“Ashish's story is full of insights into doing business in Africa, recipes for success, as well as inspirational testimonies of turning personal adversity into positive action. This is a book for people who not only dream but dream with a purpose.” ―Ajay Banga, President and CEO, MasterCard

“This book shares a successful entrepreneur's love of Africa, where business can be a powerful force for good. It will also change your perceptions of Africa - for good!” ―Sir Richard Branson, Founder, Virgin Group

“Ashish Thakkar is an amazing entrepreneur, leader, and now, author. In The Lion Awakes, Ashish brings Africa - with its energy, dynamism and incredible potential - to life. Through his own remarkable story founding Mara Group and his profiles of other young African leaders, he helps readers understand what is driving Africa's transformation and how to take part. Ashish tells these stories in a casual yet captivating style that will hold your attention from the first page. On all dimensions, The Lion Awakes is a must-read!” ―Dominic Barton, Global Managing Director, McKinsey

“Ashish's story is fascinating and unique. It reveals, though, the emergence of an innovative, vibrant and ambitious generation of African entrepreneurs who are geared to reshape the continent in the 21st century and its positioning within the global landscape.” ―Graça Machel, widow of former South African president Nelson Mandela

“Ashish's passion for Africa is unrivalled, and what he and his family have achieved with Mara is remarkable. What I love about the book is that he's been able to bring it all to life on the page. If you're an investor or an entrepreneur, whether working in Africa or not, you should treat The Lion Awakes as a text book. You're not going to get a better teacher than my friend Ashish J Thakkar.” ―Bob Diamond, former CEO, Barclays

“The Lion Awakes reveals Africa's next generation of leaders coming into their own. Their creativity, dynamism, and versatility is on full display in Ashish J. Thakkar's engaging and inspiring story.” ―Kofi Annan, former Secretary General of the United Nations