Africa: Mastering Self-Advocacy and Closing the Sale – Lessons in Confidence, Community and Courage

Africa: Mastering Self-Advocacy and Closing the Sale – Lessons in Confidence, Community and Courage


“Networking is more than meeting people – it’s about showing up, standing out, and seizing the moment.” These words set the tone for the Women Creating Wealth session held on 25 April 2025, themed Mastering Self-Advocacy and Closing a Sale. The session unpacked how confidence, preparation, and community can turn potential into prosperity.

What unfolded was a powerful look at what happens when women embrace their stories, lean on their networks, and step up – ready to pitch, partner, and grow.

Emma Oriyo: from corporate CEO to confident co-founder

The session opened with testimony from Emma Oriyo, a seasoned leader from Dar es Salaam. With over two decades of experience – including as CEO of an international business association – Emma co-founded The Laundry Spot, a premium laundry and dry-cleaning service.

“Entrepreneurship aligned with my purpose,” she shared. “I want to mentor, serve, and close real gaps in leadership and business education.”

The Women Creating Wealth programme sharpened her pitch and gave her the confidence to act.

“The feedback I received was practical – it helped me show up better, every time.”

Pitch, position, prosper: women owning their value

Emma’s story was followed by a dynamic panel: Nuru Lema, Gloria Loishiye, and Moureen Godwin Mollel – each demonstrating what self-advocacy in action looks like.

Nuru Lema – preparation wins

Founder of Yanacorp, Nuru recently secured a $70,000 grant for her school management platform. “I rehearsed 11 times – alone, with my team, even recorded myself.” Her go-to line?

“If you work with me, you won’t regret it.” Simple, confident and backed by belief in her value.

Gloria Loishiye – show up like you belong

Founder of a professional cleaning company, Gloria walked into a meeting with fully branded business cards, uniforms, licences in hand.

“You have one shot. Show you’re serious.” It paid off. That meeting led to multiple contracts.

Her advice:”Respect boundaries. Deliver. And don’t disappoint.”

Moureen Godwin Mollel – purposeful positioning

Founder of WorthLiving Horticulture, Moureen built her agribusiness on trust, health, and consistency.

“I farm with intention – greenhouse and open-field. I never leave clients without stock. If I don’t have, I collaborate.”