Joan Mwende is the Founder of Youniquely Branded and Lulu Thamani, two purpose-driven platforms shaping the future of women’s personal and economic empowerment across Africa and the Middle East. As a Personal Branding Strategist, she is committed to helping women move from overlooked to outstanding by building purposeful personal brands that unlock visibility, leadership, and economic opportunity.
With over a decade of experience in global brand strategy across ex-Fortune 50 and Fortune 500 companies, Joan has managed multinational brands in 28 countries while also supporting the growth of women-led rural businesses in Kenya. Her work across both corporate and community environments has equipped her with a unique ability to help brands – big or small – achieve authentic, sustainable growth. In addition to her strategic work, Joan is also the co-owner of Jazz Loc Studio in Dubai, the 1st female-owned Locs salon, expanding her entrepreneurial footprint within the region’s afro-creative and cultural space.
Joan’s mission is built on the belief that when women gain clarity, confidence, and a strong sense of identity, they transform not only their careers but also their families, communities, and economies. Through Youniquely Branded, she supports women leaders, executives, and emerging entrepreneurs in crafting influential brand identities that position them for meaningful visibility and global opportunities.
As the Founder of Lulu Thamani, a nonprofit in Kenya, Joan has spent over a decade championing rural women’s financial development and social advancement. Her journey as a humanitarian has shaped her commitment to ensuring women and girls – especially those in underserved environments – have access to networks and opportunities that catalyze economic mobility.
Based in Dubai, Joan partners with international networks to advance women’s economic development, embodying her belief that empowered women build empowered communities.
