You know those people who seem to get more done in one lifetime than others would accomplish in ten? Lotte Davis is most definitely one of these people. As the visionary founder of global brand AG Hair and the dedicated philanthropist behind One Girl Can, Lotte is a passionate entrepreneur who has created exceptional companies in both the for-profit and charitable sectors. Originally from South Africa, Lotte is on a mission to help end poverty and gender inequality and is trailblazing a path for women and girls to reach their full potential, regardless of the circumstances they were born into.
Lotte is a babe because of her incredible business savvy, intrepid spirit and altruistic heart.
What does “Babes Supporting Babes” mean to you?
It’s funny, the word “babe” is something I have struggled with over the years — in the sixties, it was a term that was far from positive, in the sense that it was often used in a misogynistic way. That being said, I see how the word has now been taken on by women as a term of endearment and power, and I think that’s great. To me, babes supporting babes is about women who are actively supporting each other. Over the last ten years, the tide has really turned in regards to female entrepreneurship — women are getting more comfortable with supporting each other and championing each other’s causes, because we’ve created more space for all of us to succeed. It’s a great change in the emancipation of women.
What city feels most like home to you?
Vancouver — it’s become my home (Lotte was born in South Africa). However, a close second is Nairobi. Every time I travel there, I feel something twinge inside of me as soon as the plane touches down; the smell immediately transports me and feels intensely familiar.
If you could go back in time, what year or era would you travel to?
Right back to the sixties. It was a truly revolutionary time to be young and discovering the world — there was so much possibility and opportunity to impact everything. The status quo was being challenged in a way that I don’t think we’ve seen since.
Who are your mentors? What have they taught you?
I have never had a mentor; to be honest, I feel like mentorship is kind of a millennial invention. When I was a young woman, I was inspired by prolific minds like Gloria Steinem and Camille Paglia, and by the artists, authors and musicians who were changing everything with their work. I also think my generation didn’t seek out mentorship because we were trying to change the world as opposed to repeating the actions of previous generations.
What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done?
Jump out of an airplane.
Who would you want to play you in a movie about your life?
Audrey Hepburn.
What would you consider your “superpower”, AKA the thing you can do better than anyone else?
My drive and energy. It never wanes.
What three items would you take with you to a desert island?
Tom Ford lipstick in Casablanca, books and sunscreen.
If you could see any live act in the world right now, what concert would you choose?
The Rolling Stones. I’ve seen them twelve times and they are the best act in the world, hands down.
If you could leave your career with one legacy, what would you hope it is?
That One Girl Can lives on and continues to create opportunities for women and girls in developing countries. I’d also love to see the One Girl Can model replicated in other countries that we haven’t moved into yet.
What is your version of a power suit?
Black jeans, Celine boots, a well-cut jacket and a black turtleneck.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Travel. Even when we had no money and we were just starting our business, we always went to interesting places and had great adventures with our family.
What public figure do you admire the most?
Barack Obama. His authenticity, intelligence and desire to help humanity is genuinely inspiring. He’s also one of the most compelling public speakers in the modern era.
One of the things I am most looking forward to is Trump getting taken away with cuffs on and his hair mussed. I am appalled that we have regressed from Obama’s elegant, thoughtful leadership into the burgeoning autocracy of the current administration.
Champagne, wine or a cocktail?
California chardonnay, all day long.
Vintage or new?
New for me. It’s my sense of perfectionism — no holes or loose threads. I also like to always look forward.
It’s been said that some of the world’s most successful people get up early. What is your morning routine?
I wake up at about 5:00am, read a little bit and then do a workout with my trainer at my home. After my shower, I drink a smoothie and drive into the office by about 8:00am.
What new trends are you noticing in your industry?
I’m seeing a similar trend in both the for-profit and charitable world, and that is that businesses are beginning to understand that if they aren’t incorporating purpose-led altruism into their business models, they will lose market share. Young people are principled and highly educated, and they are voting with their dollars — they research the companies before making big purchases or becoming loyal to a brand. Consequently, businesses are recognizing the benefits of contributing to the greater good, both from an ethical and business perspective. Something important to note is altruism has to be authentic to the business and employees — consumers are savvy and know when a company is doing something “charitable” for face value only.
Globally, I believe it’s really important for business owners to give back. If we don’t start giving back and creating opportunities for people who are oppressed, we will continue to see a rise in systemic poverty and global conflict. It’s the smart thing and the right thing to do.
Keep up with Lotte on Instagram @aghair and @onegirlgansociety
Photography by Ryan Pugsley.
Introduction written by Alexis Sheridan.