In celebration of Women’s Month, we look at inspiring women who’ve made their mark as entrepreneurs
With loads of tenacity, grit and unwavering motivation, female founders have been revolutionising the world of business. From being mothers to students and innovative entrepreneurs, they wear a number of hats outstandingly well. Here are some reflections of six remarkable women and their tips for making it in the world of business.
Unaizah Toffar – Seruna
‘Looking back, Seruna was established 10 years ago in 2012, when the modest-wear fashion industry was premature, particularly in a local context. I started with a few hundred rands and grew my brand without a large capital injection or loan. Today in comparison, my successful collections helped me to be featured as a South African modest-wear designer in the launch issue of Cover Magazine in Turkey, which was introduced by the Islamic Fashion Design Council (IFD).’
Unaizah’s top tips
> Be authentic. In the fashion industry, we have trends and we may see similar silhouettes but your interpretation of an offering can be unique if it’s your authentic vision. And altogether, this will make your offering stand out amongst others.
> Reinvest in yourself and your business, because it will become more sustainable over the long term if you reinvest in it to improve your offerings.
> Don’t compare your business, growth, failures or successes to other businesses.
Sharon Moatshe – Sharon’s Cafe
‘When COVID-19 struck, rather than shuttering, I embarked on full-scale renovations and refurbishment of a space which is now my café. I started out working in radio and later moved on to communications in the NGO field and currently own and manage Sharon’s Cafe in Woodstock, Cape Town. I see my upmarket cafe as a hub for all things me, from hosting events to connecting upcoming entrepreneurs with investors to blogging, and the best offerings in food and accommodation.’
Sharon’s top tips
> Remember, life shrinks or expands in proportion to one’s courage.
> As women we can achieve it all and there is no need to choose between your career and family life.
> Understand that you will never lose in life. You either win or learn, so don’t be afraid to try.
Lindy Lin
‘Having been in the make-up industry for 11 years and starting out as a self-employed make-up artist hardly covered the bills, so I did promotional jobs, waitressing, hostessing and worked in retail to afford my passion projects. I started a clothing line just over two years ago, and today, I’ve expanded to not only selling online, but my clothing is also stocked in the We Are EGG store in Cape Town, and will launch in Johannesburg, Namibia and various small boutiques around the country soon.’
Lindy’s top tips
> Set your own rules as a self-employed woman and entrepreneur.
> Use social media as marketing tool! Not only to become ‘popular’ but also to build brand trust for your clients.
> Don’t think being self-employed is easier than working for someone – it’s all up to you to make it a success!
Rushda Moosajee –RushTush
‘Starting out, I didn’t know what I was doing but I always delivered my best, knowing that my service and results would speak for themselves. I grew my business through the feedback and results from other women, which is unmatched. The greatest highlight of my business to date was training 100 women at my recent RushTushFit App 2nd Anniversary Fit Party under Table Mountain, a spot that means a lot to me. It signifies the start of my health journey, where I used to run and climb it on my own. Now I get to share the gift of wellness with so many people that I’ve worked with for years online.’
Rushda’s top tips
> Take up space. Don’t downplay your knowledge of your craft.
> Be assertive and strong in everything you do. Do the work, whatever it takes. Real success is followed by real work.
> Be prepared to get dirty and sweaty.
> Free yourself from limiting beliefs. Societal, traditional, and cultural norms follow us. Break the boxes of how others will feel, follow your heart, and don’t think twice about disrupting the storyline.
Kate Goliath –Goliath and Goliath
‘I started my career working at Primedia Broadcasting in Public Relations, which equipped me with so many skills I still use today. I began working for myself, just after having a baby in 2012 and I started building a reputable comedy and talent agency. It all started on my mother’s dining room table, but I later progressed to having an office and staff before the pandemic! All this while running comedy clubs and producing many stand-up comedy shows, either for TV broadcast, just to promote these initiatives and keep comedy alive.’
Kate’s top tips
> Don’t be afraid to speak your mind and express your thoughts.
> Never make decisions in the heat of the moment. Sleep on it instead.
> Keep your emotions separate from business. ALWAYS.
Shabnam Williams – CommuniPet Microchips
‘My business provides product and the online database services to veterinary practices, animal welfares, game farms, zoos and various animal sanctuaries. Being a woman in the pet healthcare industry has its challenges, but luckily there are many more females entering the pet healthcare sphere in South Africa. I have managed to retain great clients who always vouch for my company and service. It took many
years of serious work to earn the trust of the veterinarians, government departments and NGO board members, but consistency is key.’
Shabnam’s top tips
> Clients care about three things: Price, quality and efficient service. Once you have mastered those three factors, you will be able to retain your clients and get more referrals from them.
> Don’t overpromise and underdeliver. Rather make moderate promises and overdeliver!
> Be prepared to put in a lot of work for the first five years of your business to build clientele, get your brand out there and provide excellent service.
Words by Aaqeelah Floris
Photography: Courtesy Images, Unsplash
