Bontle Tshole
We all have the power within us to create the life we want.
I also believe that African entrepreneurs will change the world. I believe that women are the pivotal in the creation of a better society.
More than that, I believe in you!
I am passionate about changing the narrative of Entrepreneurship for Africa.
Let us thrive together!
Bontle Tshole
Building a business needs a community. A community of people who share opportunities with you that allow you to step into the best possible version of yourself. Here’s one.
#fundingfriday #funding #business #entrepreneur
10 months ago | [YT] | 2
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Bontle Tshole
A few weeks ago, I had the incredible privilege of speaking at @TEDxALA where the theme of the day was Thriving in Contradiction. My talk, "I Am Not a Woman; I Am a Business Owner," explored the complex identities we take on in our pursuit of success—the tension between embracing our authentic selves and adopting constructs we believe the world will accept.
In business, and in life, we are often told to "be ourselves," yet the systems around us sometimes make it feel like authenticity isn’t enough. So, we shape-shift. We mold ourselves into identities that seem more palatable, more acceptable, more likely to open doors. But at what cost?
Yes, we may achieve success. We may gain the recognition, the funding, the seat at the table. But in the process, we risk losing something far greater—our sense of self. And the irony? It is that very self—our unique perspectives, experiences, and ways of thinking—that has the power to drive real change, to create businesses that are not only successful but also meaningful.
This talk is deeply personal to me because I have navigated these contradictions firsthand. I’ve seen how easy it is to get caught up in the roles we think we need to play in order to move forward. But I’ve also learned that true impact comes from showing up as our full, unfiltered selves.
I hope this talk inspires young women, men, and entrepreneurs everywhere to step into their power—unapologetically. Because the world doesn’t just need more businesses. It needs businesses built by people who dare to be themselves.
Watch my talk talk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAgEN...
I’d love to hear your thoughts—have you ever felt the pressure to fit into a certain identity to succeed? Let’s start the conversation.
@TEDx
11 months ago (edited) | [YT] | 5
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