Lelemba Phiri is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to advocating for women in business across Africa. As the Principal of Africa Trust Group (ATG), Lelemba has dedicated her career to supporting women entrepreneurs and ensuring they have access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. Her story is one of empowerment, innovation, and a relentless drive to make gender equality in entrepreneurship a reality across the continent.
Originally from Zambia, Lelemba’s early career was built in finance and education, two fields where she excelled as both a practitioner and leader. But it was her passion for social impact and gender equality that eventually steered her toward venture capital. Lelemba realized early on that the lack of access to capital was one of the biggest barriers facing women entrepreneurs in Africa. This insight motivated her to co-found Africa Trust Group, a gender-lens investment firm that provides funding and support to women-led startups in Southern Africa.
Lelemba’s work at ATG goes far beyond just cutting checks. She has built a supportive ecosystem that not only invests in women but also offers mentorship, guidance, and the tools necessary to scale their ventures. ATG is part of the Rising Tide Network, a global movement of women investors committed to creating wealth by supporting women entrepreneurs. Through this network, Lelemba has been able to tap into a wide range of resources, helping women-led businesses grow, attract more capital, and contribute to the broader African economy.
Lelemba’s work at ATG goes far beyond just cutting checks. She has built a supportive ecosystem that not only invests in women but also offers mentorship, guidance, and the tools necessary to scale their ventures. ATG is part of the Rising Tide Network, a global movement of women investors committed to creating wealth by supporting women entrepreneurs. Through this network, Lelemba has been able to tap into a wide range of resources, helping women-led businesses grow, attract more capital, and contribute to the broader African economy.
One of the standout achievements of Lelemba’s work is the creation of partnerships and programs designed to empower young women entrepreneurs. ATG’s portfolio is diverse, ranging from fintech to agriculture, but the common thread is that these are all businesses run by visionary women who are challenging the status quo. Lelemba understands that it’s not just about providing financial capital, but also social capital—creating networks of support that enable these women to succeed in environments that are often male-dominated.
But Lelemba’s path to success hasn’t been without challenges. Convincing investors to back women-led businesses in a market that is still heavily biased toward male founders has been a persistent struggle. However, Lelemba’s results speak for themselves. ATG’s investments have led to significant growth for many startups, and her commitment to gender equality has won her numerous accolades, including recognition as one of Africa’s top women in business and venture capital.
Lelemba’s impact extends far beyond her role at Africa Trust Group. She is a thought leader and advocate for gender equality, frequently speaking at conferences, mentoring young entrepreneurs, and writing about the importance of inclusive investment practices. She believes that by supporting women, we are supporting entire communities, as studies show that women tend to reinvest a significant portion of their earnings back into their families and local economies.
Through Africa Trust Group, Lelemba Phiri is not only investing in businesses; she’s investing in a brighter, more equitable future for Africa. Her vision of a continent where women entrepreneurs can thrive without limitations is slowly becoming a reality, thanks to her tireless efforts and the success of the startups she supports. With each investment, Lelemba is proving that women aren’t just key players in Africa’s economic growth—they are the future.
Lelemba Phiri’s story is one of courage, determination, and an unwavering commitment to making a lasting impact. As Africa Trust Group continues to grow, so too does her vision for a more inclusive and prosperous Africa, one where every woman entrepreneur has the chance to reach her full potential.
