Lady Eve Laws is a seasoned serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits across a wide range of industries including politics, real estate, construction, music, arts, and fashion. Her career reflects a fearless pursuit of innovation and a talent for turning diverse opportunities into impactful ventures. With both triumphs and lessons from ventures that didn’t go as planned, she brings a uniquely candid and strategic approach to entrepreneurship.
What were your initial years of growing up like? Tell us about your life before starting your corporate journey/venture/initiative.
I grew up in a single-parent household. My mum had very big expectations from me—she definitely expected me to excel at everything I did, which obviously didn’t always happen. But it did mean that I tried my hand at most things, from academia to sports to music, and pushed myself to my limits. Even though I didn’t excel at everything, I definitely achieved a lot more than most people would deem good. I think this work ethic and belief in trying to excel has driven me throughout my career, and without it, I would not even have attempted half of the things I have done—let alone achieved them.
Every industry that is now a large-scale, top-notch business once started as a small idea in the minds of entrepreneurs. What was that idea or motivation that made you start your business/initiative? What motivated you within to say YES, go for it!”
My first business started quite organically—it was a result of the people and opportunities around me. I decided to jump in and make the most of my surroundings. My motivation at the time was nothing more than blind and naive belief that I could do it… which to me now sounds crazy, but as a young entrepreneur, I didn’t see any possibility of failure, so it seemed like there was no downside.
Would you like to share with our young budding women entrepreneurs the change you would like to see in the world if given an opportunity?
There is so much to change in the world, it’s hard to pinpoint one, but in terms of change for female entrepreneurs, I would love to see more support and funding for women. Still, less than 1% of female-led businesses raise investment, which is an appalling statistic. This has to change, especially as female-led businesses have a high survival and growth rate—women are less impulsive and take more considered risks than men in general. So the fact that so few are invested in only goes to show that it is not for any justified reason. I also would like to see women supporting more women. We need to drive change starting with ourselves.
Women are a growing force in the workplaces worldwide, standing shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts. There are cracks in glass ceilings everywhere, with many women breaking through to carve out a space right at the top of the pyramid. What are your thoughts about women leadership today?
Female leadership is growing for sure, but it is not yet enough in my view—the playing ground definitely needs more evening out. Just putting numbers in place for one woman per boardroom in some countries is not enough; there needs to be more equal representation.
What’s the most important thing you have learned in your personal life and professional journey? What is your personal motto in life?
Never give up and don’t be scared to learn new skills and pivot your direction.
With your grit and determination, you are making a considerable impact, breaking through, and serving as role models for many budding entrepreneurs. What would you want to say to our young women leaders/audience reading this?
Resilience and hard work are key—women excel at both. Hence, don’t be scared. You’re made for this journey. Small incremental steps collectively make up giant leaps.
Your website link
www.evelaws.com
