In the dynamic landscape of African entrepreneurship, several remarkable women stand out, making significant strides in diverse industries. These trailblazers not only exemplify resilience and innovation but also contribute to shaping the future of their respective fields; leading innovative companies and playing pivotal roles in shaping various industries. Here, we spotlight some of the top female entrepreneurs who are reshaping the business world in 2023.
- Aisha Pandor: Pioneering Tech Entrepreneur in South Africa
Aisha Pandor, the CEO and co-founder of SweepSouth, stands as a trailblazer in the South African tech landscape, transforming the way domestic services are accessed through innovative online solutions.
Early Life and Education:
Aisha, armed with a Ph.D. in Human Genetics, embarked on a unique journey from science to entrepreneurship. Born into an influential family—her mother being South Africa’s Minister of Science and Technology—Aisha’s commitment to building her own career on merit became evident early on. She holds the distinction of completing a Postgraduate Business Administration course on the same day as her Ph.D. graduation, showcasing her multi-faceted expertise.
Transition to Entrepreneurship:
Despite her success in the corporate world, Aisha’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to leave a corporate job she “didn’t like” and co-found SweepSouth with her husband, Alen Ribić. The genesis of SweepSouth emerged from a personal frustration with finding reliable domestic help. Aisha’s vision was to leverage technology to connect homeowners with on-demand, trusted cleaners—akin to the Uber model.
SweepSouth’s Innovative Platform:
Launched in 2014, SweepSouth disrupted the traditional domestic service industry through its online platform. Aisha’s background in mathematics and computer science played a pivotal role in creating a seamless system. The platform allows customers to book cleaning services without contractual obligations, with hours logged through an app, and payments processed electronically. This innovative approach attracted attention from funders, including Silicon Valley venture capital fund Draper Dark Flow.
Impact and Job Creation:
SweepSouth, under Aisha’s leadership, has become a catalyst for socio-economic change. The platform has created over a thousand jobs, providing fair wages to domestic workers referred to as “SweepStars.” Aisha’s commitment to dignified work and autonomy for SweepStars sets SweepSouth apart in the industry. The company’s impact is not only measured in economic terms but also in changing perceptions—moving away from the term “domestic workers” to the empowering title of “SweepStars.”
Recognition and Awards:
Aisha Pandor’s achievements have earned her widespread recognition. Forbes acknowledged her as one of the top female tech founders in Africa. Her inclusion in Forbes Africa’s list of breakthrough female innovators and awards like the Price Check Female Entrepreneur of the Year underscore her significant contributions to African innovation and technology.
- Dr. Ola Brown: Pioneering Healthcare Entrepreneur in Nigeria
Dr. Ola Brown is a British-Nigerian medical doctor and healthcare entrepreneur, who stands at the forefront of transforming healthcare in Africa through her visionary leadership and innovative ventures.
Early Life and Education:
Born Olamide Orekunrin in 1986, Dr. Ola Brown’s journey into the intersection of medicine and entrepreneurship began in London, England. She pursued her medical education at Hull York Medical School, later delving into acute medicine in the UK. Her academic pursuits expanded globally with a Japanese MEXT scholarship, leading her to Tokyo for lab-based research with induced pluripotent stem cells.
Entrepreneurial Ventures:
Driven by personal tragedy—the loss of her sister—and a commitment to improving healthcare in Nigeria, Dr. Ola founded Flying Doctors Nigeria Ltd. in 2007. This groundbreaking venture became West Africa’s first air-operated emergency medical services, addressing critical gaps in medical evacuation and emergency care.
In addition to her role as CEO of Flying Doctors, Dr. Ola co-founded Greentree Investment Company, a venture capital firm providing growth capital to diverse tech startups across Africa. Investments under Greentree’s portfolio include notable names like Paystack, Precurio, and Big Cabal Media.
Flying Doctors Healthcare Investment Company (FDHIC):
In 2019, Dr. Ola established The Flying Doctors Healthcare Investment Company, expanding her impact across the African healthcare and wellness value chain. FDHIC operates in various sectors, including hospital construction, diagnostics, pharmaceutical retail, and air ambulance services. The company’s comprehensive approach aims to enhance healthcare accessibility and infrastructure.
Global Recognition and Impact:
As an international speaker, Dr. Ola has graced prestigious platforms such as TED global, the World Economic Forum, and the United Nations. Her work and insights have been featured by major media outlets, including CNN, BBC, Forbes, and Al-Jazeera. She holds positions on boards, including the Professional Women’s Network and the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce.
- Nneile Nkholise: Revolutionizing Agriculture and Healthcare through Innovation
Nneile Nkholise, a trailblazing tech entrepreneur from South Africa, has emerged as a catalyst for change in both healthcare and agriculture. Armed with a background in mechanical engineering, she founded iMed Tech Group in 2015, a company pioneering 3D printing for breast prostheses, offering affordable solutions for breast cancer survivors.
Innovating Healthcare with 3D Printing:
Nneile’s venture, iMed Tech, has significantly impacted over 150 women by providing 3D-printed breast prosthetics. Beyond tangible products, she introduced the 3DIMO platform, an AI-infused cloud solution empowering surgeons with 3D virtual and printed surgical planning models. Recognitions, including Forbes 30 Under 30 and a presidential award, affirm her transformative work.
Champion for Women in Technology:
Passionate about empowering young African women in healthcare research and innovation, Nneile envisions women leading the future in these fields. Her commitment extends beyond individual success, aiming for iMed Tech to be a global technology leader in diverse medical prosthetics, encompassing internal organs.
Diversifying into Agriculture and Animal Husbandry:
Nneile’s journey took an unexpected turn in 2021 when she was honored with the “Margaret Entrepreneur Africa Award” for her project, 3DIMO. This venture leverages AI to automate livestock data analysis, ensuring optimal animal health monitoring. Displaying resilience during the COVID-19 impact on sports tech, she pivoted to address challenges in animal husbandry.
Entrepreneurial Accolades and Recognition:
Nneile’s entrepreneurial prowess earned her recognition as Africa’s top female innovator by the World Economic Forum in 2016. The Office of the President of South Africa honored her as the Young South African Woman of the Year in 2017. In 2018, she was listed in Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30 and acknowledged among the top 100 young Africans by the Africa Youth Council.
Thola Inc.: Bridging Global Agricultural Trade:
In 2021, Nneile founded Thola Inc., shaping the landscape for mass continental farmer global trade access. Thola is a B2B agricultural produce procurement marketplace connecting global businesses with African farmers. The platform integrates training, auditing, and certification, ensuring global standards for produce, thus simplifying the export process.
Tech-Driven Solutions in Animal Husbandry:
Thola’s innovation extends to a livestock husbandry monitoring system, utilizing AI, machine learning, and infrared imaging cameras. This system monitors and audits livestock farms globally, providing insights into health, movement patterns, and predictive modeling to assist farmers in mitigating risks.
- Dr. Divine Ndhlukula: Pioneering Excellence in Business and Empowering Women
Dr. Divine Ndhlukula is a visionary Zimbabwean businesswoman who defied norms and blazed a trail in the male-dominated security industry. Born on February 5, 1960, in rural Gutu, she embarked on a journey that not only transformed her life but also empowered countless women.
Early Life and Education:
Divine’s educational journey took her through various schools, culminating in an Executive MBA from Midlands State University, another MBA from Women’s University in Africa, and a Ph.D. in Business Leadership. Her academic prowess laid the foundation for her future endeavors.
Career Beginnings:
Before founding her groundbreaking company, SECURICO Security Services, Divine gained valuable experience at Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation and Old Mutual. Her 16-year stint at Intermarket Life Assurance as a Marketing Executive sharpened her business acumen.
SECURICO: Revolutionizing Security Services:
In 1998, Divine founded SECURICO to address gaps in service delivery and professionalism in the security sector. From humble beginnings, the company evolved into a powerhouse, reshaping Zimbabwe’s security industry. Today, SECURICO employs over 3,800 people and is a trailblazer in security solutions.
Innovations and Accolades:
Under Divine’s leadership, SECURICO became the first Zimbabwean-staffed security company certified to ISO9001:2008 standards. The company consistently garnered local and international awards, solidifying its reputation as a top-tier security provider.
Entrepreneurial Vision:
Driven by a desire to empower disadvantaged women, Divine set out to create a business that not only met market needs but also provided employment opportunities. Her entrepreneurial journey, guided by an unwavering vision, saw her overcome challenges in a male-dominated industry.
Championing Women Empowerment:
Beyond business success, Divine champions women’s economic empowerment. Initiatives like Mentorship in Practice and the Women in Enterprise Conference showcase her dedication to uplifting women in business. She became the first SADC member of the global Women Presidents Organization.
- Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu: Transforming Lives through Innovative Entrepreneurship
Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu, born in 1980, is an Ethiopian entrepreneur who has left an indelible mark in the footwear industry. Her journey is not just about business; it’s a narrative of empowerment, sustainability, and global recognition.
Early Vision and SoleRebels:
In 2004, Bethlehem founded SoleRebels, a groundbreaking venture that emerged from the artisan skills of her impoverished community. Recognizing the untapped potential, she transformed her community’s artisanal skills into SoleRebels, an eco-friendly footwear brand that seamlessly blends style with functionality.
Eco-Friendly Footwear and Global Impact:
SoleRebels, known for its eco-friendly approach, became a global phenomenon. The footwear, crafted from indigenous and recycled materials, not only gained international recognition but also provided employment to hundreds of Ethiopians. The company’s success is a testament to Bethlehem’s commitment to sustainable practices and economic empowerment.
Awards and Global Recognition:
Bethlehem’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. She received accolades such as being named one of the “World’s 100 Most Powerful Women,” among the “20 Youngest Power Women in Africa” by Forbes, and recognized as a “Young Global Leader” by the World Economic Forum. These awards underscore her impact on youth empowerment and entrepreneurship.
Expanding Horizons:
Beyond SoleRebels, Bethlehem’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to launch “The Republic of Leather,” delving into sustainable luxury leather goods. This venture showcases her dedication to reimagining industries while maintaining ecological and economic sustainability.
Garden of Coffee and Beyond:
In 2017, Bethlehem expanded her portfolio with “Garden of Coffee,” celebrating Ethiopia’s rich coffee heritage. This venture earned the title of “Africa’s answer to Starbucks,” demonstrating her ability to build global brands rooted in ethical principles.
Made by Ethiopia and Perimeter Consulting:
Bethlehem’s commitment to Ethiopia’s economic growth led her to establish “Made by Ethiopia,” a groundbreaking public-private partnership transforming the footwear and leather export sector. Through “Made by Ethiopia,” she has created over 100,000 job opportunities and generated significant export revenue.
Selam Bank and Diverse Ventures:
In May 2021, Bethlehem launched Selam Bank with a capital of US$116.3 million, aiming to create the largest generation of homeowners in Ethiopian history. Her diverse ventures include strategic consulting services through Perimeter Consulting, payment and e-commerce platform Giza Digital, snack startup NoodFoods, and food brand TeffTastic.
Global Recognition and Advocacy:
Bethlehem’s impact extends to global recognition, including being listed among Forbes’ “100 Most Powerful,” Fast Company’s “100 Most Creative People in Business,” and CNN’s “12 Female Entrepreneurs Who Changed the Way We Do Business.” Her advocacy goes beyond business, challenging stereotypes surrounding economics, entrepreneurship, and culture in Ethiopia.
- Hilda Moraa: Transforming Finance and Empowering Entrepreneurs in Africa
Hilda Moraa, an award-winning innovator and author, has over the last few years stood at the forefront of the fintech revolution in Africa. With over a decade of expertise in finance and technology, she has emerged as a pioneer, reshaping the financial landscape with her ventures and advocacy.
Early Ventures and Acclaim
Hilda’s journey in entrepreneurship began with the founding of WezaTele, a Fintech startup in Kenya, showcasing her early commitment to innovation. The startup was successfully acquired in 2015, marking the beginning of her impactful career. Hilda’s contributions to the fintech sector have earned her numerous accolades, including being featured among the “Top 40 under 40 Women” in 2015 and recognized as one of the “Top 30 Innovators in Africa” by Quartz Africa in 2018.
Pezesha: Bridging Financial Gaps:
Undeterred by challenges, Hilda ventured into her next groundbreaking initiative – Pezesha, a peer-to-peer lending platform. With a vision to address unemployment and poverty in Africa, Pezesha provides a digital financial infrastructure that connects borrowers with lenders in Kenya. Hilda’s leadership led Pezesha to be the first company to exit from the CMA regulatory sandbox, gaining approval and recognition for its innovative approach.
Digital Lending Impact:
Under Hilda’s guidance, Pezesha’s digital lending infrastructure offers essential services such as Know Your Customer (KYC) verification, credit scoring, and embedded finance. By empowering small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to secure working capital and access credit, Pezesha aims to close the substantial financing gap of $328 billion for SMEs in Sub-Saharan Africa. Hilda envisions a ripple effect, where empowered business owners create jobs, support communities, and contribute to overall economic growth.
Recognition and Advocacy:
Hilda’s impact extends beyond her ventures; she is a recognized advocate and influencer in the African fintech ecosystem. She serves on the advisory board of the African Women in Fintech and Payments (AWFP) organization, contributing her insights to foster inclusivity and diversity in the industry. Her inclusion in the COVID-19 ICT & Innovations Advisory Committee for Kenya reflects her commitment to driving change in technology and innovation.
Entrepreneurship and Mentorship:
Driven by a passion for solving challenges, Hilda’s journey reflects her dedication to entrepreneurship and making a positive impact. She actively supports and mentors young techpreneurs, sharing her entrepreneurial knowledge and experiences. Her book, “A Kenyan Startup Journey – 10 Key Lessons I Learnt,” serves as an inspiring guide for aspiring entrepreneurs.
- Temie Giwa-Tubosun: Transforming Healthcare with LifeBank
In the ever changing landscape of African entrepreneurship, Temie Giwa-Tubosun is a beacon of innovation and compassion, making an indelible mark in the realm of healthcare. Born as Oluwaloni Olamide Giwa in December 1985 in Nigeria, Temie’s journey unfolds as a testament to resilience, empathy, and a relentless pursuit of improving healthcare access.
Early Life and Education:
Temie’s roots trace back to Ila Orangun in Osun State, Nigeria, where she was born to a university professor and a school teacher. Growing up as the fourth of six children, her early years in Ila, Ilesha, and Ibadan shaped her perspective on the disparities in healthcare. Temie’s educational journey took her to Osseo Senior High School in Minnesota, graduating in 2003, and later earning her degree from the Minnesota State University Moorhead in 2007. Further pursuing her passion for global health, she graduated from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey in July 2010.
Global Health Advocate:
Temie’s foray into global health began in 2009 when she interned with the Department for International Development in Abuja, Nigeria. This experience exposed her to the stark realities of maternal mortality, leaving an indelible impression. Subsequent fellowships with the World Health Organization and the Global Health Corps in Uganda deepened her commitment to addressing critical healthcare challenges.
Catalyst for Change – One Percent Project:
In May 2012, Temie founded the “One Percent Blood Donation Enlightenment Foundation,” later known as One Percent Project. Driven by the mission to end blood shortages, the organization focused on educating people about the importance of blood donation. This initiative laid the foundation for her transformative work in the healthcare sector.
LifeBank’s Genesis and Impact:
The pivotal moment came in January 2016 when Temie founded LifeBank, a groundbreaking medical distribution company. Motivated by her personal experience of a complicated childbirth in a Minnesota hospital, Temie envisioned a solution to tackle Nigeria’s blood shortage problem. LifeBank utilizes data and technology to efficiently deliver essential medical products, including blood, to hospitals across Nigeria.
The impact has been profound – over the past four years, LifeBank distributed about 26,000 products to more than 10,000 patients in nearly 700 hospitals. Temie’s strategic use of technology, including an online platform and collaborations with blood banks, ensures seamless and timely deliveries. The company’s innovative approach earned Temie recognition from international media outlets, including CNN, Bloomberg, The Guardian, and Newsweek.
Recognition and Global Acknowledgment:
Temie Giwa-Tubosun’s efforts have not gone unnoticed on the global stage. Mark Zuckerberg, during his visit to Nigeria in 2016, highlighted the potential impact of LifeBank, stating that “if she actually pulls it off, then she’d show a model that will impact not just Lagos, not just Nigeria, but countries all around the world.” Such accolades culminated in prestigious awards, including the Global Citizen Prize for Business Leader and the Jack Ma African Business Hero Award.
- Ada Osakwe: Championing Sustainable Agribusiness in Africa
Ada Osakwe is a trailblazing Nigerian entrepreneur, economist, and corporate executive known for her impactful contributions to Africa’s food and agriculture industry. Born on September 2, 1981, Ada’s journey is marked by a stellar academic background, including a First-Class Honours BSc in Economics from the University of Hull, an MSc in Economics and Finance from the University of Warwick, and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management.
Entrepreneurship and Agrolay Ventures:
With over 18 years of experience spanning entrepreneurship, investment banking, private equity, and development finance, Ada is the Founder and CEO of Agrolay Ventures, an investment firm that champions early-stage companies in Africa, particularly in the food and agriculture sectors. Her commitment to sustainable and locally-driven practices is further manifested through Nuli, an innovative farm-to-table beverage brand and restaurant chain she founded.
Global Recognition and Advocacy:
Ada’s influence extends to her role as a board member of Factor[e] Ventures, One Acre Fund, and Infinite Foods, where she actively contributes to shaping the landscape of global agriculture. Recognized as Forbes Africa’s Businesswoman of the Year in 2021, Ada’s accolades also include being named among the “Twenty Youngest Power Women in Africa 2014” by Forbes Magazine.
As a thought leader, Ada frequently speaks at conferences, addressing topics ranging from agribusiness to venture investing and women in business. Her commitment to youth empowerment is evident through her role on the African Development Bank’s Presidential Youth Advisory Group and the Advisory Group of Generation Africa.
Ada Osakwe’s journey is not just a testament to her individual success but also a beacon inspiring a healthier generation for Africa through her dedication to locally-sourced, fresh foods and sustainable agribusiness practices.
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