[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]
By Amber Sambo, Founder of StrategiWorks
As a woman entrepreneur building from the ground up, I’ve learned that success isn’t just about hustle – it’s about alignment, clarity, and staying true to what matters most. From navigating cash flow challenges and raising a child, to launching multiple income streams and partnering with purpose-driven brands, I’ve picked up a few lessons worth sharing. If you’re a fellow woman entrepreneur — or aspiring to be one — these are the insights that have helped me the most. One thing you learn quickly? Resilience should be your middle name. Entrepreneurship is a battlefield — and when you’re a woman, the obstacles are often doubled. But you keep going, because the vision is worth it.
- Know your values — they’re your compass
Before you brand, pitch, or plan — get clear on your values. They will guide everything: the clients you serve, the projects you take on, the people you partner with. When the business landscape feels uncertain, your values become the anchor that helps you navigate with confidence and integrity.
- Don’t wait to be ‘ready’ — start where you are
Many of us feel unqualified when we start. I did. I used free tools, borrowed resources, and offered my skills where I could. But here’s what I’ve found: action builds clarity. You don’t need perfection to begin — you just need momentum.
- Structure your business around your life, not the other way around
Whether you’re a mom, caregiver, or juggling multiple roles — your business should serve your life, not drain it. For me, flexibility is power. I’ve learned to build models that allow for parenting, rest, and creative freedom without sacrificing purpose or income.
- Collaborate, don’t compete
There is room for all of us. Some of my best wins have come from collaborating with other women-owned businesses. Whether I’m outsourcing services or co-creating campaigns, I’ve seen how much more sustainable business becomes when we build together. The only person you should be competing with is yourself. Always strive to be a better version of who you were yesterday — in mindset, leadership, and action. When we focus on growth rather than comparison, we all rise.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https://www.topbusinesswomen.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/interior-designer-working-out-office_23-2150379257.jpg” title_text=”interior-designer-working-out-office_23-2150379257″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]
- Have multiple income streams — but be intentional
I run a strategy consultancy, a nail brand, and launching a holiday club business. But I didn’t start them all at once. Every stream was built with a clear purpose and audience in mind. Diversify but don’t dilute. Be intentional about every move you make.
- Strategy first, always
As a strategist, I can confidently say: execution without strategy is expensive. Whether you’re launching a brand or posting on social media, ask yourself: what’s the goal? Who am I serving? What’s the long-term plan? Clarity on these questions saves time, money, and stress. And this doesn’t just apply to business – it works for your life too. Live it with strategy. Have a plan for achieving your goals. It becomes your personal roadmap – the thing that guides your daily decisions and actions. That’s what intentionality truly looks like.
- Lead with purpose, not just profit
Profit matters but purpose sustains. And when things get tough (because they will), purpose is what pulls you through. My deepest motivation is to create jobs and unlock opportunities for other women and the youth of South Africa. When we build with purpose, we build legacies that go far beyond ourselves.
- Network like it’s your best business tool
Networking isn’t just about exchanging business cards, it’s about learning. Every conversation is an opportunity to hear what’s working for others, get exposed to new strategies, and spot gaps you didn’t know existed. Some of my best insights and partnerships came from simply showing up and listening.
- The 1% mindset: Your only competition is who you were yesterday
Steven Bartlett often speaks about the 1% mindset – the idea that small, consistent improvements compound over time to create extraordinary results. I live by this. It’s not about quantum leaps or overnight success. It’s about showing up, reflecting, learning, and improving – little by little, every day.
The bigger picture
According to the 2024 GEM SA report, women own just 21.9% of businesses in South Africa – and yet, the majority of those businesses hire others and contribute directly to job creation. Over 70% of women entrepreneurs employ at least one person, with many making their first hire in the first two years. These aren’t just statistics — they are proof that women-led businesses are building the backbone of our economy. And while youth unemployment remains staggeringly high (45.5% in early 2024), fewer than 12% of young South African women are engaged in entrepreneurship. Imagine the ripple effect if we empowered even a fraction more. We don’t just need more women in business. We need more women building businesses that matter — and doing it with resilience, vision, and purpose. Amber Sambo is a communications strategist, entrepreneur, and founder of StrategiWorks — a consultancy that helps purpose-led businesses find their voice and tell powerful stories. She is passionate about sustainability, youth empowerment, and creating systems that build both profit and impact. [/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https://www.topbusinesswomen.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Amber-Headshot_website.jpg” title_text=”Amber Headshot_website” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]
[/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]