Hilma Ndinelago Moses: I want to be known as a selfless leader
If you believe education is key to changing the world, you can count your similarities with Nelson Mandela and Hilma Ndinelago Moses. Only familiar with one name? Well, you need to know Hilma. She is the creator of Nambian Opportunities, and co-founder of the Young Woman Arise Impact Project. Through these initiatives, Hilma strives for academic excellence for Namibians. SLA contributor Itumeleng caught up with Hilma who is living up to Mandela’s words in her own way. Her hopes and dreams for her country, Namibia is for everyone to have the opportunity to better themselves and their community through education. Hilda believes African education systems should be revised and is involved in other projects aimed at growing Namibia’s representation on the global stage. Why did you choose a career in law? Law is interesting and powerful. Most people who studied law are influential. You can’t change society if you are not involved in the process that regulates the very norms of society. We need people in Africa who are academically-orientated. I value the efforts of people going far to further their education whether it’s through TVET or short courses. It’s not just about university degrees but should be about acknowledging all those who make an effort to further their studies at different levels. We have to promote other avenues of learning beyond secondary education. You must have been involved in a lot of projects on campus? Tell us about them. I was the Vice President of the Student Representative Council (SRC). I am dedicated to transforming the overall student welfare of the University of Namibia by dealing with all issues that impede the affable atmosphere of academic credibility for all students. Having had the experience of being the secretary for Academic Affairs on the University of Namibia student body. My role required me to safeguard the general welfare of all students in relation to academic matters. This position allowed me to make evident lasting transformation in the academic environment of the University of Namibia. The difference that I have made in many students lives is remarkable. My office was the custodian of all students of the University with regard to academic matters. I also represented the students interests on the Senate body of the university. I represented student interest when exam results were declared null and void. When you represent students you don’t look at their nationality but what is best for them academically. Do you still plan on furthering your education? I see myself completing my PhD and becoming Dr. Hilma Moses. I also want to contribute in compiling academic literature from a Namibian’s perspective. What’s your opinion on the state of education in Africa? Africa is concentrating on providing free education but overlooks the quality of the education. It’s good to make education accessible but with accessibility should be quality. Therefore, the education systems should be revised. One of the problems with African education is academic victimization of students. Exam papers are leaked by those who are supposed to be protecting them. We need to promote and protect the right to education through Agenda 2063 and Sustainable Development Goals. What projects have you been involved in? I am the co-founder of Young Woman Arise Impact Project which was established through the University of Namibia Legal Aid clinic. We promote the rights of young women to health and sanitation. We distribute “care packages” consisting of soap, face cloth, toothpaste, tooth brush and sanitary towels. In 2015, we donated 500 care packages. We also have an initiative called “Donate a Bra” where we urge women to donate a bra to those in need. I also have an online platform called Namibian Opportunities. This is to expose Namibian youths to national and international opportunities. Namibia is under-represented in international organizations and I would like to see more people from my country in influential positions. What would you like to be known for in your country? I want to be known as an advocate for youth and opportunities for young people. I want to be known as a selfless leader. Someone who goes out of their way to create a path for others. When you are a leader you go out of your way to serve people and that’s what I strive to do. Most importantly, I would like to be remembered as a God-fearing woman. If you had the chance to prepare lunch for Namibia’s President, what would be on the menu? I would prepare Oshiwambo traditional food because it represents where I come from. Oshiwambo traditional food usually includes traditional chicken, omahangu porridge and evada (spinach). What 3 things are in your bucket list? Sky diving. Drag racing. Live in another African country, which I have achieved. ( I’ve lived in South Africa and currently live in Ethiopia) Want to see women you know featured on SLA? Tell us what amazing things women are doing in your communities here.
Ololade Oladipupo: My mother inspired me to start Esmadelle
Mothers are so awesome, we don’t need to say that twice. Consider this, you’re young, creative and itching to earn your own income using your talents. Yet, you have little or no idea of what to do or how to get started. Ololade Oladipupo has been there and done that. As the creative designer of Esmadelle, Ololade was able to make strides in her Motherland Mogul journey thanks to the huge support from her mother. Recently, SLA contributor, Kofoworola Ayodeji tracked down Ololade for what turned out to be a heartwarming conversation. She shared with Kofoworola her inspiration, as well as the process of getting started with a fashion designing business and growing it into a profitable one, right from home. Not long ago, I attended a friend’s wedding in Lagos and it was real fun. Although there was more than enough to bite and chew and drink, I had to notice the wedding dress —it was simple yet very stylish and charming. Quickly, I inquired about the dress. And what I found was that the dress, which I had thought was from the “overseas” or perhaps from a big player in Africa’s fashion industry, was made by one young and aspiring fashion designer in Lagos. Tell us about yourself My name is Ololade Oladipupo. I’m the creative designer of Esmadelle, a female apparel clothing line. It’s a female apparel brand which started in 2012 and is focused on every woman of every age and way of life. How did you develop the courage and optimism to become an entrepreneur in a country where many young people have given up on their dreams because of a lack of opportunities? I am a lover of arts, and the big secret is: I might not have ended up as a fashion designer if not for my mum. She gave me the motivation. It was my mother who provided me with the first sewing machine with which I started my career, before expanding. She gave me the much needed courage to enter the fashion industry, thereby giving my dream a big lift. You’ve got quite an interesting startup story. How did it all begin? Even as a Microbiology graduate of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), I started working from home as a tailor. I was mainly into casuals then. People loved my work and me, this helped with the much needed initial rise. Though Esmadelle started in 2012 as Lahdele, along the line, we had to change the brand name due to some circumstances. Now, we have expanded into making bridals too and also into training aspiring fashion designers. Your designs are stylish and charming. What inspires them? I am inspired by everything. I draw inspiration from a myriad of elements like nature, arts, and culture to create designs that are unique. Fashion is everywhere. We can’t deny that. And, I never felt I had a choice because it seemed natural to me to want to always translate my ideas into fashion. Everyone is looking for how to express themselves and show their personality. I think I am able to translate mine into fashion. Fashion designing, like all other ventures has its peculiar challenges. Tell us about your challenges so far Like many other aspiring entrepreneurs, the biggest challenge to expanding my business is finance. I hope to surmount that. What are your plans for Esmadelle? Especially in the areas of expansion and mentorship Even though my business is still evolving, my vision is global awareness for my brand. I want my creativity to stream through Africa to the rest of the world in a most unique style. We would also be moving into Esmadelle’s new workshop next month when it will be officially opened. Currently, I have two workers, and five students who are due for graduation later in September. How would you advise young women looking to being their own bosses? It doesn’t matter how small your business is in the beginning, just make sure you’re living your dreams. Let no obstacle stand in your way; chase your dreams vigorously and you will be making a difference in the world. Are you willing to share your thoughts? I’m eagerly waiting to hear from you.
Given Mnane: I started modelling to keep myself busy
Every pageant entrant has a unique story to tell about the pursuit of taking home the crown. But what’s more interesting is the story of a married woman and mother who takes her shot at a dream. South African businesswoman Given Mnane is a mother, mentor and top 40 finalist for the Mrs. Africa Pageant. In this chat, she lets us know why she mentors girls from disadvantaged backgrounds, lets us see behind the scenes of pageantry. Given also shares why she hopes to win the Mrs. Africa title. Inspired yet? Keep reading, it gets better. Has it always been modelling for you or did it just happen? Honestly, it just happened. After my first child, I needed to keep myself busy so I entered my first Pageant, Mrs. Rustenburg in 2011 which I won and as they say, the rest is history. What did it take to make it to the semi-finals of Mrs. Africa. I had to fill in grilling questionnaires and send in my pictures. Being already involved in charity also helped me get considered as a finalist. All it took was my knowledge and love for my continent and my country. When you love someone or something it becomes easy for you to care, protect, grow, assist and to devote your time and attention to that. I’ve always loved Africa and for some weird reason, I was expecting to be in the top 100 at the very least but to my surprise, I made the top 40. Being here, for me, it means I can use this platform to bring the much needed change that the disadvantaged of my community need. I’m on a platform that allows me to change a young disadvantaged girl’s life through the Dignity Dreams Foundation —a foundation that provides girls with washable/reusable pads. Tell us about your motivational talks. First, I believe in human greatness and I always speak on issues that encourage people to find themselves and to establish who they really are. I believe everyone has a God-given purpose to fulfill and I try to assist whoever cares to listen find purpose and live life to the full. I’m very passionate about the development of women and girls and I largely speak on issues that affect or hinder women’s growth. I do corporate and private functions, MC jobs, conferences etc. Besides modelling, what do you do? I am the proud owner and director of a company called Onalekgato Consultancy Empire. This still-developing company offers a variety of services like life-coaching and image consultation. We are branching into home design & hopefully, Architecture. The aim is to give our clients a holistic and solid lifestyle – from their home to their looks. I’m also a lecturer at my local community college called Iphatlhose in Tlhabane, under the department of higher education. I teach Natural Sciences. I mentor Given’s Angels, a few young women from all walks of life. Given’s Angels is a social club aimed at assisting young ladies in becoming aware of life’s issues. We help them become exceptional and independent women. I’m a philanthropist, I do charity work around my city Rustenburg. I collect clothing and shoes then distribute them to the needy. I also do events to raise money for homes/shelters. Lately, I’m raising money to buy Dignity Dream packs for girls so they don’t miss school during their periods. How do you handle the pressure, especially as you are involved in a lot of projects? I have pastimes like seeing movies and baking. When I feel pressured, I do things for fun. This helps me get a clearer picture of what I should be doing. I believe one has to work hard but play just as hard. Soapie or drama? Nothing wrong with soapies I guess, but they are just not for me. I wasted too much time on soapies growing up, time that I can’t get back. I’m going to choose drama instead, even though I prefer documentaries. You’re also a mentor. When did you start mentoring? How do you pick your mentees? I started in 2012 with one girl and by 2014, my mentorship program had grown to 18 girls and 5 women. I always allow my mentees spread their wings. It’s easier that way to ascertain if they’ve learned anything and can stand on their own feet without me being their support. This year, I resorted to having a manageable number of 12 mentees and they are starting to flourish already. I always choose my girls based on their background. I prefer the girls from disadvantaged backgrounds, girls with low self esteem, those that feel hopeless and sidelined. What will winning Mrs. Africa mean to you? It will mean I can make my continent great by empowering African women. There’s a famous saying; ”Empower a man, you have empowered a community, empower a woman, you have empowered the entire nation.” Africa needs women who will rise up and make it great. Winning this title will break the barriers of the ‘no entry’ and ‘not adequate enough’ signs that have labeled me. I will be able to steer my continent towards the right direction. Want to see women you know featured on SLA? Tell us what amazing things women are doing in your communities here.
Double Dees: All women need to own lingerie
We have to admit, we’re kinda envious that Kenyan ladies get to enjoy first picks of the gorgeous lingerie from Double Dees. Double Dees is a Kenyan-based lingerie company that grew from the need to solve the problem of good underwear for busty gals. Double Dees exclusively focuses on providing high quality, alluring and affordable intimate apparel and swimwear for ladies with large busts. We’re talking DD+ cup size. The four friends behind the company; Charity Migwi, Constance Tipis, Stella Langat, and Wanjiru Njoroge are slowly changing African women’s view of underwear. Here, they debunk myths about underwear (did you know the initial reason behind thongs and G-strings?) and working with more than one co-founder. We’re now sold on why we shouldn’t be wearing mismatched underwear. We have to ask, what does the statement on your website ‘Hiyo size yako hatubebi’ or ‘Hiyo size yako hakunanga’ mean? This is Swahili for “We don’t carry that in your size”; a statement always made by bra vendors when you ask them for a bra that is DD+ cup size. What four things do African women get wrong when it comes to underwear? 1. Out of sight, out of mind! Our conservative African culture greatly influences African women’s view of underwear. At a young age, African girls are made to deprioritize underwear as just a piece of clothing that must remain concealed. Most carry this perspective into adulthood where the term “lingerie” becomes yet another abstract concept. 2. Does it work? Many African ladies wear underwear out of necessity. Their primary concern is that the panty conceals while the bra supports. This is unlike Western ladies who wear underwear as fashionable, statement pieces. 3. Classy vs. trashy war! Many African ladies are torn between the “classy vs. trashy war” when shopping for underwear. This emanated from misconceptions about specific types of underwear. For example, thongs and G-strings are regarded by most, as trashy underwear. While in essence, they were designed to help give women wearing light-fabric garments a seamless look. 4. The cost-benefit analysis! Why invest in a piece of clothing that is concealed 85% of the time? This is a universal problem. Many ladies are unable to think beyond the financial aspect when shopping for underwear. They fail to recognize the psychological benefits of wearing high-quality, alluring underwear. Let’s talk about #BraTales. Why did you start this? #BraTales is a platform we created for ladies with DD+ cup size to share their personal bra-shopping experiences. These stories capture humorous to heart-wrenching bra-shopping experiences that every busty lady can relate to. What are your favourite kinds of lingerie? What kind of lingerie should every woman have regardless of size? Do we really have to decide? We think every woman needs to own all of them. However, if we really had to choose, we would confine ourselves to these five basic styles: chemise (slip), babydoll, corset/bustier, garters, and matching bra-panty. Although, similar in appearance, chemises and babydolls differ in functionality. A chemise can be worn under regular clothing or as a nightwear whereas a babydoll serves a more sexy/flirtatious function. A corset (bustier) cinches one’s waist while garters hold up one’s thigh-high stockings. None of these competes with the regular old matching bra and panty set. We think Marylin Monroe’s popular phrase should have been, “Give a lady sexy lingerie, and she will rule the world.” A real lady knows not to leave the house wearing mismatched underwear ☺. There are four of you, how do you effectively manage your business? Any tips on working with more than one co-founder? We learnt earlier on that having and remaining true to a common goal was pertinent to managing our business effectively. We capitalize on each individual’s strengths, as these compensate for our unique weaknesses. Charity handles the company’s finances, Constance sales and marketing, Stella external affairs, while Ciru handles design and production. We have three tips; Respect is pivotal to acknowledging each person’s opinions, especially when these opinions contradict one’s own. Democracy in voting on any decision affecting the overall standing of the company. Demarcation of roles; splitting responsibilities ensures that each founder remains accountable for a specific function of the organization. Tell us about your Bra’nch. What was the process of starting that and how well was it received? We held our first Bra’nch on the 6th of August, 2016, as a way of showing appreciation to our repeat and new clients. We plan to make it a Double Dee’s tradition by hosting one every alternate month, as it was a hit with our clientele. Each Bra’nch will have a different twist, so be on the look out for us on October 1. Can you give us a sneak peek into your first exclusive collection? What can Kenyan ladies expect? “The Founder’s Collection” will feature pieces that reflect each founder’s personal style. Charity’s style embodies her work hard, play hard attitude, whereas Constance’s style reflects her flirty-adventurous persona. On the other hand, Stella’s style is playful yet elegant while Ciru’s style is more demure and functional. Want to see women you know featured on SLA? Tell us what amazing things women are doing in your communities here.
Brenda Areto Okotkotber: I wanted to prove that I wasn’t finished
Let’s be real for a minute, we live in societies where single motherhood is seen as a almost a crime and disability, a limitation. Brenda Areto Okotkotber is a single mother and accident victim dispelling these stereotypes. In 2010, Brenda was involved in a motorcycle accident when a speeding car knocked her down from behind. She sustained blunt injuries to her ribs and majorly on her spinal cord. This brought her studies at Makerere University to a rude halt but Brenda is not one to lose a fight. Though Brenda has had to press pause on some of her dreams, she is determined to be independent even if it means having to lie on her side all day making beads. Jessica Layado, our contributor got Brenda to share her story with us, get ready to be inspired. Tell us about the things you’re passionate about Oh my, I love music! You know, that combination of MDD (long ago it used to be called Musulu Dala Dala…it means “very stupid” in Luganda. It was believed that people who do Music, Dance and Drama as a course at university were too stupid to pursue anything meaningful). I also love the arts with all my heart. I’m passionate about helping the needy. Growing up, I always knew that when I started earning money, I’d build an orphanage, pick up every child in the streets and be a mother to them. I don’t know about that anymore but right now, my desire is to help people like me. Have you always been an artistic person? As I mentioned earlier, art is a part of me. Right now, handmade craft is my passion and one that I wish to grow. I also desire to perfect my painting. Currently, though, I am more into women accessories. Interestingly, in my school days, I used to be every art teacher’s prodigy. I was always the first to do my sketches and then shadings. It wasn’t just about the assignment but how great my work was done. Only few students could beat me in the arts. I actually wanted to pursue Industrial Arts at the university but I wasn’t given that subject. I settled for IT which wasn’t my passion at all. Let’s talk about the accident. How has it affected you, both physically and mentally? As a result of this accident, my spinal cord was injured. It affected my limbs right from below my breasts. This has affected my ability to move or walk. This, in turn, has affected my productivity in most ways. It’s also affected my social life. A woman of my age should be married and looking after a family. On the bright side, though, I have my son to look after. I lost love from many people who I held so dear to my heart and this affected me greatly. I also lost my dignity as I had to live on charity. I am not one to enjoy lying on my bed and calling for help. It was such a setback and a humiliating one and to some extent, still is. However, it’s different now. I am hopeful now, productive and doing something on my own. Are you still into the arts? When I lost function of my limbs, I could not go back to school anymore. The first reason being my faculty at the college was not disability-friendly. I also had no money to finish my degree. My son and I needed to survive and so, I just didn’t see getting an education as a priority. I had dreams of singing after my degree and even approached Benon of Swangs Avenue, a very popular recording studio in Kampala. The injury affected my diaphragm and I could barely control my voice. I also dreamed of working in the tourist industry (travelling, adventure). That too, I can’t do anymore. It’s amazing that instead of self-destruction, you chose self-development. How did you do this? My first inspiration is my little boy. I grew up in poverty and didn’t have much but I promised myself that no child of mine would suffer. I therefore started building my self-worth. Like everyone, I desire the good things in life. With determination, I’m hopeful I’d be able to provide for my son and I. I also wanted to prove that I wasn’t finished. I needed to prove that I was just getting started and wasn’t going down easy. I am a fighter and survivor. I couldn’t afford the luxury of depression. That, I always say is a disease for the rich. However, in all, I can’t tell my story without mentioning the most important factor, God. He has been the ultimate, the most significant in all. He still stands by my side and says to me, “You can make it because I am with you” (Phill. 4:13). He’s been true to His word that He won’t ever leave my side (Deut 31:6). I wait upon Him whenever I feel I can’t go on. I hang on His every word (Habbakuk 2:2). I am a child of God, I learnt who I am in Christ and held onto that. He will never put me to shame (Romans 10:11). How would you encourage that person who feels down and out right now? It is not the end of the world. Put your trust in God and He sure will never let you down (Prov. 3:5). If you ever fall, get right up, dust yourself and move on. Do not allow a situation hold you down. When people see that even after a bad fall you’re still ready to fight on, they’ll be willing to lend a hand. There are people who are just naturally kind. God will place such people in your path, if you’d trust Him. I met such people and till now, they still hold my hand through my journey. That they do it with pleasure is the most amazing part of it all. Just when I thought I had lost it all —relatives, the ones who were so dear to me— God brought me such great and encouraging individuals. God will do it for you. Do not look at the situation you are
Elizabeth Bisher: I solved my problem then turned it into an opportunity
Ever had a business idea from your own experiences? We’re sure you’ve had several as a #MotherlandMogul. A good number of us leave our ideas as just that but Elizabeth Bisher took hers a step further. Concerned with losing weight after weaning her first child, Elizabeth stumbled upon electrotherapy. She went on to start Slim Therapy as a means to share her own brand of health and wellness. Slim Therapy has grown to be the first locally-owned weight loss franchise in Kenya. Through Slim Therapy, Elizabeth now helps other people reach their health goals through alternative weight loss treatments and nutrition and lifestyle coaching. Elizabeth’s vision is to provide employment through Slim therapy’s expansion- driven franchising platform. What’s the story behind Slim Therapy? Slim Therapy started with my own need to lose weight after weaning my first child. My weight spiked as he passed the eight-month mark. I began ballooning, pardon my expression! That is how I felt and became. I was naïve and knew very little about personal health and wellness. I was quite unaware that the food I was eating was affecting my body until I had gained over 12 kilos. This, I came to realize was true for a lot of women. I tried several methods to lose weight, which did not work effectively. I had a knee injury and back sensitivity, therefore I needed to be careful on experimenting with a different solutions. In my quest to lose weight and gain wellness, I discovered electrotherapy. I was hooked —it helped me build muscle mass and lose fat without doing impact exercise. It was ideal for me. My friends noticed my transformation and were curious. This is how Slim Therapy was born. I solved my problem and turned it into an opportunity. Slim Therapy has helped many individuals, especially those with reduced mobility to achieve health goals through alternative weight loss treatments and nutrition and lifestyle coaching. What did it feel like to launch something new in Kenya? It was daunting, scary, exciting and challenging, to say the least. Being an SME with little market share, I solve one challenge after the other. I had to use my resources effectively and work smart. Most importantly, I get to effectively communicate this new alternative to weight loss, and can swear that it works. After all, I was the living proof. If there was a communication gap, the information would have been filled with rumours and innuendos. We learned to counter this by always being open and honest with our clients. Fortunately, this led to more and more people willing to try it. And with the growing number of success stories, the information spread especially by word of mouth. It’s been 6 years and I do not regret a thing. Franchising of weight loss companies seems a novel idea in Kenya. How are you making it work? Aside fast food chains and clothing lines with foreign ownership, franchising has been a fairly new concept in the Kenyan market. There are no specific franchise laws in Kenya. Therefore, we relied heavily on existing commercial laws, including the Trade Marks Act (the Slim Therapy name and logo is Trade Marked) and the Copyright Act. These gave us a guideline of the legal requirements. Also, through personal research and on guidance from my mentor, we came up with a model fit for the Kenyan market. How does Slim Therapy incorporate franchising? Two years into running the first branch, the demand for our services was overwhelming in other regions within Nairobi and in towns in Kenya. I wanted to find a way to satisfy this demand, without compromising on management and quality of service. Of course, I knew it would impossible to be in all these towns at the same time. Interestingly, one of my clients came to me with a serious interest in running a similar clinic in Mombasa. And so we came up with franchising as an option. This would ensure that we gave the same quality of service despite having different managements. They rode on the credibility of the existing brand and we provided training, machinery, advertising and continuous support to them. Quite recently, we opened our third branch in Karen, Nairobi, under the same model. We are very proud. Tell us about some of the women who work with you. The women I work with are brilliant women who have overcome a lot of adversity to be where they are today. Some of my staff were from disadvantaged backgrounds but that actually served to spur their self confidence and abilities to learn and grow. Most of my employees require mentorship and confidence-building. I encourage them to keep pursuing their dreams and following their destinies by exposing them to new challenges and providing training for them. I have tried to build these traits by encouraging them to speak publicly. And to also express themselves eloquently in both written and spoken language at all times. In this vein, I encourage my employees to pursue their own business aspirations and mentor them to their full potentials. Some have natural talent and just need a boost. How can African women achieve the same success as you have? Firstly, it’s better to know that everyone’s journey is different. Do not try to be an imitation, you are unique and should strive to be. You do not have to reinvent the wheel. And even in using existing concepts, beat your own path. Secondly and very important, find a mentor. Understand that a mentor is not someone who makes the decisions for you. They are not your crutch. They are people to help you decide if your vision is compelling enough. Or send you back to the drawing board. And lastly, as much as you follow your passion, business boils down to profitability. Your business idea may be good, but if the market isn’t ready for it, be flexible. Think outside the box and be ready to adapt to changes. Tell us about receiving the Top 40 under 40 award. How did it motivate and spur you on? The morning the Top
Yoadan Tilahun: Nothing gives more credibility than the quality of your work
So many of us dream of turning our side hustles into main ones. Few of us do but Yoadan Tilahun is one of the few who’s managed to succeed. Yoadan founded Flawless Events while working full time in corporate trade in the Washington, DC area. Flawless designs and produces corporate events, brand activations, international conferences and trade fairs on behalf of its clients in a number of industries. These include Coca Cola, Google, World Economic Forum, Africa Leadership Network among many others. Yoadan moved Flawless to her home city, Addis Ababa in 2008, where it has been flourishing since. Heran Abate, SLA contributor, spoke to Yoadan whose career decisions and approach to life demonstrate a calm boldness that exemplifies the #MotherlandMogul. Having worked in corporate trade, why did you decide to start an event management company? It started as a side gig, actually. I was looking for an additional source of income to supplement my day job. Around that same time, the events I was attending were quite unorganized —so I leveraged my existing network and tried my hand at it. But from the beginning, there was no two ways about it. The very first event sparked this exhilaration in me —from brainstorming initial designs to realizing the finest details, I was hooked! To this day, there’s nothing quite like the adrenaline rush of being in perfect sync with my team. Especially when months of planning and toil pay off and an event falls seamlessly into place before our eyes. It sounds like it was going well in the US, what prompted the re-location of the business to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia? Ethiopia has long been a center for African intergovernmental affairs, being the seat of the African Union and the Economic Council for Africa. So, there were already many international conferences going on. Particularly around the Ethiopian millennium (September 2008 —we follow a different calendar), there were a number of grand initiatives to broadly expand Addis Ababa’s infrastructure and create larger FDI (foreign direct investment) opportunities. This meant an increase in modern facilities, roads and an influx of investors who were looking to tap into networks and opportunities. That was the market gap Flawless came to Ethiopia to fill. Would you say this re-location was the turning point for the company? Yes and no. While it was good timing, the hard work ahead was in building the momentum. We had to adapt to new regulatory frameworks, re-adjust to an entirely different set of clients. And also build relationships with vendors from the ground up. Like any start-up, the initial stages were crucial. You have to be tireless and tactful in pursuing new clients, being a step ahead of their needs. Until you build a reputation for over-delivering in (seemingly) effortless fashion. That sounds like there’s more good advice where that came from for our readers, could you elaborate? Certainly. To put it simply, nothing gives you more credibility than the quality of your work itself. No amount of advertising can make up for a poorly managed event. It was through happy clients’ referrals that we were able to get some of our highest profile and exciting events. So what makes for a flawless event? What else helped you establish a compelling brand and reputation? Clear process and production, the two are different but both critical. The first requires top-down strategy to tackle the separate pieces of the whole. It also entails investing time in creative output and designs to personalize the event then tireless follow-up. As the event nears, we burn the midnight oil, making sure there are no loose ends affecting back up plans and that we are in constant readiness for crisis —this is inevitable. Our clients rely on us to trouble-shoot and problem-solve on the spot —a late visa, equipment held up at customs etc. Are the majority of your clients international? What industries do you serve? About two-thirds of our clients are international. We mostly do corporate events, international conferences in trade and investment, development as well. We have held events that companies used as entry platforms into the Ethiopian market —Google’s first event for example. We’ve set up high-level meetings for finance entities who don’t have contacts in the country. Most recently, we organized an event in which Ethiopian Airlines celebrated its newest plane acquisition by setting a Guinness World Record for the largest human formation of an airplane. That was fun! How do you nab these high-profile events? We are tireless in building and sustaining relationships both locally and internationally. We are the only private-sector members of the International Congress & Convention Association. We are close partners with professional networks in Africa including African Leadership Network (we’ve hosted their event in Kigali and Addis) as well as Extensia —a continental group of high-level professionals in ICT. On the ground, we have excellent working relationships with hotels, government offices as well as previous clients. This gives us a lot of leverage to flexibly offer our clients a whole buffet of options. Your increasing influence sounds like a direct result from the events you have previously organized. Yes. Our influence is built on opportunities born out of our previous work and our growing network, clients calling us back to take on new events or referring us to contacts in new industries. You were very recently selected among 30 women entrepreneurs to take part in the Graça Machel Fund’s Woman Advancing Africa. What was the goal of this forum? What are the implications for Flawless? I’m honored to have been selected. Graça Machel is a Mozambican humanitarian and also the widow of Nelson Mandela. This forum is a platform for African women entrepreneurs to leverage their capacity and networks to influence the economic trajectory of the continent. It’s because of the integrity of the work that our client’s have attested to that we are invited to take part in larger conversations about entrepreneurship, economic growth. In Ethiopia as well, we are now well-positioned to take initiative in expanding the MICE (Meetings,
Edem Fairre: I need to push more boundaries if I must get to the top
Edem Fairre is one of the few models in Ghana who has managed to turn modelling into a career. She was discovered by Donthes Media in 2010 fully ventured into modelling in 2014. Though she has been in the industry for barely two years, she has walked several runways across the country; worked with known brands like Beige Capital Bank, Nivea, Renault, Samsung, Bayer Chemist, Joy FM, DSTV sport, Airtel Ghana as well as various fashion designers. She holds a managerial position in one of the top modeling agencies in Ghana, Empire Gh Models. Naana Joa had a chat with Edem, who though has achieved so much in the industry than many Ghanaian models, still feels the need to push more boundaries to achieve her goal. Why do you feel the need to push more boundaries? What is the goal? It doesn’t matter your achievement in life, there’s always room for improvement. There’s always something new to learn; a new goal to set and achieve. I’ve focused mostly on lingerie, promotional, commercial and sport modeling. I’ve not had time to perfect my runway skills but this is something I intend to correct. There’s more to achieve in my field of work. Equipping myself and excelling at all aspects of modeling will help me stand a better chance at getting to the top. My goal is to be a supermodel like Naomi Campbell or Tyra Banks who managed to establish themselves as the most recognised and in-demand models of their time. I also want to prove that modelling is a real career like law, medicine, engineering and business. Entrepreneurs and professionals alike complain of bottlenecks to getting to their goals and reaching the top. What would you say has been a hindrance for you? It’s easier blaming where I come from but that would be somewhat unfair since Africa has raised champions. I admit there are limitations in Africa. You’ll need to go the extra mile to break boundaries here. But with hardwork, dedication and talent, I believe this can be done. Personally, I’ve had challenges like self-doubt, my current studies at the university, and lack of funds. Surprisingly, models also doubt their work and themselves. Our job is to portray a character and the goal is to get it right. So when the results for the work done shows otherwise, self-doubt sets in. You begin to doubt your worth and suitability. I am currently studying ABE UK marketing management at the university. This simply means losing some job opportunities. But this course is to help me manage my brand better so I’m not one to complain. In the industry, other people call the shots especially when you do not have the funds to promote your brand. You are taken advantage of and made to settle for less than you deserve. Professionally, I will say unhealthy competitions and partiality is another challenge. Though the modeling industry in Ghana is small, it is very competitive and I love competitions. They push you to be better at what you do. But it gets ugly when competitors use unethical means to get contracts. This results in unqualified models being given jobs while the qualified are bypassed. What steps are you taking to changing the narrative? Regarding self-doubt, I am working on building my self-confidence and keeping a positive mind and outlook on things. I have also accepted that losing jobs because I have to be in school is totally worth it. To solve the issue of lack of funds, I am on the verge of breaking through in the movie industry. Also in the pipeline is hosting gig for a television show called Event Update on Top TV. These I believe would give me something on the side to help push me to the top. With unhealthy competitions and partiality, I believe models need to be independent. This way, they are able to fund their own projects. This may not entirely solve the issue. However, it would be a start. Advice for budding models? Be yourself Respect yourself and those you work with Don’t sell yourself short in the name of modeling Accept a good job even if it may not pay well If you were to contest with an African model, who would it be? Well, I’d contest with myself. There must be a secret to your success as a model. Tell us about it. If I tell then it wouldn’t be a secret anymore. But I’d be willing to share with any woman who joins the modelling family. Do you ever imagine not reaching your goals? What would you do if that happens? That is not an option! I have worked so hard and patiently. I will not accept failure. Want to see women you know featured on SLA? Tell us what amazing things women are doing in your communities here.
Manyaku Mositsa: This is not something you get to learn in school
South African Manyaku Mositsa is a 31-year-old dreamer and achiever who grew up on the dusty roads of Mohlaletse Ga Sekhukhune. Though a graduate of Biotechnology from the University of Johannesburg, Manyaku left paid employment to pursue her passion for fashion. She just wasn’t happy with wearing the overalls that came with her job in SAB laboratory. Now a fashion designer, Manyaku has expanded to make her passion for empowering women with skills and experience a reality through her organisation, Giving Hope. SLA contributor Makalele spoke to Manyaku on fashion, inspiration and managing multiple initiatives. You could have chosen any other career path. Why fashion? It started as a hobby. Since I was five, I’ve liked dressing up. I loved wearing mommy’s clothes and doing the catwalk in front of the mirror. But I never imagined doing it for a living. As a young girl, I dressed differently because I thought the kind of clothes I wanted were just not available in clothing stores. In 2005, during my in-service training at SAB laboratory, I would dress up to work even though I knew I would need to change into a work suit and safety boots. Though I enjoyed the job, I never really liked wearing overalls. Finally, in 2010, I decided to pursue my dream for fashion by taking part time classes in dressmaking. I did the fashion business part time till in 2014 when I left my full-time job to fulfill my passion. My personal philosophy is, ”the best way to master something is by actively doing it with a strong will.” What is your favourite part of being a fashion designer? I love that I can be unique, inspire others and of course, turn heads. Your designs are so good. What inspires them? My inspiration comes from the desire to prove to myself and the world that ladies in dresses can be fashionable too. I also get my inspiration from unique fabrics and textures. My celebrity muse also plays a major role. What’s fashion to you? Fashion is simply dressing and accessorizing in style. You’ve got to have an eye for it. This is how successful fashion designers are able to create trends. Aside fashion, you’re involved in other projects. Tell us about your current project, Giving Hope. Giving Hope is a division of UD Holdings aimed at empowering young women with skills and work experience. We help them become employable and young entrepreneurs. The focus is on designing, clothing production, shoe making , bags and hats manufacturing , beauty therapy as well as events management. How do you manage running a fashion house and an organization? My love for what I do wakes me up every morning. This is where I get my drive for the day. This is not something you get to learn in school. I run both ventures in the same premises and that has made managing them a whole lot easier. I had to learn to stop procrastinating and just do it. Of course I’ve had some challenges but it’s worth it. What do you do for fun? The nice thing about this industry is you can work while having fun. Traveling, fashion shows, photo shoots, getting myself pampered all form a part of my fun activities and work too. We want to know what amazing things women are doing in your communities! Tell us here.
Kuwala: The African continent isn’t simply inspiration for Western designers
It’s never easy connecting with emerging businesses half way across the world but Malawians Freeda and Veronica, founders of Kuwala, make it look simple as cake. Both women want to share their connection with Africa through heritage and fashion. Their brand, Kuwala focuses on vibrant African prints like the chitenge and their goal is to encourage ethical production methods. Kuwala achieves this by partnering with select fashion brands and designers that have unique messages to share. We had a chat with the friends turned business partners on how they promote high-quality fashion designed in Africa and they promote high-quality fashion designed in Africa and about how Africa can be more than just an inspiration for Western designers, but a fashion hub for creativity and manufacturing. Who are Freeda and Veronica? How did you both decide to start Kuwala? We are Malawian women who share a strong connection with the African continent through our heritage and fashion. Both our families had been close friends for some years. When Veronica moved to Toronto, the same city as Freeda, we further connected as friends. Interestingly, while discussing our life and career goals, we realized we had similar goals for business, fashion and staying connected to Africa. After months of researching and planning, Kuwala was launched in January 2014 and the rest is history. How do you identify socially responsible fashion brands for Kuwala? First, before agreeing to partner with brands, we consider their online presence and the message they share on their website and social media. Today, it’s almost impossible to have a business without some sort of online presence. From there, we email people we intend establishing a partnership with and negotiate terms that are mutually beneficial. Also, when we can, we also travel to the countries where the designers are based to further connect and review their operations. We think Africa has the potential to become a fashion manufacturing hub. In summary, through Kuwala partnerships, we want to encourage and promote ethical production methods across Africa. Who is the ideal Kuwala shopper? Simply, our ideal shopper is a woman that’s interested in rocking African inspired fashion in her everyday life. She understands Kuwala’s mission and is interested in spreading the stories of the brands we work with. Typically, her wardrobe is full of vibrant colors and unique prints. She simply enjoys standing out in a crowd and not conforming to trends. Most people are familiar with the wax prints of West Africa or the Ghanaian kente cloth. Do you work with Malawian fabrics? Of course, the most commonly worn fabric in Malawi is the chitenge. This cotton cloth comes in a variety of vibrant prints and patterns. It is also known as ankara or kitenge and is most popularly worn in Southern and West African countries. Most of the clothing on kuwala.co is made from this print. How is Kuwala redefining African fashion abroad? Tell us about your new model to connect fashion designers in the Diaspora. Basically, through Kuwala, we aim to promote the idea that beautiful and high-quality fashion can be designed and made in Africa. We want to dispel the idea that the African continent is simply an inspiration for Western designers. Whether it’s in-person or on our website, we try sharing stories of the designers and brands we work with. Also, with our new model, we’re working on facilitating partnerships with designers in the Diaspora. Kuwala works in Canada, Kenya, Malawi, Ghana and the United Kingdom, how do you manage this? Have you started manufacturing on the African continent? We manage everything through technology. From social media to emails and phone calls, technology has really helped us to better manage Kuwala effectively. In the past, it’s never been this easy to connect with emerging businesses half way across the world. We manufacture in Africa through the brands we partner with that are based on the continent. Also, like with most businesses, running Kuwala has had its share of ups and downs. However, this whole process has been a learning experience and we learn from the past mistakes made. You and Freeda have visited many African countries, what is your top advice on travelling the continent? Veronica: My advice for travelling in Africa is eat everything! No matter how different or “strange” it is. Be open to tasting the many delicious dishes that are available across the continent. It’s okay to not like it, but at least you’ll be able to say you tried something your friends back home haven’t eaten. Freeda: I am not as adventurous as Veronica in the food department. I would say, be prepared to have some of your preconceived ideas and assumptions about Africa dispelled. In addition, remember to also appreciate the beauty and diversity because that narrative of Africa is often overshadowed. Interested in collaborating with Veronica & Freeda? Reach out to the dynamic duo at hello@kuwala.co. To stay up-to-date with what’s going on at Kuwala, follow them on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. If you’d like to share your story with She Leads Africa, let us know more about you and your story here.