Mide's Fun World - Funmilayo Opanubi Alasholuyi #inthespiritofenterprise

Nothing beats following your passion. The road may be rough, but in the end, you'll look back and be glad you lived your own life! Today I bring to you Funmilayo whose love for art led her to birth Mide's fun world. 

Enjoy........

Tell us about yourself

 My name is Princess Funmilayo Opanubi Alasholuyi. I am the first child of my parents and I have four siblings. I schooled in Lara Day Nursery and Primary School, Ikeja High School and London Metropolitan, then called: London Guildhall University. I have a Bsc (Hons) in Business & Business Information Technology. I am happily married with 3 kids.


 Tell us about your business

 I am the General Manager of Ereke Paints Ltd, and also the CEO/ MD of Mides' Fun World, also a Creative Artist of the company. As the G.M of Ereke Paints, I deal with colors too, which is also under interior decoration. So, both businesses go hand in hand.

The name was derived from our children's names: Ayomide, Iremide & Olamide, fondly known as the 'Mides. 

How did you get into this line of business?

I am a very creative person by nature, I love beautifying and creating things too. I am a Daystar member and I got inspired by Pastor +Sam Adeyemi's conferences and inspirational books, such as: 'start with what you have, 'the parable of dollars, ideas rule the world, etc. I got so much inspiration from the book and took action, by going to see an artist who trained me.

How will you summarize your journey so far?

Well, its been wonderful. I had my very first exhibition in September last year, 2013, it was supposed to be a 4 day event, but exceeded till October ending; as a result of the overwhelming reaction from the public. I think what people saw and felt, was beyond their expectation. I feel I created an awareness when it comes to art, working with different art media such as recyclable items, Ankara material, and other form of fabrics, hay, beads, etc. The exhibition was an eye opener for so many people, especially in our country Nigeria, compared to the Western world where art is more appreciated. Nigerians are becoming to appreciate art now.

What are the main challenges you face and how have you overcome them.

The challenges are not much, except that, there are times when the raw materials, such as the imported sprays we work with are scarce, but as a creative artist, I tend to improvise. Its all about being creative, even about the situation.

What advice would you give anyone who wants to go into arts in Nigeria 

You have to be passionate about art. You cannot just go into it for the sake of it. Secondly, you need to have your own style. You need to standout from other artists, that is your selling point. The same advise goes for any other type of business. This is, so that when people see your work, they can identify you with it.

Given the chance, will you do this again? 

Oh yes! its my passion, and will do it again, come what may.

Memoirs of a lagos city hustler - LCH 12

At the nick of time, just before impact, I jumped off the bike and risked a bruised limb than to be severed underneath a benz 190; I was delivering an order to a lady in Yaba and in an attempt to meet up with her before she goes to pick up her kids, I showed up 45minutes late covered in some purple paint(that thingy they apply to bruises) and she was yelling and pointing out my unprofessionalism. I tried explaining myself but she kept shutting me up.

I closed my eyes for a few seconds and pictured my self spitting right into her mouth, kicking her to the floor and yelling to remind her I'm more educated than her husband, just then; I opened my eyes, faked a smile and politely apologized. She threw the money at me and as I bent down to pick the money, a tear drop rolled down my cheek.

I sat quietly in the bus on my way home and had a talk with God and did a revised starndard of my life. I've heard of entrepreneurs and small business owners having a dose of these treatment and all in an attempt to prove a 1800s quote right(the customer is always right kinda bullsh*t), we all go through a hard time satisfying our clients and customers, saving and reinvesting our profits, getting taunted by our working class colleagues and yet we strive to put up a smile and enjoy what we do.

The Government doesn't create an ample and encouraging platform for small businesses even though they contribute the most to the GDP(let's get serious here, the ogas at the top don't even know sh*t about these terms). We are left to fend for ourselves, seek unforeseeable loans, have investors that want half your business haunt you, have family meetings because of our career choice etc.

As much as I wanna do a katy perry's roar to everyone that dents my pride as an entrepreneur, all I get to do is dust off the insults and smile sheepishly like an idiot they think I am and get some of their many monies into my account.

P.S: If you know anyone willing to learn the ankara crafts(accesories and bags),AnQ-àrá(www.facebook.com/anqarabytharev) is training in coming months, holla jumoke on 08020999288

Revamp Definition - Chinenye Obi-Okoye #inthespiritofenterprise

Hello again. I took time off to relish my new celebrity status, hehe. Enough already yeah? Okay. Still I must state how I appreciate you for taking time out to watch. Especially since there was a match going on. Muchos Gracias my people! Now I gatz to focus on how to translate all those views to money!!

I am giving a shout out on here to Ezim Osai @ezimosai (follow him, it'll be worth your while), he has encouraged me to start a movement. We had this discussion about the mismatch between careers and passion, many who are born to teach are in school studying medicine, those born to be care givers are there studying Business Administration. Not that these cases are lost causes, but we believe Nigeria would be a much better place if people's course of study and activities were aligned with their passion.

Ezim has set the ball rolling in Delta, taking on about 10 schools where he held some sessions. I am still here dragging my feet and thinking about what schools to approach and who to invite to my team. Scatter brain girl that I am. Anyways, I could use some help with this. If you are passionate about making a difference, contact me, let's do this. Please note though, it is not a money making sumtin o, so if you are looking for money, maybe we can partner on other stuff, not this.

Ezim, doing his thing! By the way, he's still a student in UI o! Imagine. 

In other news, my girls, Kike and Rukky are having another  fashion and lifestyle fair, tagged year-end bargain fever! It's this Sunday, November 3rd. I have put the flyer below so you can view and save the date.

Things are looking up. I am getting mails and meeting interesting people everyday now. Yaaay!!

I have a mini dilemma today though. I am going to have to do two posts for the first time. I just met two interesting people, one male and the other female. They both create the most amazing things with ankara fabrics mainly.

Their paths and stories differ, but they are both passionate about what they do. I'll introduce the lady first, hehe (power to the women). So #inthespiritofenterprise let me present to you, Chinenye. She is super funny and she opened up with no forming. I laughed through the interview.

Let me get on with it.

Enjoy......

Tell us about yourself

♏y name is Chinenye Obi-Okoye. I'm graduate of Economics from the University of Nsukka Nigeria. I worked with Fin bank (now known as FCMB) for 4 years before I was kicked out last year. It pained me sha, hehe! Following the acquisition of Fin bank by FCMB, staff were asked to resign and I was among the 1st batch

Money matters! hehe

While working, I didn't have any plans B nor C. So it was a rude shock to be out just like that. I never saw myself doing business, didn't have the energy for all that. (That's what she thought, look at her now! lol)

So I quickly started applying for jobs. When it wasn't forthcoming, I had to arrange ♏y life :)

Tell us about the business

At Revamp Definition, we take our time and lovingly create products using Ankara and other fabric to thrill our customers. The colors are refreshing and you would definitely want to own some of them. We operate an online store and deliver anywhere.

We also run a one-day intensive training session, where we introduce interested people to the rudiments of jewelry and accessories making with ankara.

How did you get into this line of business?
I had always loved fashion (just like most girls, *smiles*). I say that I "stumbled" into what I'm doing now, but better put, God led me into it (I'm now going spiritual on you, lol)

I was walking into the market wen ♏y footwear cut and I asked around for a cobbler. I was directed to one. I shuffled to the man to mend my slippers and saw he was wrapping old shoes using Ankara fabrics. I literally did a "WOW. This was say June last year.

I mended ♏y shoes, watched him wrap some shoes, asked the man questions and told him I would return.

I quickly got home and gisted ♏y sister about it. I think it was two days later that I went back with ♏y old work shoe, ♏y sisters flats and some fabric. That was basically how the business started.

It started with wrapping old shoes. I later enrolled somewhere else and learnt to make the Ankara jewelries and accessories.

The journey so far
The journey has been interesting, very challenging and fun all at the same time! Sometimes though, I just want to quit, but I tell myself that successful businesses didn't make it instantly.

I read a lot and other success stories have encouraged me. ♏y friends and siblings also have been amazing.

It's so challenging to get people to believe in your brand especially when it's "made in naija" but we're slowly getting there. It's gradually getting beta. People are getting more comfortable and confident in us.

Don't let all of this talk be in vain, let's support our own, in the spirit of enterprise!

Call, like, follow, visit and most importantly, BUY!!!!!

08035481200

https://www.facebook.com/RevampDefinition

@che_revamp

Remember, if you would like to be featured in this segment, just mail me at mofolusadesonaike@gmail.com. Cheers guys!

AnQ-àrá - Kennedy Ifedolapo Adetayo #inthespiritofenterprise

So, this is the first time I am showcasing two entrepreneurs on the same day. Couldn't resist. They have both inspired me, I hope they inspire you too.

We've met Chinenye (Er..., so I went and published this one first!! Sorry), next up is Kennedy.

When you speak to Kennedy, you would immediately know that "boys are not smiling" lol!! He means business. More importantly, he enjoys what he does. Plus, just like Chinenye, he too has a sense of humor. I am beginning to think, for you to survive the business terrain in Nigeria, you do need a sense of humor.

I had to ask about his brand name, because it's really different  with a bit of vava-voom (whatever that means, lol) and he had a whole epistle to roll out about it! Lol.

Let's meet Kennedy.

Enjoy.....

Tell us about yourself

Been asked this question too many times in interviews, anyways my names are Kennedy Ifedolapo Adetayo, a graduate of the federal university of agriculture, abeokuta. I'm a native of Ogun state, first of three children and I love fashion like I love food(I do love good food a lot) - Men! *rolling eyes*

How did you get into this?

I'm used to hearing people say "I started from the bottom,now I'm here",well for me it started as a hobby back then in school, ruined all the good clothes my uncle and aunt abroad sent to me all in the name of 'customizing' it, then I got better and others could trust me with their clothes and by the time I was in final year, I was getting jobs from various departments to make their polos.

After school and during NYSC(which I served in ibadan, Oyo State), I lived close to the famous gbagi market and I was wondering how I could incorporate ankara and other african attires into my clothing line, I spoke with few friends and they immediately ruled out the possibility...just what I needed to hear to try it out! And that was how AnQ-àrá was born.

What does the name mean?

Despite its synonimity with the fabric ankara, AnQ-àrá's name did not come from it,well imbibed in the name is the word 'ara' which means different things in different languages, here are some;

Ara-Body (yoruba)
AnQ-àrá's objective is to find,make and/or manufacture fashion ideas and clothing for all body sizes.

Ara-Thunder(yoruba)
AnQ-àrá is a force,one that must be reckoned with in the fashion business,not to be feared but respected across the world

Ara-People(yoruba)
AnQ-àrá is a community of vibrant youths who wants to make a difference,we imbibe former students of our training academy as well as artisans(e.g cobblers,tailors etc) all good at what they do.

Ara-Wonder(yoruba)
AnQ-àrá's designs wold never cease to amaze you with unique designs and blend of colour never before imagined.

This man can ankaralize anytin!

The Journey

To me, the journey has just started but so far I'd call it bitter-sweet (like that taste you get from half ripe agbalumo you have rubbed on the wall for about five minutes), besides a caring mum yelling that I get a real job to friends that want to invest in my business and control 70% stake to sitting down with cobblers and tailors so they won't ditch your work to delivering one sandal to agbara to female friends asking for freebies (hahahaha!!!) to people calling you gay for making female clothings but in all, I see noting but a new challenge to be conquered. Its been wonder-fun this far and I pray it will be better!

Where do you see AnQ-àrá in the future

Lining up models in fashion weeks in new york,tokyo,london and berlin, having a 6-acre factory set up somewhere in ogun state,being a household name in africa and beyond and partnering with multinationals to push boundaries.

Given another chance, what would you trade this for?

Oh yes, the only thing I'd trade AnQ-àrá for in another life is being at the pearly gates sorting out Nigerians whether they go to heaven or hell(but we both know that won't happen, hehe).

You know how we do! Go and follow, like, call and above all BUY!!

AnQ-àrá | African ethics.....World class designs
Email: anqara1@mtnnigeria.blackberry.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/anqarabytharev
Instagram: @4Qhen #anqara
Twitter: @4Qhen @AnQ_ara

pin:27827DF2

#: 08059848080, 08020999288

Africanah Cool!

Remember, if you would like to be featured in this segment, just mail me at mofolusadesonaike@gmail.com. Cheers guys!

ION Jewelry - Ibironke Nihma Oduniyi #Inthespiritofenterprise

My first encounter with Ibironke was about two years ago, I was scouting around Lagos for a jeweler that could engrave someone's name on a sterling silver bracelet for a client. A friend, who also does handmade jewelry, wire works and pearls, under the brand name DidiRose, gave me her number. On connecting with her, I was surprised to see the different designs she was able to craft with gold and sterling silver.

She makes fine pieces that are affordable and come with a guarantee. She has this policy that gives anyone who buys a piece from her, free cleaning and polishing as well as minor repairs for life. She also holds an annual buffet for ION Jewelry owners. What's not to love!

Let's get to meet her...

Enjoy!

Tell us about yourself

My names are Ibironke Nihma Oduniyi and I'm the Creative director of ION Jewelry and lead facilitator at the ION Jewelry Design School.

Schools and courses;

I took numerous Short courses ( Silversmithing, How to run a jewelry business,Jewelry design, Working with plastics and metals, and Experimental jewelry) at the Central Saint Martins, College of Art and Design, University of Arts,London, I later did a 6 months apprenticeship program with a local goldsmith back here in Nigeria.

What Led you into Goldsmithing?

Growing up I watched my mum adorn herself with quite a number gold jewelry pieces and I've always been fascinated about how to make them and by luck I stumbled upon an advert in the local newspaper about goldsmithing training here in lagos, which was exciting news to me because I've always thought the training of that sort didn't exist in this side of the world asides the well known 7+ years of apprenticeship in a local goldsmithing workshop. I tried the class for a short while and left it to pick it up again 2 years after, this time around I went for training in the United Kingdom.

How has the journey been so far?

Initially it was very difficult especially when one is trying gain the acceptance of the Nigerian market (which is a varied group of people I must add) but with time God has been faithful and the brand is slowly gaining recognition and trust.

Describe your brand?

The ION Jewelry brand is a luxury jewelry brand that's timeless in sense of design and caters to needs of the Nigerian man or woman in search of classic and unique precious metal jewelry pieces which will last him or her for many years to come.

Its a brand that's always there for its clients even after purchase of jewelry item by offering after purchase services in form of free repair and polishing policy thereby maintaining it for years to come.

How do you define an ION woman?

An ION Woman is woman who loves wearing a showpiece that starts a conversation, she is unique and vibrant and most of all loves crystals and gemstones.

Are you that woman? Then you must be interested in the details below;

Email: ronke@ionjewelry.com.ng
website: www.ionjewelry.com.ng
Mobile: 08085836502
Twitter: @IONJewelryng
Facebook: ionjewelry

Ibironke also runs a school for jewelry design.

Remember, if you would like to be featured in our Tuesday segments, just mail mofolusadesonaike@gmail.com.