Bellafricana published in Life Style March 12, 2021

10 African-Hair Braiding Styles

Hair braiding has long been a tradition in the Black community as well as a bonding experience between mothers, sisters and cousins. Braiding takes time and it often hurts, but the end result is worth it. African braiding styles are very unique and creative. They can be styled in various ways, you can experiment with different colours without the commitment of dying your own hair.

Braids can be styled with headbands, barrettes, turbans and so on. Below you will find 10 different types of braids worn by African-American women and Africans all over the world.

Braids will help protect your hair from the environment and help you forget about hair styling for months while looking fabulous. Fashion Designers such as Rachel Zoe, Rebecca Minkoff, Kenneth Cole have incorporated African braiding styles to their fashion campaigns. Braids are in and are here to stay. Here are 10 African hair braiding styles that will turn heads. These types of braids are popular and will turn heads every time you rock them.

Types of Braids

1. Havana Twists

Havana Twists are very unique and stylish African hair braiding styles; guaranteed to turn heads.

2. Micro / Mini Braids

Micro / mini braids are tiny, single braids usually braided half-way and leaving the rest of the hair. It can be done with either natural or synthetic hair.

3. Box / Janet Braids

Box braids are amongst the trendiest summer hairstyles. It is boho chic and very stylish.

4. French Braids

French braids are some of the most popular braid types. This braiding style involves weaving small pieces of hair on top of the main braid, which lays close to the scalp. The final result very sophisticated

5. Cornrows

Cornrows are very popular. They are small, tight braids that line up against the scalp. Cornrow braids can be very creative. Releasing cornrows after a day or two results in exceptionally curly hair.

10 African-Hair Braiding Styles - Cornrows

6. Herringbone / Fish Braids

Herringbone braids are thin, layered braids that use lots of small intertwined pieces of hair. These braids are named “herringbone braids” because the braid resembles the skeleton of a fish.

7. Dutch Braids

Dutch braids are similar to French braids but this style tends to be looser and more relaxed-looking than a French braid.

8. Fishtail Braids

Fishtail braids are similar to Herringbone braids but a lot looser.

9. Lace Braids

Lace braids are simple braids that crown the head of the wearer in a half-moon shape, like a tiara.

10. Yarn Braids

Yarn braids are exactly what the name implies—braids, made out of yarn.

I have tried many of these African hair braiding styles for different occasions and I love them. Adding braids to any hair style add interest and create a boho chic look which I love for the summertime. For a more edgy look, go bigger and messier. I also wear braids as a Protective hairstyle. They last for months and helps with length retention. Try these styles and you will not be disappointed. What are your types of braids? My favourite types of braids are Micro Braids styles.

Sources: lovetoknow, stylonica, naturallylonya, Micro Braids styles

Bellafricana published in Life Style January 22, 2021

Love Eating And Drinking in Lagos? Try These Restaurants In Lagos Mainland

We’ve tried and tested some very good restaurants in Lagos mainland for the very best cuts of steak, snacks, continental and local dishes. Here are the results of some fine yummy eateries in the heart of Lagos.

Labule Restaurant

Labule means ‘in the village’ in Yoruba language. Have you ever been so tired to cook your native food? Labule Restaurant is the place to visit because they serve basically local dishes. The whole concept of this restaurant is for you to eat that Iya Basira food but in a traditional contemporary setting. On the menu you will see recipes ranging from Amala and Ewedu, Ewa Agoyin, Pap and Akara, Beans and Bread, Kunu and Zobo drink just to mention a few. It is the best place to get posh local food. They offer delivery services to neighboring areas such as Ogudu, Ojota, Anthony, Ilupeju, Maryland and Ikeja.

They are open every day from 9AM – 9PM

Labule Restaurant is located at 42a Ogudu Road, Ogudu GRA, Lagos.

Customers can call in for orders on 0809 142 4457. Their food is ON POINT! I have eaten there times without number.

Yellow Chilli Restaurant and Bar

Yellow Chilli is a trendy restaurant in the heart of Ikeja. The restaurant offers Nigerian delicious and ethnic with an extensive range of gourmet meals and local spicy foods such as pepper soup, spicy stewed snails, seafood Okra and Prawn made with fresh ingredients with lots of herbs. Their Jollof Fiesta is a delectable dish to die for. Ordering is easy, as guests are given menus to order and there are waiters waiting to get your orders.

Visit: Yellow Chilli

Opens 12:00 pm to midnight (Everyday).

Location: 35, Joel Ogunaike Street, Ikeja, Lagos.

Browns Cafe & Restaurant

If you are looking for a reason why food scene in Lagos Mainland is one of the most exciting things in Lagos, you should visit Brown’s Café and Restaurant. The restaurant is popularly known as “Browns” and it is noted for its breakfast menu called ‘Naija Breakfast’ and Browns Platter. Browns foods and drinks are freshly prepared with flavourful ingredients. They serve a variety of Nigerian dishes and gourmet delight.

Visit: Browns Cafe and Restaurant

Opens 9.00am to 10.00pm everyday

Location: 15 Oduduwa Crescent, Ikeja GRA.

Rhapsody’s

Dinning at Rhapsody’s is an event because of its beautiful setting, classic interior, comfortable atmosphere and thoughtfully prepared foods. The restaurant offers a la carte selections and you can unleash your appetite with a multi-course feast with salads and appetizers. You should try their signature dish – Chicken Espetada, grilled deboned chicken thighs skewered with spicy jalapenos and chilli sauce topped with garlic butter. This restaurant will sate your appetite with their delicious meals.

Visit: Rhapsody’s

Location: Address: Ikeja City Mall, 176/194 Obafemi Awolowo way, Alausa Ikeja, Lagos

Bheerhugz

Have you seen a cafe that is always lively at all time of the day? Bheerhugz Cafe it is. This cafe is always active with lots of happy people. At Bheerhugz Cafe you will find variety of tasty meals such as chicken soup, pork grills, peppered snails and Nigerian delicacies. They also store exotic list of imported wines and cocktails.

Bheerhugz is located at upper floor of Ikeja City Mall, Alausa.

Rodizzio

When you visit Rodizzio, you catch a glimpse of Nigerian food scene and how delicious they can be when you taste them. Rodizzio is known for their signature meals – Jambalaya rice, unlimited BBQ and platters. You can choose from a wide range of meals, including seafood and desserts. The buffet menu is simply the best of the bunch.

Visit: Rodizzio

Location: 29, Isaac John Street, G.R.A. Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria OR Call: +234 701 000 8000 , +234 703 030 1548 +234 703 004 4414

Domino’s Pizza

Domino Pizza serves delicious pizza in Ikeja. The restaurant offers a broad dine-in menu as well as take-away menu, you can easily order for pizza and have it delivered in your home. Their menu is one of the great dinning deals you can ever find around Lagos mainland, featuring a variety or Pizzas with flavourable sauce. You can also order for their Garlic Bread Sticks, Chicken wings and spicy Chicken Kickers. The restaurant is always bubbling because people can not do without their Domino’s pizza.

Domino’s Pizza is location at Joel Ogunnaike Street, G.R.A., Ikeja

Opens Sun-Wed: 9am-10pm; Thur: 10am-12midnight; Fri & Sat: 9am-12midnight

La Mango

La Mango takes pleasure in its various local and continental menu. On the menu you will see food from around the world from our indigenous delicacies, American burgers to Malaysian Fried Rice. Eat lunch or dinner at La Mango and you will always remember the experience . You get to enjoy delicious meal in a great serenity.

La Mango Restaurant and Bar is perfectly situated at 3a Adekunle Fajuyi Way, off (and very near to) Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, GRA, Ikeja.

It has adequate parking both inside the premises and outside.

You can mail them at [email protected] or [email protected] or Call 0808 264 6670

Pool Terrace

The beauty of this restaurant can make you get filled. Pool Terrace Restaurant and Bar gives you this blend of music, food and fun. They deliver excellent food in a sparkling environment. All you need do to enjoy a yummy delicacies, is to sit and order from the menu a la carte. I bet you will surely have a nice time with their live music.

Pool Terrace is located at Sheraton Lagos Hotel, 30 Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, Airport Rd · Ikeja, Lagos ·

Telephone : (+234) (1) 28100100

Do you agree with the choices? Lets hear your experience. Tell us about those cool restaurants in Lagos, email [email protected]

Source : www.travelstart.com.ng

Bellafricana published in People & Culture December 14, 2020

Cute African Names And Their Meaning

In Western cultures, we tend to choose names that are perhaps historical, or have been passed down in our families, or represent characters we loved in pieces of literature. But in many African cultures, parents choose names for their children with very strong, complex meanings. Here are 10 totally amazing African names you’ll want to name your children.

Azubuike

This is a name you’ll find a lot in the Igbo language of Western Africa. It means “the past is your strength” or “unity, the past is your strength” implying the generations that came in this family before this baby have built up strength for the baby.

Tendaj

Your baby could grow up to be a great entrepreneur if you give him or her this name. Tendaji means “makes things happen” in Swahili.

Ebele

If you like the name “Bell” or “Bella” but want something more unique, you can get the same sound from this name, but with a very cool meaning: Ebele means “mercy” and “kindness” and is from the Igbo language. –

Katlego

This name is from the Twsana language, spoken in southern Africa. It means “success,” which is probably something you thought when you finally finished hours of labour — but also you can pass on good luck and success to your baby.

Monifa

If you want to steer away from Monica but like some of the sounds, Monifa has a wonderful meaning: it means “I am lucky.” The name comes from the Yoruba culture of southwestern Nigeria and Benin.

Nkiruka

It can be shortened to just “Nki” (pronounced Nikki) as a nickname. It means “the best is still to come” or “the future is bright” in the Igbo language.

Nneka

If you want to remind your child to pay his or her mother respect, name him or her Nneka which means “my mother is supreme” in Igbo.

Omolara

If you’ve been estranged from your family, or perhaps were put up for adoption as a child and have been looking to build your own family, you’ll love the name Omolara. It means “a child is family” in the Yoruba culture.

Sekai

Sekai comes from the Shona people living in Zimbabwe and Mozambique. The name means “be humorous.”

Tamrat

You could call your child “Tammy” for short. The name Tamrat comes from Amharic, a Semitic language spoken in Ethiopia. It means “Miracle.”

Source: afkinsider.com

Bellafricana published in Tour Packages June 25, 2020

Amazing Places to Visit in Abuja

Abuja is the capital city of Nigeria, which is located in its center. Building Abuja according to plan started in the 1980s. It officially became Nigeria’s capital on 12th December 1991, replacing Lagos, which is regarded as its commercial capital and its most populous city.

Abuja’s identity is conspicuously defined by Aso Rock, a 400-metre tall monolith left by water-erosion. Some other interesting attractions in the city are the National Ecumenical Centre, the National Mosque, the Zuma Rock, the IBB Golf Course with wonderful shopping centres, restaurants and fun clubs around the city. The other areas of the city extend to the south of the rock. Abuja is known for being the best purpose-built city in Africa as well as being one of the wealthiest and most expensive.

Here are the five amazing places every tourist needs to visit in Abuja. With a lot of activities happening in the capital city, these five might seem like the ones with some serenity, and if you enjoy nature and would love to escape the hullaboo often associated with urban areas in the country, you might find these five places in Abuja very interesting.

Millennium Park, Abuja

It is the largest public park in Abuja and is within the Maitama District of the city. It is located close to the nucleus of the presidential and administrative buildings in the city.

A river in its main rectilinear axis divides the park into two sides.

One side of the park is dedicated to its uncontaminated nature. With a system of terraces at different levels are located Nigeria’s mountain vegetation, savanna, deciduous forest, rain forest and brushwood as well as greenhouses for butterflies and tropical birds.

On the other side, corresponding to the main entrance from the road, is dedicated to the scientific knowledge of the natural environment. This part of the park has a very traditional and rigid Italian style garden layout. A rectilinear path completely paved with Roman white travertine brings the public into its green areas. A series of fountains run alongside this white path refreshing the public during the hottest days. This park, conceived and designed by the Italian architect, Manfredi Nicoletti, has quickly become one of the main attractions of the city of Abuja bringing thousands of people together each day.

National Children’s Park and Zoo

The National Children’s Park and Zoo is located in Asokoro District behind the Presidential Villa. It sits under the shadow of nearby Aso Rock. For animal lovers, there is plenty of wildlife to admire here, with attractions including camels, crocodiles, elephants, giraffes, monkeys, ostriches, tortoises, wild cats and zebras.

Domestic animals are also housed in the zoo, making it a great attraction for younger children too. In fact, playgrounds and other fun activities for kids along ‘Toddler’s Lane’ make this an ideal place to while away an afternoon or enjoy a picnic.

The Lake Cafe is also close by should you require a hot snack or a freshly made milkshake. It is opened daily from 9 am to 6 pm. Admission to this park requires some fee.

Abuja Arts and Craft Village

Arts and Craft Village lies at the heart of the city, flanked on either sides by magnificent monuments – Shehu Musa Yar’adua Centre on the right and Silverbird Entertainment Centre on the left.

With the Sheraton Hotel as a backdrop for the Art and Craft Village, it presents you the opportunity to see and buy some of Nigeria’s art and craft works that represent the country’s culture.

The shops are thatch-roofed huts with walls made from red earth (clay). From little sculpted ‘warrior and horse’ statuettes, beaded necklaces and bracelets, African traditional masks, traditional leather bags, tie & dye (Adire) clothes to mention a few, you’ll find this a safe shopping spot for local arts and crafts.

If you are a fan of wooden and bronze sculptures and leather artifacts, you will love it. Food and drink stalls are also available.

National Arboretum Abuja

Adjoining the mini-park located at the National Park along the Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport Expressway, Abuja.

The arboretum was established to play significant roles in conservation of genetic resources for research, educational, medicinal and other scientific purposes.

Comfortable concrete seats have been provided within the arboretum for visitors’ relaxation, meditation and quiet study of the environment.

The purpose of the Arboretum is to maintain the forest and other plant life within it in their original natural condition. Birdwatchers can check out different species of birds within the city.

Pedam Lake

You may have lived in Abuja for decades without a hint that this lake exists. But it is massive. It lies behind the Presidential Villa, sprawling towards Nassarawa State.

It is not well developed for tourism but is accessible through the Abuja Park and Zoo or through some other less known routes from Udoma Street in Aso Rock.

Source: connectnigeria.com

Bellafricana published in bellafricana, Events May 8, 2020

Bellafricana Launches New Platform To Help Creative Business Owners Bounce Back Faster From The Crisis

Trailing the blows from the Coronavirus Disease (Covid-19) on creative businesses in Nigeria, Bellafricana has created a platform that would serve as a resource tool and a growth-driver for creative business owners. It is no news that creative business owners are the lifeline of economic development, as non-oil exports must get as much support as possible.

Bellafricana is the community-based organisation that has been empowering, motivating,connecting and supporting creative African business owners for over four years. The company has created a membership portal (the first of its kind in West Africa) to give creative businesses access to tools, guides, directories, masterclasses, among others.

The platform is bid to help creative business owners reduce costs via sealed partnerships and increase revenue via access to diverse market channels such as exhibitions, retailers, and lots more.

The Bellafricana membership platform is set to be launched on the 11th of May, 2020 and would be preceded by a series of talks from industry experts, Bellafricana beneficiaries and a ‘Virtual Launch Party’.

The platform is targeted to onboard over 1000 creative business owners in 6 months and become a pan-African household name in less than 3 years.

Creatives can sign up by visiting the Bellafricana website and navigating to the membership tab to have hands-on experience by themselves. Bellafricana has so far impacted over 250 creative business owners positively even in time of challenges. The organization is well-known for organising the prestigious annual “ACE Awards”.

On the launch of the new platform, Bukky Asehinde, founder of Bellafricana says: “We are looking at building a platform where business owners can see themselves as collaborators, rather than competitors. We are working assiduously to be the beacon of hope to creativity and helping business owners in Nigeria, and Africa at large.”

Bellafricana published in africa, Arts & Crafts, bellafricana, Fashion, Textiles January 21, 2020

Meet The Founder Of Sisi Aladire Enterprises (SAE)

If you’re African, (Nigerian especially) then the word “Adire” is a familiar name to you. In this interview, we had a conversation with a Bellafricana Verified Member, Sisi Aladire, whose Brand has long become a Household name in the world of Adire.

Meet Ms Olubunmi Davies of Sisi Aladire Enterprises (SAE).

Read on to learn about how the amazing Sisi Aladire Enterprises was born, goals for the nearest future, and many more.

Please introduce yourself

I am S. M. Olubunmi Davies (Ms), a retired Architect and the founder/Chief Executive Officer of Sisi Aladire Enterprises(SAE). As a daughter of a diplomat, I went to school in 5 countries.

I actually wanted to be a broadcaster, but a friend of my father, told me to study Architecture. I am a member of Neca’s Network of Entrepreneurial Women (NNEW), an organization that has taught me a lot about being an entrepreneur.

I live and work in Lagos.

Tell us about your work. How did Sisi Aladire Enterprises start?

I started Sisi Aladire Enterprises about 30 years ago.

I really do not remember why I started but I remember talking to late Mrs Okuboyejo (Betti-O) about buying and selling Adire fabrics. I spent a weekend in her house, creating different patterns on plain fabrics. I would go to Abeokuta to buy some Adire to sell to family and friends.

When Betti-O found out the quantity of Adire I was going to buy in Abeokuta, she told me to buy at Tejuosho market because the difference in price was little. The first product made by SAE, is the Yemisi bag, a tote bag which was an improved version of an Ankara bag, given to me by Ms Yemisi Ransome-Kuti.

I got tailors to make outfits for me with Adire which people liked. Orders were made and SAE started making ready to wear garments.

*Picture of the Yemisi Bag, as held by Prof. Judith Byfields*

How did you come about the name and what does it mean?

I liked Aladire, but there was already a business with that name, so I added “Sisi” to the “Aladire”.

What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?

To be truthful, I did not know that there was a niche in the market. I liked the idea of selling Adire and got started.

In the 1980s, I do not believe most people did market research before starting a business.

Where do you get the inspiration for your products?

Initially, I made outfits or garments that I liked, but after some time, people asked for what they wanted.

At times, I adapt styles that I see on people or in magazines.

Can you remember one of the first products you made?

Like I said Earlier, the first product was the tote bag named after Ms Yemisi Ransome-Kuti. Although it has been modified over the years, it is still a popular product of SAE.

What are some of the challenges you face in your business?

I did not do any research before I started my business, because I did not know I was suppose to do so, therefore, issues like funding and structure were not considered at the beginning.

Now, I am working with some consultants on creating a structure for the business.

Tailors, especially good ones are not easy to get. Work ethics is also an issue with tailors.

Do you have any regrets venturing into this line of business?

No, I do not have any regret venturing into this business. Although I wish I knew some of the things I know now when I started.

What is your most popular product?

It is difficult to say. At times, I get orders for kaftans, wrap round skirts, tops or bags. However, I believe I have sold more tote bags than any other product.

To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian (African) heritage for your work?

Adire is a product of a traditional industry, but we are adapting it to suit contemporary life style.

What are some of your short term and long term goals, both in your business and life in general?

My short term goal for SAE, is to make it very successful, financially, while making Adire fabric, the preferred fabric of choice.

The long term goal, is to have a massive factory with about 10 thousand workers, producing garments, bags, accessories and many other products with Adire fabrics.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

Most people are usually surprised when I tell them that I am an Architect.

What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this Industry?

I think I will like to be a painter.

If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?

Anyone who wants to start a business, any business, must be steadfast, have a positive mindset and be ready for setbacks.

Connect with Ms Buunmi Davies on Instagram @sisialadire. Otherwise, you can reach her on +2348023343453

Follow us on Instagram @bell_africana for more amazing creative indigenous brands, and to fine out more about the beauty of Africa.

Bellafricana published in Entrepreneurship January 19, 2020

5 Books Every Entrepreneur Should Read

It’s a known fact that Entrepreneurs have to cultivate the habit of reading, here are 5 books every entrepreneur should read.⁣ You will agree with me that reading is important to everyone. Well except, those who are content with remaining in the same spot forever.

Joseph Addison says :“Reading does to the mind what exercise does to the body”

If you’re an Entrepreneur or with an entrepreneurial mindset, you must have read a couple of books that have proved invaluable to you and your business.⁣

Haven’t started reading any books and don’t know where to start? Or you need to add more to your stash?

I would be glad to suggest a couple of books that come recommended (and written) by renowned Business strategists and successful Entrepreneurs.

PS: This List is not Exhaustive. Feel Free to add to the list.

Let’s get to it…

1. Lost and Founder by Rand Fishkin

This book will help you see why keeping your existing customers satisfied is a very important obligation to fulfill, before you consider expanding. It also shows the “not so rosy” side of starting up, and venture Capitalism. If you’re afraid of the truth, don’t read this book.

5 books every entrepreneur should read, Lost and Founder by Rand Fishkin — Lost and Founder by Rand Fishkin

⁣2. Rework by Jason Fried and Heinemeier Hansson

This book emphasizes the importance of Time management, Spending less time on competition, and being flexible with set plans.

5 books every entrepreneur should read,Rework by Jason Fried a must read book — Rework by Jason Fried a must read book

3. The 7 habits of Highly Effective People

This book just had to be on the List. It’s a self improvement book that helps you develop qualities that can help you build better relationships, and grow your business exponentially.

5 books every entrepreneur should read, the 7 habits of highly effective people read book — The 7 habits of highly effective people read book

⁣
4. The Culture Blue Print by Robert Richman⁣

This book is a systematic guide to how a workplace can help people grow, inspire amazing service, and ultimately drive revenue through amazing culture.

5 books every entrepreneur should read, The culture blue print book to read — The culture blue print book to read

5. Leadership and Self- Deception by the Arbinger Institute.⁣

This book captures you by using an entertaining story about an executive facing challenges at work and at home to expose the precise psychological processes that conceal true motivations, intentions and trap you in a “box” of endless self-justification.

Leadership and self deception book to read

⁣
Did you find these books useful? Have you read any of these books? What other impactful book would you recommend for Entrepreneurs or Startups? ⁣Please share in the comment section below.

Images source: Amazon & Microsoft Bing

Bellafricana published in Fashion, Gift Items, People & Culture December 3, 2019

The Ethnik by Tunde Owolabi UTU Bag Collection

Introducing the Ethnik by Tunde Owolabi UTU Bag Collection😍. UTU is a Swahili concept of humanity, goodness, sharing, caring and togetherness.

As human beings, we cannot live in isolation (“I am who I am because of who we are”- Ubuntu).

As Africans, we are all connected, by continent, race, skin, even our diversity.. UTU includes the entire humanity, if we are all good to each other, the world will be a better place. No one’s an island, we need each other to survive.

Over the years, Ethnik by Tunde Owolabi has been known to create its pieces from inspiration with different cultures. After 2 years of research and intrigue by the MAASAI Culture, they have created one of a kind pieces which has brought together an intricate part of the MAASAI culture and the YORUBA culture.

The women worked with their designs and made them extra special with their expertise. Together, they created beautiful timeless pieces, THE UTU COLLECTION.

To GRAB YOURS now before it’s SOLD out, click here

See some of the beautiful collections below;

To GRAB YOURS now before it’s SOLD out, click here

Bellafricana published in Fashion November 25, 2019

Meet The Founder Of Detail Africa (Exclusive Interview)

Detail Africa is the newest addition to the Bellafricana Verified Family, and I am very excited to be introducing this amazing brand to you. Keep reading to meet the Founder, Seromume Ikogho, as he speaks with Jessica of Bellafricana.

Please introduce yourself and your background.

My mane is Seromume Ikogho. I studied accounting at Covenant University. I am a chartered accountant and business consultant, with over three years’ business consulting experience serving small and medium businesses as well as multinationals.

Tell us about your work. How did Detail Africa start?

I observed the unpopularity of men carrying proper leather work bags when I got a personal work bag from Dubai about three years ago. It made me think that there was a gap in the market for the product, so I went around to the market and noticed that quality men’s leather bags were either great quality but too expensive or low quality and affordable.

I wanted to bridge this gap and put Africa on the global scale in terms of fashion, especially regarding men’s leather bags and other leather accessories. Since commencement of production in 2017, we have increased our product lines from work and travel bags to include wallets, pouches, portfolios and other leather accessories.

How did you come about the name and what does it mean?

I have always been very particular about attention to detail. It’s a guiding principle I follow in all my work. I wanted to build a brand that would be an extension of my personality, hence I came up with the name ‘Detail’.

Furthermore, I have always seen Africa as my primary market and not Nigeria. So, I decided to include that in the brand name to remind us of our ideals, embrace diversity and inclusion, and drive us to conquer the continent.

What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?

Our niche is men’s leather bags. As mentioned earlier, I observed the unpopularity of men carrying proper leather work bags when I got a personal work bag from Dubai about three years ago. It made me think that there was a gap in the market for the product, so I went around to the market and noticed that quality men’s leather bags were either great quality but too expensive or low quality and affordable. I wanted to bridge this gap and put Africa on the global scale in terms of fashion, especially regarding men’s leather bags and other leather accessories.

Where do you get the inspiration for your products?

I constantly try to understand the lifestyle of our target market. I take time to talk to people in order to know what they need in a bag and what inspires them. I’m also a big fan of western brands such as Carl Friedrik and Frank Clegg.

Can you remember one of the first products you made? What makes it memorable?

Yes, I remember the first product we made. It was the Naju briefcase. It is memorable because it was named after my dad. He constantly encourages and inspires me to do better and be better.

What are some of the challenges you face in your business?

The journey has been exciting and depressing at the same time. Everyday has been a new opportunity to learn and improve. Entrepreneurship is difficult but entrepreneurship in Nigeria is even more difficult because of the infrastructural deficit. It is a herculean task trying to maintain great brand reputation when the surrounding environment is not an enabling one and many artisans are on survival mode. However, we have been able to learn on the job and come out on top.

Do you have any regrets venturing into this line of business?

Not at all.

What is your most popular product?

Our Detail Signature Bag.

To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian (African) heritage for your work?

We promote Africa through our ideals and branding and also have plans to release a new collection before summer 2020 where we will infuse a lot of African designs, prints and accessories.

What are some of your short term and long term goals, both in your business and life in general?

Our medium term vision is to establish presence in at least four countries in Africa, as well as three countries outside Africa, and also, invest in backward integration/leather tanning by 2025. Our long term vision is to significantly change the narrative surrounding the Nigeria leather industry and its value chain on a continental and global level.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I used to rap in university lol

What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this Industry?

Management consulting

If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?

Don’t start ‘small’, start ‘lean’

And finally, please share images of some of your work and tell us a little about each product.

The Tourman Travel bag: Simple yet stylish, the tourman is designed for a casual getaway or a business trip. Featuring a detachable strap, single main compartment and extra frontal compartment for smaller items.

The backpack: Designed for the contemporary professional, the backpack perfectly fits a laptop up to 14inches, especially for the individuals that don’t like to carry a typical business bag.

The Fome Briefcase: As people of diversity and inclusion, the female briefcase is our pioneer product that seeks to support the contemporary woman in her journey towards greater success.

And that is it from here, for more details about the brand, check out their listing page here.

Picture sourced from: Bags and Briefcases Archives | Detail Africa

Bellafricana published in Articles November 22, 2019

Aliko Dangote Shares His Top 10 Secret To Success

Aliko Dangote is a Nigerian billionaire, who owns the Dangote Group, his company operates in Nigeria and other African countries. As of January 2015, he had an estimated net worth of US$18.6 billion.

On this blog post, you get to learn some of his top 10 secrets as compiled by Evans Carmicheal. Keep reading to learn;

1. Listen to people; Aliko Dangote said, “to be a good leader, you have to be a good listener. I can remember when I was in primary school, I would go and buy cartons of sweets [sugar boxes] and I would start selling them just to make money. I was so interested in business, even at that time and people saw it too.”

2. Be consistent; The Dangote Group was established as a small trading firm in 1977. Today, it is a multi-trillion naira conglomerate. Every business has a hiccups but that doesn’t mean it wouldn’t succeed.

3. Possess the right informations; You need to have adequate information at your finger tips to make the right decisions. The Dangote Group has moved from being a trading company to being the largest industrial group in Nigeria and includes: Dangote Sugar Refinery, Dangote Cement, and Dangote Flour because of information.

4. Be focused; Dangote Group with its dominance in the sugar market and refinery business is the main supplier (70% of the market) to the country’s soft drinks companies, breweries and confectioners has remained consistency and focused.

5. Think ahead; Never stay comfortable, stay ahead. Dangote Sugar Refinery is the largest refinery in Africa and the third largest in the world, producing 800,000 tonnes of sugar annually.

6. Have a vision; You need to have a vision and a mission to be able to actualize what’s in your mind.

7. Do only things you understand; He has diversified into telecommunications, and has started building 14,000 kilometres of fibre optic cables to supply the whole of Nigeria. As a result, he was honoured in January 2009 as the leading provider of employment in the Nigerian construction industry.

8. Think Big; Dangote was awarded Nigeria’s second highest honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger. It’s never too late to reach for the top.

9. Form strategic plans; In May 2015 Dangote expressed interest in purchasing the English football team Arsenal. He stated that if he was able to make the purchase he would fire the club’s long-standing manager Arsene Wenger.

10. Your name is your most valuable asset; He’s ranked by Forbes magazine as the 67th richest person in the world, and the richest in Africa.

And that’s it for this blog post, I hope you enjoyed reading this.

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