Two decades for an overnight success: 8 lessons for entrepreneurs
By Tara Turkington Being a woman entrepreneur takes courage, resilience and single-minded focus in a world that rarely makes it easy. I started Flow Communications 20 years ago when I had no job (necessity is the mother of invention!) and no funding. Today, it is a multi-award-winning agency working with global clients. Our “overnight success” took about two decades to build. As women, we sometimes operate in spaces not necessarily designed for us, often juggling society’s expectations and the ambition to build something meaningful. But here’s the truth: women-led businesses are transforming industries, often by challenging the status quo and creating innovative solutions where none existed. Globally, we see trailblazers like Sara Blakely, who revolutionised the shapewear industry with Spanx, and Melanie Perkins, whose Canva democratised design for millions worldwide. Closer to home in South Africa, women entrepreneurs are making equally profound impacts. Sibongile Sambo, rejected as a flight attendant, built her own aviation company, SRS Aviation, building her own runway, figuratively speaking, in a male-dominated field. Carmen Stevens broke barriers as South Africa’s first black woman winemaker, with her premium wines now enjoyed globally. Then there’s Sarah Collins and her ingenious Wonderbag, which provides sustainable cooking solutions and addresses energy poverty for countless families. And Kate Groch’s Good Work Foundation is fundamentally changing access to tech education in impoverished rural areas. These women aren’t just building businesses; they’re reshaping industries and societies. Women are reshaping what leadership looks like, and we’re doing it on our own terms. Sometimes we might do so in a two-steps-forward, one-step-back kind of way, but overall, the progress is real. Multiple global studies have proven beyond dispute that companies with greater gender diversity demonstrate higher profitability, retention and innovation – making a clear business case for leadership diversity. If you’re on this journey – or thinking of stepping into it – here are a few lessons I’ve learnt: 1. Collaboration is key The best business move I ever made was getting my sister, Tiffany Turkington-Palmer, to join me to run Flow. We also brought on board two other shareholders (both men!), Bheki Shongwe and Richard Frank, early on in the agency’s journey. Each of us has different skills and qualities. We often argue about things and then meet in the middle, and so devise our business strategy collaboratively. Because of this, our business is stronger. 2. Build your network before you need it Relationships are currency. Connect with other women entrepreneurs, mentors and allies who lift as they climb. Join industry groups, attend events and don’t be afraid to ask for advice. Along the way, I applied to and joined the Women Presidents Organization, EY’s Winning Women programme and the Stanford Seed programme, among others. Each has enriched me personally and helped piggyback Flow forward. 3. Hire people cleverer than yourself One of the smartest things you can do as a leader is hire people who are cleverer than you. Building a strong business means surrounding yourself with brilliant minds who challenge your thinking, bring fresh perspectives and push the work further than you can alone. 4. Lead with purpose, not perfection You don’t need all the answers; you need clarity about why you’re doing what you do. Let your “why” guide your decisions, especially when it’s tough. Purpose and strong values fuel perseverance. 5. Get comfortable with discomfort Whether it’s pitching for new business, hiring your first employee or standing up to a difficult client, growth happens outside your comfort zone. You’ll second-guess yourself – and so you should. There is great power in doubt (though don’t let it paralyse you). Try to make important decisions with a balance of your gut, heart and head. 6. Read to lead better Reading has been one of the most valuable habits in my entrepreneurial journey. I read loads of business books because I don’t have a business degree, and it’s been a secret weapon for me. Books by thinkers like Jim Collins, Dan Heath, Daniel Pink and Malcolm Gladwell have shaped how I lead, make decisions and understand people. They offer both insights and perspective. In a fast-moving world, reading slows you down just enough to think more deeply – and lead more wisely. 7. Know your worth – and charge it Too many women underprice their value. Be confident in your expertise. If you’re delivering impact, don’t apologise for your fees. And as soon as you possibly can, pay yourself what you’re worth. 8. Back yourself with action Confidence isn’t a personality trait – it’s a practice. You build it by taking small, consistent steps: showing up to the meeting, sending the proposal, asking for the deal, naming the price you want. Each action reinforces your belief that you can. Success doesn’t arrive all at once – it’s built, one brave move at a time. Tara Turkington is the CEO of Flow Communications, one of South Africa’s leading marketing and communications agencies.
The theory of constraints and growing your small business
By Magdaleen Scott Starting a small business is a significant milestone; however, the transition to scaling it presents a unique set of challenges that many entrepreneurs often underestimate. While South African visionaries aspire to transform their start-ups into flourishing enterprises, the reality is that scaling demands meticulous strategic planning, effective marketing, and an acute awareness of the ever-evolving business landscape. To put this into perspective, consider that approximately 66% of small businesses in South Africa fail within the first five years, with nearly 50% not surviving beyond their inaugural year. This stark reality not only highlights the need for innovative solutions but also underlines the necessity of a cohesive growth strategy aligned with the Theory of Constraints, as articulated by Eliyahu Goldratt in his seminal work, The Goal. This theory posits that every organisation has at least one constraint that limits its performance. Identifying and addressing these limitations is crucial for long-term success. In the start-up phase, an entrepreneur’s vision must align seamlessly with exceptional execution, as identifying market gaps, developing compelling offerings, and establishing a strong brand are foundational steps in this journey. However, many ventures stumble at this stage largely due to a lack of scalability in their business models and little understanding of an evolving economy and market entry dynamics. Without these insights, business owners often struggle to grasp the needs and behaviours of their target audience, hindering their ability to create sustainable models. Additionally, a distinctive brand identity is crucial for differentiation in a competitive market, while delivering exceptional customer experiences is vital for building trust and credibility, both of which are essential for fostering repeat business and driving future growth. Navigating the growth stage is a pivotal moment for any business that has begun to gain traction. At this juncture, the primary focus must shift towards enhancing sales, expanding market reach, and optimising operational efficiency. However, it is often during this important phase that many organisations encounter significant roadblocks. Limitations in resources, ineffective marketing strategies, and an inability to adapt to the ever-changing consumer landscape frequently hinder progress. This is where the Theory of Constraints becomes essential; identifying and addressing the specific ‘bottlenecks’ within your operations is crucial for unlocking growth potential. By recognising these constraints and developing targeted strategies to overcome them, businesses can not only navigate the prevailing challenges but also position themselves for sustained success in the marketplace. We have to remain agile and responsive, continually assessing our capabilities to drive scalability and achieve our growth objectives. The role of marketing in scaling a business cannot be overstated, particularly for small enterprises striving to make their mark. Strategic marketing can serve as a transformative force, propelling businesses toward enhanced brand awareness, lead generation, and ultimately positioning them as industry leaders. It is essential to recognise the importance of investing wisely in marketing strategies that drive growth. In South Africa, where access to connectivity continues to rise, establishing a digital presence is non-negotiable. Businesses that adeptly leverage digital platforms — such as social media, search engine marketing, and content marketing — gain a distinct competitive advantage. Furthermore, adopting a data-driven approach allows businesses to harness customer insights effectively, refining their marketing strategies and enhancing engagement. Don’t underestimate the influence of public relations and thought leadership initiatives – it’s still one of the best spheres in marketing strategies for establishing credibility through media placements which amplifies brand authority. According to Goldratt, if resources are limited, marketing investments must be strategically targeted to address the most pressing constraints within the organisation. By focusing on overcoming these challenges, businesses can ensure their marketing efforts not only resonate but also contribute to long-term growth. To achieve successful scaling, it is imperative to automate and streamline operations by investing in technology that enhances efficiency, reduces costs, and improves service delivery. This is also the time to look at expanding your customer base through the exploration of new markets, forging strategic partnerships, and adopting innovative distribution channels is essential to broadening your reach. Furthermore, investing in your team is not just an option—it is a necessity. A business is only as strong as its people, so upskilling employees and making strategic hiring decisions are crucial for laying the foundation for long-term success. We must identify and address ‘what’ inhibits growth, ensuring that every area of the business operates at its full potential as we move beyond the small business status. The South African market, while presenting unique challenges, also offers incredible opportunities for entrepreneurs who are willing to embrace change and invest strategically in their brand’s growth. We can identify and overcome the barriers that hinder progress, ensuring that we not only navigate the complexities of the market but also capitalise on the strengths of our dynamic environment. In this landscape, success belongs to those who are committed to evolving and redefining their approach at every turn. At KVD Communications, we are dedicated to assisting businesses in navigating this critical transition through strategic communication, brand positioning, and marketing excellence. By establishing a solid foundation, embracing digital marketing, and optimising operations, small businesses can not only scale but thrive in today’s economic landscape—moving beyond mere survival to achieving enduring success. Magdaleen Scott, is the Managing Director at KVD Communications
From start-up to scaling: The growth goal of South African small businesses
By Magdaleen Scott, Managing Director at KVD Communications Starting a small business is a significant milestone; however, the transition to scaling it presents a unique set of challenges that many entrepreneurs often underestimate. While South African visionaries aspire to transform their start-ups into flourishing enterprises, the reality is that scaling demands meticulous strategic planning, effective marketing, and an acute awareness of the ever-evolving business landscape. To put this into perspective, consider that approximately 66% of small businesses in South Africa fail within the first five years, with nearly 50% not surviving beyond their inaugural year. This stark reality not only highlights the need for innovative solutions but also underlines the necessity of a cohesive growth strategy aligned with the Theory of Constraints, as articulated by Eliyahu Goldratt in his seminal work, The Goal. This theory posits that every organisation has at least one constraint that limits its performance. Identifying and addressing these limitations is crucial for long-term success. In the start-up phase, an entrepreneur’s vision must align seamlessly with exceptional execution, as identifying market gaps, developing compelling offerings, and establishing a strong brand are foundational steps in this journey. However, many ventures stumble at this stage largely due to a lack of scalability in their business models and little understanding of an evolving economy and market entry dynamics. Without these insights, business owners often struggle to grasp the needs and behaviours of their target audience, hindering their ability to create sustainable models. Additionally, a distinctive brand identity is crucial for differentiation in a competitive market, while delivering exceptional customer experiences is vital for building trust and credibility, both of which are essential for fostering repeat business and driving future growth. Navigating the growth stage is a pivotal moment for any business that has begun to gain traction. At this juncture, the primary focus must shift towards enhancing sales, expanding market reach, and optimising operational efficiency. However, it is often during this important phase that many organisations encounter significant roadblocks. Limitations in resources, ineffective marketing strategies, and an inability to adapt to the ever-changing consumer landscape frequently hinder progress. This is where the Theory of Constraints becomes essential; identifying and addressing the specific ‘bottlenecks’ within your operations is crucial for unlocking growth potential. By recognising these constraints and developing targeted strategies to overcome them, businesses can not only navigate the prevailing challenges but also position themselves for sustained success in the marketplace. We have to remain agile and responsive, continually assessing our capabilities to drive scalability and achieve our growth objectives. The role of marketing in scaling a business cannot be overstated, particularly for small enterprises striving to make their mark. Strategic marketing can serve as a transformative force, propelling businesses toward enhanced brand awareness, lead generation, and ultimately positioning them as industry leaders. It is essential to recognise the importance of investing wisely in marketing strategies that drive growth. In South Africa, where access to connectivity continues to rise, establishing a digital presence is non-negotiable. Businesses that adeptly leverage digital platforms — such as social media, search engine marketing, and content marketing — gain a distinct competitive advantage. Furthermore, adopting a data-driven approach allows businesses to harness customer insights effectively, refining their marketing strategies and enhancing engagement. Don’t underestimate the influence of public relations and thought leadership initiatives – it’s still one of the best spheres in marketing strategies for establishing credibility through media placements which amplifies brand authority. According to Goldratt, if resources are limited, marketing investments must be strategically targeted to address the most pressing constraints within the organisation. By focusing on overcoming these challenges, businesses can ensure their marketing efforts not only resonate but also contribute to long-term growth. To achieve successful scaling, it is imperative to automate and streamline operations by investing in technology that enhances efficiency, reduces costs, and improves service delivery. This is also the time to look at expanding your customer base through the exploration of new markets, forging strategic partnerships, and adopting innovative distribution channels is essential to broadening your reach. Furthermore, investing in your team is not just an option—it is a necessity. A business is only as strong as its people, so upskilling employees and making strategic hiring decisions are crucial for laying the foundation for long-term success. We must identify and address ‘what’ inhibits growth, ensuring that every area of the business operates at its full potential as we move beyond the small business status. The South African market, while presenting unique challenges, also offers incredible opportunities for entrepreneurs who are willing to embrace change and invest strategically in their brand’s growth. We can identify and overcome the barriers that hinder progress, ensuring that we not only navigate the complexities of the market but also capitalise on the strengths of our dynamic environment. In this landscape, success belongs to those who are committed to evolving and redefining their approach at every turn. At KVD Communications, we are dedicated to assisting businesses in navigating this critical transition through strategic communication, brand positioning, and marketing excellence. By establishing a solid foundation, embracing digital marketing, and optimising operations, small businesses can not only scale but thrive in today’s economic landscape—moving beyond mere survival to achieving enduring success.
Innovation meets opportunity: Apply now for the 2025 Sentech Africa Tech Week Pitching Den
By Topco Marketing Calling all visionary African tech entrepreneurs! If you’re ready to showcase your innovation, connect with top investors, and win life-changing opportunities for your startup, Sentech Africa Tech Week 2025 is your stage. The Pitching Den is back, bigger and bolder, and we’re inviting you to step into the spotlight. You will have the opportunity to share your idea and battle it out against some of Africa’s brightest minds in tech, with a powerhouse investor panel and an audience filled with key decision-makers in the sector. Finalists will pitch their ideas live at the Sentech Africa Tech Week Conference in Cape Town, one of the continent’s great incubators for start-ups. Finalists will have access to mentorship, pitch training and have a platform to make connections that could redefine your startup’s trajectory. On offer is a grand prize worth R295 000 and the winner will also receive a 12-month high-value media package, a speaking slot at the 2026 conference, a guest slot on Topco Media’s Business Unusual podcast, and three HAVAÍC consulting courses which could supercharge your growth. The Pitching Den isn’t just a competition—it’s a launchpad. Past finalists have landed funding, partnerships, and media buzz that propelled them to new heights. Whether you’re revolutionising fintech, healthtech, edtech, or green energy, this is your moment to shine. There are three simple requirements: Get your tickets for Sentech Africa Tech Week 2025 The simple four step process Don’t let this opportunity slip away. Sharpen your pitch, polish your MVP, and submit your application today. The road to Cape Town—and to scaling your startup—starts now. Apply now: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ATW2025 Got questions? Reach out to marketing@africatechweek.co.za or marketing@topco.co.za for support. Listen to what 2024’s winner had to say on the Business Unusual Podcast Key dates: (Note: Finalists must cover their own travel costs to Cape Town. Apply only if you can commit to attending the live event on 3-4 June 2025.)