fulani's and local communities in Ghana.

Chef Binta's African Business Story is dedicated to using her culinary art to preserve her culture, build bridges and connect people.

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES WEBSITE:
www.africanbusinessstories.com

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES INSTAGRAM:
https://www.instagram.com/afribizstories/

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES FACEBOOK:
https://www.facebook.com/afribizstories

Emalohi Iruobe: Founder Tribe XX Lab - Creating Safe Spaces For Women

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 01:00:00 -0400

On this weeks's episode, I chat with Emalohi Iruobe Founder of Tribe XX Lab the first and only co-working, wellness and incubator space exclusively dedicated to female entrepreneurs and female led startups and companies in Lagos - a place where women are able to present a professional front for their business as well as network, get training, access to funding opportunities and help each other.

In response to the BBC Sex for Grades documentary, Emalohi started the I GO TALK project. It is a social justice and empowerment movement focused on exterminating the silence surrounding gender based violence especially among female students in Nigerian universities. This project is fully funded by VOICE GLOBAL on behalf of the government of Netherlands.

Emalohi is also the Founder of Aimanosi Lingerie; a dynamic brand focused on promoting body positivity and self love in African women. She has a Bsc. in Finance and Banking from Lincoln University, PA and a Juris Doctor from Villanova University. Before delving into full time entrepreneurship she practiced law in Pennsylvania and New Jersey working in Commercial litigation, as well as working as the Manager of Project Implementation in the Kwara State Public Private Partnership office.

Emalohi's African Business Story is dedicated to social impact, championing marginalized groups and creating safe spaces for women.

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES WEBSITE:
www.africanbusinessstories.com

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES INSTAGRAM:
https://www.instagram.com/afribizstories/

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES FACEBOOK:
https://www.facebook.com/afribizstories

Lucia Bakulumpagi-Wamala: Founder & CEO Bakulu Power - Providing Off-Grid Power in Uganda

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 01:00:00 -0500

On this week's episode, I chat with Lucia Bakulumpaji-Wamala Founder & CEO Bakulu Power a renewable energy company in Uganda. Born in Kenya to Ugandan parents who fled during the Luwero War, she grew up mostly in Canada. The idea for her company first emerged during a trip to visit family in Uganda.

Lucia was named in Forbes Afrique, Forbes Magazine as one of the 30 Most Promising Young Entrepreneurs in Africa (2017) and by Institute Choiseul as one of the 100 African Economic Leaders for Tomorrow (2018 and 2019). She holds an honors degree in Public Administration, with a specialization in Community Intervention from the University of Ottawa and is a graduate of the Prince of Wales Business and Sustainability Programme at the University of Cambridge.

Lucia's African Business Story is one of collaboration, evidenced through her commitment to continually engaging the communities she works for, from project initiation through to implementation and maintenance.

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES WEBSITE:
www.africanbusinessstories.com

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES INSTAGRAM:
https://www.instagram.com/afribizstories/

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES FACEBOOK:
https://www.facebook.com/afribizstories

Special Episode: International Women's Day with Temitope Iluyemi, Senior Director, Global Government Relations for Africa, Procter & Gamble

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 01:00:00 -0500

To celebrate International Women's Day , I chat with one of my mentors Temitope Ilyuemi. Tope is Senior Director, Global Government Relations for Africa at Procter and Gamble (P&G), she rose from a graduate entry position to become one of the most senior leaders in P&G in Africa. She champions women, advocating for gender equality and works tirelessly to see SMEs in Africa grow by helping them plug into global value chains. She is highly sought after as a key contributor to development solutions in Africa.

We talked about the need to be intentional in building a career or a business, the role of mentors and sponsors, turning contacts into networks, building and leveraging community and what balancing work and family means to her. Ladies, as we celebrate International Women's day, Tope challenges us to give ourselves permission to Shine! #ChooseToChallenge

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES WEBSITE:
www.africanbusinessstories.com

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES INSTAGRAM:
https://www.instagram.com/afribizstories/

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES FACEBOOK:
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Chidinma Emodi Chukwuemeka: Co-Founder, The Footwear Academy - Building Africa's Largest Footwear Hub

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 01:00:00 -0500

On this week's episode, I chat with award winning entrepreneur Chidinma Emodi Chukwuemeka, Co-Founder of The Footwear Academy in Nigeria. Chidinma was named Network Start-Up Woman of the Year 2019 and received the Star of Business & Entrepreneurship Award at the YALI West Africa Nigeria Cohort 4. She is currently a YALI RLC Entrepreneurship Mentor and a pioneer member of the administrators of The Young Enterprising Women in Africa network (YEWA), a nonprofit group geared towards empowering and enabling women entrepreneurs in Africa.

She learnt shoemaking at Accademia Riaci, Florence, Italy and has since used her work at The Footwear Academy to improve the lives of shoemakers in Aba and Lagos state, Nigeria by enabling them produce export standard footwear products through training, job matching opportunities and access to quality/affordable raw materials. She is pioneering a mastering footwear project that will train 100 young people in Aba, Abia State and 30 youths in Ihiala LGA, Anambra State.

The Footwear Academy are the recent winners of the Proudly Made in Aba Hackathon - winning a grant prize of $50,000 from Ford Foundation. They also took 2nd place in 2017 at the Open Mic Africa startup Pitch competition organized by Techpreneur Africa and MIT Legatum. They are proud winners of the March 8th Initiative by Friends of Prof, winning a NGN 1 million grant.

Chidinma's African Business Story is dedicated to the creation fo jobs and the empowerment of women and youth.

Siba Mtongana: Co-Founder, The Siba Co - Elevating African Cuisine

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 00:00:00 -0500

On this week's episode, I chat with award winning chef and restauranteur, Siba Mtongana CEO & Co-Founder of The Siba Co, a food solutions and innovations company in South Africa.

From aspiring home cook in the semi-rural Eastern Cape to restaurateur in one of the most prestigious hotel venues on the African continent, Siba has had an amazing culinary career. Through her TV show Siba’s Table on Food Network, Siba became a household name in 135 countries globally, garnering an iconic following. She has gone on to win five U.S. Film and Television Awards and four awards locally.

She is the author of two books, Welcome to My Table - which she self published and Siba Let’s Cook - a cook book for children and the whole family. Most recently, she launched Siba The Restaurant, a fine dining restaurant at Cape Town’s most sought after address, the Table Bay Hotel at the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town.

Akaego Okoye: Founder and Host African Business Stories - What to Expect in Season 2.

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Welcome to Season 2 of the African Business Stories podcast!

African Business Stories is your insight into female innovators and entrepreneurs building and running businesses in Africa. In this new season, we will continue our journey across the continent learning more about the experiences of female founders in different African countries.

Another goal for the season is to go beyond the stories and explore solutions to some of the issues identified. We will also hear from those supporting female businesses and SME's in Africa and explore the tools and resources available to help them grow and thrive.

My hope is that the podcast will inspire and multiply success not only on the continent but around the world.

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES WEBSITE:
www.africanbusinessstories.com

AFRICAN BUSINESS STORIES INSTAGRAM:
https://www.instagram.com/afribizstories/

Special Series: Lessons and Legacy with Ejike Egbuagu

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0500

This episode is part of a special series recorded to celebrate Father’s Day.

For the series I interviewed some friends and mentors. I asked them to reflect on the greatest lessons that shaped the men they have become and also to reflect on how these lessons have influenced them as parents.

About my Guest:
Ejike Egbuagu is lawyer turned banker. He is the CEO on Moneda Investment Company a financial advisory company in Lagos Nigeria. www.modenainvest.com.

Ejike is my brother and this particular conversation is in memory of our incredible parents. Happy Father’s Day!

Special Series: Lessons and Legacy with Mohammed Mijindadi

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0500

This episode is part of a special series recorded to celebrate Father’s Day.

About my Guest:
Mohammed N. Mijindadi is the Managing Director of GE Gas Power Systems (GPS) Nigeria & Anglo West Africa, responsible for driving the growth and development of the sub regions power market while working with critical commercial functions to execute transactions and implement power projects.

He was inducted into the Nigerian Leadership Initiative (NLI) in October 2011, Institute of Directors in January 2014 and serves on the Board of Directors for GE International Operations Nigeria, Free Trade Zones and the ‘Kid for Kid’ foundation.

In his spare time, Mohammed enjoys traveling, watching sports, and spending time with his Wife, Children & Dogs.

Special Series: Lessons and Legacy with Dr. Nuno Alves

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0500

This episode is part of a special series recorded to celebrate Father’s Day.

For the series I interviews some friends and mentors. I asked them to reflect on the greatest lessons which have shaped the men they have become and also on how these lessons have influenced how they parent or wish to parent.

About my Guest:
Dr Nuno Alves is a senior energy professional with 19 years of experience at BP. Based in Washington, Nuno works in BP’s representative office where provides strategic operational and business advice on company policies related to energy and climate change issues. He also represents bp with advocacy with Washington-based institutions.

Special Series: Lessons & Legacy with Gori Olusina Daniel

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0500

This episode is part of a special series recorded to celebrate Father’s Day.

About my Guest:
Gori is the MD/Chief Investment Officer at Ascension Asset Management – a private equity firm with investments in UK commercial and residential real estate.

He’s a Private Sector Infrastructure Financing Specialist with over 15 years experience in commercial and financial due diligence, policy and contract management, PPP/PFI policy, capacity building and transaction advisory services, and private sector development policy and advisory services.

In 2007, he was a member of the team that helped raise £80bn for transport improvements in London ahead of the 2012 Olympic games.

Special Series: Lessons and Legacy with Dr. Henry Musoma

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0500

This episode is part of a special series recorded to celebrate Father’s Day.

About my Guest:
Henry Kasonde Musoma’s roots are in Zambia, Southern Africa. He spread his wings as a young adult, moving to the United States, to work on his higher education.

Dr. Musoma has dedicated his professional career to education. Serving as an educator in a traditional collegiate classroom and beyond the classroom through speaking at events and facilitating trainings for a variety of organizations. He believes education is a transformational experience.

Henry teaches and lives his life to serve and his actions reflect this by how he treats the people in his life, whether it is a life-long relationship or the person in line at the grocery store. Henry believes and lives kindness, compassion and honesty. He has been called the Professor of Kindness.
www.henrymusoma.com

Special Series: Lessons and Legacy with Gyude Moore

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0500

This episode is part of a special series recorded to celebrate Father’s Day.

About my Guest:

Gyude Moore is a senior policy fellow at the Center for Global Development. He previously served as Liberia’s Minister of Public Works with oversight over the construction and maintenance of public infrastructure from December 2014 to January 2018.

Prior to that role, Gyude served as Deputy Chief of Staff to President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf and Head of the President’s Delivery Unit (PDU). As Head of the PDU, his team monitored progress and drove delivery of the Public Sector Investment Program of Liberia—a program of over $1 billion in road, power, port infrastructure, and social programs in Liberia after the civil war. As one of the President’s trusted advisors, he also played a crucial role in supporting President Sirleaf as Liberia responded to the West Africa Ebola outbreak and shaped its post-Ebola outlook.

Hosts & Guests

Akaego Okoye

Gyude Moore
Senior Policy Fellow Center For Global Development

Special Series: Lessons and Legacy with Daniel Ngwepe

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0500

This episode is part of a special series recorded to celebrate Father’s Day.

About my Guest:
Daniel Ngwepe is a Senior Director at Visa, and looks after the company’s relations with governments in 44 Sub-Saharan African countries. An accomplished government relations professional with a record of achievement in public policy and regulation, he has been a public affairs practitioner for over 25 years. Over this period, Daniel has worked in the public and private sectors, managing diverse issues and leading teams across various fields including government, mining and payments technology both in South Africa and abroad. He was in the South African foreign service for thirteen years, ten of which he held various positions at the country’s Embassy in Washington DC until 2005. He subsequently became Executive Director for Public Affairs at Anglo American South Africa, and served on the company’s board of directors before joining Visa in 2011.

Daniel dedicates time to supporting social causes and is a volunteering trustee of the Get-On Foundation, a board member of the Boys and Girls Club South Africa, the Moshal Scholarship and Good Governance Africa.

Special Series: Lessons and Legacy with Gbenga Oyebode

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0500

This episode is part of a special series recorded to celebrate Father’s Day.

About my Guest:
Gbenga Oyebode is a co-founder and the chairman of the Nigerian law firm Aluko & Oyebode, where he advises corporations on matters relating to energy and natural resources, telecommunications, project finance, and aviation.

Mr. Oyebode is passionate about education and the arts. He serves on the Global Advisory Council of the African Leadership Academy and is a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, a director of Teach for All, and the chairman of Teach for Nigeria. He also sits on the boards of Carnegie Hall, Jazz at Lincoln Center, and the Africa Philanthropy Forum, and he is a member of the Cleveland Museum of Arts International Collectors Council.

Special Series: Lessons and Legacy with Dr. Kingsley Moghalu

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 06:00:00 -0500

This episode is part of a special series recorded to celebrate Father’s Day.

About my Guest:
Dr. Kingsley Moghalu is the President and CEO of Sogato Strategies LLC, a global risk advisory firm in Washington DC. He served as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank on Nigeria from 2009-2014 and was subsequently appointed Professor of International Business and Public policy a the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University in Boston. He previously worked for the United Nations for nearly 17 years.

Akaego Okoye: Founder and Host African Business Stories - Reflections on Season 1 of The Podcast

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 10:00:00 -0500

We made it to the end of season 1! Yay!!!

In Season 1, i interviewed 20 incredible female entrepreneurs from 10 different African Countries and in this final episode i reflect on my 3 main takeaways: why women start businesses, building a legacy business and the challenge of access to finance. I also reference some episodes to highlight my points. In addition, i talk about the special series we ran in honor of Fathers Day - Lessons and Legacy which is available on our website www.africanbusinessstories.com and coming soon to all podcast platforms.

As we embark on curating season 2, we are committed to a Pan-African approach and are looking to interview at least 1 woman from all of the 54 African Countries. While we wait for season 2, be sure to catch up on any episodes you may have missed and re-listen to your favorites.

Thank you so much for your support and i wish you a wonderful holiday season.

Aisha Ayensu: Founder & CEO Christie Brown - Retelling The African Story Through Fashion.

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 01:00:00 -0500

Aisha Ayensu is the Founder, CEO and Creative Director of Christie Brown a fashion house based out of Accra, Ghana. An award winning fashion designer, Aisha started Christie Brown in 2008, in her final year of university, naming the company after her grand mother who was a seamstress and her inspiration. Christie Brown has grown to become an internationally recognized fashion brand manufacturing women's apparel and accessories primarily inspired by African art and culture.

We talked about how being young and naive helped her at start up, the need to master ones craft, making the most of celebrities wearing ones brand and how she's taking the brand global. We also talk about how she creatively maneuvered the COVID-19 crisis, put on 2 virtual runway shows, expanded e-commerce capabilities and provided much needed jobs for people in the community.

Aisha won the Emerging Designer of the year (Arise Fashion Week, South Africa) Award in 2009 and the African Designer of the year (Glitz Style Awards, Ghana) in 2018 and 2019. Christie Brown has participated in exhibitions and runway shows around the world and featured in multiple international magazines.

Aisha's African Business Story is dedicated to retelling the African story through fashion and contributing to job creation and empowering of people in Africa.

Barkue Tubman-Zawolo: Founder & CEO, MBL Intl. Group - Liberia's Boss Lady, A Serial Entrepreneurs Journey To Impact and Results.

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 04:00:00 -0500

Barkue is the Founder and CEO of MBL International Group - a boutique International consulting and creative agency. The grand-daughter of the late President Williams V.S Tubman Liberia’s longest serving President, she left Liberia for the United States following a coup. Between 1997 and 2007, Barkue, working in a male dominated industry, set up and ran one of the few female led artist management companies - Miss Boss Lady Entertainment - she managed and worked on the management team of some of the most successful international artists at the time.

In 2007 she moved back to Liberia to be closer to family and with the intention of taking over the entertainment industry . The reality of a war-torn country caused her to rethink her plans. Employing her skills to the needs on the ground, she rebranded her company to MBL International Group and went on to build the most sought after events, marketing and PR firm in Liberia specializing in bespoke event production, management, brand architecture, public relations and strategic partnerships. Her clients included, multinational companies, development agencies and the Government of H.E Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the first elected female Head of State in Africa.

As Liberia’s Tourism Lead from 2015 - 2017 and an African Luxury Enthusiast she was inspired to launched her BeAfricaLuxury Brand, Africa’s Luxury Global Lifestyle Brand focusing on changing the narrative, by promoting premium and Luxury African entrepreneurs and to enhance the way the world sees and engage Africa.

She is the UN’s Entrepreneurship Day Ambassador to Liberia and an advocate for young women & Girls through her Miss Boss Lady Effect Organization. She proudly serves on the Board of the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Center for Women and Development and also serves as Lead Consultant for Africa for Essence Ventures.

Barkue's African Business Story is one of resilience and adaptability. She is committed to impact and the empowerment of black and brown women in Liberia and across the world.

Nokwazi Mzobe: Founder & CEO Matoyana - Supporting Survivalist Entrepreneurs, From Consulting to Content Creation.

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 05:00:00 -0500

Nokwazi Mzobe is the founder and lead consultant at Matoyana, an entrepreneurship & sustainability focused consulting firm in Johannesburg, South Africa. She is also an author, coach and adjunct lecturer. Her first book, The Small Business Handbook, is a guide created for start-up and early stage businesses. It is available in English and isiZulu. She also creates content for her business blog, as well as other platforms.

She has over 8 years work experience with Procter & Gamble and Nokia International, working across the Middle East and Africa in Logistics, Marketing & Finance roles. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of KwaZulu-Natal; an Honors Degree from Wits University and an MBA from Hult International Business School. She sits on the Board of Trustees of the National Children and Violence Trust; is a Business Coach to youth social entrepreneurs and through Matoyana – is empowering 22 female business owners, who run play schools in Diepsloot, one of South Africa’s most impoverished communities.

Nokwazi's African Business Story is dedicated to making knowledge accessible so people can create their own opportunities and solve their own problems. Some of her goals include the creation of a social innovation fund for survivalist entrepreneur and the localization of business knowledge - making business information available in local languages in South Africa. She lives by the saying “The best way to predict the future, is to create it” ~ Abraham Lincoln.

Ehime Eigbe-Akindele: Founder & CEO Sweetkiwi - Pioneering Frozen Yoghurt in Nigeria and Taking The Brand Global.

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Ehime started making her own frozen yogurt when she realized most available brands weren’t as healthy as they claimed and created her clean-label recipe which brought about the birth of Sweetkiwi in 2011. This journey took her from Texas to Nigeria, where she opened 3 physical store locations.

She has created flavors for and led partnerships with many exciting brands such as Moet & Chandon, Pepsi, Guinness, Baileys to name a few. In 2017, Ehime moved to the DC area and was accepted into the Union Kitchen food accelerator to launch her delicious Whipped Greek Yogurt in grocery stores, most recently she launched in Whole Foods Market.

Ehime is a Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women scholar and holds a degree in Business Information Technology and International Studies from London Metropolitan University. She also completed the Entrepreneur Management program at the Enterprise Development Centre of Pan African University, Lagos. She has certifications for Cultured Dairy and Ice cream production from Penn State University. She is an OXFAM 'Work in Progress' award recipient and a Visa & IFund Women Black Woman Owned Business Grant Recipient, a British Council Alumni Awards Finalist, an inspirational speaker, a contributor for Nigeria's Business Day ‘The Spark’ magazine. and was named one of Nigeria’s 100 most inspiring women.

Ehime's African Business Story is dedicated to creating healthy, low calorie treats using ingredients that inspire her from around the world. In addition she is passionate about investing in the turn around experience of women in her community by offering training and creating jobs.

Joycee Awosika: Founder & CEO ORÍKÌ - The Path to Impact, From Agro-Beauty to Business Process Guru.

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0400

Joycee Awosika is the Founder and CEO of ORÍKÌ. In pursuit of purpose, Joycee left her job with Constellation Energy, a Fortune 100 company in New York and moved to Nigeria in 2011. She held a few roles in the power sector including serving as the Technical Adviser on Research, Analysis and Informatics (Performance Monitoring) to the Honorable Minister of Power. Working in the public sector wasn't all she had imagined it to be so she decided to pursue her passion and launch an agro-beauty company. She launched ORÍKÌ in 2015, the first and only all natural farm to skin brand to operate a fast-growing premium product & wellness spa on the Continent. ORÍKÌ has developed 6 spas in four years and distributes products globally. Based on her experience and success, she has set up a new business called SOAR. SOAR is an operations and business process consultancy that works closely with businesses and individuals for sustainability, consistency and standards.

Joycee is a World Economic Forum Global Shaper Alumni, a nominee of The Future Awards Prize in Public Service, 2013 & 2016, and selected into the African Leadership Network. She sits on the board of Oxfam's Work in Progress Program and on two other charity organizations and is a Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Program Fellow. She was selected as one of Nigeria’s 100 most inspiring women in 2015 and as a 2017 woman of the Year for 'Her Network.'

Joycee's African Business Story is dedicated to impacting and supporting SME's to be sustainable and scalable and helping them realize that they form the backbone of any economy.

Petua & Joseline Kateeba: Crest Foam Limited - Second Generation Business, A Successful Succession Story.

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 05:00:00 -0400

On the show I interview a mother-daughter duo. Petra and Joseline Kateeba. We talk about executing an effective succession, bouncing back from loss and what scaling means to a second generation Ugandan business.

Mrs Petua Kateeba is the Co-founder and a shareholder in Crest Foam Limited. She trained as a midwife and co-founded the company with her late husband in 1984. Following her husband’s death in 1992, she stepped into the leadership role and led Crest Foam from a small market player to a #1/#2 market leader. During her tenure, Crest Foam was named one of the Top 50 Brands in Uganda by Private Sector Foundation in its Proudly Ugandan campaign; she also won the Entrepreneur of the Year Award from UWEAL. In 2015, she handed over the reigns to her daughter Joseline.

Joseline Kateeba joined Crest Foam Limited in 2014 and in February 2015, she became the Managing Director. Prior to Crest Foam, Joseline worked for nearly four years with global power company Cummins and four years at global strategy consulting firm Bain & Company. She holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Warwick, an MPHIL in Management Studies from University of Cambridge and an MBA from Harvard Business School. Joseline is a Non-Executive Board Member of Uganda Manufacturers Association, NCBA Bank Uganda Limited, Biyinzika Poultry International Limited and a member of the Advisory Board of Total Uganda Limited.

Petua and Joseline's African Business Story is one dedicated to building a legacy brand. Putting structure and systems in place to enable them scale both geographically and product wise.

Flora Mutahi: Founder & CEO Melvin Marsh International - Creating a Niche in the Kenyan Tea Market

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Flora Mutahi is the Founder & CEO of Melvin March International owners of Kenya's largest flavored tea brand. In 1995, Flora heard about the planned deregulation of the tea industry in Kenya. She saw this as an opportunity and with very little industry knowledge and resources, she decided to go into the tea business. While enjoying a cup of tea one day, she had a light bulb moment and discovered a gap in the market. This led her to create Kenya's first flavored tea brand - Melvins Teas. Today, the product range has expanded to include not only flavored teas but herbal and fruit infusions.

Flora has extensive local and international experience in strategic leadership, business development, market penetration and marketing. She also has interests in real estate. While she was at the helm of Kenya Association of Manufactures she spearheaded a new chapter for Women In manufacturing (WIM) aimed at encouraging more women to join the industrial sector. She is currently chairperson of WIM. She has also begun a mentorship program for young women in the manufacturing space under Melvin Marsh International Ltd.

She holds an MBA from University of Cape Town and an B.Sc. in Finance and accounts (UK). Flora sits on several boards: Kenya Anti-Counterfeit Agency – Chairperson; Kenya Private Sector Alliance – Board Member; UN Global Compact – Kenya Board Member; UN Global Compact New York – Board Member; SBM Bank – Board Member. She has won several awards for her business and on a personal level during her entrepreneurial journey.

Floria's African Business story is one of passion and drive. She is passionately building a world class company and at the same time passionately training and mentoring young entrepreneurs across East Africa.

Yoadan Tilahun: Founder & CEO, Flawless Events – When Passion Meets Opportunity, Turning a Side Hustle into a Business

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Yoadan Tilahun is the founder & CEO of Flawless Events. A corporate events company based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Yoadan went to the United States for college and for 15 years did not visit her home country. On a family trip to Addis in 2007, she felt so at home she never went back. A friend knowing she did events as a side business in the United States, asked her to help organize a conference and Flawless Addis Ababa was born!

Starting the company with no clear strategy or a business plan, she was successful in organizing events but soon realized that knowing how to run an event does not mean you know how to run a company, or build a legacy brand. Coming to this realization helped her elevate her game and set the company on a path to actual growth.

Flawless Events organizes corporate events and conferences throughout the African continent. Her team has hosted events in Ethiopia, Cote D’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Gabon, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Mauritius. In 2015, Flawless won the “Event Planner Africa” award at Meetings Magazine’s Women in MICE celebration.

Yoadan serves as the president of the Ethiopian Events & Exhibition Organizers Association. She is an enthusiastic advocate for professionalizing the MICE industry in East Africa. She is the recipient of the 2017 MeetingsNet Changemaker award for her trailblazing role in the Ethiopia events industry and the UNDP Seasoned Entrepreneur of the Year 2018 award. She has also been featured on Forbes Afrique and on How We Made It in Africa. She holds an MBA in International Business and is fluent in Amharic, English and French. Along with her husband, they are raising three growing boys.

Yoadan’s African Business Story is one dedicated to providing quality service and elevating the corporate event space in Africa by building a brand that can compete on the global stage.

Amal Hassan: Founder & CEO, Outsource Global - A Techpreneur's Story of Failing Forward in Business

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Amal Hassan is the Founder and CEO of Outsource Global. A leading business process outsourcing company based in Nigeria and serving countries in Africa, the United States, UK and Japan. Her passion to unlock Nigeria’s development potential through technology-driven innovation and value addition led her to build, capitalize and restructure a series of technology-related businesses that succeed in developing talents and creating employment for young Nigerians.

Over an 8 year period she tried 4 times to start a business processing company in Nigeria, a country not known to be an outsourcing destination. She beat all the odds and today Outsource Global with a staff of over 800 and 3 locations has established Nigeria as a business outsourcing destination on par with India and the Philippines.

Amal’s entrepreneurial prowess and business acumen continue to set her apart as a highly regarded emerging business leader in Nigeria. In 2018, Amal was named one of the 16 women business leaders by Fortune-US Department of State Global Women’s Mentoring Partnership. She has also been recognized as one of Nigeria’s star by the US Embassy and Consulate in Nigeria for her outstanding impact to nation-building. Widely regarded as a role model for the girl-child and women especially in northern Nigeria, she has continued to mentor young leaders across her industry.

Amal's African Business Story is one dedicated to creating job, empowering her community and contributing to the economic development of her home country Nigeria.

Valerie Traore: Founder & Executive Director, Niyel - The Business of Social and Political Advocacy

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0400

Valerie wanted to do things differently. She told herself she was young, didn’t have the funds and needed more experience. Passion said no! So she quite her job, sold everything she owned raising $10,000. With that seed money she started Niyel, a campaigns and advocacy firm based in Dakar, Senegal. It’s been 12 years since she took that leap and we explore the journey so far.

Niyel helps organizations, countries and politicians build meaningful campaigns that influence behavior on the social level and policy on the government level. She is also passionate about increasing the participation of women in politics and strengthening voter participation across Africa. She has a radio show/ podcast titled We Need to Talk. She starts by asking her guests what they are in service of. For Valeria, she is in service of all things Africa. What are you in service of?

Valerie's African Business Story is one dedicated to serving the African continent by increasing engagement and participation to improve the social and political landscape.

ABOUT VALERIE TRAORE

Valerie has over fifteen years of professional experience in campaigning and advocacy on a wide range of issues including human rights and rights based programming, development, human security and conflict, politics and international relations.

Valerie has led the development and implementation of advocacy and mobilization strategy for over 20 international organizations. Including Amnesty International, Oxfam and Rockefeller Foundation. She has trained over 500 campaigners and over 1500 volunteers and activists across the continent on advocacy and mobilization. She managed the development, structuring and launch of a political party in Tanzania, managed a presidential campaign in Guinea Bissau, participated in a presidential campaign in Burkina Faso, and trained a movement for participation in a municipal election in Senegal. She also serves as a trustee on the Board of Christian Aid.

Monica Musonda: Founder & CEO Java Foods - Building and Scaling a Household Food Brand

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Monica Musonda is CEO & Founder of Java Foods, a Zambian based food processing company. Java Foods first product was “eeZee Instant Noodles”, which has become Zambia’s leading instant noodle brand. Java Foods also manufactures and distributes eeZee Supa Cereal (a fortified instant cereal/porridge).

Her experience working with one of Africa’s most successful entrepreneurs gave her the impetus to start her own business and in 2012, she moved back to Zambia and set up Java Foods. In a country where the landscape is dominated by foreign multinationals, Java Foods is a Zambian business run by a Zambian woman. Monica is one of a few Zambian women involved in manufacturing/agro-processing at a scalable level.

Monica currently serves as non-executive director on several boards including Airtel Networks Zambia Plc & Zambia Breweries (where she is chair) She also serves as a judge for the Cartier Women's Initiative. The Cartier Women's Initiative runs an annual international entrepreneurship programme that aims to drive change by empowering women impact entrepreneurs. Founded in 2006, the programme is open to women-run and women-owned businesses from any country and sector that aim to have a strong and sustainable social and/or environmental impact. To learn more and apply for the programme visit https://www.cartierwomensinitiative.com/about-us

Monica's African Business Story is dedicated to building national pride and supporting other female entrepreneurs. By creating good food at affordable prices using local produce, she has built a brand that Zambian are proud of and which is also enjoyed across Southern Africa. She is a champion for nutrition and an advocate for female entrepreneurs across Africa.

Nichole Yembra: Founder and Managing Partner, The Chrysalis Capital - Journey to Funding African Tech

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 21:00:00 -0400

Nichole Yembra is the Founder and Managing Director of The Chrysalis Co which houses The Chrysalis Capital, a $15M African tech fund and The Chrysalis Advisors, a financial, investment, and strategy firm. Previously, she was the Chief Financial Officer for a PE Backed $80M fintech holding company and served as Managing Partner of its investment arm.

Her vision is to support African tech companies building globally relevant institutions. With her track record in enterprise financial strategy, performance improvement, data driven decisioning, and corporate governance, Nichole has served companies in the financial, aviation, education, manufacturing, health, power, and consumer goods sectors in 25 countries. For the past 4 years, she has focused on transforming Africa through data and payments. Her investments in over 15 early stage companies have doubled in size with the companies going on to raise over $60M.

A fierce champion for women in tech, Nichole started GreenHouse Lab, Nigeria’s first female founder-focused tech accelerator. Launched in 2018 in partnership with Google Launchpad, the accelerator was created to close the investment funding gap for women led and gender balanced startups.

Nichole's African Business Story is dedicated to increasing diversity in the African tech eco-system, making more funds available to Africa start ups and growing African companies institutions.

Roberta Annan: Managing Partner, Annan Capital Partners - Journey to Funding African Creatives

Thu, 02 Jul 2020 22:00:00 -0400

The African creative industry includes music, film and fashion and is attracting a lot of attention from investors. My guest, Roberta Annan and I will explore this in the context of her business journey from a pre-med education to a career in development, building and utilizing a solid network to wealth creation. A rich story with a lot of life lessons.

Roberta Annan is The United Nation Environment Program (UNEP) Supporter for the Creative Economy. She is the Managing Partner of Annan Capital Partners (ACP), a sector agnostic specialized boutique Investment Company in Sub-Saharan Africa. She is currently working on a portfolio of assets in hospitality called “African Lifestyle Development Group (ALDG)”. The portfolio includes Frallain Group (a sustainable Luxury brand and a provider of risk capital), Avignon Chocolates (a luxury artisanal chocolate brand based in Ghana), Ethos Club (a community of impact focused change makers creating, collaborating, and innovating) and Agoo (A ride hailing company aimed at providing high quality chauffeur services for the corporate and tourism sector in Africa). ACP also has an arm which focuses on advisory and business development.

She is also the co-founder and Managing Partner of Impact Fund for African Creatives (IFFAC) - a €100 million impact investment fund based in Luxemburg aimed at supporting the creative and lifestyle industries across Africa.

Originating from Ghana, West Africa, Roberta has lived and worked on four continents. Studying at Georgetown University, Annan holds a Master’s degree in Biotechnology.

Roberta's African Business Story is one of resilience. One dedicated to leveraging relationships for mutual benefit, building communities of people who want to do good and funding growth and development in Africa.

Ifeoma I. Idigbe: Founder boys to MEN Foundation - Mind Shift, Focus on Men and Privilege

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 18:00:00 -0400

Africa has the highest concentration of female entrepreneurs, accounting for almost a third of all businesses on the continent. It’s safe to say we are a continent of strong women! That said, women continue to face enormous institutional and systematic challenges as well as gender violence. Women seem disadvantaged from the jump.

In addressing these issue, the burden had rested disproportionately on women. What role do men have to play? The ability to shift entitlement and using privilege for good required intentionality. We discuss these in my upcoming podcast interview with Mrs. Ifeoma I. Idigbe.

Mrs. Ifeoma I. Idigbe is a business analyst/consultant (Finance and Human Resource Management) whose educational background includes a Masters degree in Business Administration (MBA) and a Masters in Human Resource Management (MA HRM). Her professional career started in banking, in corporate finance and development finance (now called SME financing) at International Merchant Bank Limited (IMB). Her career has spanned banking and finance, business restructuring, advisory services and capacity building, working with local and international organizations. Her current focus is on providing financial and business advisory services to indigenous companies to ensure they develop operating systems and practices that will provide the necessary financial and organizational stability to guarantee their future.

Ifeoma is passionate about developing people. She is on the Boards of youth and gender based organizations as a founding Trustee (Ovie Brume Foundation, Women in Management, Business and Public Service WimBiz and is a past Chairman of the Board of Trustees of WimBiz). She is the Founder & Executive Vice Chairman of boys to MEN Foundation, a Nigerian based non-governmental organization dedicated to ensuring that men become their best selves, and so positively impact the communities in which they live.

Ifeoma's African Business Story is one dedicated to a changed world. One where roles are defined by need and circumstance as opposed to gender.

Vivian Nwakah: Founder & CEO Medsaf - Strengthening Health Systems in Africa

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 22:00:00 -0400

Vivian Nwakah is the Founder and CEO of Medsaf a tech enabled pharmaceutical distribution company based in Lagos, Nigeria. Vivian was born and raised in the United States and as part of her MBA, she moved to Nigeria for an internship in 2013 and never left! Medsaf was set up in 2016 and connects a fragmented supply chain to provide transparency to pharmaceutical companies and provide authentic drugs to hospital, pharmacies and patients. In 2019 Medsaf won the Seedstars Malaria Challenge, supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Also in 2019, Vivian won the VivaTech Female Founders Challenge organized by 50inTech.

Vivian's African Business Story is one dedicated to creating solutions for the health needs of communities on the Continent. Vivian believes that “quality medication is a fundamental human right.”

Mo Abudu: Founder & CEO, EbonyLife Media - Building a Media Empire, Made in Africa For the World

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 17:00:00 -0400

Mo Abudu is the Founder and CEO of EbonyLife Media, Africa’s first Global Black Entertainment and Lifestyle network. She is a talk show host, TV producer, human resource management consultant, media personality, entrepreneur, and a philanthropist. The first African to chair the International Emmy Awards Gala, first African to be awarded the Cannes Medallies d'Honneurs and described by Forbes as Africa's Most Successful Woman.

Mo's African Business Story is one of firsts! One dedicated to changing the African narrative, creating a global brand and inspiring people to reach higher and further.

Amanda Cotterman: Founder, Equalife Group- Expanding the Venture Eco-System in Africa

Thu, 28 May 2020 14:00:00 -0400

Amanda Cotterman is the Founder and Managing Partner at Equalife Group, a Venture Debt company based in Nairobi, Kenya. With a background in finance and after having run two previous businesses in Kenya, she realized there wasn’t enough debt financing in Africa. Using her own money, she started on a journey to build out the venture-debt eco-system in Africa.

Amanda’s African Business Story is one dedicated to providing access to finance and helping businesses in Africa scale.

"O" Adeyemi: Global Partnerships & Expansion, Flutterwave - From Payments to E-Commerce

Tue, 19 May 2020 16:00:00 -0400

"O" Adeyemi is Head of Global Partnerships & Expansion at Flutterwave, a Fintech company founded in 2016 and focused on making it easier to transact and do business across Africa - users are able to make international payments in their local currencies.
The value of strategic partnerships has fueled Flutterwave's growth and success. Most recently in 2020 they raised a $35 million Series B round and announced a partnership with Worldpay FIS for payments in Africa. COVID-19 accelerated their expansion into the e-commerce space with the launch of Flutterwave Stores.

Flutterwave's African Business Story is about leveraging partnerships, understanding opportunities and pivoting appropriately. It is clearly a standout in Africa's digital-finance landscape.

Ndidi Nwuneli: Co-Founder, Sahel Consulting - Scaling Agriculture in Africa

Fri, 08 May 2020 06:00:00 -0400

This interview was done prior to the COVID-19 global shutdown. Ndidi's story of resilience and grit remains inspiring in these uncertain times. She continues to use her voice and expertise to support businesses and communities on the Continent. You can read an op-ed she wrote recently - https://bit.ly/2Wa5yMH

About Ndidi Nwuneli

In 2000 and at 25, Ndidi became the first CEO of FATE Foundation. In 2002, Ndidi set up LEAP Africa (Leadership, Effectiveness, Accountability and Professionalism) to address the leadership gap in Africa by facilitating value based leadership programs for youth, entrepreneurs and teachers. In 2009, she co-founded AACE Food Processing & Distribution, a for profit company dedicated to fighting malnutrition and reduce post-harvest losses in Africa and in 2010 co-founded Sahel Consulting to focus on agriculture specific consulting engagements and ecosystem solutions.
More recently, Ndidi has been involved in the establishment of: Nourishing Africa - A tech platform for agripreneurs in Africa to accelerate their work, connect with funders, market, talent, and celebrate their successes on the Continent; and Center for Memories that aims to preserve and promote Igbo culture and values.
Ndidi's African Business Story is about a life dedicated to creating change agents in her communities and ensuring Africa can feed itself.

Coming soon: African Business Stories

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 13:00:00 -0500

Welcome to African Business Stories a new podcast hosted by Akaego Okoye. The show features the stories of resilient African female entrepreneurs building and running businesses in Africa. Women who against all odds stay winning.