Ramadimetja Makgeru: Your business exists to please your audience
[bctt tweet=”Ramadimetja Makgeru’s interest in entrepreneur grew from her financial struggles as a student” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Born in the dusty village of Mohlaletse in sunny South Africa, Ramadimetja Makgeru —better known as Rami— is a simple girl who has always enjoyed serving others from a very young age. From winning awards for community service in primary school to being involved in various initiatives as a young adult, making a difference runs in her blood. As a financially struggling student at the University of Witwatersrand, Rami’s interest in entrepreneurship started. She started attending business seminars during her spare time to learn about the world of business and how she can start making money. Through these seminars, Rami met a lot of budding entrepreneurs and realized that they all faced a similar predicament —they lacked personal and business branding skills. Not just that, they also lacked basic financial skills to enable them to do business financials. That’s when she decided to assist start-ups with bookkeeping and tax as a freelancer. Rami eventually decided to invest time in learning about sales and marketing too. Later on, she then designed training material to train small businesses on sales under her company Competent Creations Agency (Pty) Ltd. The company was registered when Rami decided to make her services more accessible to make more money from the venture. It now has its own agents distributing products on behalf of other companies. Why do you think entrepreneurs lack knowledge on branding, bookkeeping and sales strategies? Entrepreneurs don’t utilize readily available resources that educate them on these subject matters, but in their defence, they don’t have the time to do so. Most entrepreneurs are usually knowledgeable in the field their product or service specializes in. Branding, bookkeeping and sales strategies come with trying to maintain a company to keep it running; something most people don’t consider before starting a venture. Per studies, there is a positive correlation between business failure and lack of marketing and sales skills. How can entrepreneurs improve their knowledge of this on the cheap? There is a lot of material available online on platforms like YouTube and even free online courses (MOOC’s). With the age of the internet, information is at your fingertips. Various organizations, like mine, organize seminars where entrepreneurs are educated on these subjects by industry experts. In what ways you do help businesses stand out at Competent Creations? We assist businesses with branding themselves; from the first steps of choosing a name, drafting a killer business plan and even the design of quality logos and websites. We believe that how third parties view/perceive you plays a huge role in determining how well you will perform as a business. [bctt tweet=”How 3rd parties view you plays a huge role in how well you will perform as a business” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] What advice will you give to a recently launched start-up looking to re-brand? Go back to your business plan and see why you exist as an organization. How you brand yourself should reflect your reason for existence. Your audience should be kept in mind every step of the way because what they think of you is what matters most (you exist to please them). It is also important to get the opinion of an outsider, because the people you work with are too close to the current brand to be objective. Do you keep New Year resolutions? What will your goals be for 2017? I do not usually keep New Year Resolutions, but I plan to go vegetarian next year. I am planning a spiritual and body cleanse to connect with my inner self. My goals for 2017 include getting the company noticed. I would like to tap into the corporate market. This embodies a lot of networking and self-selling. I am excited for it! If you’d like to share your story with She Leads Africa, let us know more about you and your story here.
Randy Mampuru: Everything I do is fuelled by my personal vision
[bctt tweet=”From tourism to making furniture to working with kids, here is Randy Mampuru’s story” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] When Randy Mampuru completed her matric in 2010, she decided to take a gap year in 2011 because she wasn’t sure of what to study in university. When she found that being broke didn’t work for her, Randy got herself a job doing promotions. That is when she came across the Raymond Ackerman Academy for Business Skills and Entrepreneurial Development offered at UJ Soweto Campus. Randy did that for the rest of 2011, then enrolled with the Gauteng Travel Academy in 2012 for a certificate in tourism. In 2013, Randy was given the opportunity to be travel consultant at one of the biggest travel agencies in South Africa Travel with flair. She worked there for few months but didn’t like it so left to pursue her studies in project management. Then in 2014, while Randy was studying from home, she got into a furniture manufacturing business. Randy Mampuru started making pallet-inspired furniture from her mother’s back yard. The business grew, eventually making it to the furntech incubation centre where she was given space and machinery. It was around the same time Randy started Kidz Hub. After taking a gap year to decide what to study, why tourism? In high school I studied tourism as a subject, which is where I fell in love with it. During my gap year, I figured out that I wanted to travel the world. I needed to get into career that could allow me to travel, and tourism was industry that I had to get into in order to travel. What does self-employment mean to you? It means being able to work on my dream and vision; making it a reality while serving and helping people and making sure that the next generation’s future is successful. Tell us about Kidz Hub, what inspired Kidz Hub? Kidz Hub is an organisation that pays attention to kids personal development, while taking the academic route and a holistic approach. We are all about instilling life time skills practically and actively so. We save R2 everyday towards our writing utensils and books. Now think about it, a 7year old saving R2 everyday…there’s a lot that goes into that. When they put it upon themselves to save the R2,that’s commitment. It also shows consistency. They don’t buy snacks along the way and that’s sacrifice. Not forgetting that this kid is taking in leadership, initiative, responsibility while also learning the financial management skill. We identified that many kids didn’t have anyone assisting them with their homework. So we decided to create a space were kids can come in and do their homework. That space was first my mothers kitchen, we then moved to the garage where I build a table and benches since I was in the furniture manufacturing industry. Currently, we have three branches and 33 kids signed up. We are also receiving assistance from former matriculants and varsity students who come and help voluntarily. This is fuelled by my personal vision which is; “To see the work that I do, the contributions that I make and the purpose that I serve having lasting effect on humanity”. [bctt tweet=”Randy Mampuru wants to see that the work she does has a lasting effect on humanity ” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Why kids? I love kids. Kids are very genuine, honest and free. They show so much life and they make one look forward to life. So I wanted to contribute towards their future to make sure they do not fall prey to what society portrays as how life should be. Do you feel kids should be sheltered from unhappiness? No I don’t think so. I feel that unhappiness is one of the feelings that will always be apart of our lives. It is triggered by failure and disappointment which are the two most important feelings that one goes through. Both feelings are necessary to recognising one’s abilities towards what they want to achieve, whether it is academic, personal or financial. What cheers you up? Gospel and house music, dancing, good food; basically good vibes. Who is your hero, why? My parents are my heroes. They are my heroes because of their tremendous support. I don’t think I would be where I am now if was not for their support. Want to see women you know featured on SLA? Tell us what amazing things women are doing in your communities here.
Dr Tlaleng Mofokeng: I envision a world where all people are at the centre of reproductive health agenda
[bctt tweet=” An advocate for reproductive justice, Dr T dedicates her time to realise her vision” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] As African women we know the struggles we face when it comes to accessing quality sexual and reproductive health services, especially if you are not privileged enough to afford private health care. Dr Tlaleng Mofokeng, also known as Dr T, is a young woman who is passionate about making such services available to all regardless of economic status –including those marginalised because of their sexual and gender identities. Dr T is a South African medical doctor, an activist, facilitator, speaker and columnist. Being a doctor has been her childhood dream. As soon as Dr Tlaleng knew what doctors did, she’s always wanted to be one. Now, Dr. T is a winner of the 2016 120 under 40: The New Generation of Family Planning Leaders and the Mail and Guardian 200 young South Africans in 2016. Who is Dr Tlaleng Mofokeng? I graduated from the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal in 2007. As a student, I set up the first youth friendly clinic in Matatiele in the Eastern Cape as part of my rural community project under Lovelife. Currently I run a Reproductive Clinic in Sandton and serves as the vice-chairperson of the Sexual and Reproductive Justice Coalition. I’m also a Medical Columnist at Sunday Times Newspaper, a Resident Doctor at Kaya FM, a facilitator and speaker. What made you choose sexual reproductive health? Sexual and reproductive health chose me. I had the first real inclination that I would work in this field during community service year; while I was working in the West Rand clinics in Johannesburg. I had many patients, often young women who consulted with me for medical issues and somehow they would end up opening up to me regarding their sexual health and relationship issues. It was very rewarding and I think the process was organic in that it is the patients who found me receptive enough to share their experiences. I remember one of the days when I had more patients waiting for me in the parking lot than inside the hospital, to talk about sex and ask questions. [bctt tweet=”Sexual and reproductive health chose me – Dr Tlaleng Mofokeng” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] What is the Sexual and Reproductive Justice Coalition all about? The Sexual and Reproductive Justice Coalition, is a civil society organization made up individuals, academics, researchers, activists, service providers etc. We believe in, and are creating, a future informed by an intersectional sexual and reproductive justice perspective. Equality, dignity and bodily integrity to inform services, information and resources and options that are provided to all including marginalised sexual and gender identities. Tell us about your experience at the Johns Hopkins University and being in the top 120 under 40? The trip to the USA was an amazing trip. I am one of 40 winners and one of 10 invited to the USA to receive the award in person. I spent time in Baltimore, Washington and New York. The time at Johns Hopkins was really special as we attended a lecture by Professor Mosley, who is one of the top rated lecturers at Johns Hopkins. What impact would you like to make in your field? I envision a world where all people regardless of gender, orientation, geography, disability or economic status are at the centre of reproductive health agenda and service provision. As an advocate for reproductive justice, I dedicate my time and expertise to ensure that this vision becomes a reality. What are some of the day to day challenges of your job and how do you overcome them? The main thing is physical and mental exhaustion, one has to be emotionally present for all your patients. Sometimes one goes from a therapy session, to doing procedures followed by consultations. By the nature of the field, many people have really emotional stories and experiences and it can be exhausting but also rewarding, especially on a busy day. It is for this reason that debriefing and self-care is of the most importance for one’s own emotional and psychological wellbeing. [bctt tweet=” Self-care is very important for one’s emotional & psychological well being- @drtlaleng” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] How do you stay inspired? The struggles are real and very personal. Our existence as black women is political and we can never switch off from the struggles of gender politics, racial oppression and the quest for economic freedom. The vision of a just world in which we as black women thrive and not just survive is further compromised because many women remain landless and unable to have shelter and food security. The daily experiences of not only my patients but also of my own in navigating an unjust world keeps me inspired. [bctt tweet=”We can’t switch off the struggles of gender politics & racial oppression – @drtlaleng” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] What is the one thing you wish someone had told you about being a successful career woman? I do not think you can ever prepare for all possibilities especially in business or regarding careers and people may try but they too cannot tell you all there is to know. I have been fortunate to have a mother who was a working mother and career driven as a result of her modelling I have had no issues or inner battles about family life versus commitment to my career. Is there anything that you would change about the career choices you have made? Not a single thing. I know for sure that I am in the right field. What is your advice to the young women out there that want to follow in your footsteps? Medical school is tough. You will break but you will rise and you will realise your dream. No matter what the world tells you, you are beautiful, you are intelligent and you were born with all the power and are deserving of a good life. You can catch Dr T on Kaya FM 95.5 Gauteng and Al-Jazeera channel 406 on DSTV.
Asanda Gcoyi: Talent on its own will never be enough
[bctt tweet=”Many people are talented in something but don’t invest time in becoming the best – Asanda Gcoyi” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] It’s time again for you to meet one of the people that make the SLA website run smoothly. We’re talking about our contributor family who SLAY with their writing. Asanda Gcoyi is a talent hunter, she’s the CEO of CB Talent, an empowerment hub dedicated to all things talent development. Through her passion, Asanda works with entrepreneurs and highly successful people in order to help them take their success to a higher level. We’re all lucky that she shares some of this wisdom in the articles she writes for SLA. A certified master coach, Asanda Gcoyi is the boss of turning talent into something more powerful. What defines talent to you? I think it is ones’ ability to showcase what you can contribute in any given context. Talent has to be pegged to passion for it to be meaningful. Further, talent requires hard work to be of any use. Many people out there are talented in something. Quite a few take joy in just being talented in whatever they may be talented in; yet they do not invest the time required to become the best at what they are talented in. As such, talent on its own will never be enough. Think of any successful footballer and imagine their work schedules. You will find hours and hours of hard work behind that success; not only god-given talent. [bctt tweet=”You will find hours of hard work behind success; not only god-given talent @Coachasanda” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] What goes into starting a talent development firm? It is one of those businesses that stem purely out of passion. You must understand people, and what motivates them and be able to ascertain how this all fits into the overall business imperatives. Luckily, you don’t need much in terms of start-up capital, so bootstrapping does the trick for the first six months or so. Tell us about being the Chairperson of the Ethics Portfolio Committee (EPC) at Coaches and Mentors South Africa (COMENSA). How did you find yourself in this role? When I returned from Beijing, China in December 2014, I was actively looking for ways to reintegrate myself into the South African business landscape having been away for over four years. As a qualified coach with a keen interest in understanding the professional from a South African point of view, I thought the best thing to do would be to find opportunities to get involved. Luckily for me around mid 2015, the committee had an opening, I applied and I was invited to join. Less than a year into it (around 6 months), I was asked to take over as chairperson. It was an excellent opportunity for me to develop professionally in the important area of ethics and conduct of the profession. I really enjoy working as part of the ethics portfolio and I am often challenged out of my comfort zone, which is very important for me. If it is not a challenge, I lose interest. You studied in China’s Peking University; can you share more about your experiences as an African woman in China? Peking University and Tshingua University are the top two universities in China so you can imagine the competition! I had no doubt in my ability to get admitted because they too take into account your GMAT scores for business school studies. As the only and first African woman at a Chinese top institution, it was both an honour and a testing time for me. There was still a ‘curiosity’ on Africa and Africans so in a way I was representing more than just my race and gender but the entire continent! I have never been one to be meek so my time at Peking was characterised by involvement both in academia and the social space. I was voted into the class committee a month into the studies and I was responsible for the events portfolio. That tells you a lot about my ability to be me irrespective of where I plant myself. [bctt tweet=”Asanda Gcoyi’s experiences in China gave her the background to be a multicultural specialist” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] What four skills would you say is needed for someone to be a multicultural specialist? To be a multicultural specialist, I would say one needs; Advanced self-awareness; Exposure to diverse environments is key; Actual experience working in cross cultural environments and Areputation (track record) of successful multicultural engagements. How is your understanding of the East and West behind your “developing the leader in you, to impact business” idea? The East and the West are so different in many respects and understanding these differences is key in this day and age. Taking these two and infusing local perspectives (read African) is what I believe can set one apart in business, and professionally. For the longest time, we were concerned about the ways of the West and didn’t pay much attention to the east until China became the powerhouse it is today. I think that to really be a global citizen/leader, you can’t not understand these two within your local context. Are there any particular things you look out for in finding people to support? I look for a can-do positive attitude. What will be your New Year resolutions? I have three New Year resolutions Take CB Talent to the next phase —accelerate growth! To be kinder to self. Grow spiritually! We want to know your stories! Tell us what amazing things women are doing in your communities here.
Lebogang Chaka: I’m where I am today because I’m not afraid to dream
[bctt tweet=”Lebogang Chaka lives and breathes the values of being an African and is leaving a brilliant legacy” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Lebogang Chaka considers herself a multi-potentialite. She is a dreamer, a speaker and MC who has committed to travelling the world talking on pertinent African issues related to the continent. A firm believer in the notion that Africans need to tell their own stories, Lebogang believes that she was born to use her “voice” through her work and talks to become a “guardian” of the African continent. She is the founder of a consulting firm that offers management consulting services such as transformation, change management, organisational design, outsourcing and restructuring programmes including facilitation and coaching services. Lebogang Chaka has experience working with top-tier consulting firms such as Deloitte, KPMG and Accenture, with international experience in Dubai. She also currently serves as the Chairperson of the Thabo Mbeki African Leadership Institute Alumni Forum as well as the advisory board for Africa Future Dialogue. Still, Lebogang is a small town girl from Mafikeng with a love for her continent and dreams of being Dr Chaka. Take us through your day I like to start off the day with a gym session to prepare me for the day and all that it comes with. Given all my passion and commitments, my days vary. I am a management consultant by trade, which sees me sitting in board rooms with C-Suite executives or leaders in the public sector. As a consultant, I understand the problems of an organisation and provide practical solutions to their various problems. My demands as a Phd student require that I come home, switch off and give my studies my full attention. My various volunteer activities —which includes sitting on boards, require me to review concept documents, set up meetings and respond to proposals. As a speaker and coach, I ensure that I prepare for my sessions with my various commitments. What I love about my day is that it is seldom the same. Time management is key and learning how to say ‘no’ has been my greatest lesson to make it through the day. And yes, I manage to cook and spend time with my loved one. I love a home cooked meal. One needs to protect their core, some things cannot be compromised. I love being present at home and not let all my passions be a source of guilt. How do you push through your worst times? After burning out after 3 years in management consulting and nearly passing away, I took sabbatical for a month. During that time, I met people from different walks of life. This was my greatest low and afterwards, I learnt the art of taking care of myself physically by exercising and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. I was incomplete without my spirituality, I reconnected with God’s word and I now I draw strength from feeding my soul with the word of God. Through my worst times, I remind myself of how I overcame all the doctors had said. I remind myself of how far God has brought me. I push because I know that the light at the end of the tunnel is worth the wait, because I know that my success will inspire others. My doctoral studies have been the most challenging studies I have had to date but I stay grounded in the word. I maintain a healthy lifestyle to ensure the stress that comes with the studies is minimised to ensure that I can live a live that is filled with joy. [bctt tweet=”Lebogang Chaka learnt the art of taking care of herself after a burn out and nearly passing away” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] What keeps you awake at night? The renewal of our continent. We cannot be the “dark continent”, I need to play my part. I constantly ask myself; What more can I do to ensure that I can build a continent that my children will be proud of? What are your success habits? The one thing that I admire about myself is my ability to dream like a child and to not have boundaries. My dreams are always larger than life, my dreams usually scare me but I always boldly talk about them. I got to where I am today because I am not afraid to dream and I am not afraid to work hard for my dreams. Above all, God’s grace is forever with me. I also believe that a life well lived is a life that does not mirror the vision of others but rather is based on one’s own journey. My measure of success is how well I have lived my life according to what I believe I am called to do. This is as opposed to what society believes I should do. Lastly, I was raised by parents who had an incredible vision for us as their children; to be more and to serve others. What is your meaning of greatness? Do you believe you have at some point achieved greatness? Greatness to me means being the best version of you. It means being able to achieve peace about what you were called to be, understanding your purpose. After experiencing a corporate burnout, I reflected on my life and realized that I had given all my talents to the corporate world. At that very point, I began to search for my purpose. Today, it is very clear how I can use my talents to serve and make a difference in the lives of many. My career as a speaker is birthed from me understanding my calling. Can you tell us about a time when you almost gave up, how you felt about that, and what you did instead of giving up?’ This year with my PhD studies at the beginning of the year, I was struggling with my studies. I have never struggled with any of my previous studies as such, this was indeed a humbling experience. There was a time in class in February
Seipati Masango: Passion that transcends into business
[bctt tweet=”@seipatimasango a.k.a Miss Gates shares her passion and beauty secrets here” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Seipati Masango is a 29 year old lady from South Africa currently working in the construction industry. Seipati also owns and manages a beauty product line company called Organic Touch by Miss Gates. Informally known as Miss Gates, Seipati Masango is very loud, crazy “in a good way”, enthusiastic and optimistic. Her passions are not limited to business as she is also politically active and passionate about social development through her work as an African National Congress (ANC) volunteer. What are you most passionate about? I am passionate about people and what they have to offer. Also, I am passionate about beauty and how we as a nation are different and from different cultures. I think that we do not focus on how rich in inner and outer beauty we are as a country. We tend to shy away and do not appreciate the features we have as people, because we care about the ones we are complimented on. What inspired you to start your skin care brand Organic Touch By Miss Gates? This is so funny because, growing up I have always been very inquisitive about everything. Years later, I started using different products especially when seasons changed, because my skin texture would change too. I tried different methods in order to get it soft and smooth again, (using Colgate toothpaste for pimples, egg yolk for texture etc). I used to mix different products to make my own hair mousse to repair my hairline, and loved to use coconut oil on my face as a moisturiser and body. In August, I decided to post on social media the difference these methods made to my skin. I ended up receiving a great response and messages in my inbox for orders. [bctt tweet=”@seipatimasango registered a company before finally finding her passion in making beauty products” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Then two lady friends of mine Nonkululeko and Mzikazi asked why I was sitting on a gold mine and doing nothing about it. They both know I am passionate about beauty. From that point, I started researching about organic homemade beauty products because I did not want to use any chemically affiliated products. And the rest is history. I must say, it was draining and time consuming at first. I was cash strapped too ,but it all turned out well. Months prior, I had registered a company not knowing what to do, but I finally found my passion. Tell me about your work as a clothing brand ambassador for plus size women? I never thought I would be a plus size model. I had actually never heard of big women being models, but the world changes. We see an evolution where plus size clothing ranges find space in the fashion industry. [bctt tweet=”I never thought I would be a plus size model – Seipati Masango” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] I was approached by Pinky Mokgoasane owner of Street Chic, who asked me if I would be interested in being a model for her plus size range. She told me that I would look ravishing in “vintage-inspired wear”, so I gave it a try. Street Chic’s Pinky Clothing Range has attracted so many plus size women who love dressing up. Street Chic’s clients always say to the owner, “if Seipati can rock it so can we”. I don’t regret making the decision to model for Pinky. It has changed me, many woman send me messages telling me how I have inspired them to appreciate their weight. I always say that dressing up for your body type and size will make you feel good and confident. What is the main thing you think women should celebrate about themselves? Mainly, it’s their inner beauty as it is one of the most attractive characters in a woman. Being confident about yourself and loving the person that you are, will easily show on the outside. I have always been a big girl. Growing up, people would tell me how fat I was compared to the last time they saw me, and that would really hurt. I had to grow tough skin towards cyber bullies and negative people. I used to try these yoyo diets and go to the gym just to go back to the woman I was, it never worked. [bctt tweet=”Women across the world should adore their curves, love and squeeze them. Yaaas @seipatimasango!” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] This year, I had a health hazard that required that I make healthier choices because my cholesterol was too high. I made the decision to eat healthier and lose a few kilos, not because of a bully but for a conscious decision I made for my life. I lost 15 kg and now I wear size 40 and happily love my curves, and body. Women across the world should adore their curves, love and squeeze them. They should look in the mirror and just say, “I am beautiful”! They should wear that swimsuit without fear. Stretch marks and cellulite are there but they do not define who you are, or what you have become. Just be you and love yourself. Do you think that there is immense pressure for women in South Africa to look and behave in a certain way? How can we change the social pressures on women? A South Africa “radio personality” recently bashed Noma Khumalo, winner of SA Idols 2016, saying Noma is not idol material because of her weight and that the entertainment industry will not accept her. I was furious —and still am, that we live in such a hypocritical society that refuses to accept how different we are. South Africa is a country rich in heritage and history, and we need to become ourselves. We do not need to conform to mainstream norms and social perceptions of how one should behave or look. We should appreciate what everyone brings to society. Also, we need to understand that women are nurturers and caregivers and they should
Monalisa Molefe: Buy into a business that you can connect your passion to
[bctt tweet=”@Lisa_Molefe bought a 17 year old business rather than start her own from scratch” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] In an era where the media has ramped up the encouragement directed towards the young entrepreneurs, one millennial, Monalisa Molefe, found herself in largely uncharted territory when she made the decision to buy a business. In September 2016, Monalisa took the plunge and assumed ownership of an already existing business, Art Form Factory. At 26, she is now the youngest, black, female owner of a framing business in South Africa. Having previously worked in the luxury branding space, Monalisa had no prior knowledge on the complexities of the art framing world. What she did have was the foresight to spot and seize a good opportunity when it presented itself. Monalisa Molefe had a passion for luxury branding which she envisioned bringing to the art framing world. She had a zeal and dedication, rare for many women her age. Lucky for her, Monalisa also has the support of a mother who has always encouraged her to dream big. Monalisa’s mother taught her to realize that once she decides to take a chance on something, she had better be prepared to go all in and not consider failure an option. To find out exactly what drives this phenomenal young woman, SLA contributor, Uloma Ogba, caught up with Monalisa on a Sunday. This interview took place while Monalisa was present at her factory and in between business strategy sessions. Prior to buying the Artform Factory you had a successful career in Marketing and had worked for some top luxury brands in SA. What motivated you to trade in your cushy, secure job to buy a business and take over its operations? I’ve always known I would be an entrepreneur. As I took on my career path I realized I had a lot to learn. So, instead of graduating and rushing into opening my own business, I took the route of gaining knowledge of the business world and the operations of large firms by working for them. The knowledge one picks up from that is something that a textbook cannot teach. At the time I was introduced to Artform Factory in early 2016, I was working for a luxury brand. My move wasn’t so much because I was frustrated at work, it was more about the fact that I believe that opportunities are timed It’s not everyday that you hear a story of someone like myself who was offered the chance to buy a business. The framing factory has been running for the past 17 years and it was previously owned by a Polish lady who started in the interior industry helping people frame for their houses and offices. [bctt tweet=”Monalisa Molefe had no prior knowledge on the complexities of the framing world” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] The previous owner and my mother had a mutual friend who brought the opportunity to my mother’s attention. My mother, who already had a lot on her plate at the time, then introduced me to company. For the Polish lady, selling her business wasn’t just about a monetary transaction. She wanted to make sure that the new owner would be the right fit for the business. She wanted someone who would take the business to greater heights. What she told me was that there is a gap in the market and no one was really owning it. If I came in and commanded the space, I would have plenty of opportunities. This was because a lot of corporates were looking to work with business that met certain criteria in terms ownership and service offering. After my initial meeting with her, I did my homework to ascertain the viability of the business. I wanted to some clarity on what to do with the business if I had to take over. Luckily, the business has had an impressive track record. This included owning exclusive rights to sell limited edition, official Brazil 2014 world cup soccer match balls in South Africa,. The previous owner also introduced the concept of the Mandela memorabilia which has been a major attraction for South Africans and people from all over the world. I have a background in brand building and management and I’ve spent the last couple of years submerging myself in the luxury industry. My plan is to take the business to the next level and to turn something as simple as framing into a luxury business. At the factory, we frame under two categories. One is wall décor such as mirrors and art pieces. We also frame sports memorabilia to basically preserve “the greatest moments in sports”. The way I see it, you could just go to the supermarket and buy ready-made frames or you could come to the Artform Factory and get a custom-made frame tailored to your specific style and preferences. That in itself is the essence of luxury to me. [bctt tweet=”Monalisa Molefe took the route of gaining knowledge of the business world by working for them ” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] What would be your advice to other women thinking of embarking on the same venture. Is there something you wish you had known before going in? The experience has definitely met, and even exceeded my expectations. First of all, I was very fortunate because I come from a family of entrepreneurs. My mother has had many businesses. Growing up, I had watched her open up and close down several businesses. So when it came to my current venture, I’ve used her as a guide in terms of what to do and what not to do. I am lucky to have had my mother who is a seasoned professional and entrepreneur to guide me. She has helped me ensure that the processes and the transaction were done professionally. My mother also advised me regarding any laws dealing with change of ownership in the business. She, as well as my mentors, have drilled into me the importance of business accounts. Business accounts are a good indicator of the success
Esther Mahlangu: It is my passion to transfer this skill to the generations after me
Esther Mahlangu may be the oldest #MotherlandMogul we’ve shone the spotlight on but she is serious goals. She is the world-renowned artist credited with elevating the Ndebele painting and culture on the world stage through her work. Esther is has created a successful brand of her products in Mpumalanga, Kwamhlanga where she lives. She is known for her bold large-scale contemporary paintings that reference her Ndebele heritage. Esther has worked with the likes of BMW, FIAT, Belvedere and many other globally-recognised brands. SLA contributing writer Khethiwe Mndawe interviewed Esther Mahlangu at the Lilizela awards. Khethiwe also got a special invite at her her 81st birthday celebration. When and where were you born? I was born in 1935 on a farm outside Middleburg, in the Mpumalanga province. Being the first of nine children —six boys and three girls, I had huge responsibilities at a young age. Yet, my parents and family allowed me to be a child. When I got introduced to art, they realised that they couldn’t keep me away from painting no matter what duties and chores I had to take up. I started painting at 9 years old, being taught by my mother and grandmother. I was inspired by both women. From as far as I can remember, I followed traditions passed down from my mother and grandmother. I learned traditional Ndebele wall painting and bead-work, as a child that was all I did every day. I can say I became an expert in executing murals as a teenager, using a wide range of paint colours. Initially, we used to gather traditional soil paint from the forests and by the rivers but eventually we started using modern paints. [bctt tweet=”Esther Mahlangu: I started painting at 9 years old, taught by my mother and grandmother” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] What type of work were you doing before you were discovered as a renowned artist? Who discovered you as an artist and icon for the Ndebele culture? Between 1980 and 1991 I lived and worked at the Botshabelo Historical Village, an open-air museum of Ndebele culture. I can say I was discovered in 1986, by researchers from Paris who were travelling the world to document traditional arts. These artists saw the paintings of Mahlangu’s house. They learnt more about why we paint like this and the significance of the paintings. They invited me to create murals for an exhibition of international contemporary art, the Magicians de la Terre (Magicians of the World). I travelled to France in 1989, and stayed there for two months. I painted a house in front of thousands of spectators that included the media and art lovers. People form Europe got to know about me, where I come from, and the Ndebele culture in South Africa. After a few months, I was asked to also decorate a wall inside the Angoulême Museum of Fine Arts and so I went on to other locations in France. In 1990, I began to paint murals for public venues in Johannesburg and elsewhere in South Africa. This was soon followed by more locations in Europe and the United States. My work appears in exhibitions in more than a dozen countries. How did BMW approach you? BMW got hold of me through the government. They asked me to decorate a so-called BMW “art car” in traditional Ndebele design in 1999. I stepped into the league of Andy Warhol and David Hockney (both world-renowned artists who created previous art cars for the company). From what I know I was the first woman artist to have been honoured as such. [bctt tweet=”Esther Mahlangu was the first woman artist to be invited to make a BMW art car” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Which other projects have you received and achieved at? What awards have you received the past couple of years? I exhibited locally and abroad in Australia, America, Japan and in many European countries. Also, I was awarded the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver by the South African presidency for my contribution to the development of indigenous Ndebele arts. I had a painting project with FIAT, British Airways, Belvedere ReD and a project for HIV/Aids with John Legend. Also, I have many award which I received in South Africa for arts and craft. I have been honoured in the tourism sector nationally and in my province, and in the arts and craft sector. In 2016, I was again involved in a BMW project, painting Ndebele patterns on the real wood interior trims of a BMW 7 series. This was shown for the first time at the Frieze Art Fair in Regent’s Park, London. This car now takes pride of place at South Africa: the Art of a Nation, a major exhibition currently showing at the British Museum from 27 October 2016 – 27 February 2017. I had the opportunity to interview you in IsiNdebele for SA Tourism, at the Lilizela awards. How did you feel winning the Lilizela Ministers Overall award 2016 by the Department of Tourism South Africa? I was not expecting this award at all. I was so happy in the manner which my country honoured me. The attention I received after that, made me feel proud to be a South African artist and I am glad that you came in to interview me in IsiNdebele. It was difficult to understand all the journalist/radio station who were there to hear what I had to say about this once in a lifetime award. Tell us about your art school. I have always had the calling to teach the science and significance of the Ndebele painting, and why we paint. Over the decades it has become my goal to preserve my cultural heritage. I built an art school in the backyard of my home in Mathombothiini (Weltevreden) in the Kwamhlanga district in Mpumalanga Province. I have been funding the school myself. When I am not travelling for exhibitions, I still spend most of my time mentoring young artists in the traditional style of Ndebele design. I teach mostly
Kendibone Sapepa: Barbara McKenzie started off with me making garments for myself
[bctt tweet=”@Kendibone_S I wanted my brand @_BMcKenzie__ to be a brand with purpose ” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Imagine starting out making clothes for yourself and then moving on to make a business out of it due to popular demand. That’s the story behind Barbara McKenzie, a clothing brand, styling service and consulting service based in Joburg. Barbar McKenzie is run by Kendibone Sapepa, a fashion enthusiast who wants to provide customers with classic fashion-forward clothing. You may have read some of her writing right here on SLA where Kendi schools us on different careers in fashion. Read on to find out how Kendibone Sapepa, a Marketing Management graduate is growing her brand and what she has to say about New Year resolutions for businesses. Tell us about your journey to starting Barbara McKenzie clothing. Barbara McKenzie started off with me making garments for myself. When people took an interest in what I was making, I decided to create a business out of it. You established Barbara McKenzie in 2013, how has your brand grown? Has it exceeded your exceptions? It has grown to become what I had wanted from its inception and much more! From just making clothes at home for fun, I’ve dressed admirable women and it continues to grow. [bctt tweet=”Kendibone Sapepa: Barbara McKenzie’s target market is women who emanate elegance & femininity” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] You have a degree in Marketing Management, do you use what you’ve learned in university in running Barbara McKenzie? If so, how? Every single day. Brands need to be marketed, other wise, how would people know that Barbara McKenzie exists? Activities vary between advertising, collaborations, to anything you can think of, as well as the strategic side of it which the public sometimes does not see. 10% of your profits go towards helping a girl-child, can you tell us more about this initiative? It is a new initiative that I’ve just started. I often come across many stories about how girls cannot go to school and I’ve decided to do something about it. 10% of Barbara McKenzie profits will go to an organisation that helps young girls in need, or directly to these young girls. This of course does not exclude those who cannot afford school fees, and with FeesMustFall —we will help where we can. I wanted my brand to be a brand with purpose, so if people are buying clothes to look good, let them also feel good as well by knowing that when they buy from Barbara McKenzie, a young child is helped as well. Tell us about your consulting service, it sounds quite unique to bring clients on to be part of the design process. How did you come up with this idea? Have there been any particular difficulties implementing it? It is not really unique, as many designers offer this service to all clients. It was not really a matter of coming up with it, but rather clients who wanted a specific looking garments. Difficulties vary, from clients wanting garments that do not compliment my brand, to changing their designs half-way through production, but at the end of the day customers’ happiness matters most. What/who would you say captures the Barbara McKenzie style? The brand’s target market is women of all ages who are feminine and prefer classic style with a modern element in their clothing. Women who emanate effortless elegance and femininity. [bctt tweet=”Kendibone Sapepa went on a mini-mission to find out more fashion-related careers” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] From your articles on SLA, you seem passionate about different careers in fashion, how did this come about? A couple of months ago, a young lady in grade 10 came to me to somewhat “job-shadow” me as her school does on an annual basis. When we spoke I learned that her parents, like most, wanted her to follow a career in science. They thought a career in science ensures a comfortable and secure life, but as one can see today, this is not how it goes. I’ve seen many a picture of people with degrees, standing at robots asking for jobs. So I went on a mini-mission to find out more about these fashion related careers to better inform these young people about what they entail. I mean with employment in RSA at its worst, why not follow what you like anyway, and also encourage entrepreneurship? What will be your New Year resolutions for Barbara McKenzie? I’m not sure if a entity can have New Year Resolutions, but I personally don’t. One need not wait till January of each year to start doing something, one just starts. Why wait for the next year to start doing something, when you can do it sooner? [bctt tweet=”@Kendibone_S – One need not wait till January of each year to start doing something” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] I’ve started the help-a-girl-child initiative at the end of this year, I don’t think waiting until the beginning of 2017 would be any better, just so I can say that I have a “New Year Resolution”. Want to see women you know featured on SLA? Tell us what amazing things women are doing in your communities here.
Hilda Mavhunga: I had no idea that one could become a food technologist
[bctt tweet=”@didi_mamushka is a food technologist making a career out of her love for food” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] For Hilda Mavhunga, “food is passion, food is love.” But Hilda lives her passion for food in a way that is different from what you’d expect. She is a food technologist. Say what now? Yep, food technologist! It’s one of those professions that few know but that are well integrated into our everyday lives. “Food is my life, food was my choice, food is my career, food is my love,” says Hilda Mavhunga. And you know that the food industry is the largest in the world, we all need to eat. Yet Hilda doesn’t limit herself to her job as a food technologist. She’s also a model and founder of Vision 30 and Soweto Award for Economic Development. The Soweto Award for Economic Development was started to change the fact that Sowetans feel neglected in South Africa. Why did you decide to study food technology I must admit, I had no idea that one could become a food technologist. Some people don’t realise what a major role in the development of food products we play in the global market. The plethora of disciplines in food industry is vast and fascinating. Common products that you purchase each day have been researched, designed and modified by a team of food industry professionals. As food technologists, we make sure that what you purchase is consistent in quality and most importantly, safe to eat. It draws from many disciplines in an attempt to better understand food processes and ultimately improve food products for general public. It applies food science principles for the selection, preservation, processing, packaging and use of safe food. Food technology disciplines include food chemistry, food process engineering, food microbiology, food preservation, food packaging, food safety, food technology, new product development and sensory analysis. I love using science and engineering skills to research and develop food products and to ensure the safety of food supply. Therefore, food technology was an option to quench the thirst of this kind of love. I decided to be a food technologist because there is nothing more amazing than the chemistry of food and its technology. Can you tell us a bit about your work and its contribution towards developing countries. The food industry is one of the largest on the planet. People will always have to eat. The primary objective of food science and technology is to provide crowded populations with the kind and quality of food they demand at all times of the year. Food processing techniques developed by food scientists ensure that the resources required to produce raw food materials, and ingredients for food manufacturing are used efficiently. [bctt tweet=”Hilda Mavhunga: I love using science and engineering skills to research and develop food products” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] What is your favourite dish ? My favourite dish pap and mogodu. What do you think is special about the food science industry compared with other scientific industries? When working in the food industry, you aren’t limited to lab work or a desk job. There is something for everyone, whether it be in quality, Research & Development , sales, e-marketing, manufacturing, teaching or in government. The food science degree is inherently multidisciplinary, which opens up a myriad of opportunities.We use principles of chemistry, engineering, microbiology and other sciences to ensure food safety and agricultural productivity. We discover new food sources, analyses nutrition content and finds different ways to process, package and preserve food in an attempt to improve the quality of the food that we eat everyday. What do you do in your spare time? In my spare time, I do modelling sometimes. I also run two projects; Vision 30 and the Soweto Award for Economic Development. [bctt tweet=”Hilda Mavhunga: We Sowetans often we feel neglected & our aim is to change that” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Tell us about Soweto Award for Economic Development We Sowetans often we feel neglected and our aim as an organisation is to change that. How so? By recognising talent/challenges, good/bad service delivery around our location. We figure out ways we can empower and be catalysts to turn and improve our locations into a better place where everyone wants to be. We also want to improve our education system, decrease unemployment rate and have better health services. That’s our mission as Soweto Award for Economic Development. What kind of sickness have you lied about so you wouldn’t go to work? I’m so passionate and live my work that I don’t want to miss a second of it. I never lied about any sickness to miss work. Want to see women you know featured on SLA? Tell us what amazing things women are doing in your communities here.