Colette Leier

Colette Leier is a dynamic and seasoned business owner operating as a self-employed entrepreneur with a strong foundation in nonprofit management and private sector leadership. With over 15 years of experience, she has honed her expertise in financial administration, grant management, and donor relations, ensuring compliance and fostering sustainable development initiatives. Currently, Colette leverages her extensive background to drive innovative projects that align with her passion for social impact and entrepreneurship, particularly within the African context.

As the Creative Director and founder of Savuti, a pop-up shop showcasing Modern African Design, Colette curates a unique collection of home decor and personal accessories that celebrate traditional craftsmanship through a contemporary lens. Her role involves strategic planning, design consultation, and operational oversight, ensuring each piece embodies the perfect blend of modern aesthetics and traditional skills. Her work not only promotes African artisans but also supports SDG 5 (Gender Equality) by empowering women entrepreneurs in Kenya through targeted project initiatives.

In her capacity as a business owner, Colette excels in building strategic partnerships, managing international trade relations, and facilitating capacity-building workshops for entrepreneurs and artisans. Her skills in fundraising, research, and facilitator training enable her to develop impactful programs that foster economic empowerment and social inclusion. Colette’s expertise in developing sustainable business models, combined with her diplomatic approach and collaborative leadership style, positions her as a key driver in advancing innovative solutions for community development and gender equality across Africa.