Behind every successful African venture is a story of grit, adaptation, and hard-won lessons. This panel brings together founders and operators who have navigated the complexities of building and scaling businesses across the continent, sharing candid insights on what it really takes — from early-stage struggles to growth-stage challenges — to build ventures that last.

Join this special lunch session for the launch of How We Made It in Africa, followed by a Q&A with the author. Explore the stories, strategies, and lessons behind some of the most successful businesses built on the African continent.

Africa's beauty economy is booming, driven by a new generation of entrepreneurs who are building global brands rooted in the continent's rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. This panel explores how African beauty founders are owning the value chain — from sourcing to manufacturing to distribution — and creating products that resonate with consumers worldwide.

East Africa is home to some of the continent's most dynamic and innovative business ecosystems. This lunch session shines a spotlight on the entrepreneurs, enterprises, and ecosystems driving growth across the region — from Nairobi's tech scene to Addis Ababa's manufacturing ambitions — and explores what makes East African business unique and globally competitive.