Barbara Lawrence-Strydom, a storyteller at heart, has embarked on an inspiring journey that merges her love for narrative with a mission to uplift communities across Africa. As a heritage photographer, mountaineer (having climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in 2018), and social entrepreneur, she uses storytelling and personal development to fuel change across the continent.
Speaking with Saturday Star, Lawrence-Strydom shared her vision: “My goal is to build Africa, one person at a time. That’s how I live each day,” she said, her words reflecting her deep commitment to the continent’s future. Through her efforts, she has become a symbol of empowerment and transformation, proving what can be achieved with mentorship, storytelling, and dedication to positive change.
One highlight of her journey involves working with children in rural villages, fostering discussions about environmental stewardship and African identity. “I sit with children under trees, engaging them in conversations about Africa. I ask them to imagine their place in the continent, encouraging them to see how their actions impact neighboring countries,” she explained. Moments like these, she added, were experiences she wished she’d had as a child.
In recognition of her efforts, Lawrence-Strydom received the Best Social Entrepreneur Africa award from the Christian Women Entrepreneur Network Africa (CWENA) in 2018 and has been nominated for GLEBM’s Exceptional Award of Excellence in Leadership, which will be presented in Abuja, Nigeria. These accolades reflect her tireless commitment to social entrepreneurship in Africa.
Her creativity also shines through her book trilogy, Waste Knot, Seed is Life, and The Power of Hemp, which addresses themes of sustainability and environmental consciousness. Additionally, under her AUNTY B brand, she launched the “MADE WITH LOVE” label, producing eco-friendly travel bags and pouches inspired by her village roots.
Raised on a farm in rural KwaZulu Natal, Lawrence-Strydom’s entrepreneurial spirit was sparked early in life. She is also a mother to two sons who are dedicated to agriculture and environmental stewardship, embodying the values she advocates for across Africa. She credits her late husband, an environmental scientist and waste management pioneer in the 1980s, as a significant influence on her mission.
Looking ahead, she is working on an activity book for children titled Aunty B from Cape to Cairo, which she plans to release next year.
___