As the Veuve Clicquot Bold Programme continues to spotlight the Middle East and Africa’s most visionary women in business, a wave of purpose-driven leaders across the region reflects on the impact of this pioneering platform. Through initiatives like the Bold Woman Award, Bold Conversations and the Bold Open Database, this empowering programme by Veuve Clicquot offers more than recognition – it unlocks opportunity, global visibility, and powerful networks of like-minded leaders.
From South Africa to Nigeria, and through conversations held in Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Dubai, Bold women and key voices across the region are proving that innovation, resilience, and collaboration are at the heart of meaningful, sustainable growth.
Amanda Dambuza – Founder & CEO, Uyandiswa Group
With senior roles in South Africa’s major banks and multiple board positions, Amanda is also the founder of Vastly Sage, a mentorship business for women in leadership.
For Amanda, the Bold Programme’s strength lies in how it builds lasting ecosystems. “Mo’s Crib is a perfect example – founded by Mo Mokone, our 2024 Bold Woman Award winner in South Africa, it puts community at the centre by creating sustainable jobs across the continent,” she shares. “Refilwe Sebothoma, who won the 2024 Bold Future Award, is another standout. She’s saving lives by providing clean cooking energy in disadvantaged communities. That’s impact, and the Bold Programme is making that impact visible.”
How has being part of the Bold Programme changed your perspective on female leadership and innovation in your industry? What’s something you want other women in business to know?
“It hasn’t changed my view; it validated it. Female leadership is needed now more than ever. As they say, ‘women do not start wars’. To fellow entrepreneurs, I say: seek out your community, stay inspired, and never give up just because it’s hard. There’s so much power in women supporting women.”
Claire Blanckenberg – Founder of Reel Gardening
Reel Gardening, founded by Claire, began as a simple food security solution for a housing development project. Her patented “Garden in a Box” innovation – designed to feed a family of four – earned her the 2023 Bold Woman Award in South Africa. Today, her work empowers families to grow their own food easily and sustainably.
Claire shares that being part of the Bold Programme deepened her appreciation for the role of authentic leadership and innovation in breaking through industry barriers. It also reinforced the transformative power of women uplifting one another. “I want other women in business to recognise that collaboration, not competition, is the true key to collective growth and lasting success,” she says.
Looking back, what meaningful insight did you gain from participating in the Bold Woman Award?
“That vulnerability in leadership is a strength. The Bold Woman Award and its adjudication process highlighted the powerful role transparency plays, both in personal development and in building trust within your community and industry.”
Affiong Williams – Founder & CEO, Reel Fruit
Affiong was named the 2022 Bold Woman Award winner in Nigeria. Through Reel Fruit, she’s built a thriving agri-business using locally sourced fruit to create high-quality, sustainable snacks while empowering smallholder farmers and creating new jobs under her leadership.
Coming from a country with strong female entrepreneurial representation, Affiong says winning the Bold Woman Award was especially meaningful. It celebrated her achievements while introducing her work to new audiences locally and globally. “I want other women to know that building a business takes immense courage, persistence and resilience. But it can be done and done well!”
What advice would you give to women thinking of joining the Bold Open Database?
“Your network is your net worth. I always say that. Networks are crucial to entrepreneurial success. Building purposeful networks and connecting with like-minded people globally helps broaden your horizons, but also increases your chances of success.”
Florentina Agu – Founder & Creative Director, Hertunba
Florentina launched Hertunba in 2020 as a sustainable fashion label rooted in African artistry and contemporary design. Her brand quickly gained recognition across Nigeria and abroad, using fashion to tell stories of cultural heritage and innovation.
Florentina believes the Bold Programme and the Bold Open Database create a ripple effect far beyond individual businesses. By equipping female entrepreneurs with the tools to grow, create jobs, and uplift communities, it helps shape a more inclusive, collaborative ecosystem. “It’s not just about personal success,” she says. “It’s about building a network of women who can drive change together.”
What advice would you give to women thinking of joining the Bold Open Database?
“Approach the Bold Open Database with a willingness to engage. It offers powerful opportunities to learn, connect, and grow. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, seek mentorship, and tap into resources – whether for funding, visibility, or partnerships. Take full advantage of the opportunity to connect with other women who are walking the same path.”
Stefania Manfreda – Founder, Elle Lokko
Founded in 2015, Elle Lokko is Accra’s first women’s concept store, blending fashion, art, and lifestyle with an emphasis on African culture and community. She also helms Lokko House, a creative hub that supports young talent through innovative activities and events.
She shared that the Bold Programme reinforced the power of collaboration. “It reminded me how collective efforts can amplify individual success, something we live by at Elle Lokko: to foster creativity and a strong sense of community,” says Stefania.
Looking back, what meaningful insight did you gain from participating in the Bold Conversations?
“One of the most meaningful insights was realising I’m not alone. Many of us grapple with similar difficulties, especially in Ghana’s business landscape. That sense of shared experience was incredibly empowering. It’s a powerful reminder that even in the toughest moments, there’s a community that understands and supports you.”
Sahar Milani – Founder & Director, Sorshaa
Sahar is an experiential brand strategist, podcast host, and founder of global advisory firm Sorshaa.
She says, being a part of the Bold Programme and a panellist for the 2024 Bold Conversations in Dubai, reaffirmed her belief in expansive, emotionally intelligent leadership. “In business, we’re often told to push harder and move faster,” she explains. “But leaning into feminine energy – intuition, balance, presence – has transformed how I lead and create. It feels powerful, and it feels right.”
What advice would you give to women thinking of joining the Bold Open Database?
“Be curious. What drew me in was the story behind the Bold Programme and Madame Clicquot’s legacy of innovation and resilience. The Bold Open Database isn’t just a database; it’s a space for connection, visibility, and real impact. If you join, don’t just list your business – own your story. When you lead with purpose, aligned opportunities follow.”
Amie Kouamé – Co-Founder, Ayana Webzine
As the co-founder of Ayana Webzine, the first digital media platform dedicated to women in Francophone Africa, Amie is deeply committed to gender equity, storytelling, and building spaces for knowledge sharing and community.
Reflecting on her participation in the 2023 Bold Conversations in Côte d’Ivoire, she described bringing the event to life in Abidjan as a defining moment. “As the founder of a platform that uplifts African women, bringing this global initiative to life locally was both an honour and a responsibility,” says Amie. “It reminded me that boldness isn’t about perfection, it’s about daring to take action.”
Looking back, what meaningful insight did you gain from participating in the Bold Conversations?
“Bold Conversations by Veuve Clicquot reminded me that storytelling is a form of leadership. When we share our truth, we empower others to believe in theirs. Watching the audience – many of them aspiring entrepreneurs – connect with real, honest stories affirmed the power of truth. That’s how we spark change. I walked away more determined than ever to amplify those stories across our continent.”
Join the world’s first open database of female entrepreneurs, designed to break down cultural, geographical, and technological barriers. The Bold Open Database is a global platform built to connect, empower, and elevate women in business. Whether you’re seeking visibility, community, or opportunity, this is your space to lead boldly. Business leaders from around the world are encouraged to sign up now via boldopendatabase.com.
