Bente was born in 1922, Denmark.  She studied at the School of Arts and Crafts in Copenhagen, and worked in Copenhagen and London in graphics, textiles and ceramics before moving to Africa.  In 1955, she established a ceramic studio in Harare, Zimbabwe; later moving her workshop to Lusaka, Zambia, where she met Cynthia Zukas and served with her on many art-related committees.  Bente worked with Zambian women to make pots in the traditional way, which were then glazed and fired. As a founding member of Lechwe Trust, Bente brought her vast knowledge of art, her impeccable judgment and her wisdom. She was an active member all her life and was much loved by artists and committee members.