The Launch of ERA OF YOU, Multipreneur Ellen’s Newest initiative.
Womenpreneur Middle East sat down with Ellen Mannaert—serial entrepreneur, mentor, and changemaker—to talk about building companies across continents, leading with empathy, and her newest initiative, ERA OF YOU, a community designed to celebrate authenticity and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Womenpreneur ME: You’ve built businesses in radically different sectors: textiles, fashion, tourism, real estate. What core philosophy has guided you through these diverse industries?
Ellen Mannaert: At the heart of every venture—whether textiles, fashion, tourism, or real estate—my philosophy is simple: stay rooted in purpose, stay open to change. I see every business as a living ecosystem. When you lead with intention and keep your mind and heart open, you can adapt to any industry. Your story and your intuition are your greatest assets.
Womenpreneur ME: You’ve shared about growing up in a family of newcomers and feeling “too Black, too quiet, too humble.” How did those early experiences shape the way you lead and build companies?
Ellen Mannaert: Growing up feeling “too Black, too quiet, too humble” taught me to see people first. I lead with empathy and curiosity, always inviting different voices to the table. My leadership is about creating space for others to shine—especially those who’ve been overlooked. I believe our differences aren’t obstacles; they’re fuel for connection and innovation.
Womenpreneur ME: You speak about “unbecoming” as a form of self-liberation. How does that concept show up in your approach to entrepreneurship, especially in environments that still value conformity?
Ellen Mannaert: For me, “unbecoming” is a spiritual practice—shedding what the world expects so you can become who you truly are. In business, it means daring to question the rules, showing up authentically, and building companies that reflect your soul, not just your résumé. Authenticity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s your greatest asset.
Womenpreneur ME: Can you share a pivotal moment in building your textile distribution network in Europe, something that truly tested your vision?
Ellen Mannaert: The toughest moment was choosing to shift from traditional wholesale to a digital, direct-to-consumer model. It felt like jumping without a net—there was fear, doubt, and plenty of resistance. But that leap brought us closer to our customers and opened doors I never imagined. Sometimes the universe nudges you out of your comfort zone so you can grow into your vision.
Womenpreneur ME: You’ve scaled a fashion brand like Lémert while running hospitality ventures in the Dominican Republic. How do you maintain strategic oversight and brand integrity across such decentralized operations?
Ellen Mannaert: It’s a balancing act. I trust local leaders, set clear values, and use technology to stay connected. But most importantly, I remind everyone of our shared mission: to create meaningful experiences, wherever we are. Empowering others to lead with heart and integrity is key, no matter where they’re planted.
Womenpreneur ME: You mentor women and support changemakers. What do you think is still fundamentally misunderstood or overlooked when it comes to empowering women in business?
Ellen Mannaert: We talk a lot about mentorship and visibility, but true empowerment means access to resources and real decision-making power. Women need capital, networks, and seats at the table. We’re not just breaking ceilings—we’re building new rooms where everyone belongs.
Womenpreneur ME: Your businesses span continents and cultures. What have you learned about resilience and adaptability from building in both Europe and the Caribbean?
Ellen Mannaert: Europe gave me structure; the Caribbean taught me flow. Real resilience is the dance between planning and surrender—knowing when to push and when to let go. I teach the next generation to embrace uncertainty, trust their journey, and see every challenge as an invitation to evolve.
Womenpreneur ME: That’s a beautiful philosophy. Tell us about your newest initiative, ERA OF YOU.
Ellen Mannaert: I’m so excited about this. ERA OF YOU is a new community I’m launching to honor our unique rhythms, support each other’s growth, and celebrate the power of showing up as our truest selves.
We live in a world that pushes us to conform, perform, and prove ourselves constantly. The ERA OF YOU is about slowing down enough to listen to your own voice and trusting that you are exactly where you need to be. It’s about creating spaces where people can share honestly, learn from each other, and be reminded that their story matters.
I want this to be a global movement of changemakers, creatives, entrepreneurs—anyone ready to lead with authenticity and heart. Because in the ERA OF YOU, resilience means believing that you, as you are, are enough.
Welcome to the ERA OF YOU.
Womenpreneur ME: That’s incredibly inspiring. How can our readers get involved or learn more?
Ellen Mannaert: We’re building it as we speak—community events, mentorship circles, online spaces for connection. Follow along on social media and stay tuned. I can’t wait to welcome everyone in.
https://www.instagram.com/eraofyou.official?igsh=MWVlMXI2dDhoem4ycQ==