02/09/2025
Lorraine Shaquan Kljajic
Founder & CEO, Lush Africa Foundation
Lorraine Shaquan Kljajic is a visionary entrepreneur, philanthropist, and cultural leader passionate about empowering women, youth, and communities across Africa. Born in Malawi to a Zimbabwean mother, raised in Tanzania, and now a global citizen married to a Croatian, Lorraine embodies the spirit of diversity, resilience, and cross-cultural collaboration.
As Founder & CEO of the Lush Africa Foundation, Lorraine leads initiatives that focus on women and youth empowerment, skills development, entrepreneurship, and creative industry growth. Through her leadership, the foundation has become a platform for impactful programs ranging from education and mentorship to cultural diplomacy, fashion, arts, and community outreach—including charity initiatives in prisons, orphanages, and underserved communities.
Beyond philanthropy, Lorraine is a dynamic businesswoman. She is the founder of Miss Culture Global, an international pageant that celebrates culture, beauty, and women empowerment; AfrifoodSA, a health-focused food retail brand; LushXurious, a beauty and cosmetics brand; and Lopecon, a business consulting service. Her ventures bridge culture, business, and social impact, reflecting her belief that sustainable development is achieved when creativity, commerce, and community work hand in hand.
Lorraine has been recognized and nominated for various awards, including Pageant Director of the Year and 100 Female Change Maker of Africa, and continues to be featured on global platforms such as the G20 Culture Working Group Meeting. She is also the driving force behind major initiatives like the Afripreneur Connect Summit & Awards (2026) and the Africa Fashion & Arts Festival, which bring together entrepreneurs, creatives, and leaders from across the continent and beyond.
Her journey is not just about building brands, but about building people. Lorraine believes in second chances and uses her platforms to inspire, mentor, and uplift the next generation of African leaders—especially women and girls.