Mouna Ben Garga: To create change is my life commitment
[bctt tweet=”Mouna Ben Garga is working to influence national and international agendas” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Are you familiar with the terms advocacy, social change or community development? Well, you cannot separate these words from Tunisian-born Mouna Ben Garga because she lives by them. Mouna Ben Garga epitomizes the notion of active citizenship and innovation for social change. Community mobilization and development are her passion. When she isn’t advocating for the rights of immigrants in the US, Mouna’s working to influence national and international agendas. Share with us what you do. How many people you touch and how long you have been at it? Since 2009, I have committed myself to advocate and mobilize communities. I started as a member of the Junior Chamber International in which we build the capacity of youth to find solutions and be agents of change in their communities. Moving to the United States, I got engaged with the African Diaspora advocating for the rights of immigrants and engagement in the continent through the AU Diaspora participation program. Finishing my Master in Public Policy, I found myself doing what I always loved to do as a profession; “community development and advocacy”. I work to create strong alliances to influence national and international agendas around critical causes such as climate change, Agenda 2030 and youth engagement. Currently, as a programme officer at CIVICUS, a global alliance dedicated to strengthening citizen action and civil society around the world, I support civil society organizations in Africa and Middle East to develop their innovation capacity in community building and mobilization. What are you excited about lately? I am excited about innovation for social change. For a long time, innovation was associated with business and science. However, lately we’re starting to witness the rise of innovation for social change and impact. Lately, I am working to make it part of communities empowerment in Africa and Middle East. [bctt tweet=”Lately we’re starting to witness the rise of innovation for social change and impact” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Why do you believe in the work you do? Any sustainable positive change comes from within. But together we are stronger, more influential and more efficient. Thus, I work to connect people and communities and build partnerships. How do you stay motivated? Reading and watching the impact that people are making around the world. It could start from a video advocating women’s right in India. Then, there is an innovative app which helps raise money for Syrian refugees. I have also been recently motivated by an article about a solution for climate change initiated in small village in Tunisia by a young woman. These achievements empower me to keep working because I am not trying alone. What is that one thing you think needs to be improved on in Africa’s development? Full engagement! Decisions about Africa and its development are taken in offices far away from people who will be the final implementers. Many plans and strategies are published every year and with any new international action, but the implementation mechanisms are not effective. This delays the impact and creates more tensions. African citizens should play an important part in the continent’s development and not only limited to consultative role. A participatory approach is needed and a process of co-design in which civil society organisations (CSOs) play the interim agent between communities and governments. [bctt tweet=”African citizens should play an important part in the continent’s development” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] What do you appreciate most about your country, Tunisia? Youth! As most of the African countries, our treasure in Tunisia is our youth. Despite the political instability, our youth is finding many ways to make a change. It is true that many of us decided to be active in CSOs but they are working toward showing a real impact and influencing political process. We stand for our rights, against corruption and we demand transparency and engagement. We’ve reached a point in Tunisia at which the youth are moving from protesting to influencing. What do you think makes a good road trip? Companionship is what makes a good road trip. Even though you can enjoy the good view and the trip journey alone, it is more nurturing to share it with others. You learn new things from company and your eyes open to new facts and realities. In fact, you will probably pay attention to other details in the road that you would not see alone. What three items do you always carry with you on a road trip? CD and books My favourite music Cash Want to see women you know featured on SLA? Tell us what amazing things women are doing in your communities here.
How to deal with career FOMO
[bctt tweet=”The best way to deal with career FOMO is to create your own opportunities” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] “Cissy just got that job offer with the international company and will soon be moving to start!” “Kathy just got this prestigious scholarship!” “Lena moved to a new company and is now making five times your current salary!” Everyone’s life has turned out perfectly. Well, everyone except you. You feel that you have stayed too long in an underpaid position. If you could turn back the hands of time, you would have taken that internship. You keep thinking that things would have turned out differently if you had pursued other career options. Your days are filled with concern. My dear friend, you are dealing with career FOMO, the fear that you are missing out on great career opportunities. Career FOMO materializes when we feel that our careers are not good enough because of the decisions we have made. Here are some of the ways you can deal with career FOMO that do not involve job hopping. [bctt tweet=”Career FOMO materializes when we feel that our careers are not good enough ” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Pursue a passion project A passion project is something you do on your own terms and for nobody else’s satisfaction but your own. It stems from your desire to create. Most of us are in jobs where our creative juices are stifled. If you feel you could use a more creative job, why not put in some time to pursue creative efforts? Whether you choose to paint, sculpt, or write a novel is up to you. Your passion project could be what you need to figure out what you want to do in life. Start a side hustle Your career FOMO could be stemming from not pursuing your entrepreneurial ambitions. Deal with this by starting a side hustle. The advantage of a side hustle is that there is little risk involved. You don’t have to quit your job to start. Extra money anyone? Your side hustle could develop into a full time job with time. [bctt tweet=”Your career FOMO could be stemming from not pursuing your entrepreneurial ambitions” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Volunteer If you have passion for giving back to the community but you are not able to do that at your day job, volunteering is a way to fill this void. Consider participating in your employer’s programs if any. If this is not an option, look into creating your own valuable volunteering experiences. Free courses There are lots of free courses you can take up to learn about a field you are interested in. Valuable resources include MOOCS, conferences, podcasts, and webinars. You might find that a field you were so attracted to in the beginning does not seem appealing as you dig deeper. Network Build professional relationships with people who are working in the field you are interested in. Conduct informational interviews and ask as many questions as you can. You will find that people are willing to open up about their fields. The information gained will help you make a decision on whether to pursue your career aspirations in that field. Create your own opportunities The best way to deal with career FOMO is to create your own opportunities. You need to understand that if you want to achieve something in life you will have to work hard to achieve it. Stalking more seemingly successful people on social media will not get you what you want. Regrets about career decisions made in the past will sap your energy. Ask for that job rotation, request to be transferred to another department, volunteer for a work project you might be interested in, have a candid talk with your boss about your career development plans. Do not be passive about your career aspirations. All careers come with their own challenges. Like they say, the grass is not always greener on the other side. The grass is greener where you water it. Shut the world out, choose one thing and relentlessly go after it. So long as you have set reasonable career goals for yourself and you are taking action everyday to improve your personal profile, what everyone else is doing with their lives will not matter any more. Are you experiencing any career FOMO? How are you dealing with it?
This is how you get into the fashion industry fast
[bctt tweet=”These are skills you should acquire to make a resounding break in the fashion industry” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] I remember telling my mom that I wanted to be a fashion designer and she looked at me weirdly and told me that I had to choose a degree program that would land me a well-paying job. She thought fashion design wasn’t a proper fit for me, however I thought differently. Eventually, I decided to study media and society studies as this was close to fashion. I am no fashion expert by qualification however my love and passion for fashion qualifies me to point out what I believe you should acquire in order to make a resounding break into the fashion industry. 1. Fashion is about PASSION You have all watched a romantic soap that left you teary and caught in the bubble of the love affair portrayed. I have personally have also fallen in love with the heartthrob (and I am sure a lot of us are guilty of this). The passion that exudes between these characters actually drives haters to bring them apart, because their love will be flawless. This is the same passion you should exhibit when you want to venture into the fashion industry. Passion gives you the hope you need in asserting that you will compete against existing huge brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel and become a household name. It’s what has driven Mustafa Hassanali, a renowned Tanzanian designer who is a doctor by qualification to become a pan-African designer behind the Swahili Fashion Week. Passion makes you resilient and helps overcome whatever hurdles that you may encounter. Passion is an attribute you should possess, I think it is essential for a fashion breakthrough. 2. Determination Determination yields results as the fashion industry can be frustrating. It needs self-driven attitudes that are built on determination and willpower. It is no secret why determined individuals always succeed. They are unstoppable and don’t allow negativity to thrive within and around them. This skill I believe is essential for you to make a breakthrough in the fashion industry. It is essential for young designers to build on your drive and multiply it by keenly building your brand through effort and determination. With these skills, despite the negative feedback you might receive from fashion critics, your brand remains alive. A good example of a determined designer is Archel Bernard a Liberian designer who did not let financial setbacks hinder her dream for setting up a successful fashion business. Be a determined fashion designer and you will soar to great heights. [bctt tweet=”You should market your brand exuding both your passion and determination” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] 3. Marketing your brand How you market your brand should exude both your passion and determination. This is to win over potential suppliers of your brand. As a less known brand in an already overwhelmed fashion world, it is quite vital for you to market your brand effectively. It’s at this point you have to sell your idea and show belief in it. If you are unsure, it weakens your stance. There are several products manufactured worldwide that cause long-term health complications. Yet the way these products are marketed exceeds the negative publicity associated with them. Think about that. 4. Believe in yourself and your brand Trust yourself and that you will make it despite the opinions channelled your way; appreciative, negative or hostile. Belief in oneself is simple, you have what it takes to become the best you and this is essential to break through the fashion industry. In believing in your brand, you resonate with unimaginable force that not only keeps you going but also makes others solidly trust in your line. Fashion designers like Farai Simoyi exude confidence and character. Before being senior designer of Nicki Minaj’s line, she worked for Beyonce as head denim designer for her and her mother’s line. Farai’s example shows that determination should be a factor that motivates your dream. The drive you possess can rub off on the right people you need to catapult your fashion design dream. [bctt tweet=”Patience produces character and this world needs an individual with tonnes of character” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] 5. Perseverance Patience produces character and the world we live in needs an individual with tonnes of character. Established brands did not start from the top, they built their way and came out strong. If people fail to understand the concept being presented to them, don’t give up. Instead, implement the skills mentioned above and patiently await because perseverance eventually pays off. Patience is a virtue, remember Rome wasn’t built in a day. Let that be a motivation for your eventual breakthrough in the fashion industry. 6. Educate your fashion abilities With a little education, you cannot go wrong. Building a fashion business needs knowledge, you need to understand how the industry operates. Though most of us think fashion is just about cutting cloth and recreating trends, there’s more to it. Research your fashion venture and acquire the business acumen that guarantees profit. Produce a sound business plan to lure and keep investors. This applies to all fashion enthusiasts, educate yourself, perfect your fashion abilities and refine your fashion sense, go on to create your own line and manage your fashion business. These are the skills I think one needs to venture into the fashion industry. If you feel I left something out feel free to hit me up.
Makhosazana Ndlovu: No matter what happens, stay true to yourself
[bctt tweet=”Makhosazana Ndlovu is a woman slowly making her way through the media industry” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Makhosazana Ndlovu is a woman defined by her values. Her strong value system ensures that she sees through whatever decision she makes. This has helped her move forward in the media where she is slowly growing as a content creator and producer. When she is not working at Hillbrow Radio Makhosazana also works at a NGO which gives young people skills they need to navigate their lives and careers as they grow up. Read on to see how this young South African woman is doing her own thing and making strides in her career. Tell us about your work as a producer. How has it contributed to your life? My journey as a producer has been a whirlwind of emotions. But I believe that through this job I have grown a lot both as a person and as a content producer. One of the exciting things about content production is that I get the chance to use my creative juices. And of course, my line of thought gets to be articulated by other people. How did you start in the media world and what challenges have you faced? I started early this year and I was motivated by my passion for journalism. I had just finished my tertiary education and luckily there is a radio station (Hillbrow Radio) near my neighbourhood. I work at Hillbrow radio on a part time basis and I must admit that it is creating a leeway for me in media. With my job, I am honing my skills as far as content production, news reading and presenting is concerned. I am also starting to appreciate and understand the celebrity culture more. You’re also involved in women empowerment campaigns, why do you think women need to be empowered First, I am involved with women empowerment campaigns because women empowerment is one of the causes that I am passionate about. I think women need to be empowered because we still live in a society where women are marginalized and objectified. I feel like elements of socialization still play a role in how women are treated or treat themselves. Therefore, my vision is to see a society where women make their own decisions independently without influences of socialization or patriarchy. [bctt tweet=”My journey as a producer has been a whirlwind of emotions” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Tell us about the NGO you work with. Currently, I work at an NGO that aims to develop the youth from cradle to career. The experience has been absolutely amazing and I have learnt a lot as I have grown both professionally and in general. The feeling of helping young people makes me sleep peacefully at night and puts my heart at peace. What do you feel most proud of? I am proud of most of the decisions I have made in my life. I am also proud of having completed my degree in record time. Then again, I am also proud of the #womenforwomen campaign that I put together with a colleague of mine. If you could travel anywhere, where would you go and why? I would go to China, just to see the Great Wall of China. [bctt tweet=”Helping young people makes me sleep peacefully at night and puts my heart at peace” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] What words of advice would you give other young women? No matter what happens, stay true to yourself and stand for what you believe. Hey South African #MotherlandMoguls, the SheHive will be in Johannesburg from November 3-6. Find out more here.
5 business lessons from Angry Birds
Any Angry BirdsTM fans reading this? Game or movie, whichever tickles your fancy? Well, I am an avid fan and with my recent addiction —or should I say penchant— to the league tournament game, Angry Birds Friends, where we complete online ‘globally’ (pauses to laugh at such an interesting hobby), I found myself ruminating over some business lessons. These angry birds have something to teach us as they deal with their foes, the bad piggies. Let’s get angry, I mean, started! 1. Put your ducks in a row or if you prefer, arrange the birds wisely behind the catapult This is the bit you prioritize on your strategy from the business plan. What comes first? Leasing office space or testing the market? When playing angry birds, the birds are aligned for you such that you cannot pick red before yellow. If yellow were to be fired on the catapult before red, it would change the dynamics of winning. Create a list of priorities and shuffle it accordingly according to internal and market conditions. 2. Understand the role of each bird When playing this game, each bird has its own unique ability. This also goes for you, I bet you’ve identified your strong point by the time you launched. The yellow bird (Chuck) can zoom in at a high speed and is good with wood destruction. The little blue birds can be fired into 3 and deal well with glass. The black one (Bomb) is a bomb in waiting and is perfect for blowing stone. The small red one (Red) can be fired to mid-range distances. The big red bird (Terence) is bulky and is good for close range mammoth destruction. The white one (Matilda) doesn’t fly so far but it can drop an egg and destroy whatever lies above with its head. The green one is fantastic for hidden spots because it works almost like a return boomerang. Back to business, what is the objective of each strategic action you take and what will it be good at achieving? If you are launching an app, you could decide on a market sampling storm, then online advertising and finally traditional advertising. Or if you’re launching a clothing boutique, you could open with premium unique designs that you know consumers are looking for and consider offers later at certain peak seasons instead of the other way around. What comes first or last and why? Sometimes though, this is an egg-before-the-chicken, chicken-before-the-egg phenomenon! So be careful. 3. Save some birds, where possible Now, the objective of this game is to use the least number of angry birds to destroy the bad piggies. Feels odd typing piggies as I wear a smug face and convince myself that I am writing earnestly! With such a mission, the moves you make need to be smart. You need to visualize the end from the beginning for you to save some birds which is different from releasing them aimlessly. As an entrepreneur, bootstrap is your friend. You need to decide on what you want versus what you need. Do you really need a fancy office space or can you operate from home and save that money for one or two sales personnel? Do you need an accountant or can you handle that in your initial years, seeing that your degree gave you some basic skills? Such pertinent questions and more will help save your ‘birds’. 4. Ignore the grunting pigs The sound effects in this game are quite something. I mean, when you are down to one bird and have three pigs to attack, they begin to grunt and somewhat remind you that you are losing. Then when the game is over and you’ve lost, they snort and grunt even more! In the face of business, you might have some competitor pigs nipping at your heels or get to a point where some of your family and friends are not being very supportive. You will need to remind yourself why you started, what your deepest and genuine motive is and latch on to that. Hang around inspiring like-minded people and don’t let the noise of competition cripple you, unless it’s obviously sending an important signal. As for the naysayers, just make the lipstick redder and keep at it. 5. When you don’t manage to destroy all the pigs, try again, differently. Perspective is the crux of the matter here. If you looked at a 6 from the south, and then from the north, you will see different figures. At times when playing this game, I tilt my phone. I flip it to the right, left, diagonal, maybe 65 degrees, or whatever. I take a moment and rethink my attack strategy. You will have a number of moments like these in business when all you need to do is take a step back and change the plan. It is okay that the first plan didn’t go as expected, you learnt something. You are now wiser but don’t waste any more time, rethink and reactivate. Hope you enjoyed this one!
Dr. Ettamba Agborndip: Anyone can excel in the sciences regardless of their gender
It is widely believed that science is an all “male affair”. In fact, a walk through the science departments of most colleges or universities in Cameroon could convince you that girls don’t exist. This is because girls are stereotypically considered weak in sciences. But in recent times, many young girls are challenging the myth about girls and science and doing it so well. 25-year-old Ettamba Agborndip, a medical doctor and fellow of the Moremi Initiative for Women’s Leadership in Africa, is one such lady challenging such stereotypes. Dr Ettamba has been practicing now for 14 months since her excellent results from the Medical school at Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Cameroon. She told me in a late night WhatsApp chat that, “anyone can excel in the sciences regardless of their gender”. Ettamba’s vision is to inspire women and young girls to make informed health decisions by educating them about the common pathologies affecting our communities. What is the greatest feat of being a doctor? A lot of personal time is consumed depending on the kind of patients you have in the wards. Sometimes, I end up spending 24 hours in the hospital because I have an unstable patient and I cannot be at peace at home. Did you encounter any challenge during the pursuit in becoming a doctor? The whole process of becoming a doctor is a challenge. From the long hours in class, to late hospital hours and sometimes gruesome ward rounds, to having to miss out on family events. But so far, I don’t have any regrets about being a doctor. How did it feel when you received your medical degree? It was an emotional day for me. I was happy to have conquered those 7 years, the look of pride and fulfillment on my parent’s face was priceless, and I was happy to have made my teacher’s proud. I wouldn’t be where I am without my teachers. Girls are stereotypically considered to be weak in science. How did you break that? I went to an all-girls school so I did not get to experience that stereotype. However, I do believe that anyone can excel in the sciences regardless of their gender. It’s all about passion, hard work and determination. What advice can you give to young girls on challenging the myth about science being a guys thing? I would advise young girls to believe in themselves and work hard. It always helps to get orientation about your desired field so as to better prepare yourself for the task ahead. Secondly, I’ll advise them to equally have a mentor who can hold their hands and guide them especially when it gets difficult. Did you have another career goal apart from being a doctor? I have always wanted to be a doctor. At some point engineering was tempting, but medicine has always been my passion. What do you love about your job? I love fact that we actually save people’s lives. There’s no amount of money which can replace the fulfillment you get when a patient says; “thank you doctor”. It means the world. The sad thing about being a doctor is that you can’t save them all. Some patients don’t make it and it’s a fact that we must live with. Want to see women you know featured on SLA? Tell us what amazing things women are doing in your communities here.
6 easy ways to become smarter when you are strapped for time & cash
[bctt tweet=”You can take charge of your learning by creating your own personal syllabus.” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] You have been out of school for a long while, your everyday work schedule is not as exciting as it used to be. You keep on pushing aside those books that you have been meaning to read forever. That short course that you wanted to your employer to fund has been declined. Yet you keep reiterating to your friends and family, “If only I had more…time/money… I would learn …” It’s time to take charge! You can take charge of your learning by creating your own personal syllabus. Personal syllabus (n.) structured course of self-driven learning This mode of study can be as complicated or as flexible as you would like it to be. Websites like Degreed will allow you to keep will allow you to keep track of all the material that you enroll in. Alternatively, if you are an Excel-junkie, a simple Google spreadsheet could do the thing. If you are the pen and paper kind of girl, the bullet journal system could be your magic bullet. So, what kind of materials can you include in a personal syllabus? 1. Books Media strategist Ryan Holiday, dropped out of college to pursue his career while continuing to educate himself by reading primarily classics. Today, by the age of 29, he has authored 3 books, worked with Robert Greene of the 48 Laws of Power fame. Ryan has appeared in major publications such as Fast Company, New York Times and Forbes. Not to forget to mention, he is a former Director of Marketing at American Apparel. You may argue that reading is an expensive hobby because the average cost of a new book KES 1,000-2,500 (approx. £7-18). It’s more expensive if Amazon does not ship to your country. But have you tried borrowing from your good friends or the nearest library? Alternatively, you can find books on the second-hand booksellers on streets of Nairobi (a.k.a Inama Bookshop) from as low as KES 50 (£0.37). 2. Podcasts and audio books Though, the jury is still out on the paper versus e-reader debate, the third option of audio reading through podcasts and audiobooks is gaining popularity. This is a great way of reinforcing learning, especially when learning a foreign language. If you have a pretty long commute (yes, I am thinking about you, Nairobi traffic jam), comedy audiobooks or current affairs podcasts can be perfect way to begin your day. [bctt tweet=”Podcasts and audiobooks are a great way of reinforcing learning” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Book bloggers and Booktubers are also making the case for audiobooks and some like Ashley of Climb the Stacks saying that you can test the waters with short memoirs by using apps such as Audible. 3. Webinars and e-courses If you have always wanted to take an art appreciation class so that your trips to the museums more memorable or learn how to code in the latest programming language but you are not sure where to start, then you are in luck. The beauty of living in 2016 is that you have access to screens 24/7 so you can take advantage of your fringe hours to take up new hobbies and hone your skills. Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) have gained popularity over the last couple of years and are seen to be the future of learning. They provide classes offered at international Ivy League schools at a fraction of the cost and within a few clicks. [bctt tweet=”The beauty of living in 2016 is that you can take advantage of fringe hours to hone your skills” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] A great place to start is Class Central that aggregates MOOCs for other course providers such edx, Coursera and Udemy. Skillcrush has also gained popularity by providing tech skills which have enabled their alumni to make career shifts. Special mention goes to Skillshare for having everyday ‘practical’ classes like Knife Skills 101. In addition, you can take advantage of bloggers and Youtubers who offer free and paid online courses that are range from blogging, scrapbooking, navigating your career to playing music by ear. In short, you have no room for excuses. 4. Start an Articles Club! Back in 2011,the ingenious Joanna Goddard from A Cup of Jo was on a mission to fight winter blues. In her words: An articles club would be just like a book club, but we’ll read articles. We’d all read the same story –from, say, The New Yorker or Elle– and chat over (your drink of choice) and snacks. It would be fascinating, timely and a much easier commitment than a book club… This is a great idea for building friendships in a relaxed environment with people who love reading but cannot commit to finishing the latest Man Booker Prize winner in time for the next meet-up. Here is a glimpse into how Joanna organised her own Articles Club. 5. Volunteer After completing my postgraduate degree, I decided to volunteer at one of the local charity shops near my university and I enjoyed every minute of it. Working with people from diverse backgrounds not only made me more culturally sensitive, but also built on my interpersonal skills. Moreover, I have finally put my numerous hours on Pinterest to good use by helping out with visual merchandising. Working for someone for free or work-shadowing provides you with the opportunity to learn new (and free) knowledge and skills like baking, cooking, changing a tyre, floral arrangement… 6. Visit local places of interest Hands up, if you have lived in Nairobi (or insert your city here) for over 5 years and you have never set foot near the local museum? You would not imagine the number of born and bred Nairobians I’ve met who have never visited the Kenya National Archives. The archives are smack in the middle of the CBD. [bctt tweet=”Local places of interest could also serve as sources of inspiration” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Though, these sites are meant to generate income from tourists, they are also meant teach you about your history so that you don’t repeat mistakes…. these could also serve as sources of inspiration. As Ruthie Ackerman said here; Every city has its mysteries, and amazing experiences can always be found just by uncovering a few for yourself. Well ladies, the opportunities for learning are endless and can only
10 Things Motherland Moguls would tell their 21 year old self
[bctt tweet=”Keep your head up ladies, so your crown doesn’t fall down” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] We asked our community members what advice they would have give their 21 year old self. We couldn’t keep all that knowledge locked away in an Instagram post for you to never think about again. We’ve compiled all that collectively wisdom here. The collective knowledge of our SLA community fell into 10 different categories and we’ve broken it down for you. So get your pen out and bookmark this page. You’re welcome. Confidence One of the things that truly makes a Motherland Mogul is that she is confident in herself and her abilities. She doesn’t let small minds and mean words hold her back. Keep your head up ladies, so your crown doesn’t fall down. @Marlidiallo: “1. Don’t conform to the norm. 2. Have confidence in yourself.” @Thelady_sek: “Protect your heart. Protect your mind. Don’t take yourself for granted and care less what people think about your hustle.” @Daramolafeyi: “Believe in the God that you serve, believe you can be and do whatever you decide to be. Stop comparing yourself with others. Be hardworking, Don’t be lazy.” Start TODAY There is no time like the present. Our community wants you to know that you shouldn’t sit on those amazing ideas of yours. Don’t wait till you’re the right age. Don’t wait till you have enough money. Heck, don’t even wait till you graduate. Roll up your sleeves and get to work: now, now. @G_mama1: “That it’s good to start mall. Stop waiting for a big capital to start, start with the little you’ve got.” @Imoheboh: “Start this already! Don’t procrastinate.” @Amazinfarie: “It’s not too late.. You can still make it InshaAllah.” @Ms_dinma_o: “There is no better time to start than now. You have more than you need.” @Nalianyalouise: “Don’t procrastinate” @Lamide_ “Just start” [bctt tweet=”The SLA community wants you to know that you shouldn’t sit on those amazing ideas of yours.” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] These are the days —give it your all In addition to starting today, your fellow Motherland Moguls want you to go hard! Now in your early 20s is the time to throw your heart and energy into what you do. You likely have fewer commitments & expenses so chase your dreams and chase them tirelessly. @Thealaroro: “This is your season of independence! Maximise it. Do more. See more. Be more.” @Lululingerieng: “Age 17-21 are foundation years. “Suffer then enjoy later,” compromise, have multiple jobs, DON’T just be a student.” @Maa_designz: “Ain’t no time for games darling. Pursue you with all you got. Find that dream. Water it. You would be glad you did.” @Chigozie18: “Take all the risks you want now. Don’t wait till you are 30.” @Vianniey: “Explore the opportunities right before you first… you can’t choose to look outside much later!” [bctt tweet=”Now in your early 20s is the time to throw your heart and energy into what you do” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Work ethic Dreams and ideas are great, but you have to be willing and able to put in the work! Make sure you focus on the task at hand and work hard on your priorities. @Lonitagram: “I’m 21, will be 22 next week Saturday…so it’s “never stop dreaming, never stop believing, it’s only a matter of time, never stop planning, she who works her ass off wins, stay in your magic, eventually all things fall into place and let God be God.” @Berugubydeezah: “Stop dreaming and start working.” @Theskinapothecary: “Go harder, stop procrastinating, you can do it.” Your studies & beyond Your studies are very important, but also one day you will graduate. Make sure you are thinking of that end goal. What are you in school for? Don’t just go through the motions and make sure you are also finding ways to skill build outside the classroom. @Tolulopefunsho: “School and studying isn’t everything!! Think entrepreneurship!” @Marymangeni: “Explore and learn as much as you can” @Lululingerieng: “Age 17-21 are foundation years. “Suffer then enjoy later,” compromise, have multiple jobs, DON’T just be a student.” Perseverance We all know why the tortoise whooped the hare in their super famous race. Don’t get lazy. Stay focused and keep working on your goals: every month, every week, and every day. @Bisolaatiba: “You’re almost there, keep moving.” @Alorhhs_chayil: “Keep trusting God, keep working hard, don’t give up your dreams and be consistent.” @Chicest_elle: “You’re on the right path girl. Keep it up!” [bctt tweet=”Stay focused and keep working on your goals: every month, every week, and every day” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Well-Being Life is not a sprint. It’s a marathon. So make sure you are taking care of yourself and doing all the things that will ensure you are able to enjoy the fruits of your labour for a long time. Keep yourself physically, mentally, spiritually & emotionally well. @Curlynewbie: “Eat well, sleep well, run and most your issues will be easy to solve with a clear mind and healthy bod.” @Aadidako: “Comparison is the thief of all joy.” @So_samiama: “Don’t sweat it girl.” Everything has its time While you are busy chasing your dreams and taking care of yourself, also realize that some things are out of your control. As long as you are giving your all, and striving to be the best at what you do, everything else will fall into place. @If.e.oma: “Do it…Push through the pain. It’s ok to not get it at a particular time, it will come at the right time.” @Gift_angela_ : “Let tomorrow worry about itself” @Battousai_h: “Relax it’s going to be alright” @Nnigdini: “To my own self, I would’ve said “self take your time, marriage wasn’t the remedy of your tears, pain, sparrow, disappointments, life was just beginning, there is more to life than compromising your life to marriage.” @Mz_danielzzz: “Insecurity isn’t pretty. Be patient and find your own path. Being in a hurry to accelerate your career like your elder ones can ruin you. Enjoy the journey.” [bctt tweet=”As long as you are giving your all, everything else
Charlotte & Sheila Addison: Fulfilling the language needs of businesses
[bctt tweet=”Enlaza Global plays a pivotal rote in helping businesses transition to the global stage” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Sometimes, not getting to study what you’d like in university can be blessing in disguise. When the Addison sisters were offered a language course at university —a course that was not considered prestigious— they soldiered on. Today, Charlotte and Sheila are co-founders of Enlaza Global, a language translation service provider particularly focused on the language needs of businesses. Both sisters also work as translators at The Jeli, a literary publisher for black millenials. Here, they fill us in on why businesses need to use language as a tool and share what living in Cuba to perfect their Spanish taught them. What are the language needs of businesses? The language needs of businesses can be one of many things. There are untapped markets ready for products/services by businesses willing to operate across regions and markets. A language service provider like our Enlaza Global plays a pivotal role in helping businesses make that transition. Having international clients and business partners reveals the importance of having some level of communication in an international language. When working internationally, there will be a need to translate corporate and business documents to reflect in-country needs. Also, websites and social media sites can be translated in order to create diversity and reach a wider market online. According to the research survey, “Can’t Read, Won’t buy: Why Language Matters” by CommonsenseAdivsory, 52.4% of consumers buy only at websites when the information is presented in their language. [bctt tweet=”We create diversity by using the tool of translation to add value to technological products” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] We help to create diversity by using the tool of translation to add value to technological products such as apps, software and websites among others. Why do you think you were offered a language course? Why was it not considered prestigious? We believe we were offered a language course because of our academic background. We studied Literature, Christian Religious studies, Government and French at senior high school. These would have definitely played a role in the choice of course we were offered. The notion of prestige when it comes to academic courses in our societies, we believe stems from the belief that some courses map out a clear-cut career path for one whiles others do not. Another reason could be that most people have not come to appreciate and understand the tool called language and its role in a global village. I imagine you’ve received some odd questions for studying a language course. What are some of them? Some of the funniest questions we have received for studying a language course are : Is that a subject within your course or is it your main course of study? Will you gain immediate employment upon completing the university? Do you want to be a teacher? What are you going to do with it? What is the relevance of your course in an office (working environment)? [bctt tweet=”Living in Cuba fanned our desire to honour and celebrate people who have given us their time” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Tell us about living in Cuba. What led you two there? Our reason for living in Cuba was to study and improve upon our Spanish skills. We also wanted to acquire cultural knowledge and sensitivity. The experience was as fun as it was challenging. There are vital principles that we learnt to imbibe from Cuba such as patriotism and loyalty to ourselves as Africans, to our nation Ghana, to always be supportive and to push people forward. It also fanned our desire to always honour and celebrate people who have given their lives, time, effort or money in building us as individuals, organisations and Africans as a whole. On the other hand, living in a socialist state like Cuba, came along with its challenges. These include internet limitations, a lack of opportunities for foreigners, the daily low productivity, a lack of ingenuity on their part and the subtle racism that stares you in the face everyday. Want to see women you know featured on SLA? Tell us what amazing things women are doing in your communities here.
Linda Mabhena-Olagunju: Entrepreneurs must learn to take calculated risks
[bctt tweet=”If you really want to venture into business you have to risk looking stupid.” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] At SLA, we are always super excited to interview young African women that are trailblazers, game changers, leaders and positive role models for other African women. Linda Mabhena-Olagunju has all of the above qualities and more. Linda holds two law degrees: an LL.B. from the University of Cape Town and an LL.M. from the University of Aberdeen. She is the Managing Director at DLO Energy Resources, a renewable energy investment and advisory company based in Johannesburg. She is also the founder of the Renewables and Energy Forum in South Africa. Linda has received a number of awards. She received the 2015 Forbes Women Africa Best Emerging Entrepreneur Award. She also recently received the 2016 Elle Boss entrepreneurial award and the 2016 All Africa Business Leadership Award (Young Business Leader of the Year – Southern Africa). Congratulations Linda! Linda shares with SLA contributor Abisola, her challenges in the renewable energy sector, her entrepreneurial journey and her advice for young African female entrepreneurs. Did your legal education and training prepare you for entrepreneurship? I have always said being a lawyer gives you an overview of how a transaction works so that you get to understand the business model of a particular sector industry. Legal practice, not just my law degrees, prepared me to an extent for business. However, lawyers also tend to be risk averse, as our job entails avoiding risk. My legal training made me more afraid to take risks but after a while in the entrepreneurial space I learnt to take calculated risk. For a lawyer, that means risks that have gone through two sets of thorough due diligence. What would you attribute your current success to? Maximized opportunities or sheer good luck? Hard work, coupled with God opening the doors that needed to be opened and placing me in places and situations I had never imagined. I also attribute it to a strong support system. I stress a lot and my parents have been great pillars of support during these periods. My father, especially, who believed in my vision when I had basically no support. My husband also has this innate sense of calm and wisdom. His counsel has been the difference between me quitting at times and staying in the race. [bctt tweet=”Linda Mahbena-Olagunju recently received the 2016 Elle Boss entrepreneurial award ” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] What three things can help African women achieve their professional or entrepreneurial goals? Self – belief. God/Higher power belief. A real support structure, whether it be family or friends. What peculiar challenges do you face in the renewable energy sector, especially as you seek to expand to other African countries? A major challenge is regulatory clarity. Most countries in Africa need power but they do not create an enabling environment, at times, to encourage investment. Renewable energy projects are funded largely by banks and anyone that has ever borrowed money from a bank knows that lenders are averse to risk especially government risk and regulatory risk. [bctt tweet=”My husband’s counsel has been the difference between me quitting and staying in the race” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] The other challenge which is particular to Southern Africa, is falling tariffs. We have seen tariffs fall rapidly due to competitive price bidding. This is great for consumers, but may be a challenge for new investors that have to raise funds to finance projects. If you could go back in time, what advice would you give your younger self? You may be going through tough times now, but God has an amazing life planned for you. What final piece of advice do you have for aspiring female entrepreneurs? Take the first step. It may seem like a stupid idea but if you really want to venture into business you have to risk looking stupid. Hey South African #MotherlandMoguls, the SheHive will be landing in Johannesburg from November 3-6. Find out more here.