Financial affairs in freelancing
[bctt tweet=”Like any business, freelancing has its peak seasons and its low seasons. Know them” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] So, you delved into freelancing. You jumped head first (or first dipped your toes, whichever works for you) into being your own boss and now nothing can stop you from working in your pyjamas. First of all, big hearty congratulations. Not many make it past opening a freelancing account somewhere, let alone enlist clients. And now that we have gotten the pleasantries out of the way, let us get into the nitty gritty. The big girl stuff. Mogul business. It is essential that you realise that like any business out there, freelancing has its peak seasons and its really, and I mean, really low seasons. This being said, it is essential that finances line up throughout these seasons. Let’s get to it. Know your market This is the basis of any business, and it applies even in online businesses. Knowing when the seasons’ peak and when they fall is essential in managing your money. In academic writing, for instance, seasons pick at around March-April, August-September and in December, which is the end-of-semester months. If one is freelancing designs for say, at a corporate company, it is essential that you understand their fiscal year and how they pay or contract employees then. Know your worth Some people may have you believe that since you are freelancing your services, they have to pay less that is required. Knowing the pricing on your product and service is crucial in you making profits, in the long run. So, do not undervalue or overvalue yourself. [bctt tweet=”Know your worth as a freelancer, do not undervalue or overvalue yourself” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Factor in your expenditure Granted, there is not much revenue that you put in when freelancing unless you are renting office space. Your internet plan, however, will straight out flatten your morale if you are not careful. Choose an internet plan that is affordable for you, and that you know you can easily manage even when literally no clients are coming through because it will happen. Ride the wave High seasons in freelancing are really high, and what goes up will hit rock bottom with the same momentum. When that tide comes in, ride it like your life depends on it. Work through the day and night, stock up on coffee or energy drinks, never see outdoors, whatever it takes, stock up on that money (just remember to factor in self-care, of course). Stock up on some emergency cash Yeah, things happen. Your regular client finishes school, your contract ends, life goes on. Set aside some money for an emergency just in case your bank account is depleted. This actually goes for all businesses. It is standard. Follow the 50/30/20 rule on cash Personal financing is basically what will take you through freelancing. Know what you are spending your money on, track your receipts, cut down on the ‘for show’ products, and follow the 50/30/20 rule. 50% of your income is used on basic expenditure (like rent, food), 30% settle your debts and maybe a few luxury products, and invest with the 20% that remains. Or, follow this SLA guide prepared to cushion you from spending everything. Network, network, network Even in the low seasons, remind your clients that you are available, and ask them to refer you to other clients. Networking and good service are crucial in this business. If you are working in your pyjamas and at the convenience of your home all day, something has to give. [bctt tweet=”Even in the low seasons, remind your clients that you are available” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] That said, like in any business, consistency and good product/service will bring you the money. Personal financing will ensure that the money sticks with you. Happy freelancing #MotherlandMoguls!!
Webinar with Aisha Addo: How to start a non-profit organization (Jun 20)
Aisha Addo is the founder of Power to Girls Foundation, an organization that helps girls identify their true purpose and calling. Join us for a webinar with her on June. 20th, as she shares with us some of her tips on social entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship isn’t just one thing. You can be an entrepreneur in a small business, startup, large company etc. But if you’re interested in making the world a better place, you’re on your way to becoming a social entrepreneur. You need to ask yourself – What type entrepreneur do I want to become? Aisha Addo is a social entrepreneur, who has dedicated her life to empowering women and young girls with her initiative – Power To Girls Foundation. She offers them the mentorship, guidance and the resources they need to achieve their dreams and excel. Join us for a 45-minute webinar with Aisha Addo on Tuesday, June 20th, 2017. We’ll be discussing what it takes to become a social entrepreneur, and starting a non-profit organization. Register below to get the exclusive link to the webinar. [bctt tweet=”Join @AishaAfua for a webinar on Tue June 20th to learn how to start a non-profit organization” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Some of the topics we’ll cover: Starting a non-profit organization Risk taking in social entrepreneurship Having confidence in your idea How to live your most authentic life doing what you love. Webinar Details: Date: Tuesday, June 20th Time: 11am Toronto / 3pm Accra / 4pm Lagos Watch here: About Aisha Addo Aisha Addo is a graduate in Business Administration Accounting, but her true passion and dedication lies in ensuring girls around the world are provided with the guidance and resources that’ll help them to reach their full potential. Aisha founded Power To Girls Foundation, a non-profit organization to offer young girls the mentors and role models that were absent during her own youth. She is a recipient of the Young Black and Gifted Award for Community Service, was named a Black Diversity Group Role Model and One of 100 Black Women to Watch in Canada, and also among the 150 Black Women making history in Toronto. Her latest initiative is DriveHER, the ride-sharing service for women by women.
Webinar with Jacqueline Nassimbwa: Becoming a leader in the health sector (May 25)
Jacqueline Nassimbwa is a public health specialist and project manager who is extremely passionate about advancing sexual and reproductive health rights in Uganda. Join us for a webinar with her on May 25th as she shares with us how she’s moved up the ladder to a leadership position in the health sector. When you think of a career in health, what comes to mind? If it’s an image of doctors, nurses, or community health workers, you’re not alone! But it turns out we need more than medical professionals to improve and save lives. There is a need for finance experts, design gurus, communications bosses, IT whizzes, and more. [bctt tweet=”Join this webinar with @ghcorps alumni on Thur. May 25 and learn to become a leader ” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Before you count yourself out of the running for a job in the health sector, join us for a webinar on Thursday May 25th with Jacqueline Nassimbwa. She is an alumni of Global Health Corps and is #SLAYing without white coats or stethoscopes. Learn how Jacqueline built her career around her passion and get inspiration and advice for your own journey! Register below to get the exclusive link to the webinar. Some of the topics we’ll cover Building a career in the health sector Developing your unique leadership style Integrating leadership with professional development Webinar Details: Date: Thursday May 25th 2017 Time: 8am NYC // 1pm Lagos // 3pm Kampala Watch here: About Jacqueline Jacqueline Nassimbwa is skilled in scientific writing, research, project management, and quality improvement. She currently leads research efforts for advocacy teams focused on sexual and reproductive health issues at the Center for Health, Human Rights, and Development in Kampala. As a 2011-2012, Global Health Corps fellow at the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, she assessed government structures in the delivery of maternal and child health (MCH) services and designed interventions to integrate HIV and MCH services. Combining her expertise in technology with her passion for improving maternal and child health (MCH), Jacqueline designed a cloud system to improve data quality and service delivery in clinics. Jacqueline holds an BSc in Food Science and Technology from Makerere University, and an MSc in International Health from Charite Institute of Tropical Medicine, Berlin; University College, London; and Karolinska Institute, Stockholm.
Webinar with April Laugh: Earning profit in the fitness industry (Apr 26)
Lola Komolafe, founder of April Laugh is a fitness enthusiast, a meal plan genius, and a healthy foodie. Join us for a webinar with her on Apr. 26th, as she shares with us how she progressed from passion to profit. Are you passion driven, or profit driven? Wait a minute! Who says it isn’t possible to pursue both? For many people, working is about much more than simply paying the bills. It’s about having a full life, using talents and making a difference. Understand that knowing your passion is a lot more easier than learning how to make money from it full time. Whatever it is you love to do, there are an incredible amount of ways to monetize your passion. Lola Komolafe discovered her passion for fitness and a healthy living and started organizing fitness challenges online, before long she got positive testimonies from friends she’d helped and decided to do what she loved full time, thereby giving birth to April Laugh. Join us for a 45-minute webinar with Lola Komolafe on Wednesday April 26th, 2017. We’ll be discussing how to discover your true passion and make money from what you enjoy doing. Register below to get the exclusive link to the webinar. [bctt tweet=”Learn how to turn your hobby into money. Join @fitmrsfats for a webinar on Wed Apr. 26th ” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Some of the topics we’ll cover: Starting out in a non-traditional industry Turning a hobby into money Stages and steps to a healthy living Juggling work, life and your finances while working from home. Webinar Details: Date: Wednesday April 26th Time: 2pm UK // 2pm Lagos // 3pm Johannesburg Watch here: About Lola Komolafe Lola Komolafe aka April Laugh is a Fitness Entrepreneur, Certified Nutritionist, Meal Plan Genius and a Fitness Enthusiast who takes conscious efforts to live a healthy lifestyle. She helped her husband to lose over 40kg and has been inspiring people to adopt lifestyle changes with the #LifestyleChangeWithApril 12 Weeks Challenge. She’s also a God-fearing wife and mom to Bryan and lives in England. You can read more about her on here and find her on Instagram: @fitmrsfats
Webinar with Ehime Akindele: Expanding your business and sustaining growth (Apr 22)
As an entrepreneur, having the funding and knowledge you need to get your business rolling is one thing, surviving the fierce competition and unpredictable economy is another. But as a true #MotherlandMogul, when the going gets good, you know it’s time to expand. Now what’s your game plan? Relax, we gon’ show you the way. Join us on Saturday April 22nd as we discuss the steps to owning and sustaining multiple businesses. We’ll be chatting with Ehime Akindele, CEO of Sweet Kiwi frozen yogurt who founded Your Way Foods and set up three businesses all under age 30. [bctt tweet=”Learn the skills and abilities you need to survive in business. Webinar with CEO of @sweetkiwie ” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] To survive in this changing world, there are some business rules you need to follow. Ehime left her banking career and decided to start her own business in Nigeria, launching the first frozen yogurt company in the country. This webinar will teach you everything you need to know about business sustainability and capacity building. Register below to get the exclusive link to the webinar. Some of the topics we’ll cover: Capacity building: The skills and abilities you need to survive in business What you need to know before expanding your business 6 ways to sustain business growth 5 do’s and don’t for female entrepreneurs looking to expand Webinar Details: Date: Saturday, April 22nd, 2017 Time: 8:00am TX USA // 2:00pm Lagos // 3:00pm Johannesburg Watch here: About Ehime Ehime Eigbe-Akindele is the founder and managing director of Sweet Kiwi Frozen Yogurt. She has a BA (Honors) from London metropolitan university in Business Information Technology and International relations. She began her career with Amnesty International, then moved to Citigroup in Dallas, Texas and worked in their banking group, before she moved back to Nigeria and founded Sweet Kiwi. Ehime is a Goldman Sachs 10,000 women scholar, a public speaker and has taken part in several motivational speaking events to inspire youths and not-for-profit organization called ‘Hands in Lagos’ with an objective to foster the spirit of volunteerism in the country.
Webinar with Wild Fusion: How to grow your business with digital marketing (Apr.11)
Are you wondering why your business is not getting the online attention it deserves? Or why Facebook and Instagram is not really working for you? Hold up! Lets educate you a bit more on digital marketing! It has been proven by many successful businesses, that digital marketing is the way forward to boost and expand your business online. But what you need to know now is how to keep up its evolving and ever changing strategies. Join us on Tuesday April 11th for a webinar with 2 professionals from Wild Fusion – Africa’s leading digital marketing agency, who have been in the digital marketing game for awhile. Agatha Emina – (General Manager) and Prashant Kirpalani – (Social Media Manager) of Wild Fusion, as they share with us fresh and unknown strategies of digital marketing every business owner must know of. During this webinar, you’ll get direct answers from these professionals on any digital marketing related question you ask, so, you don’t want to miss it! Register below to get the exclusive link to the webinar. Topics that we’ll cover: Digital marketing for African start-ups The top 4 mistakes you need to stop making on your business social media page Strategies you can use to gain more customers without breaking your budget Webinar details: Date: Tuesday April. 11th, 2017 Time: 2pm Lagos // 3pm Johannesburg // 4pm Nairobi Help us spread the word: [bctt tweet=”Sign up for this webinar with @Wildfusion to increase your business social media reach (Apr.11)” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Watch this webinar: About our experts: Agatha Emina, is an online enthusiast with over 7 years working experience in the digital industry from the client side and the agency side. She has worked as a Digital Strategist and Project Manager in the financial, e-business, online advertising and traditional advertising industries. With her strong understanding of digital marketing and project management skills, Agatha has executed award winning digital campaigns across various sectors including FMCG brands, Telecom, Finance and more. Some of her latest works includes taking Close Up and Knorr Nigeria online and enabling these brands succeed while increasing Returns on Marketing Spend. Prashant Kirpalani, is a social media enthusiast who is certified in Google Analytics, Social Media and Digital Marketing. His work experience cuts across social media strategy, Google Analytics, Facebook and pay per click advertising, blogging, website management and forum management. He has a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering from the Maharashtra Institute of Technology where he created a social media network targeting students who wished to study abroad for his final year project.
Presence and Poise Web Series in collaboration with Dark and Lovely Africa
Have you ever wished that you had a fairy godmother that would come and bless your life with glitter, money and Versace? In the hyper competitive business world, we often only have 3-5 seconds to make a great first impression. Even if we don’t want it to be the case, the way we present ourselves can have a major impact on whether or not we get that job interview, business deal or media opportunity. Our mothers have blocked us from casting any spells (AMEN) but we have been able to pull together an amazing collaboration to help you upgrade your style, confidence and business in one quick swoop! We’re proud to introduce Presence and Poise, an exciting new makeover series to help improve the business skills and confidence of up and coming women in our community. In collaboration with global beauty giant Dark and Lovely in Africa, Presence and Poise will identify five women who are working hard to build a business but need coaching and support to get to that next level. Selected participants will win a complimentary trip to Johannesburg, South Africa, business coaching from a seasoned expert and a beauty and style makeover by Dark and Lovely Haircare Experts. After the makeover they will also be introduced to potential business partners, mentors or investors who can help support their business moving forward. To be considered for a makeover, follow these simple steps: Upload a video onto Instagram on why you deserve a business makeover and use the hashtag #PresencexPoise Include your City and Country in your caption Follow @DarkandLovelyAfrica and @SheLeadsAfrica Applications close on 14 April 2017 at 11:59pm WAT. After your makeover, you’ll be walking into your next meeting like this. Terms and Conditions INTRODUCTION: The Presence and Poise Makeover Web Series will provide young women with a business makeover including a new hairstyle, outfit and coaching to get their business to the next level. The goal of the show is to encourage young women to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. The Promoters for The Presence and Poise Makeover Web Series (“the competition”) are Devorent Nigeria Limited (“She Leads Africa “) and L’Oreal South Africa (Proprietary) Limited (“Dark and Lovely Africa”) (collectively, “the organisers”). APPLICATION PROCESS: Open to Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Ivory Coast and South Africa residents aged 18 or over only, who are in possession of a valid identity document except employees and directors of She Leads Africa & Dark and Lovely Africa, and their associated, affiliated or subsidiary companies, their families, partners, agents or any other person(s) connected with the competition, including third party promotional partners. Competition opens at 12:00am WAT on 29 March and closes at 11.59pm WAT on 14 April 2017 (the Closing Date). Entries received after the Closing Date will not be counted. One entry per person. Bulk, automatically generated or third party entries are void. Each entrant must make a 60-second entry video uploaded on Instagram where they give a brief personal introduction and explain why they deserve to win the makeover. Each entrant must follow Dark and Lovely Africa on Instagram and use the hashtag #PresencexPoise for their submission to be valid. The Organisers reserve the right to publish entries (including parts of entries) other than the winning entry and publication does not necessarily mean the entrant has won a prize. Entrants will retain copyright in their submitted entries, however, by entering, all entrants give consent and provide the Organisers a worldwide royalty-free perpetual licence to edit, publish and use each entry in any and all media (including print and online) for publicity and news purposes. The Organisers reserve the right to publish entries (including parts of entries) although publication does not necessarily mean the entrant has won a prize. Applicants can opt out to this consent at any time by contacting the Organisers via written request at info@sheleadsafrica.org. Up to five Selected Participants will be selected by the Organisers at its complete discretion based on the uniqueness of the entry, need for the makeover and the business. Selection decisions will be communicated publicly via Instagram on the She Leads Africa and Dark and Lovely Africa pages by 5 May 2017 The Organisers reserves the right not to select any Participants if there are insufficient entries or if the quality of the entries is poor. The Organisers selection decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. By entering, all eligible entrants agree to abide by each and all these terms and conditions. Misrepresentative or fraudulent entries will invalidate an entry. Where a competition involves a voting process: offering or receiving any incentive for voting is not permitted and will invalidate the vote, and may disqualify the recipient of the vote. The Organisers reserve the right, with or without cause, to exclude entrants and withhold prizes for violating any of these terms and conditions. The Organisers reserve the right to amend these terms and conditions. Any amendments will be published on the Organiser’s website (the Website). THE PRIZE The Prize is a trip to Johannesburg, South Africa, a new hairstyle, a makeup session, a wardrobe styling session and a business mentorship session. Those outside of Johannesburg, South Africa will receive assistance with their visa application, an economy class round trip ticket, transportation within Johannesburg and feeding. Selected Participants within Johannesburg will receive complimentary transport from their homes to the filming location. The prize is non-transferable and there are no cash alternatives to the prize in whole or in part. Each Selected Participant must be available to travel to Johannesburg, South Africa for the makeover and video shoot between May 1 – May 30 2017. Each Selected Participant must have a valid passport. Each Selected Participant consents and agrees that they will, if requested by the Organisers, make themselves exclusively available for any publicity and promotion at venues, dates and times designated by the Organisers. The organisers will contact the Selected Participants telephonically by 28 April 2017 via the Instagram handle they have applied with. Should the winner not be contactable by the
Become a #SheMeansBusiness Trainer!
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column 0=””][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” images=”28412,28414,28553,44474″ img_size=”275×250″ onclick=”img_link_large” custom_links_target=”_blank”][vc_column_text] How do you feel about dropping bombs of knowledge and helping empower your fellow #MotherlandMoguls? If this was your reaction, we’ve got a program for you to consider. In 2018, because this is the year we live our best lives, we’re continuing our digital marketing training with support from Facebook! We’re going to be delivering free training to 4000 women across six different cities in Nigeria. To do this we’ll be recruiting 24 rock stars who’ll become SLA certified – #SheMeansBusiness trainers who’ll work with us to deliver an exceptional training program. Interested? [/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”5″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row 0=””][vc_column 0=””][vc_column_text]Here’s the process Send in your application – the link is at the bottom of this page If selected, you’ll be invited for an intensive 1-day training courtesy of She Leads Africa and Facebook on March 27. You’ll be trained on: – How to use Facebook products to grow a business – Finding your presentation style – Business strategy frameworks Now you’ll be ready to spread your knowledge and help people do amazing things. And we’re gonna put you straight to work helping us train 4000+ entrepreneurs and professionals. 4. The SLA team will organize most of the logistics behind the trainings. We’ll find the space, make sure there are chairs and pray the folks at NEPA come through. We’ll work with you to spread the word, make sure the training is well attended and have someone there on the day to help you set up. And then it’s over to you to wow the audiences with your expertise.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column 0=””][vc_row_inner 0=””][vc_column_inner 0=””][vc_column_text] Why would you do this? If some of the traits below sound like you, then apply now now. You’re interested in digital media and want to share your expertise and experience with entrepreneurs and professionals who are eager to learn You’ve always been interested in mentoring and helping people develop new skills You’d like to build your brand as a business strategy expert Money may not be your motivation but the extra pocket money of N20,000 per training you host would be a nice addition Any restrictions..? Unfortunately …. Yes. You need to have at least 2 preferably 5+ years of work experience to qualify You need to be based in one of these cities: Aba, Lagos, Abuja, Kaduna, Ibadan, Port Harcourt. You need to have the time to lead 1-3 trainings per month (6hrs per training). Training will most likely take place on Fridays and Saturdays. [/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”5″][vc_btn title=”Click here to apply now! ” style=”classic” shape=”square” color=”turquoise” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fsheleadsafrica.typeform.com%2Fto%2FQQ2Mt1||target:%20_blank|”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text]FAQs Do I need to be a digital marketing expert to apply? No. We’ll be delivering business as well as digital marketing training so we’re excited to have trainers from a range of backgrounds. I don’t live in one of your target cities, can I still apply? Unfortunately not. We hope to expand to other cities and countries soon but for now you must reside in Aba, Lagos, Ibadan, Abuja, Kaduna or Port Harcourt City in Nigeria. I’m not a woman, can I still apply? Of course! This opportunity is open to everyone though the majority of people being trained will be women. What will my schedule look like? After we get you trained, you’ll work out a schedule with the SLA program coordinator. Trainings will run between the April 7th and Sept 29 (~6 months). You’ll be required to lead 1 – 4 trainings during this period. How many entrepreneurs will I train? Initially, you’ll lead a training with about 50 -100 entrepreneurs. Based on your performance and feedback from trainees, you’ll be called to lead follow on trainings. Will I be able to host training outside of the ones you organise for me? If you’d like to host trainings outside of this program, you’ll need to get permission from the SLA team if you’re using content from the program.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row 0=””][vc_column 0=””][vc_btn title=”Click here to apply now! ” shape=”square” color=”peacoc” size=”lg” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fsheleadsafrica.typeform.com%2Fto%2FQQ2Mt1|||”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Webinar with Samke Mhlongo-Ngwenya: Planning your personal finance and investments (Mar 23)
It doesn’t matter if you’re making a little or baller is your middle name, we all have to deal with important money matters such as investments and personal finance. If you’re climbing the corporate ladder, trying to launch your own business, or managing your family independently, join us on Thursday March 23rd as we discuss personal finance and investment options for young women. We’ll be chatting with Samke Mhlongo-Ngwenya, one of South Africa’s most recognized personal finance experts who offers one-on-one personal finance consultations through her company TNC Wealth. Samke obtained her expertise in debt management and wealth creation during her 7-year tenure as a private banker, now she engages in corporate speaking, panel moderation, career management and women’s issues as well. Register below to get the exclusive link to the webinar. Some of the topics we’ll cover: What you need to understand about investments 3 financial questions every woman should ask herself Planning a budget Top 3 things to look out for when selecting an investment advisor Identifying your investment goals (safety, income and growth) Webinar Details: Date: Thursday March 23rd, 2017 Time: 12:00pm Lagos // 1:00pm Johannesburg // 2:00pm Nairobi About Samke Referred to by CNBC Africa as a “personal finance goddess”, Samke Mhlongo-Ngwenya is not just a personal finance expert, but also the youngest board member of State-owned mineral technology research council MINTEK, and founder of The Next Chapter “TNC” (coming soon) – Wealth Partners. Samke is also a personal finance consultant, corporate speaker, thought leader, media commentator, and financial inclusion advocate. Armed with an Accounting degree from the University of Cape Town, a Postgraduate Diploma in Management from Wits Business School, and an MBA from the same college completed with a research report titled “Factors contributing to over-indebtedness in black South African females”, Samke aspires to continue developing content that educates, entertains and empowers her audience.
Tanaka Nombulelo Mandidi: My spirit is awakened with every opportunity to remind someone what their beautiful is
[bctt tweet=”From plaiting hair in high school to celebrating African beauty, Tanaka Nombulelo Mandidi” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Tanaka Nombulelo Mandidi is the creative mind behind the Cape Town-based Slay Studios, which is building its reputation in providing quality affordable products and service offerings that celebrate African beauty and heritage. She is driven by helping people take their dreams and turn them into business concepts. She is a makeup and hair enthusiast who loves to team her passions with social entrepreneurship. Tanaka considers wine her first love (apart from her husband), hates hiking and loves having a good laugh. What was the spark that led you to start Slay Studios Cape Town? I’ve always loved hair. I’ve been plaiting hair since high school and as time went on (through Youtube gurus) I taught myself more intricate styles and methods. In 2015, I had a near death experience that made me reflect on how I was spending my time. I had a successful career, was married to the love of my life and adulting was finally making sense. Yet something in the deepest depth of my core was missing. I felt a joy in my heart every time someone asked me about hair, makeup or self-awareness. And before I knew it, I had resigned from my job and stepped into what I believe God was calling me to. Society has taught us that different is not ok. That there’s a standard of beauty we should all aspire to. That #proAfro means #Antiweave. There are so many distorted truths that have been sold to women of colour and its time those truths are unravelled. That’s what Slay Studios is. A place where who you are is perfect. [bctt tweet=”Tanaka Nombuleleo Mandidi’s Slay Studios is a place where who you are is perfect” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] What services do you offer your clients? At the Weave Bar, we specialise in all things lace -closures, frontals, wigs and customisation. We talk through exactly what the client wants so everyone walks away from the experience satisfied. Our premium virgin hair is sourced directly from India and undergoes a UV treatment before being retailed to our customers as Slay, our hairline. Currently, our services include bridal makeup or special event makeovers. Our Designer Accesories include our #eyecandy, #armcandy, #scentcandy and #clutchcandy collections. At the heart of what we do is the Slay Foundation. 10% of sales from our services and accessories go into the foundation. Sometimes we makeover young girls, or wash and care for a homeless mother’s hair. Our mission is to make a difference in one person’s life a day. Why Cape Town? It’s very hard to find a clean, modern space where African people can get their hair done without compromise. We’re so used to bad service that its normal to not like your hair when you leave. Cape Town has so much room for improvement in services provided to young, modern black women. [bctt tweet=”Tanaka Mandidi: Cape Town can improve in services provided to young, modern black women” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Our next target cities are Johannesburg and Harare in Zimbabwe -the latter being our attempt to staying close to home and bringing change in our home community. How has the journey been from when you decided to open up shop to now? Start up a business they said. It will be a walk in the park they said. THEY LIED. When you work for a company you’re hired to perform a specific task. With a start up, you are EVERYTHING to your business. You are the accountant, marketing director, lawyer, and stylist. Your business requires you to fulfill all those roles (or hire someone who will) for the cogs to move. And that’s where its so easy to drop the ball. It took about a year for me to figure out what I was doing and a good 5 months after resigning for me to open up the storefront. Some days are amazing. Some days aren’t. Those amazing days keep me going. Planning and vision are also very important. The details? – not so much. When the small stuff faces you, you make a quick decision and move on. The key word there is moving on. Where do you see Slay in the future? My dream is for Slay to grow, influencing fashion, beauty and having an impact on social issues. Our *top secret* in-house makeup line for women of colour is under construction. We plan to expand into the African accessories platform and exclusive virgin hair extensions line. My hopes are to interact with different women and inspire them to own their identity. [bctt tweet=”My hopes are to interact with different women and inspire them to own their identity” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] We’re hoping to grow our team and move into a bigger space to allow for content production, hosting makeup workshops and development classes. With growing sales, we’ll have more contributions to our social impact ventures and be able to bring beauty to more women in the Western Cape and one day, all over Africa. If you’d like to share your story with She Leads Africa, let us know more about you and your story here.