Melting Moments - Tolulope Samaiye #inthespiritofenterprise

Okay, so I know today is not Tuesday, but I promise this was half ready on Tuesday before work overtook me. I was going to wait till next week, but I couldn't resist! If you are in Nigeria and you haven't visited Melting moments at the mall in Ikeja, you are missing out. #justsoyouknow hehe.

So we had a chat with the strong woman behind the brand and you'll be surprised to know she started out just like any body else (o ye mere mortals). I have known Tolu for a while and I must say when she sets her mind to do something, she goes and gets it done!

Enjoy......

Tell us about yourself

 

My  name is Tolulope Samaiye. I graduated from Covenant University with a Bsc Building Technology. I am motivated by the Joy I bring to customers.

Tell us about your business

Melting moments is a dessert and confectionery company producing captivating desserts in store and through MM events, we produce events with high pedigree in display designs, planning, activation, procurement, management, monitoring, and evaluation. We have products for events with resounding display and taste impact because of our vast experience, highly talented and skilled team, and our eye for detail, thoroughness and efficiency. Our products are planned on timely delivery, budget consideration and 70% less fat.

Vision

To transcend the dessert and service expectations of all our customers and be the go to dessert company in Nigeria

Mission

To provide our customers with premier made-from-scratch desserts and confectioneries while focusing on customer satisfaction.

How did you get funding for the early stage of your business

I started with N7, 000, with that I bought my 1st hand mixer, paper cups and small quantity of ingredients. Initially this business was just to while away time while I waited for NYSC. So didn't really think about it. I used my mother’s oven for a 2 years.

One day my sister randomly asked me, Tolu why don’t you turn this into a real business and we can do it together. She got me my 1st standing mixer and some accessories as my birthday gift, and that’s how we joined forces.

After a while we realized we had a huge vision for Melting moments but we needed funds so we brought directors on board to enhance the growth.

What inspired you to start this business?

I will be very honest, at first there was no inspiration, it was not even a hobby. Baking was something that just happened because I was waiting for NYSC. Along the line my 1st encouragement came In, which is my sister. She saw something I didn't see at that time.

Now I get inspired by the strong will of young entrepreneur like myself, and realizing the existence of the support you never knew you had.

What challenges did you face and how have you overcome them?

I faced every kind of challenges any young entrepreneur will face. Quality control, demand and supply, funding etc. but the secret of moving forward is never to give up. I am a fighter. (I know this!) There are times I would have fallen off but I usually give myself a time out to step back and think of the best way to tackle issues.

What opportunities would you say you were able to leverage on to get you to this point

I was lucky enough to be one of the Top 50 Entrepreneurs to be awarded a scholarship to Enterprise Development center, Pan Atlantic University. To be trained on how to convert my glorified new found hobby to a well structured business.

How has the journey been so far?

The Journey has been great, a learning experience.

Given the chance will you do this again?

I don’t think I will change anything because I am who I am today because of the archive of experience I have. Mistakes made and different lessons learnt.

Project Management for SMEs by 'Debo Ajayi - 1

We have a new contributor in the house!! Yaaay. Remember Debo, the project management guy? Yes?

No? Well, he'll be taking a series on project management for entrepreneurs starting today!

Employing Risk to Transform your business.

Okay, so I will be writing a weekly article here to help SMEs build their businesses using a proven technique to grow their business, customer base, portfolio and product line.

Off course the technique we would use is called Project Management.

Today we will focus on risk.

http://www.businessinsider.com/

Risk itself is an industry and we cannot pretend to do any justice to understanding or digging into the depths of risk, but we will look at risk and how we can use a renewed understanding to grow our businesses.

Risk is simply any event with a degree of uncertainty. Risk means that we do not know exactly if an event will occur or not.

If you look at my elementary definition, it is clear that risk is neither a good or a bad phenomenon...it is just a phenomenon

We consider risk to be a bad thing around this part of the world...but this isn't necessarily true. Our general attitude towards risk is Prayer (oh well...). We try to nullify the unknown but we can adopt a proactive method to resolve challenges that risk can induce.

Risk is not always a bad thing for businesses. It can be a good thing as it presents unique opportunities for capitalizing on uncertainties.

Whenever there is an outcome with uncertain outcomes we need to investigate weather or not there are positive possibilities or just negative ones.

If all the outcomes for an event are negative, here is what every business owner needs to do with negative risk;

1. Avoid.
2. Transfer
3. Mitigate

If the outcomes have any possibility of being positive...here are valid responses

1. Seek
2. Enhance
3. Exploit


Avoid:

When there is a possibility that an outcome will be negative, the things to do is avoid the outcome altogether. Somethings we need to pass off certain opportunities because the risk outcome isn't worth it. This is a valid response to uncertainty but needs to be assessed carefully. The decision should be made not out of fear but a conscious methodical process that will create opportunities in the future.

We would continue this series next week........

Thanks.

Entrepreneurship in the information age #strikedanvil

It's Tuesday again, another #strikedanvil session on enterprise radio! Whoop whoop. As always, it would be an honor to have you listen in and interact with us on @eradiong or by calling, 09090000061, 09090000062. You can listen to last week's show here if you missed it. Thanks again for your support so far!! We love you!

Ever wonder why #Google is king of the world today? (Yea,don't forget they bought me over, hehe.)  The world has evolved from the agricultural age, where farmers ruled to the industrial age where engineers ruled to the current information age where data miners/providers rule. Right now, Information is King...... connect the dots.

Access to information has largely affected the way we do business, entrepreneurs increasingly have to be on top of their game as customers have access to more information now, than ever before. Everyday, digital innovation is changing lives in ways never expected, touching all parts of human existence. Google chairman Eric Schmidt recently described technological advance as “a race between computers and people and the people need to win.”

How does an entrepreneur remain ahead in this time? How can entrepreneurs position themselves to take advantage of this age? The general consensus is that Africans do not read, how true is this? Can an entrepreneur really survive without constantly reading and updating his/herself in this age? Where can you find this information? Is it free, is it paid? Is it timely, accurate and does it have integrity? These are the issues we have to deal with as entrepreneurs. 

Joining us to discuss this tomorrow is Howell Allusi.

Howell Allusi is the founder of the Wyzak interactive platform, he has a background in computer science from Imo State University and has over seven years of experience in telecoms. He is passionate about Nigerians and helping people succeed, which is why Wyzak interactive was born.

Wyzak Interactive is a global exchange for career and business start-up expertise. The aim is to connect people looking to;

- Step out from their existing career to a new career,

- Start a company,

- Enhance their current job skills

with expert advisors working in hundreds of fields in Nigeria and Africa as a whole.

The platform was launched with various free training in the fields of Agriculture, business plan writing among others.Howell will be sharing his experience with how Nigerians interact with and take advantage of information available to them on the internet.

Wyzak is currently running two competitions for entrepreneurs;

The first is a business idea competition with the details below;

Learning how to put your business idea on paper is the first step to starting that business. Let us teach you how to write a proper business plan and 3 people would step into 2015 with seed funds (N100,000 each) to start that small business idea. 

To enter:

1. Register and attend the live Writing the Winning Business Plan webinars at www.wyzak.com

2. Download the Business Plan Template from the website

3. Use the template to fill in your business idea

4. Submit the business plan via email to competitions@wyzak.com

Judging criteria can be found in the Terms and Conditions

Contest entry period: December 5th - 20th, 2014.

Winner would be announced on January 16th, 2015

Please read the Terms and Conditions before contesting.

Facebook: facebook.com/wyzak, Twitter: @wyzak_int, Instagram: @wyzak_interactive

For more enquiries contact us at info.wyzak.com or call +234 701 231 7518

Second is a competition for those in the agricultural sector;

We invite all aspiring and eligible entrepreneurs to participate in our 1st Agribusiness Competition titled #XmasFoodie Photo Contest. This competition aims to:

· Contribute to the development of the agriculture industry in Nigeria.

· Provide individuals with the basic understanding of various Agribusinesses and the opportunities involved in making it a good investment alternative.

· Stimulate and promote entrepreneurial initiatives.

· Encourage Nigerian entrepreneurs with several non-financial support.

GRAND PRIZE

648 Square metre plot of land at Igbesa- Agbara, Ogun State. (Close to Badagry, Lagos state.)

· C of O in-place

· Government approved layout

· Registered layout

The Theme of this contest is focused on Fish farming and Poultry production.

To Participate

1. Register and attend the Live and Interactive Agribusiness Webinars at www.wyzak.com

2. Take a photo of your ideal Xmas Meal (using any Fish or Poultry product)

3. Share your Photo on your personal Instagram page and tag your Photo with @wyzak_interactive and the hashtag #XmasFoodie or

4. Tweet with your Photo and the #XmasFoodie hashtag to the @wyzak_int handle.

Photo may be from your favourite local restaurant, fast food, bar, or your kitchen... you get the picture. Proper credit and title for all photos is also required. If you are using photos from your favourite spot or kitchen... let us know what and where it is.

The winning photo would be judged entirely on its artistic merit, popularity (likes) and adherence to contest theme.

Contest entry period: December 1st - 20th, 2014.

Winner would be announced on December 29th, 2014.

Please read the Terms and Conditions before contesting.

This Contest is supported by SENCE AGRIC and Next Dimension Properties LTD.

Facebook: facebook.com/wyzak, Twitter: @wyzak_int, Instagram: @wyzak_interactive

For more enquiries contact us at info.wyzak.com or call +234 701 231 7518

Think this is an opportunity for you? Visit the wyzak interactive website and apply ASAP!!

Cheers guys!

Entrepreneurship and universities…. #strikedanvil

Before this goes up, I can't help but pay my last respects to +myles munroe and all the lives that were lost in the crash earlier today. It's just a shocking reminder that life is short! In a flash it can all be over, just like that. What are you spending your time doing?

Last week was a very eventful week, I was fortunate to participate in the +Google Nigeria digital business managers training for three days. I met the most amazing people in the Nigerian digital sphere :-) , we were treated to good food at Protea hotel and I learnt a lot of great new stuff! Google just bought me! I am so totally bought over.

Can you spot me?

I must give credit to the source of my inspiration for this week’s show; I was looking through my timeline on Saturday evening and I came across a tweet by +Praise Fowowe , it went;

“ Final projects in our universities must become products or visible solutions” - My first reaction was na yam! lmao.

This got me thinking though; for starters I can’t really remember what my chemical engineering final year project was about, so chances that it has added any value to the economy as a product or visible solution is doubtful. This is my confession and I bet it’s pretty much true for many other students from my day, especially for technical courses.

I have a friend who’s doing his PHD at the moment, he complains bitterly about the way lecturers hoard chemicals and apparatus for projects because of lack of funding. How can anyone make a huge discovery under such conditions? Research is critical to economic development, so if there’s no funding or not enough funding, we have a long way to go.

On the other hand, I remember more about my sister’s project from Covenant University than I do about mine. It was about the aviation sector and she actually visited airlines and got real people to fill out questionnaires that we thought through together. I can’t say whether this is because of the approach at Covenant University or because it was a project in the social sciences. Whatever the case, hers had a better chance of making some form of impact.

During the Google training, I met one of the Google ambassadors from Ekiti state university (woow! Lucky guy), he mentioned that he was part of an entrepreneurship promotion group known as +Enactus - www.enactus.org. Curious to know more, I visited their site and was surprised to see that they have been around for a while and that they have activities across different campuses of the globe! Interesting! I remember  +AISEC from my day, many Aisecers turned out pretty good and every time I think about it, I wonder why I wasn’t involved (I was too busy trying to survive chemical engineering and fellowship, hehe).

Tying all of these events together i.e my stumbling on Praise Fowowe’s tweet and my encounter with an enactus ambassador, hey, who better to discuss this week’s topic than +Enactus representatives from my great Alma matter, university of Lagos! They can never fall my hand. Sorry I am biased. Also joining us via twitter are +abayomi tajudeen sarumi representing Ekiti state university live from Ekiti as well as +Olabode Emmanuel representing the not so great university of Ife (it's beef I accept).

Here are the questions to think about?

- What is your university doing to encourage entrepreneurship?

- Will you consider entrepreneurship after school, or would you rather work for that six figure salary in say Mobil for example?

- How did you choose your final year project focus/topic and why?

- Are you part of any entrepreneurship development group on campus?

- Who are the top entrepreneurs in your school? (we are not talking yahoo yahoo boys o, hehe)

Our panelists....

Orukpe Precious Joy

 Orukpe Precious Joy is also known as Presi-J. She can be described as a passionate leader with B.sc(B.ed) in view English education at the prestigious university of Lagos .She is a music minister,dancer and a leader in the Believers Loveworld Nation.She has organized several programs in which the lives of young people have been changed and these young people are imparting their world.She is a member of Enactus, and currently the Executive Secretary of +Enactus, university of Lagos.

AKPOVETA, Valentine

Orukpe Precious Joy, ventured in the world of Fashion for the passion.She is a lover of what makes you beautiful and stand-out.She was part of the organizer of the Teens on Fire initiatives,she has worked with Torera ,Joepraize ,BTC Fashion Creation and many others to mention a few.She also worked at the Lagos Fashion show (2013)as an intern.

AKPOVETA, Valentine is a Personal Effectiveness Coach/Trainer, Public Speaker, and Author.He has served severally with distinguished performance in Leadership Capacities in various Organizations and is a contributor to several Print and Web Media.

He is driven by the desire to help young people discover Purpose and make the quantum leap from Efficiency to Effectiveness by inspiring them to use Time wisely to do the Best Things in the Most Productive ways.

He does this through his books, audios, training and seminars.

His pastimes include Critical Thinking, Reading, Group Discussions, Net Surfing and Writing.

He volunteers for a few non-profit organizations, and carried out projects in slums and high need areas.

Abayomi Tajudeen Sarumi 

He is the immediate past team leader of the +Enactus group at the university of Lagos.

Abayomi Tajudeen Sarumi is a young blogger, sociopreneur, farmer in training and a project manager who prides himself as an astute netizen. He also teaches the art of writing on campus.

Over the years, he has contributed to community project development and management in Ondo and Ekiti States with focus on poverty alleviation, youth empowerment and leadership training.

He is driven by his passion to see a new nation where the youth are fully integrated into decision making processes based on merit and social value system.

He works with and volunteers for various individuals and organisations around the country on life changing projects that are not for profit making.

His hobbies include cooking, surfing the net, networking and mentoring.

Olabode Emmanuel Olawumi

Olabode Emmanuel Olawumi is a final year student of Dramatic Arts at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State. 

He his a media entrepreneur and the Founder/Creative Director/Publisher of OYA Magazine - www.oyamag.com (an entertainment and youth empowerment magazine that celebrates outstanding young achievers.

Emmanuel is a creative thinker, a strategist who is full of ideas and sees them through to fulfilment. He has worked with different brands and organisations - most especially in field of public relations.

His core values include: creativity, leadership, integrity, quality service, uniqueness and excellence.

He is currently a volunteer for the Future Awards Project 2014 and the Public Relations Officer/Social Director of his department in school.

He is first a business man, writes when he his emotional or gets infuriated at events happening around him, he loves acting but hasn't been on stage for over two years.

His biggest dream is to be the richest man in the world. How does he intend to achieve this? He says he wants to help people, brands, organisations and nations solve problems.

He loves being happy and meeting happy people.

He believes there is strength in team work.

 

We hope to have an engaging session with students calling in to give us insights on entrepreneurship activities in their schools. The numbers to call are;

0909000061, 09090000062

You can also join in on twitter with the hashtag #strikedanvil follow @eradiong! See you!

The Bodylanguage Company - Chibuzo Slim Ikonta #inthespiritofenterprise

Sometimes when you talk about entrepreneurship, people scratch their heads and wonder, what do I have that anyone would pay for? Thing is, you never know until you test it. Run a pilot of your idea and see.....

With determination and support, Chibuzo has been able to turn his passion into a business. I can't wait to share the amazing pictures of his work. I need to attend one of his classes soon. :-)

It's #inthespiritofenterprise!!

Enjoy......

Tell us about yourself

My name is Chibuzo Slim Ikonta. I am the founder, Principal Instructor and Head Choreographer of THE BODYLANGUAGE COMPANY (Nigeria).I'm also the Manager of THE BODYLANGUAGE STUDIO (Lagos).

I'm a professional dancer with knowledge of over 30-styles of dance and together with my dance partner "Anita Korra Obidi", we form Nigeria's most versatile dance couple.

I'm one of Nigeria's top Latin Dance Experts, and also, the first African to train and perform the ancient Indian dance (over 2400 years old) of ODISSI.

I am a widely trained Martial Artist majoring in Afro-Brazilian Capoeira (Professor Level), thus becoming Nigeria's highest ranked and most experienced teacher of the art (over 10 years).

I'm a graduate of the UNIVERSITY OF LAGOS with a diploma in Computer Engineering and a Bsc in Actuarial Science &Insurance...........weird huh? I know!!!

Tell us about your business

ABOUT THE BODYLANGUAGE COMPANY (BLC)

The Bodylanguage Company is home to some of Nigeria's finest dancers, performers, dance teachers, choreographers, fitness experts and martial artists with razor sharp skills and unequaled expertise in output.

We teach classes in various disciplines both at our studio, at select out stations, schools, corporate organisations, schools, churches and in private homes.

We also put up performances and presentations at various events, thereby making the occasion a more lively one. E.g's: end of year parties, stage productions, corporate functions, weddings, birthday parties, dinners, galas, fashion shows, product activation(flash mobs) etc

We also run periodic workshops and productions that are mostly spearheaded by myself.

I like to believe I'm mostly a better teacher than a performer and hence, The Bodylanguage Company is responsible for teaching/preparing various children, youth and adults for competitions, presentations, wedding first-dances etc.

Last Year, I was the stage choreographer for the X-factor Nigeria; Season1.

Basically, business comes in various forms, some of which is subject to time and season.

What was your Inspiration for this business?

My inspiration began with a pure love for movement. Movement in every graceful or powerful form. Sports, yoga, dance, martial arts, driving, clouds etc Coupled with a strong ear for rhythm, dance seemed like the obvious angle. I would find rhythm and movement potential in every situation. Thanks to my dad, as early as age 8, I was already in love with classical jazz and Latin rhythms. Also, I wanted to learn couple dancing before I was 10.

Jez don't go and say you want to try this at home! Don't try yasef!

As life, skill, experience and reality accrued to me, I began to desire taking my art beyond just a passionate weapon that made me stand out from a crowd. I started to desire teaching, building, creating and fine tuning people and situations with my art.

Honestly, I know my inspiration came from God, because I'm most inspired when I speak to Him......and listen to His voice.

I want to be a world class performer.
I wish to be an internationally renowned teacher & choreographer.
I want to create a ton of wealth with my art.

How did you get funding for the business?

I first began teaching in schools, clubs, gyms and private residences. Then, I was able to begin periodic workshops where I taught large numbers of kids for a few weeks at a time, after which their parents would be invited in to witness their progress under my tutelage.

Reports were good.
I got more students.....I grew.....I saved money.

About a year later, I opened up THE BODYLANGUAGE STUDIO (Ilupeju).

The rest is history.

How will you summarize the journey so far?

The journey so far......hmmmm.......fun, yes, also one big adventure.
From critics, to friends, to fake friends, to supporters, to hopeful sponsors, to fans, to food etc...lol

It's really been one continuous learning process. One that every step of the way I keep getting reminded that my young business is still fully dependent on my personal performance.

In layman's terms;

When I'm on point, my business is on point.
When I'm dull, my business is dull.

What are the main challenges you have faced so far and how have you managed them?

One of the major challenges I've faced so far is landing a sponsor for one of my events. One reason for this is because I'm still a relatively new business with monumental dreams. Another could be the obvious difficulty in landing an actual "financial sponsor".

This year, I faced another challenge. Due to the ebola virus mini crisis, my studio business suffered a mild dry spell due to the fact that at least 50-60% of my students (at THE BODYLANGUAGE STUDIO) are children.

Nigeria has been declared Ebola free.

Thank God!

What is your long term vision for the business?

I intend to create an army of world class dancers, dance teachers, choreographers, fitness experts and martial artists.

I want BODYLANGUAGE to be The Standard by which every other dance, fitness or wellness organisation (in Nigeria and beyond) will be measured.

I wish to empower professionals that will put Nigeria on the world map, as a source and provider of internationally recognized (and respected) method, skill and knowledge.

I want to my company to be the major contributor to the revolutionary process that has already begun in the dance and fitness industry.
No more will dancers be looked at at jobless people with no bright futrue.

By becoming successfully established (and yet highly skilled) members of the entertainment industry, members of THE BODYLANGUAGE COMPANY will serve as examples to upcoming entrepreneurs who intend to venture into similar fields of expertise.

THE BODULANGUAGE COMPANY is an Industry builder!

Given the chance will you do this again?

Hell yeah!
Given the chance ten times over, I'd do it again every time.

Infact, I'll begin earlier, and do it better!

https://www.facebook.com/slimandanita
https://www.facebook.com/TheBodylanguageStudio
https://www.facebook.com/TheWeddingChoreographers

Connect with Slim via these channels;
IG: @slim.blc
@bodylanguageng
Twitter: @slim_blc
@bodylanguageng

30 Metres Resources - Omotoyosi Bibiire Salihu #inthespiritofenterprise

Hi Guys, +Tuoyo Ikomi  and +Gbubemi Atimomo formed and Itsekiri alliance and concluded on the show that Human Resource Management and Marketing are both as important skills as the other for entrepreneurs to have! As hard as Kenny and I tried, we didn't quite bring the house down. hehe. Thanks for tuning in and please tune in again next Tuesday. If you haven't downloaded the app please look for the enterprise radio Nigeria app on google playstore, blackberry appstore or in your IOs appstore.

How many of you have noticed that getting drivers, house keepers etc has become a nightmare lately? My Dad has been trying to get on for so long now with no luck. So there is a need here, non? Yea, that's what Toyosi saw and this is why she decided to set up 30 Metres resources. She's our #inthespiritofenterprise feature today. Read all about her.

Enjoy........

Tell us about yourself

My name is Omotoyosi Bibiire Salihu, founder 30 Metres Resources. I have an LLB, B.L degree from Olabisi Onabanjo University. I am passionate about service excellence and delivery.

Tell us about your business
30meters Resources is a Domestic Recruitment company sourcing for Drivers, Nannies, Housekeepers etc.

Our Mission is to provide peace of mind for our Clients so they can do other meaningful work. With a vision to revolutionize the "Omodo" Sector and show people it is a profession like any other.

I'd been nursing this idea for a while, I finally summoned the courage and took the plunge on the 1st day of September 2014 when I placed the First Driver with a Client.We currently operate from my Living room which doubles as the Lagos Arm of our Law Firm. Most of our transactions are done online until we have agreed on terms and conditions. 

What was your Inspiration for this business? 

We have left the business of people catering to our Families for too long with charlatans. The downside is we get House helps and Drivers with myriad of issues ranging from theft to kidnapping.

It is time to dignify people who take care of our homes so we can concentrate on our businesses and professions. Our slogan is saying "No to Modern say Slavery".

Whether we agree or not, our Domestic Staff are like a life wire (I know this!), that's why we need dependable hands.

The people that bring in Helps from Cotonou 7 out of 10 times do not pay the Helps. Their salary is shared between them and their Parents, nothing goes to the Help.

It is time for a mindset change, it is time to treat Hired helps as Human Beings.

How did you get funding for the business?

I started the business mainly with funds from my Savings. I previously worked as the Station Manager of Rainbow 94.1 FM and I knew one day I had to do recruitment services. I just was not sure what sector to recruit in. 

I was in charge of recruiting as Station Manager, I had experience to work with.

How will you summarize the journey so far?
Domestic Recruitment is very challenging. The Staff themselves need a mindset change same as their bosses.

The Staff already have a set opinion of people they would work for; the Bosses already think they are worthless people. The Circle is a vicious one.

It will take time to balance these preconceived notions. This is more from the Bosses, an Oga thinks nothing of it to begin to curse his Driver or even sleep with/rape his maid.

The Driver/Maid also thinks nothing of it to rob the Oga at a given opportunity. I have had cases like this.

Also, we have no Laws safeguarding the rights of Domestic Staff, the Labor Law touching on it is so ridiculously worded.

In other climes, Domestic workers have unions, they have minimum wages etc. They have a structure to cushion them.

In Nigeria, citing an example ; As a personal driver in the employ of Chief Lagbaja, there is no chance for growth, no promotions, so the Driver must be paid well so he can cater to his own needs.

How would you measure your success in achieving your goals so far?

We have barely began to scratch the surface. The scope of what we are challenging frightens me, but it is doable and we are at least going to try.

How have you impacted your community?

A lot of our Youth are not employed, a lot are unemployable. A lot are involved in Get rich quick schemes. If you look around, you will find casino like kiosks all around, Alcohol intake is also on the rise....All of these suggests idle youth.

So Job creation is a first. We started out with people in our Community giving them first choice. Most of them see Domestic jobs as demeaning and below thier station. Our impact is to make them see that sometimes these Jobs can drive you to do better, they can be a means to an end.

Our impact is minute now, but we have started.

What are the main challenges you have faced so far and how have you managed them?

One of the main challenges of the business as I mentioned earlier is the Mindset of both employer and employee. We try to go to the Home of the Employer to find out how if our Staff is okay, regular communication is important.

Another one is the help running away, I haven't experienced this because we drum it into the Help's ears that working as Maid is not slavery.

If you cannot work with a person, let us know,do not run away.

The rest are trade secrets. We cannot divulge for security reasons.

What are the main opportunities that you have been able to leverage to get where you are today?

My Law Degree is very helpful here, I have 6 years cognate experience practicing Law.

I had a show on Radio called the Law and You, I usually would get Lawyers to speak on a broad spectrum of issues, this has also helped me carve out a mission statement with which to work by.

I am also a Mother, I know exactly how it feels to have Maids and Drivers so I am in a position to recruit.

Given the chance will you do this again?

Domestic Recruitment is very Interesting, I would do it again because I absolutely love it and it does not bore me.

What advice will you give to other entrepreneurs looking to launch

Research, Research, Be Realistic and Be Passionate

Connect with us

Email - 30metres@gmail.com

Call- 2348034770177, 2348081872113

Entrepreneurial Skills: HCM Vs Marketing #strikedanvil

Hello fam! Thanks for listening in last week and connecting with us on twitter.Many of you agree that Matilda rocked the house! I hope you followed the learning points from the show and have at least downloaded tape a talk for that next meeting? Before somebody will come and deny you. No stories o!

Meanwhile, we are still eagerly waiting for our first caller on the show :-) Come on now! Infact, we are so eager that we have a gift for that first caller! Yes. Er... but don't come with a "Ghana-must-go-bag" to redeem the gift, it's really just a token to say, we appreciate your support. We are super like that, hehe. In case you didn't know the numbers, here they are in in bold blue!

+2349090000061, +2349090000062

Strike the anvil duo, hehe

This week, we are bringing two experts neck to neck (They'll try to act all modest and say they're not, lol!! we all know they are forming sha). It's going to be a war between the pro marketing entrepreneur type people and the pro Human Capital Management type people.

Before we get to that, what are your thoughts on this? Based on your experience, what skill do you think is most critical for an entrepreneur's success? Is it better for him/her to be strong on the marketing side or on the Human Capital Management/HR side?

Gbubemi Atimomo (Y'all remember that my friend that knows everybody in the whole world? Yea, that's him), is a Human Resource & Business professional, with proven ability in assessing organizational needs, whilst developing and implementing HR initiatives. He has worked with senior management to integrate the HR function within the overall business strategy. He recently completed his MSc in Entrepreneurship & Innovation programme at Essex Business School, UK (oh, I forgot to mention, he's an efiko too).
He'll be joining us via skype from his base #repping the pro-HCM entrepreneurs.

Tuoyo Ikimi is the CEO of Mugen communications and marketing concepts as well as total vibes entertainment and production company. He is also a managing partner of applied media outdoor, Nigeria.

He has been in business for the past 15 years. Some of his successes include the first charity concert involving all musicians and comedians and fashion designers tagged "All 4 Luv", The Caring Heart Award, in honor of.General Buba Maruwa to name a few.

His company is focused on delivering marketing campaigns for product and services wanting to stand out. They apply Media and mobile content, Talkshows, Reality shows, and all manner of entertainment programs tailored to achieve corporate goals. He will be #repping the pro-marketing entrepreneurs.

Who will you be rooting for?! Join us tomorrow, Tuesday 28th October at 9am, west african time...... You can follow us and comment on twitter too @eradiong don't forget to use the hashtag #strikedanvil.

Cheers guys.

Special Effects makeup artist - Dorothy Emem Kwofie

Dorothea Kwofie Born Dorothy Emem Kwofie, is an actress cum special effects makeup artist. She's quite creative and daring, delving into the whirl pool of creativity to bring out the most intriguing for that Wow effect in special effects makeup. 

She's moved to change the way special effects make up is done in the Movie industry here in Nigeria and has worked on the movie sets of Secret Room, Last 3 digits, B for Boy, Not Right, I Think he loves me, same difference, days without Rain, to mention a few.

Below is a video of her, transforming a woman to a man with makeup. Please visit the link and like the video. Thanks in advance :-) 

Click this link for the video - video

Below are some pictures of her work;

Hposh Diaries...... What do you see when you look at yourself?

Source: http://tntyouth.org/2010/04/20/what-do-you-see/

When I look at myself, I look at a once upon a time naïve, stubborn, stupid, rudderless, motionless boy who is growing to be a man of vision, mission, purpose and destiny.

I see myself as one who has not only passed through life but has let life pass through him.

I see myself, as the boy who at one time wanted to be an Aeronautic Engineer, later a Pilot, then a Mechanical Engineer. At another point, he wanted to be a Writer, later he felt his calling was Acting. Time flew, he discovered he has a ministry in business. He streamlined all his goals into one, 'To Become The Richest Man in the World.'

I see myself as the guy next door who wants to use all his talent to solve problems for individuals, brands, companies, organisations, countries.

I see myself as the guy who wants to put smiles on the faces of people.

I see myself as the guy who wants to inspire others to purse their dreams regardless of the challenges they face and not minding who doesn't believe in them.

I see myself as the guy who wants to make all of his dreams come true.

I see myself as the guy who creates jobs and opportunities for people.

I see myself as the guy who despite being human, solely depends on God for his strength.

I see myself as the guy his parents sent to churches and pastors for deliverance sessions and special prayers when he told them he wanted to pursue a course in Dramatic Arts after writing Post JAMB to study Mechanical Engineering in OAU.

I see myself as the guy some people turned their backs on and called unserious when he left the Sciences for the Arts.

I see myself as the guy people have called names and have told will never have good grades because he hardly attends classes and doesn't write notes.

I see myself as the guy who has been ridiculed by people he trusted.

I see myself as the guy who despite being told that when he graduates, he can't get a good job because he's studying Dramatic Arts build a brand from the scratch with little or nothing.

I see myself as the guy whom some people have believed; those who have refused to join the group of people who no longer pick my calls or return my texts or read their BBM messages and refuse to reply because they know I'm about to beg them for money (again).

I see myself as the guy who has spent countless nights studying , learning and working towards fulfilling his dreams.

I see myself as the guy who once was called very ugly and not 'my type' now becoming the person people invite to speak at their events, give VIP tickets and want to take pictures with.

I see myself as having the best mentors in life - those who stand there even when, everyone disown you.

I see myself as the guy who has grandeur ideas but doesn't have a dime to make things move.

I see myself as the guy who lives off his friends, wears their clothes, wears their shoes, uses their perfumes, owes them money but still hopes that one day he'll be able to pay them back in a good way.

I see myself as the guy who is in debt but who has imaginary millions of dollars and pounds.

I see myself as the guy who prays daily to God to help him be there for everyone who has been there for him when he needed them.

I see myself as the guy who has been blessed by many wonderful women who make his life beautiful and his career successful.

I see myself as the guy who is grateful for the things he have, for the people he have and for everything he will still have.

I see myself as the guy who is gonna give up on nay-sayers and pass the buck to God and let him take charge from here.

I see myself as the stone the builders once rejected who is becoming the head corner stone.

I see myself as the next richest man in the world.

Above all...

I see myself breaking limits...

What do you see when you look at yourself?

SNEPCo LiveWIRE Nigeria Programme 2014

A friend sent this to me. I think you might find this useful too if you qualify.....

Hurry! It closes on Thursday, 30th of this month

All the best!

SNEPCo LiveWIRE Nigeria Programme 2014

Applications are ongoing for the SNEPCo LiveWIRE Nigeria Programme 2014 for Lagos State. The programme is however not limited to the state alone as it encompasses the whole nation. Interested and qualified applicants should follow the guidelines below to register and apply.

About the Program

The Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo) and her co-ventures announces the commencement of the 2014 SNEPCo LiveWIRE Nigeria Programme for Lagos State.

SNEPCo LiveWIRE Nigeria Programme is a youth enterprise development programme which aims to inspire, encourage and support young people aged 18-35 to start up their own businesses through the provision of finance and training for young entrepreneurs.

SNEPCo LiveWIRE Nigeria Programme 2014

Objectives

• Enable youths to establish businesses through provision of business planning and management guidelines and skills through the Become a Successful Owner Manager Course.
• Run awards for candidates with the best business plans. The award provides access to micro-credit facilities, through third parties like banks, NGOs and allied financial institutions.
• Provide a volunteer monitoring programme for those who have completed the training course and decide to pursue starting their own business

Programme Content

• Bright Ideas and Becoming a Successful Business Owner
• Manager workshops
• Business Awareness Forum
• Young Business Leaders Awards
• Business Incubation and support services
• Business Information and Enquiry Service

Applications are invited from

• Male and female applicants from any part of the country aged between 18-35years
• Male and female applicants resident in Lagos state
• Male and female applicants with desire to establish or have existing business in Lagos state
• Male and female applicants with an innovative business idea
• Male and female applicants with higher education

Duration for Application

Thursday October 23rd – Thursday October 30th 2014.

Interested and qualified candidates should fill an application form at

http://www.livewire-nigeria.org/home/application-form