The Dianne Dusaidi Podcast

In this podcast episode, Ghanaian designer and entrepreneur Alima Bello, founder of Alima Bello by Alima, discusses her philosophy that dresses should serve as a blank canvas that amplifies a woman’s quiet confidence. She shares how she turned an “expensive hobby” into a full-time business by committing in 2017, renting a production and retail space, and later navigating a sudden eviction and relocation that strained cash flow while still producing new collections. Bello explains what confidence means beyond clothing, recounts how her bestselling Katie dress evolved through client feedback, and describes fashion as a language shaped by how people carry themselves. She outlines operational pain points, hiring for curiosity and energy, outsourcing parts of production, marketing, and retail management, and defines her sustainability practices, including living wages, women-focused sourcing, using fabric offcuts, and small-batch production. The conversation also touches on mentorship, creativity and storytelling, personal inspirations, motherhood’s impact, what it means to live fully, and her takeaway to “live and let live.”

Financial Foundations: Governance, Trusts & Planning for the Next Generation with Lydie of ML Corporate ServicesLydie Murorunkwere, founder and managing director of ML Corporate Services, described as the first Rwandan TCSP licensed by the Central Bank, about governance, compliance, and preparing shareholding structures before bringing in partners. Lydie shares why she became an entrepreneur after working in a Mauritius-based firm, how she has remained the sole shareholder while relying on a strong board, and how she partners across African jurisdictions for cross-selling and on-the-ground guidance. The conversation focuses on planning early for the future through financial literacy, succession planning, wills, and trusts, including how trusts are structured, managed by trustees, and used to reduce family disputes. Lydie also discusses teaching children money values, Rotary-inspired service and integrity, and resilience through challenges.

Chukwuebuka “Chuks” Anyaduba, convener of the Flavors of Nigeria Festival in Brampton and a consultant to Nigeria’s Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriations. Chuks explains cultural diplomacy as a tool to reduce culture shock, build understanding, and promote peace, and describes “living fully” as living a purpose-driven life supported by strong time management. They discuss the festival’s goal of uniting Nigerians across tribes and showcasing authentic Nigerian “flavors” beyond food, as well as challenges in valuing African creative industries at home, including logistics and artists pricing themselves out of African markets. Chuks outlines reparations work focused on policies for returning or compensating for stolen artifacts and broader reparative justice options such as debt relief, technology transfer, and museums, and shares concerns about AI eroding values while advocating culturally relevant AI. The conversation closes with advice on self-knowledge, self-discipline, and character.

In this episode, Matthew Mensa, a multifaceted individual known for his work in tourism, culture, and investment between Southern Africa and Ghana. Matthew shares his journey from his unique multicultural upbringing to his current roles in investment and tourism promotion. He discusses the positive narrative shift about Africa that is attracting increased investments and the importance of adding value to local resources. The conversation also delves into Matthew's significant contributions to combating gender-based violence and his efforts in philanthropy. Additionally, they explore how Africa is moving towards a more united cultural identity and the impact of policies like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) on fostering trade and travel within the continent. Matthew emphasizes the importance of community, faith, and maintaining a balance between his diverse interests.

Empowering Black Food Sovereignty: The Journey of African Food BasketIn this insightful episode, we explore the importance of Black food sovereignty and cultural diets through the work of African Food Basket in Toronto. Join us as we converse with Rai, the founder, and Amanda Redhead, an urban farming enthusiast, about their mission to promote food justice and community wellness. Discover how their initiatives provide culturally specific foods like cassava, avocado, and sweet potatoes to the Black community, and learn about the educational programs that empower youth and elders alike. From transforming a forest into a thriving farm to educating on the importance of nutritious, culturally relevant foods, this episode highlights the powerful ways in which African Food Basket is addressing food insecurity and fostering a sense of peace and community.

The Value of Meaningful WorkIn this episode, we explore the quest for meaningful work. Bern Zattler discusses his role in establishing banks globally and expresses a desire to engage in work where the value is more visibly impactful. Join us as we delve into the importance of finding purpose and visible value in our professional lives.

Join us as we delve into an inspiring conversation with Imanzi Kayitare, the co-founder of CARY Toronto, founder of Rwandapreneur, a community leader, and an economic advisor. In this episode, we explore Imanzi's journey of building a supportive community for Rwandan youth in Canada, his involvement in various initiatives that foster community development, and the values that guide him. Learn about the motivation behind Cary Toronto, Rwandapreneur, the importance of servant leadership, and how Imanzi blends his faith and passion to make a significant impact both locally and globally. Discover insights on community building, economic development, and the power of mentorship in fostering sustainable growth.

From Struggles to Sustainable Solutions: The Inspiring Journey of Charlot MagayiIn this episode, we meet Charlotte Maga, the inspiring force behind Mukuru Clean Stoves. Charlotte shares her extraordinary journey from being orphaned at 10 and becoming a teen mom to founding an impactful social enterprise. Learn about her innovative work in creating clean, affordable, women-led energy solutions for African families, winning the prestigious Earth Shot Prize, and receiving a nod from Prince William. Charlotte talks about the personal experiences that shaped her mission, her challenges, and triumphs in entrepreneurship, and how she balances her professional life with being a supportive mother and wife. Dive deep into the transformative impact of Mukuru Clean Stoves, the importance of women in community development, and the future plans for her groundbreaking enterprise. This episode also touches on her upcoming plans for self-care and further education, making it a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of community-driven change.

What does it look like to lead with joy?In this episode, Liz Agbor-Tabi and I talk about style, self-expression, and the beauty of creating impact while staying true to yourself.It’s a heartfelt conversation about finding lightness in purpose, celebrating who you are, and redefining what it means to live fully.