Bella Ikeme

I am a seasoned entrepreneur and executive, with over 14 years of crafting and executing brand and growth strategies for African and global enterprises eyeing expansion across the continent. As CEO of Caizen, I drive multi-million-dollar marketing projects, fostering sustainable development and elevating brands to industry prominence. I am the founder and editor-in-chief of ASPIRE Luxury Magazine, propelling African premium and luxury brands onto the global stage, earning me recognition as one of the 40 under 40 Most Influential People of African Descent in 2021.

I am passionate about Africa and the design of impactful frameworks tailored for the continent’s dynamic landscape, guiding brands on market research, strategy, risk management, and stakeholder engagement, and advocating for ESG integration. I am an Executive Director at ESG in Action Africa, an advisory board member and mentor to entrepreneurs and SMEs through various programs, fostering growth and innovation across Africa and beyond.

My mentoring interests and focus areas include:
1. Guiding aspiring entrepreneurs in launching and scaling their businesses, with a focus on innovative and sustainable business models.
2. Assisting mentees in developing robust brand strategies that enhance visibility, market positioning, and customer engagement.
3. Mentoring individuals and organisations on how to integrate social impact initiatives into their core business strategies to drive positive change.
4. Providing insights on incorporating environmental, social, and governance principles into business operations to promote long-term sustainability.
5. Training on effective stakeholder engagement and relationship management to build strong networks and partnerships.

I am always open to learning about new business ideas as sometimes through my network, I can facilitate collaborations that are beneficial to all stakeholders.

I strongly believe that founders should be supported to build more successful businesses on the continent.

I am convinced that sustainability success for Africa is largely dependent on the ability of the private sector to play a leading role as they engage with all their stakeholders through a double materiality lens.

I would also like to play a more lingering strategic role for these founders and in these businesses to work with them to achieve their objectives..