How This Beauty‑Obsessed Tech Founder Is Giving the Industry a Voice
Layo Ogunbanwo has spent the last year building Splice, a software platform for salons and spas in Nigeria. Now, she’s taking things a step further with the Beyond Beauty Podcast: a platform for raw, real, and unfiltered conversations about the business of beauty. In this Q&A, she shares why she’s doing it, who it’s for, and why it might be the industry’s most important mic yet. 1. Why are you launching a Podcast? And why now? I felt like we needed a place to talk about the business of beauty. About leadership, retention, growth, pricing, burnout, and hiring. The real stuff that salon and spa owners face every day, but don’t always have the space or the language to unpack. Since launching Splice in September of 2024, I’ve spoken with hundreds of beauty professionals across Nigeria. These are some of the most hardworking and talented entrepreneurs I’ve met. But a lot of them feel isolated. They are figuring things out in silos, with no real community or steady access to knowledge. I wanted to change that. The Beyond Beauty Podcast is a place where real people can have real conversations about what it takes to run and grow a beauty business. No platitudes. Just honest, helpful, inspiring stories from people building the industry. It’s our way of giving the industry a voice and support. 2. You’ve worked in tech and product for years. What drew you into the beauty space? Honestly, I’ve always been a beauty girlie. I like to do my nails, lashes, the whole works. There’s something deeply human about walking into a salon or spa. It’s where people go to feel better, to reset, to be seen. I’ve always admired the people behind that experience, especially the women who run their businesses and build from scratch. But my deeper involvement started in 2020. A close friend who owns a salon in Lagos was struggling to keep her operations organised. She was juggling everything by herself, and it was chaotic. So I helped her map out a more structured workflow using some basic digital tools. It wasn’t perfect, but it made a difference. And that’s when it clicked for me that this entire industry was operating without real, centralised infrastructure. That experience pushed me to start researching the beauty and wellness sector more intentionally. I spoke to dozens of business owners, kept hearing essentially the same thing: “We’re figuring it out, but it’s hard.” That gap between talent and tech support is what pulled me in. Beauty businesses are everywhere, but not many people are building for them. That’s the problem I wanted to solve with Splice. 3. The Beyond Beauty Podcast feels very community-focused. Who did you build it for? I built it for the people who are doing the work. The salon and spa owners with no formal support, aestheticians and therapists trying to keep up with industry trends while holding a team together, stylists who are booked out, but still aren’t sure how to scale. There’s so much skill and ambition in this industry, but not nearly enough support or visibility. Many don’t even see themselves as business owners when in reality, they’re doing the full work of entrepreneurs, including hiring, managing clients, handling marketing, and even product development in some cases. This podcast puts their stories at the forefront: the journeys, the challenges, the pivots, and the small wins that don’t usually make it into the spotlight. 4. What stories are you most excited to tell through this podcast? The honest ones. I’m particularly excited about the stories that go beyond aesthetics and “how I started” and into the heart of “how I’m surviving.” Stories about beauty business owners who didn’t know as much as they do now six months ago, who have had to let go of staff, who’ve mastered how to deal with the no-show problems, who’ve struggled with and figured out retention. I want to hear about pricing anxiety, customer drama, burnout, rebranding, breakthroughs, and bounce-backs. There’s a lot of polish in the beauty industry, and that’s great. But what we don’t see enough of are the layers underneath, the things that every business owner goes through but rarely shares out loud. Those are the stories that make people feel less alone. And those are the stories that teach. So, yes, we’ll talk about growth, strategy, and systems, but we’ll also talk about doubt, mistakes, and the bounce-backs. Because that’s real life. Because these stories don’t just inspire, but reflect. 5. How does the Beyond Beauty Podcast connect with what you’re building at Splice? They’re deeply connected: same mission, different formats. With Splice, we’re building the software that helps beauty professionals manage bookings, reduce no-shows, automate reminders, track client history, all of that. It’s the operational backbone. But with the Beyond Beauty Podcast, we’re building the voice. The narrative. The space where beauty professionals can hear from people who’ve walked similar paths, where they can learn what’s working, what’s not, and how others are growing through it. One supports the “how to do it.” The other supports the “why it’s worth it.” Too much innovation can slow tech. But I’ve always believed that community and infrastructure should grow together. If we only give people tools but no sense of identity or belonging, they’ll struggle to sustain momentum. But if you give them both, they build better businesses and stay in the game longer. 6. You’ve had some amazing guests already. Any common threads or surprises? Yes, definitely. One thing that keeps coming up is how much beauty professionals are learning on the job. There’s no formal blueprint for how to run a successful salon or spa in Nigeria, so people are figuring it out as they go, through mistakes, word of mouth, and watching others. And that’s why the conversations are so powerful. Guests are open. They share what they wish they knew earlier, the turning points in their journey, and the systems that helped them grow. For example, in
2025 Career Trends – Stay ahead of the curve, step into your power.
As we head deeper into 2025, the African career landscape is shifting fast. From emerging technologies to new ways of working and evolving leadership styles, it’s a thrilling time for women on the continent. But to thrive, staying informed and adaptable is key. Whether you’re a young professional, a mid-level manager, or an entrepreneur, these are the career trends you need to watch and prepare for in 2025. 1. Remote Work is Evolving – Again While remote work exploded during the pandemic and hybrid models took root in the years that followed, 2025 is seeing the rise of “borderless work.” What this means for you: How to prepare: 2. Entrepreneurship & Freelancing Are Becoming the Norm With youth unemployment still high in many African countries, many women are creating their own opportunities. Freelancing, consulting, and product-based businesses are booming. What this means for you: How to prepare: 3. AI Is Not Replacing You—But It Is Reshaping Your Job AI tools are transforming industries: from automated customer service to smart data analysis and even content creation. What this means for you: How to prepare: 4. Skills Are the New Degrees Employers are shifting away from traditional qualifications toward skills-based hiring. Can you demonstrate your impact? Do you have a portfolio? That’s what matters now. What this means for you: How to prepare: 5. Purpose-Led Careers Are Taking Center Stage Young African women are increasingly driven by impact, not just income. Social entrepreneurship, climate action, DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion), and wellness sectors are all expanding. What this means for you: How to prepare: Final Thoughts: The African Woman Advantage Here’s the truth: African women are not just adapting to the future—we’re shaping it. From Lagos to Nairobi, Cape Town to Accra, we are redefining what leadership, innovation, and success look like. The future belongs to the bold, the skilled, and the purpose-driven.Are you ready? Next Steps for the SLA Tribe:
Business on a Budget: How to Start with What You Have
Starting a business is often portrayed as something that requires a huge capital injection, high-end equipment, and a fully furnished office space. But here’s the truth: some of the most successful businesses started with nothing more than a mobile phone, a social media account, and a determined mind. At BoostHer, we believe that women can build thriving businesses—even on a shoestring budget. Here’s how you can start where you are, with what you have. 1. Shift Your Mindset: Resourcefulness Over Resources The first asset you need isn’t money—it’s mindset. You don’t need to wait until everything is “perfect” to start. Focus on what’s already in your hands: skills, knowledge, a network, or even a smartphone. Instead of asking, “What do I need?” ask, “What can I do with what I have?” 2. Start with a Problem, Not a Product You don’t need a fancy inventory or a high-cost prototype. Look for real problems in your community or network. Ask yourself: Solving a problem with a simple, low-cost solution is the fastest way to test a business idea without big investment. 3. Use Free and Low-Cost Tools There are dozens of tools available that can help you start your business with little to no cost: Your smartphone can be your entire office. 4. Go Lean: Test Before You Scale Don’t buy 100 units of product if you haven’t sold one. Start small: Validate your idea with real people and real feedback before investing big. 5. Monetize Your Skills Before Products If capital is truly limited, consider starting with what you already know how to do: Service-based businesses often require less startup capital and can generate income quickly. 6. Build a Community Before You Sell Don’t wait until you have a full business plan before talking to people. Start sharing your journey online, talk about your idea, and engage your potential customers. You can: Your early supporters can become your first customers—or your first investors. 7. Reinvest Your Profits Wisely Once you begin earning, resist the urge to splurge. Reinvest in areas that can help you grow sustainably—like better packaging, a new tool, or skill development. Remember, every naira counts. Track your spending, stay lean, and focus on creating value. Final Thoughts Starting small doesn’t mean staying small. Many successful women entrepreneurs started with less than ₦10,000 and turned it into thriving businesses. You don’t need to wait. You don’t need permission. You can start your business today, with what you already have. And as you grow, BoostHer and communities like She Leads Africa are here to support you every step of the way. Are you a woman ready to launch or grow your hustle? Applications for the SLA BoostHer cohort is open soon—Apply Here
Your Network, Your Net Worth
When you think about building a career or launching a business, you probably picture long hours learning on your own, late-night Zoom calls, and endless to-do lists. But here’s the secret many successful women leaders share: they didn’t do it alone. It takes a village—and that’s exactly why community matters. 1. Why “Going It Alone” Isn’t the Fast Track 2. From Curiosity to Clarity: Learning Together Imagine you’ve got an idea for a side hustle—maybe custom jewelry or a digital marketing consultancy. You’re excited, but where do you begin? These small, informal gatherings mirror what happens in a structured learning community: you share resources, refine your pitch, and come away with fresh insights. 4. The Power of Collective Accountability Joining a community means committing publicly—to your peers and to yourself. When you post your weekly goals in a group chat or share your progress in a video check-in, you’re more likely to follow through. Small, consistent steps turn big dreams into reality—and you’ll stay energized when you’re in it together. 5. Where to Find Your Tribe While many networks exist, it can be hard to find the right fit. Look for groups that offer: Ready to Tap into Collective Strength? Your ambitions deserve more than solo hustle—they deserve a powered-by-community launchpad. Whether you’re sketching your first business model or sharpening your interview skills, a supportive circle can make the difference between giving up and going all the way. Seek out—then lean into—peer groups, mentorship circles, and skill-swap cohorts. Not only will you gain expertise faster, you’ll build friendships, find cheerleaders, and spark ideas you never imagined. Because at the end of the day, your network truly is your net worth. Ready to build your community? Keep an eye on She Leads Africa’s channels for upcoming workshops, peer-mentoring meetups, and virtual “idea jams” designed to get you connected, confident, and career-ready.
Tailored for Success: DWL by Ivie Osula Brings Chic and Confidence to the Workplace.
There’s something about a woman who walks into a room and owns it not with noise, but with confidence & presence. That’s the kind of woman Ivie Osula dresses.
Skill Up & Scale Up: How African Women Entrepreneurs Are Owning the Future
In today’s fast-paced digital world, building a business without continuously upgrading your skills is like trying to sail without a compass—you may move, but you’ll struggle to stay on course. For African women entrepreneurs navigating the startup world, the path to success lies not just in having a great idea, but in equipping yourself with the right tools to bring that idea to life. At She Leads Africa, we believe that the most powerful investment any woman can make is in herself. That’s why it’s time to talk about learning in-demand skills while managing the rollercoaster ride that is your startup journey. Why Learning New Skills Is Non-Negotiable Let’s be real—things change fast. One year, it’s all about Instagram growth hacks, the next, it’s TikTok trends, AI content tools, and new fintech platforms. Whether you’re running a beauty brand, launching an agri-tech startup, or scaling your consulting business, you need to stay sharp. Skills that are hot right now: The good news? You don’t have to learn everything at once. Focus on what will move your business forward now. Managing the Hustle: Balancing Learning and Running a Business Balancing your time between learning and building can be tough. But here are a few tips to make it work: The Future Belongs to the Prepared African women are building incredible things—from fashion empires to tech platforms solving real problems. But talent without the right tools is like having gold without a map to find it. You owe it to yourself, and your dream, to keep learning. So sis, whether you’re working from your bedroom, a co-working space in Lagos, or a kiosk in Accra—keep investing in you. Because when African women rise, we all rise. Want to skill up with a squad that gets it? Join the She Leads Africa Young Nigeria Works Program for resources, workshops, and vibes to fuel your growth. Let’s build and win—together.
How to Scale Your Business Successfully: 5 Proven Strategies
Scaling a business is an exciting yet challenging process that requires careful planning and execution. If done correctly, it can lead to increased revenue, improved efficiency, and long-term sustainability. Here are five key strategies to successfully scale your business while maintaining quality and performance. 1. Develop a Comprehensive Scaling Plan Before scaling, evaluate your current operations and identify areas that need improvement. Create a structured plan outlining your objectives, potential challenges, and necessary resources. A clear roadmap ensures you are prepared to handle growth effectively. 2. Invest in Technology and Automation Leveraging technology can enhance efficiency and reduce manual labor. Implement customer relationship management (CRM) software, automate marketing, and optimize inventory management. These tools help support business growth without adding excessive costs. Learn more about automation in business from Rippling. 3. Strengthen Your Team As your business grows, so should your team. Hiring skilled professionals or outsourcing key functions can ensure smooth operations. A strong, adaptable team will help you meet the increasing demands of scaling your business. 4. Focus on Financial Management Scaling requires sufficient capital and proper cash flow management. Monitor your financial performance regularly and explore funding options if needed. Proper budgeting ensures sustainable growth. 5. Enhance Customer Experience Customer satisfaction is crucial during expansion. Implement feedback mechanisms to understand customer needs and preferences. Maintaining excellent service can lead to increased customer loyalty and referrals. For women entrepreneurs, She Leads Africa offers mentorship and training programs to help scale businesses effectively. By implementing these strategies and utilizing available resources, you can position your business for sustainable growth and long-term success.
Bridging the Financing Gap for Women Entrepreneurs in Africa
Women entrepreneurs in Africa are crucial in driving economic growth, job creation, and innovation. However, they continue to face significant challenges in accessing the financial resources needed to start and scale their businesses. The financing gap for women-led enterprises in Africa is estimated to be around $42 billion, highlighting a systemic issue that must be addressed to unlock the continent’s full economic potential. Understanding the Financial Gap Despite the increasing number of women venturing into business, access to finance remains a persistent barrier. Traditional lending institutions often impose strict requirements, such as collateral and extensive credit history, which many women cannot meet. Additionally, cultural and societal norms sometimes discourage women from seeking financial independence, further limiting their access to business capital. As a result, many women-led businesses are forced to rely on personal savings or informal lending networks, which can be unreliable and insufficient for scaling operations. The Impact of Financial Exclusion The inability to secure adequate financing hampers business growth, reduces job creation, and slows economic progress. Women entrepreneurs are often concentrated in the informal sector, where financial barriers are even more pronounced. Without sufficient funding, businesses struggle to invest in new technologies, expand their operations, or enter new markets. This not only affects individual entrepreneurs but also weakens Africa’s overall economic resilience. Available Funding Initiatives for Women Entrepreneurs Recognizing the urgent need to support women in business, several initiatives have been launched to bridge the financial gap. These programs aim to provide targeted financial solutions, training, and mentorship to empower women entrepreneurs. The Path Forward Addressing the financing gap for women entrepreneurs requires a multi-stakeholder approach involving governments, financial institutions, investors, and development agencies. By advocating for policy changes, promoting gender-sensitive financial products, and investing in women’s business education, Africa can create a more inclusive and thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. Conclusion Financial inclusion is essential for economic development, and ensuring women have equal access to funding opportunities is a critical step toward a prosperous Africa. By leveraging existing financial initiatives and fostering a supportive business environment, women entrepreneurs can overcome financial barriers and contribute meaningfully to economic transformation.
HERtitude 2025: Hot Babes, It’s Time to Show Up and Show Out!
HERtitude is back, and this time, Zikoko is bringing all the heat with Retro Glam.