Where did all the plumbers go? #inthelineofduty

I am practically sleep typing. But seeing as I haven't posted #inthelineofduty in about two weeks, I will still make this attempt to be coherent and put something out as I nod off slowly.

Where have all the artisans gone? Everybody's busy doing fancy stuff these days.  Specifically the plumbers. Back in the day, they were the ones chasing and begging to work for you, these days however......... why all this yeah? I have mopped floor tire today. My nanny did most of it, but I couldn't just watch the poor old woman mop non stop and then drop! Plumbing headache ehn! I hate!

I was out on the island in the middle of a meeting when I got a distress call from her saying the tap in one of the bathrooms was leaking. I was even annoyed at first thinking, ehen, so what should I do o. Drop everything and run home, like I'm a plumber abi. When I got home however, and saw the river Niger (despite the fact that she had been mopping non stop o), I understood her frustration. Thank God I didn't have to deal with so much traffic today. Imagine dealing with mad traffic and then coming home to river Niger! Na die be dat naa. Anyway, since our "bigs boy" plumber stays far away from us, I desperately tried to get a plumber around, for where! They are fast becoming extinct. Luckily, emi naa kuku lo school naa (I went to school too). I traced the source and cut off the supply. So we have some peace till we can get oga plumber to come and fix the problem.

Source: http://petetheplumberny.com/

You see that picture right there, I got it from a fancy New York plumber's site - yes site as in website!! You should see it. Book appointment, pay per hour, yada yada. Maybe that's where we're headed at this rate. Gbese!

I bet I did mention earlier that I finally terminated Mr. lesson teacher's appointment right? Well handling homework with the boys is getting easier by the day. I no longer want to pull my hair out or cry, at least not everyday. On top of that, guess what! It was open day yesterday and Mofolusade the lesson teacher is doing a good job. Ibukun's classwork has improved. It hasn't been easy o, I have grown a few more grey hairs since I started handling them myself, but we are slowly attaining independence. Ibukun can do some of his work unattended now. No more spoon feeding. Let me whisper here - "the other day, I was so tired I asked my hubby to do homework with them, by the time I came up, he was about to faint, like whaaat! I can't do this oo. abeg" Ole tisha. Lol!!

My accounting is an absolute mess again. My Xero assigned accountant has been hounding me for a meeting to resolve some of the pending issues, but how man go do naa. I can't come and quench abeg. For now I just don't care! There I said it! I don't care! I have dusted my jotter, at least I write expenses and income in it. That'll do for now.

Since the moments with mo interview aired, things have picked up quite a bit. Absolutely awesome. It's more work, but I'll survive.

Okay, I have nothing else to say. It would be a bad thing if my head falls on this computer. It's the last one standing and there's no money yet for another. Besides, I have some exciting deliveries to do tomorrow.

Nanyt guys!

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!

MYBIZHUBSTORE - Chibuike Wogu #inthespiritofenterprise

Would you believe it if I told you not one single person has emailed me and followed through on getting featured in this entrepreneur showcase segment. No kidding!! At some point I was beginning to wonder "where is everybody"? Or maybe most are there thinking this blog is not yet prestigious enough to be featured on, who knows? When I think about it though, I realize that not many people get around to taking that first step. We all hear about some competition or an opportunity or platform like this and we make a mental note but never really follow up.

I told Chibuike I would celebrate him. His mail was a breath of fresh air. I had an "at least someone needs this" kind'a feeling. When I spotted the mail, I thought to myself, even if this is person running some mundane business (not like any business is mundane, even if u were selling sweets in front of someone's gate! It ain't a joke), I would feature him, just for making that move. Alas, he even has something all entrepreneurs and even company executives need!

Let's get to meet Chibuike Wogu.

Enjoy....

Tell us about yourself

I am Chinuike Wogu. I have a BSc in International Business Management, Poznan University College of Business, Poland and an MSc. in Strategic Marketing, London School of Business and Finance.

I worked with FBC Beverages as a Trade Marketing Representative, then with British American tobacco as a brand marketing executive and then with Saro Agrosciences as a Strategy and Business Development Executive. (Efiko! hehe)

During my time at Saro, I started entrepreneurial dreams and Mybizhubstore was founded

What is mybizhubstore about?

So we basically operate as an online store. With our flagship, iPLANMYBUSINESS, we aim to help businesses and business people accomplish more professionally in less time. ( I could use this meen, more in less time sounds good!)

iPLANMYBUSINESS is a compilation of professionally drafted business document templates that can help SMEs and Home business owners do a whole lot that include but not limited to strategic business and marketing planning, business and sales  proposal writing, marketing study and market trend analysis.

What was your inspiration?

I felt I could give more back to the society. I found out that in the corporate world there was little opportunity for me to express my full potential. I knew I had to quit paid employment if I was to achieve my objective of giving back to the society.

Until one ventures into entrepreneurship, one wouldn't have the opportunity to embrace a whole new world of openness and possibilities. Entrepreneurship for me is like a door that opens to many more doors of possibilities.

Also, many Nigerian and African entrepreneurs lack good knowledge and competence in drafting top notch business plans, marketing plans, etc to drive their business growth and sustenance,  that basically inspired mybizhubstore, so we can fill that gap by providing these entrepreneurs the necessary business tools to achieve their business goals and objectives.

How has the journey been so far?

So far, it has been rewarding and challenging. However, what keeps me going through all challenges is the assurance that success is inevitable for me as long as I remain consistent with what I'm doing.

It was a bold decision I had to make and Its paying off by God's grace

What's the cost of the "iplanmybuisness"?

iPLANMYBUSINESS is on offer at $39.99 which is the equivalent of 6,400 Naira.

We are currently giving a discount, so people can save $20 when they download till 1st January 2014.

After 1st January the cost will be $59.99 which is approximately 9,600 Naira.

Guys, hurry and take advantage of this offer. I know how many hours it takes me sometimes to put a professional proposal together or to do a financial report or marketing plan! Templates make life easy and this is one from one of us! No excuses please.

To download iPLANMYBUSINESS and stay up to date with mybizhubstore;

http://www.mybizhubstore.com

@mybizhubstore

https://www.facebook.com/iplanmybusiness

To be featured on our Tuesday segment. Send a mail to mofolusadesonaike@gmail.com

My Moments with Mo gig....Famzing pays!! #inthelineofduty

I have been biting my fingers more or less to keep from sharing this story prematurely. I couldn't hold it in anymore and I shared a few pictures on instagram. Since then, I have been getting loads of, when is it airing, when is it airing? Folarin and Lolade (hehe, this is me paying back!) even teased the hell out of me at their house over the holidays. Finally, I got a confirmation that It'll be airing next Wednesday, 23rd of October. Whew! I can't wait. I am as excited as my son is when he gets a hold of my Ipad, lol.

What am I on about? hehe. I am going to be talking about my business on Ebony life's Moment's with Mo! *Grinning from ear to ear and doing the azonto*. Yep! Me, Mofolusade Sonaike sitting on that their fancy set with Bolanle and Dolapo. Unfortunately, aunty Mo herself wasn't at my recording. 

#inthelineofduty today would be about how I got me that gig!! 

Moment's with Mo.....

I stayed up to watch the ebony life TV launch a few months back, I am sure I even mentioned something about it on here. After surveying the programs, I settled for moments with mo and the spot as my favorites. I know I used to be a critique of Aunty Mo's facial expressions amongst other things, but the re-launch of the program with her new co-hosts helped me get over all of that. We all have our different mannerisms abeg. Besides, her recent achievement have made her a role model to many women, including me. It is not by chewing bubblegum that you achieve that much in this environment. No sir! Haters can hate all they want! They didn't lie when they said, the greatest revenge is success.

Episode after episode of the moments with Mo show, I would day dream about getting on that set. Besides day dreaming, I was getting inspired and educated. Forget all the criticism they get about their accents and being plastic; that show has added value to me! From the episode about the Igwe twins, to the flying doctor, or the lady who beat Cancer, I always leave with something.

How the seed was sown.....

Remember the Sara Blakely story I shared a while back? Just in case you don't, here it is Don't be ashamed to "famz". After sharing the post, I thought, why don't I take my own advice? After all, at the end of each episode, they never fail to say "if you have a story to share, please mail us at......". I had never really paid attention to the details, but that day I Google searched their website and got all the mail addresses I could gather. Then I composed the mail below and sent it to all the email addresses listed;

"My Story

I made the transition from paid employment to
full time entrepreneurship. I have a background in chemical engineering with and MBA from LBS of the Pan Atlantic University, so many around me found it unbelievable that I would leave the corporate world for the unknown.

I currently run a Gift Consulting company called Trezorlandia. It's been a journey not without it's challenges and I have been sharing this story via a blog tagged An entrepreneur's journey.

http://mofolusades.blogspot.com

I like to be referred to as a mumpreneur, being a mother with two boys. Maintaining the balance between keeping a home and building a business successfully is something I battle with daily. I am determined to overcome!

I would be more than honored to share my story on your show. I believe entrepreneurship is the future for Nigeria..........."

I just included my contact details and all and forgot about it. By the time almost a month  had passed, I concluded that perhaps my mail needed re-working or maybe they were laden with myriads of such mails and mine was lost in them. 

The Invitation.......

The day I got the mail that read;

"Invitation to Moments with Mo

Dear Mofolusade,

Trust your day has been great.

My name is Yvonne, the Producer of Moments with Mo, and it is with great excitement that I invite you to share your story on our show.

..........."

I was so overwhelmed, I burst into tears (yea, I can be emotional like that, hehe) and this was just the beginning. I didn't know they would come to my house with their camera crew to do a showcase or that I would be flown to Calabar and lodged in the hotel at Tinapa, or that I would be transformed by the oh so talented @ritasbeauty!!! *hyperventilating**

When I called Yvonne to confirm the dates, she mentioned that they would have to come to my work space to do a recording. My jaw dropped! Two reasons; 1. my work-space is my house 2. my house is like in Ogun state! Chai. I immediately went oh, I work out of my house or the @CChub or my car most of the time. Yvonne said, so we come to your house then, send me the address. I thought to myself, oh no, who would want to come all the way to isheri, I even considered staging my sister's yaba study as my office, but then I was like what the heck. To thyself be true. So I called her up and told her, my place is far o, it's in isheri, sort'a like Ogun state and she said, it has an address abi? Send it. 

The Moments With Mo Crew in my work-space.....

Let me expose myself on here, my assistant and long time staff, Happiness were so excited, they cleaned and mopped, and cleaned the room we use as our office and store all night and all morning. Lol!! I mean, we couldn't go and disgrace ourselves on TV ke! I bet you'd do the same too. When the team arrived, we were all jumping up and down like babies. Ibukun still talks about the cameras and all the activity from that day. Just a few days ago, he said mummy remember that day that we were "pretending". Imagine, Lol. I said no Ibukun, it's acting, not pretending. 

Gen Gen!!

Tinapa, Calabar......

It was my first time in Calabar and I enjoyed every minute of it until Arik delayed a 12 noon flight till about 6pm. How do you call that a delay kwa! That was a complete reschedule. I didn't care though, I was still floating from my experience. 

I mean, who wouldn't? See what Rita did to my face!

I could not recognize myself!! Sheck out my Trezy shat too. I did it specially for the show. Yes o, #notime. 

yessir!! On that set finally

I had another balloon mishap on this journey, but then even I knew it was a long shot! My sister attempted to get on the plane with the balloons pulling a straight face (there were just four of them naa), but it didn't work out. So we were made to put them in a "Ghana must go" bag and check them in. This was the only option I could muster as the plans to get someone with helium gas in Calabar proved abortive. 

I packed gifts for the Moments with Mo team. I really wouldn't be the gift lady, if I didn't, would I?

Tune in to Ebony life TV, Channel 165 on DSTV on Wednesday, the 23rd of October at 8:30pm to catch me talking about my passion and journey. It would be a great honor to have your support.

I would let you know if there are any changes, but I'll beg Yemi and Yvonne to stick with this date, because the anticipation is close to driving me nuts.

Folarin and Lolade, you better watch too!! Told you my God would vindicate me, hehehe.

Before the face lift! Notice the distressed balloons in the back

SMIDS animation studios - Damilola Sobowale #inthespiritofenterprise

Let me start by wishing all our Muslim brothers a Eid-Mubarak. It's raining ram meat across Nigeria, don't miss out on yours. Hehe.

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At a business plan presentation for indi-africa a couple of months ago, I met some interesting entrepreneurs. Damilola was one of them. I remember introducing myself and asking her what business she was into. When she said "animation", for a second, I thought I didn't hear her right; Pardon? People do that in Nigeria? I mean almost every and any animation video or advert for that matter is done in South Africa or some place else. Why do we not use our own? It is only in practicing that anybody gets better. I remember looking at her and thinking, what a brave girl, maybe not #Malala of Pakistan kind of brave, but brave.

Here's her sharing her story.

Enjoy....

Tell us about yourself 

My name is Damilola Sobowale, I studied computer science at Bowen university, Nigeria. I have always loved animation from childhood, I loved playing video games, I even thought I would end up being a game programmer. However I came across Pixar movies – computer animated movies when I was in ss2. I fell in love with the whole concept and decided to build a career in computer animation. This is why I went in for computer science in Bowen as that was the closest option available in Nigeria at the time. To develop myself, I started to take online courses in computer animation.

What has the experience been so far?

The journey has been challenging, first of all it is highly capital intensive, secondly it’s a fairly new industry in Nigeria and not a lot of people appreciate and understand it. Upon completing my NYSC, I was sure that I wanted to start an animation studio. I had saved up all my NYSC allowance so I registered the company as smids animation studios in 2010.

Getting clients was quite a challenge and for a year and a half we were basically doing free jobs. People didn't believe good animation jobs could be done in Nigeria.  Just when we were about to give up, we got our first paying client. This was a great source of encouragement for me and the team. It kept us going.

This is not to say there are still no challenges, but we face them as they come. Financing for the first few years was mainly from my personal savings (all of it!) as well as from family and friends. Recently we got a grant that will help take us to the next level. 

Where do you see the business going?

At some point we realized we were spending time and resources trying to convince clients to try us and this wasn't working. We decided to  let go of fear and redirect our focus into creating our own products. We are working on a short film that would be out soon, as well as a TV series.

We have a vision of being one of the names to be mentioned in Africa when it comes to animation. We dream that one day we’ll even win an Oscar. We want to be an academy award winning animation studio. 

I dare you to try Smids Animation studios by reaching them via any of these;

www.smidsanimation.com

hello@smidsanimation.com

facebook/smidsanimation

twitter/smidsanimation

08038621694

To be featured on our Tuesday segment. Send a mail to mofolusadesonaike@gmail.com

Happy feasting!!

This woman's work.......Maxwell #90smusic

Before I start, I have to give a shout out to my cousin Jide Ogungbesan. Coz, I was meant to do a post on your birthday precisely and give this shout out, but sleep overcame the desire to do that. Love you lang time coz!! Mwaah.

It's  been three days again. We started this aerobics sessions where I live and it's not a joke. I am not that fat, so I assumed I was fit. Alas! I thought wrong. After the first session, I was in pain for a whole week. I was so sure I was coming down with malaria, till I remembered the origin of the pain. Lol!! It's getting better with every session though, so the initial thoughts of dropping out are starting to fade.

I recently started getting speaking engagement gigs in relation to entrepreneurship. At first it was just because I enjoyed it, but guess what? I got paid for the last two!! Whoop whoop. Not like it was some millions or something, at least not yet, before you start saying Mofolusade has hit jackpot. Lol. Still, it feels good to be able to generate income in some other way. Multiple streams of income is the key to survival. We'll discuss this in a post for another day. Today should be about my favorite year in music, the 90s! #leggo

The song for today is a timeless one. I loved it so much, it always woke me up from sleep. I just had to wake up to enjoy the song. When I was younger, I used to sleep with the radio on, I liked the idea of music serenading me in the background. I tried it recently and I woke up with a headache!! hahaha. I couldn't believe it. Age has different ways of affecting you.

The song I am  referring to is Maxwell's cover version of "This woman's work" Oh lawd!! The song connected straight with my brain. The vocals, the flow, the lyrics. It was originally done by Kate Bush for the movie, She's having a baby. I don't even remember her version that much. Maxwell's voice is coated with honey.

In 1997, he covered the song for his MTV Unplugged album release. When it featured as a soundtrack for Love and Basketball, the song was reborn. There are some movies you don't forget in a hurry, Love and Basketball is one of such movies, with the remarkable songs on the soundtrack list, they bagged the best soundtrack award at the Black reel awards in 2001. The look on Maxwell's face in the video for the song sends shivers to my spine! 

Enjoy!

This Woman's Work - Maxwell (Cover version)

View the video via this link if you can see the embedded video

Pray God you can cope
I'll stand outside (hen! what do u mean? will u enter the labor room my friend!! shio)
This woman's work
This woman's world
Oh it's hard on the man (Hard koo, hard ni!)
Now his part is over
Now starts the craft of the Father

I know you've got a little life in you yet
I know you've got a lot of strength left
I know you've got a little life in you yet
I know you've got a lot of strength left

I should be crying but I just can't let it show
I should be hoping but I can't stop thinking
All the things we should've said that I never said
All the things we should've done but we never did
All the things we should've given but I didn't

Oh, darling, make it go, make it go away

Give me these moments
Give them back to me
Give me your little kiss

Give me your...
I know you have a little life in you yet
Give me your hand, babe
I know you have a lot of strength left
Give me your pretty hand
I know you have a little life in you yet
Oh oh oh
I know you have a lot of strength left

My love child
I know you have a little life in you yet
Whatever you need me
I know you have a lot of strength left
Give me your hand
I know you have a little life in you yet
Give me your hand
I know you have a lot of strength left

I should be crying but I just can't let it show, baby
I should be hopin' but I can't stop thinkin'
Of all the things we should've said that we never said
All the things we should've done that we never did
All the things that you wanted from me
All the things that you needed from me
All the things I should've given but I didn't

oh, darling, make it go away, just make it go away

 Why did you take out your Aftro though? I loved it. 

 Sniff Sniff!!

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.

“The 50K Challenge” for Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) 2013

The Spirit of Enterprise in conjunction with “An Entrepreneur’s Journey" and The JobMag Center presents “The 50K Challenge” for Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) 2013

Introduction

• The 50K Challenge is a business competition aimed at young people running a micro-business, for whom =N= 50,000 can make a difference in moving their business idea forward. For this competition, there will be 3 winners. 

• The competition will take place in Lagos, Nigeria and applications outside Lagos are welcome. However applicants from outside Lagos who make the initial shortlist will be fully responsible for their travel, accommodation, and feeding to the final pitch in Lagos.

• Applicants will go through 2 stages of selection. The 3 winners at the final stage will also receive non- cash support post- event as well as =N= 50,000 each

Application Criteria
All applicants will be expected to meet the under- listed set criteria;

1. Must be Nigerian and resident in Nigeria (applications from outside Lagos are welcome as previously stated) 
2. Must be between the ages of 18- 35 
3. Must currently be running a small business, registered or unregistered, full time or part time, with a monthly turnover of not more than =N= 100,000 per month

Application & Selection Process 

• Applicants will be expected to submit a 1 page essay answering the question “What would I do with =N= 50,000 and how would it impact on my business? 
• Essay format should be 1 page, Arial font 12, 1.5 spaced and justified.
  
  
  
  Any essay that doesn't fit this format will be automatically disqualified 

Application will be in 2 stages: 

1. First stage submission of essay closing by October 25, 2013. Essays are to be emailed to thespiritofenterprise@gmail.com. A team will review and shortlist the 7 best essays that fit selection criteria. The selected applicants will undergo a vetting process to ensure they fit the set application criteria
2. The successful applicants will be notified by November 9, 2013 and invited to make a pitch presentation at the second stage which will be on Saturday, November 23, 2013. This presentation will be made to a team of experienced judges who will select the top 3 winning businesses 

As a prelude to the final presentation, shortlisted applicants will be required to prepare a 2 minutes elevator pitch video which will be uploaded to The Spirit of Enterprise’s you tube page

Selected applicants will be expected to email copies of their pitch latest November 19, 2013 in word and power point formats. The presentations should have a maximum of 10 slides and each applicant will have 15 minutes to make their presentation

Details of the final pitch (venue, time, format, etc) will be emailed to successful applicants on receipt of copies of their pitch latest November 19, 2013 in word and power point formats.

Key Dates to Remember 

Applications open on October 10, 2013

Applications close on October 25, 2013

Successful applicants will be notified of shortlist by November 9, 2013

Successful applicants will be expected to email copies of their pitch latest November 19, 2013 in word and power point formats

Details of the final pitch (venue, time, format, etc) will be emailed to successful applicants on receipt of copies of their pitch latest November 19, 2013 in word and powerpoint formats

Second stage pitch presentation and selection of winners on Saturday, November 23, 2013

Application Rules and Caveats 

Winning applicants must:

1. be prepared to work within the set deadlines for each stage of the process and commit to the whole process post- event 
2. be prepared to receive publicity both personal and business through social media 
3. agree to have their presentations posted on social media (facebook and blogs) 
4. agree to use the allocated grants solely for the purpose of the business

Post- Event Phase 

Each of the three winners receives the sum of =N= 50,000 at the event and subsequently also receives the following;

6 sessions of online coaching each

Business publicity on www.mofolusades.blogspot.com and The Spirit of Enterprise

All shortlisted participants will receive consolation prizes 

What would you do with 50,000 Naira?

I am too ashamed to even start to apologize yet again for going off! *covers face in shame*.....

I have spent the first few minutes on this computer, trying to gather my thoughts and articulate this post. My head has become this huge word processor. I know, that's how the brain is wired anyway, but still.., this is different, I am constantly going over topics in my head, opening lines, themes etc. Its madness. I wonder if this is how it is with every other blogger? I needed some time off, so I don't become some sort of a junkie. Besides, there are many other things that need attention in my life.

I finally dismissed Mr. lesson teacher; on some days like last Thursday though, while struggling to get through homework time, I think to myself, what have I done! *Hands on head*. My son manages to express every single emotion under the sun during homework time. We cry, we beg, we laugh, we feign sleep, name it! But then come to think about it, in our days, there was no talk of lesson teachers until it was time for common entrance. Unless maybe, my family was peculiar and I don't think so (although, we might have been peculiar in some other areas, lol). How come then, that nowadays a 6 year old or even younger would need a home tutor! There is definitely something wrong somewhere. My eyes have cleared now o! No more home tutor till it is absolutely necessary. That's some good money saved too! *grinning*

Let's start the week with some useful information, shall we;

Source: http://allfacebook.com/7-pointers-for-microbusiness-marketing-on-facebook_b68464 

Do you run or know anyone who runs a micro business? Are you a an entrepreneur below 35 with a monthly turnover of 100,000 Naira or less?

Will 50,000 Naira make a difference to your business?

If you have answered yes to these questions,

Email mofolusadesonaike@gmail.com for details. Also visit and like this page below;

https://www.facebook.com/thespiritofenterprise.ng

for more information on the challenge.

Here's wishing you all a fruitful week!

P.S
I'll be tweeting from the @wearenaija handle this week. They have this rotation thing they do. Please follow the handle and support moi! Tainx a bunches people.