Meet The Founders Archives - Page 3 of 4

MaryBarbara published in Exclusive Interviews, Meet The Founders December 10, 2021

Meet the Founder of Yasmin Crafts [Exclusive Interview]

I had the utmost pleasure of meeting this beautiful soul during the ACE Awards 2021, where she won the category for the best home & lifestyle brand. I was beyond awed at her graciousness, humility and positivity that she radiated at every point. Hence why I am honoured and thrilled to meet the Founder of Yasmin Crafts in this exclusive interview.

Hamsatu Aliyu-Afegbua – Founder of Yasmin Crafts

*To know more about the products, simply click on the images*

With no further ado, let’s meet the Founder of Yasmin Crafts for an exclusive interview.

Please Introduce yourself and your background.

My name is Hamsatu Aliyu-Afegbua and I’m an architect and hand-crafter. By the grace of God, I juggle 2 businesses: Eden Signature Limited, an Architectural and Interior design firm as well as Yasmin Crafts Limited which is my handicrafts business. Both of them are situated in Abuja, Nigeria. I am a graduate of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria with an M.Sc in Architecture. I also hold a certificate in Entrepreneurship Management under the EDC, from Lagos Business School.

Tell us about your work. How did your company start?

We produce handcrafted products in the form of furniture, home decor and multi-purpose baskets. We use locally available raw materials to create these products. The brand Yasmin Crafts was born to satisfy the need for a custom crafts provider that could give better quality handcrafted products in Abuja.

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

“Yasmin” is my proposed first daughter’s name. The “crafts” I derived from the general term “handicrafts” which is the term used to describe our niche.

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

My niche is Handicrafts. Known by some as Arts and Crafts. Living in Abuja for over 2 decades, I came to realise there was no craft maker who could skillfully add on accessories like real leather, fabric, logos, and art on products to enhance them. Most of the attempts to customise crafts, that I saw by the roadside or in the local markets did not turn out looking too good. One day, I decided to buy the basket from the market and then, customise it to my taste. It turned out great and everybody asked me where I bought the customised basket from.

The rest is history. 3 years down the line, here we are 😊. I started out with baskets and decor and within a year into the business, we had begun furniture production.

*The Lidded Laundry hamper with removable liner is available in 5 different colors including natural, you can tuck this hamper away in a corner of your bed or bath room and keep those clothes off the floor.*

*These stunning natural wicker planters are a nice way to add interior plants into your home. They come with bottoms designed to drain water away from the plant pot you intend to place inside the basket. Great for both real and faux plants.*

Where do you get inspiration for your products?

From my imagination and from observing the needs in the market. I sketch ideas down and develop them. I also draw inspiration from nature.

Another source of inspiration is listening to feedback from our customers, especially negative feedback. We take the feedback and examine our way of doing things as a business. We change what we can and fix what we can’t.

I tell my entire team that here at Yasmin Crafts, customer service is not just one department, it is all of us. Working as a team and sharing feedback has helped us grow as a business.

Natural Lani trunk

*Giving gifts are an essential part of life and relationships. The packaging container is what will be seen first, so make it a memorable time for the person who is receiving it. This trunk is a classy woven gift box that you can be proud of placing your luxury gifts in.*

*With the high quality interior lining be ready to wow your recipients and make a great impression. You can’t go wrong with this as your choice of container when it comes to gifting. The best part is, the gift recipient can use the trunk as an extra storage, extra seating to give another gift or even as a decorative piece afterwards!*

Can you remember one of the first products you made?

Yes. It is a 2 tone coiled raffia basket that I made to store my small jewellery pieces in. I was just learning how to weave at the time, and I had to push myself to try and finish it. I’m very proud of that basket.

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

Lack of funds to expand our production. Buying large scale woodworking equipment and conducting more research on product development.

Do you have any regrets about venturing into this business?

Not at all.

What is your most popular product?

Our Aisha set of 3 multi-purpose baskets is one of our best sellers. This is because they can serve a multitude of purposes like storage, home organisation, home decor and gifting purposes.

Aisha baskets are available in 2 designs: a Plain basket with no fabric lining and our fabric lined baskets.

*Customised Aisha storage baskets. These gorgeously lined baskets can serve a wide variety of purposes. They come in 3 different fabric lining as pictures unless you say otherwise. There is a touch of Ankara to symbolise Africa.*

Top uses among our customers for these baskets include:

Making a set of gift hampers with each basket.
Decluttering table tops.
Storing small items.
Displaying products for sale at a store.
Using them as a tray for serving snacks.
Hanging them as a wall decor basket.
Styling a shelf or console.

These baskets are dry use only, please note.

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

We spice things up with touches of popular Nigerian cultural items like sewing beadwork on the handles of our baskets. We also make use of African fabrics to customise our baskets, decor and furniture.

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

Short term, we hope to be able to invest in large scale woodworking machinery and power tools that will help scale up production and cater for the time demands of our customers. Handcrafting is a slow process, having the right machinery speeds things up.

In the long run, we hope to expand our sales and grow the naira through large scale exports. Promoting quality African crafts all over the world is another long term goal we hope to achieve through expanding our locations.

For my goal in life, I’ll say I hope to be recorded in the history books as the founder of a premium Nigerian lifestyle brand that created employment for millions of women We currently employ a majority of women in our workforce and we intend to keep it that way.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I do some of the metal and carpentry work at Yasmin Crafts.

*This handy piece of furniture helps you save space. With varying sizes of storage baskets, you can organise and display products or decor items on these ladder shelf. Ladder shelves makes for an eye catching display and are great for small spaces where you need a tall storage option. Available in 3 colors: Dark brown, Black and White.*

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

I would be in the building profession, which I am already privileged to have been doing long before I founded Yasmin Crafts.

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

Learn the skill of crafting if you can. Knowing how to make your own products or some of them, is definitely an added advantage.

Take your failures as a part of the success to come. It may take a lot of time, and you will have to be committed and disciplined to be able to launch and sustain a business in hand-crafting.

It has been an absolute pleasure having this exclusive interview and getting to meet the Founder of Yasmin Crafts.

To connect with Yasmin Crafts, you can follow and contact her via:

Instagram: yasmincrafts

WhatsApp: +234 901 0909 292

Office Address: Suite 15, Okanga plaza, Idris Gidado Street, Wuye, Abuja. (Open Mondays to Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm).

Jemimah Iwok published in Entrepreneurship, Gift Items, Meet The Founders March 28, 2020

Lessons learned from Mrs Achenyo Idachaba, founder Mitimeth Nigeria

It is interesting to note that businesses exist, who have managed to sprout amidst the creativity drought in today’s African business space. One of such businesses is Mitimeth (a Bellafricana member), founded by Mrs Achenyo Idachaba.

Thanks to her initiative, an invasive water weed (known as the Water Hyacinth) which obstructed water ways, depleted water nutrients, thereby reducing the population of fish (and by extension, the livelihood of fishermen) found use in a much more sustainable, eco-friendly way.

This “Eco-preneur” (Achenyo) has been featured on CNN, and her TED talk has garnered over a million views.

After reading the full story here, I thought of so many lessons and I wanted to share some of them with you:

1. Perspective is Everything

After reading her story, one word came to mind: Perspective.Thanks to my Boss, this one word is something I doubt I’ll ever forget.Where others saw a menace, Achenyo saw a business opportunity. This reminds me of a quote by Alphonse Karr :“We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorns have roses.”

Sometimes, a positive outlook on a seemingly threatening problem is all the boost we need to turn things around for the better.

2. Passion first, reward later.

I’m quite certain that we’ve reached that point in our careers/ businesses/ lives that the only thing stopping us from just packing up and leaving, is that 7-letter word.

Passion is that burning fire that should never be extinguished.This is because, when all else fails, it is the one thing that stands the test of time.

This makes me want to go back and do a thorough self assessment. What made me start this in the first place? If the monetary reward were eliminated, would I still be motivated to do it?

3. Add Value

Today, Mitimeth has empowered over 400 people with skills to provide them with daily sustenance, and hopes to do more.

While we might not be in the position to achieve similar feats, we can apply this in our business dealings with our customers (both prospective and current). John C Maxwell says : “Adding Value to others is the best way to add value to yourself”.

4. Enjoy the Process

These days, people appear to be focused on the end result, and rightly so. I mean, why start up anything if you don’t have the end goal in mind. Right?

However, understanding that the journey is a very integral part of the destination will help us live in the moment, thereby refueling that zest that will take us to the end.

I hope to let these four points be my guiding principles henceforth. Will you do the same?

Bellafricana published in Articles, Exclusive Interviews, Furnitures, Home & Living, Meet The Founders, September 24, 2019

Meet The Founder Of Ile Ila #Exclusive Interview

Hey there!

It’s been a minute. I just checked the date of my last published article and I myself was wowed! But hey! Let’s leave the past in the past shall we?

I was opportune to have an exclusive interview with the founder of an amazingly awesome furniture design brand called Ilé Ilà. The fist time I came across the brand was during the Bellafricana ACE Awards 2018 in Lagos, Nigeria, and I can remember just standing and staring at these sets of beautiful furniture made with Aso Oke. They were so colorful, looked very comfortable and all I could say to myself was, ”Oh wow, this is art!”

This interview gave me more insight to what this brands stands for, why they do what they do, and some of the challenges they face as a business. I hope you enjoy this as much as I did. Ladies and Gentlemen, I introduce to you, Tosin Oshinowo, Founder and Creative Director of Ile Ila.

Please introduce yourself and your background

My name is Tosin Oshinowo. I am an Architect and run a design practice in Lagos, Nigeria called cmDesign Atelier. I am also a product designer and run a lifestyle furniture line called Ile Ila.

Tell us about your work. How did Ile Ila start?

Ile Ila, is a lifestyle furniture line designed and hand-made in Lagos, Nigeria. The brand design period-conscious furniture with a contemporary African content.

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

Ilé-Ilà, means House of Lines in Yoruba,

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

Our business is focused on accent chairs and ottomans. we really focused on the celebration and capsulation of Culture.

Where do you get the inspiration for your products?

We get our inspiration from everything around us. In particular we have a thing for color and textures and there is so much variety with Aso Oke.

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

One of the first chairs I made is still in my home. It’s an assortment of purple and lilac Aso Oke. It is really is one of the reasons who I got into the idea of color combination.

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

Biggest challenge has been scaling up of production due to capital costs of the carpentry machinery. Currently, production is slow due to the machinery available, if we can scale up we can reduce time and reduce production cost and pass this saving on the our customers.

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

Not at all. Because I have stayed in the realm of design and creativity both businesses feed off each other.

What is your most popular product?

It’s interesting but difficult to answer. different demographics like different things. All the chairs have done well but i can almost guess peoples preference if I know their background or gender. In terms of sales the Alaafia did exceptionally well.

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

We are all products of our experiences and exposures and it is this combination that is reflected in my work.

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

We really want to push international sales. right now it’s expensive to export and this pushes up the price. short term we want to add more furniture lines to the brand.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I don’t know how to tie gele….. and I hardly wear Aso Oke.

What profession would you be in if you weren’t in the Furniture Design industry?

I probably would have been a visual artist.

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

Make sure you get your business properly registered and engage the services of an accountant from the start and make sure you pay your tax.

And finally, Here are some more images of pieces by Ilé-Ilà

Connect with Tosin on Instagram @ile.ila or send an email to [email protected] or you can call, 08023789728.

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 Exclusive Interviews, Meet The Founders September 15, 2019

Meet The Creative Director and Co-Founder Of D-Dee Bags (Exclusive Interview)

D-Dee Bags 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 Co-Founder and Creative Director, Denike Ogunsola, as she speaks with Beatrice Miangogo of Bellafricana.

Please introduce yourself and your background.

Hi, my name is Denike Ogunsola, I co-own and manage D-Dee Bags, I have a B.A in Accounting from Temple University and a Masters Degree in International Business, I worked in business consulting before joining the manufacturing business. I enjoy operations management and creating processes but running D-Dee has helped hone my creative side.

Tell us about your work. How did D-Dee Bags start?

D-Dee is a family owned manufacturing business, started in 2001. We run a Bag, Footwear and Accessories manufacturing facility that produces for several brands, one of which is D-Dee Bags. It was founded by my mother Ayo Damola, who is still very much involved with the business. She was a pioneer in using tote bags as souvenirs when she first started the business. Since then we have evolved into producing a wide range of products in large quantity as a B2B company, For Corporate Gifts, Souvenirs, Brand Merchandise and Private Labelling.

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

D-Dee is a nick name that just stuck.

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

Our niche is in medium to large scale production of custom designed products, there was a market for a company that could bring custom designs to life and produce in large quantity, we are able to do this because of the expertise and set up we have.

Where do you get the inspiration for your products?

Sometimes inspiration comes from basic everyday living, but very often one person in our team gets an idea, and then we all come together to build on it until we come up with a great product. In the end, each product we come up with must be functional using quality materials.

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

Since I joined the business, I would say its been products other than bags, like our Boxes, because people expect us to always make bags, there’s always a pleasant reaction when we produce other unique items.

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

We face the same issues majority of businesses in Nigeria face; high overhead costs, staffing issues and sourcing of adequate materials.

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

No, even with the challenging moments. It is a very rewarding experience when you are creating something, the process from design to final product makes it worthwhile.

What is your most popular product?

Our Tote Bags, in various iterations are our most popular item, but fast becoming popular are other novelty items made with Adire or Ankara.

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

We try to infuse our Nigerian heritage in the materials we use, and in certain design styles.

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

We have long term plans to extend our manufacturing services to other kinds of products, in addition we have two new in-house brands we are about to launch, the first one is LORE (@lore.designs)- a leather accessory line.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

Because I’m naturally an introvert, most people are always surprised to see me in work mode, let’s just say I run a tight ship, lol. I prefer certain standards and can be quite determined to get it .

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

Business 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?

Build your business with people who have technical skills and share your vision

To find out more about D-Dee Bags, check out their listing page here. (Click Here)

Bellafricana published in Fashion, Gift Items, Meet The Founders, Textiles August 5, 2019

The Adire Inspired Brands You Should Know

Here are some Adire inspired brands you should know. At Bellafricana, not only are we consciously focused on the growth and success of our members, we are also creating an enabling community where they can cooperate, collaborate and thrive.

Adire textile as you may already know, pronounced as Ah-DEE-reh is an age old indigo die textile indigenous to the Yoruba tribe of the Southwestern Nigeria.

This textile is rich in beauty and culture as much a

s it has a rich history. Some have claimed that the diverse history originated centuries ago before it was then adopted. You should click here to read the culled history written.

Meet Bibire Fawehinmi, founder Asologe (click image to go to brand page)

Asologe is inspired by various kinds of fabric designs, mostly Adire and the designers love for unique prints that portray the African culture accurately, while giving her designs an urban edge.

Meet Jadesola Rawa founder Melia by Jade, adire inspired brands (click image to go to brand page)

Melia by Jade is a clothing brand in Nigeria that started about a year ago. The brand uses Adire, Tie & Dye, Kampala, Batik to design contemporary outfits such as shorts, jackets, playsuits, cape dresses, pants etc for the modern day, every day woman.

Meet Cynthia Okochu, founder Adire Lounge (click image to go to brand page)

The Adire lounge Textile Company has a mission of creating prosperity for African women, youths and their families. They achieve prosperity by creating unique, hand crafted products such as fabrics, scarves, tshirts and more of the highest quality.

For the love of adire, have these products below;

What really is this Bellafricana about? Bellafricana is the leading platform that empowers, supports and provides creative Indigenous Businesses with a platform to showcase their business and connect to their global consumers looking to patronise and trade with them.

Need quality creative products, think bellafricana!

What is your Mission: To Make Finding Quality Indigenous Businesses Easier.

But Why: We noticed a vast increase in the number of unique quality creative products made in Nigeria (Africa) but noticed a huge gap between local creative Indigenous Entrepreneurs and consumers.

Hence, we created this platform to bridge that gap. What better way than through online, which gives it a global opportunity.

Click here to Learn more about how to grow Your Unique Indigenous Business with Bellafricana

Bellafricana published in Articles, bellafricana, Exclusive Interviews, Health & Beauty, Meet The Founders June 25, 2019

Meet The Founder Of Ovelly Naturals – Exclusive Interview

In this exclusive interview, I had the privilege to learn about the brain behind Ovelly Naturals, and how she started an amazing natural skin care brand here in Nigeria, that caters for the African Skin and protects it from dangerous chemicals. Olubukola birthed her business while on a quest for safe and non-toxic skin care products.

Bellafricana published in Fashion, Meet The Founders, Textiles May 20, 2019

Meet The Founder Of Asologe Fashion House

One part of my job I love the most, is being able to connect with amazing entrepreneurs and founders of unique, Afrocentric and indigenous brands. It is truly an honor to be able to hear their stories directly from them, as they take you through the journey of why they started, how they started, and how far they have come.

Today’s interview feature is about an amazing young lady, who founded the Asologe Fashion House. AFH produces uniquely designed hand-dyes Adire fabrics that give your outfit a contemporary edge. Read our interesting conversation below. I know you will enjoy it.

Please introduce yourself and your background

HI…… My name is Bibire Fawehinmi, from the famous “Fawehinmi” family in Ondo town of Ondo west local government, Ondo state. Born into a family of a High court judge and an entrepreneur (fabric seller) with 2 siblings; an elder sister and a younger brother.

Lived all my childhood and teen years in Ondo with my parents. I studied Mathematics Education in the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University, ile-ife in Osun state where I finished with an upper class.

Tell us about your work. How did Asologe Fashion House start?

I am a full time African print manufacturer and seller. Asologe Fashion House is a brand name I coined from my love for fabrics in general, maybe because I was born into it. I had always dreamed of owning one of the most luxurious fabric stores. Asologe which means ‘CLOTH IS FASHION’ simply explains itself.

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

I love to call my business, Asologe, for a short………asides my love for prints, I got to know more about Adire while in camp in 2017 in Akwa Ibom during the one-week SAED training (smiles). My very first teacher goes by the name Pst Abiodun, then after the camp, I redeployed to Lagos but that didn’t stop me from learning more, I had a one month training with my teacher via WhatsApp. YouTube too was(is) a great teacher too.

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

With this little knowledge from my boss, I started and I can boldly say that sustained me for more than 8months in the business. Later, I would go through some pages on Instagram and keep wondering how they dyed a particular design, then i knew I was obsolete and I needed new (fresh) knowledge and that was when I furthered and had another one month training with my boss 2 at Surulere, here in Lagos state.

Where do you get the inspiration for your products?

For me, I get my inspiration from some kind of fabric I see around (Ankara) and I’m always like, we can replicate something like this on our Adire and that’s it.

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

My very first client asides (families and friends) was (is) a Nigerian in the London. He purchased 100yards of Adire, which now, I will say are very basic Adire (smiles) and he paid me 70% before I started the work. Upon completion, the remaining was paid before I took to NAAN at ikeja. For me, that was a great way to start and part of what keeps me going.

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

Hmmm, challenges though, for me, the first will be sourcing for fabric and getting them at the needed time. Sudden increase in amount of dyes and chemicals. Also, man-power, because the higher you go, the more hands needed, which I will say are not so willing and ready…………….

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

But still, I don’t have any regrets venturing into this business at. All………

What is your most popular product?

Hmmmm, most popular product, I can’t say because all product has its season and time. January, we might have more sales from Adire lace……. Next month might just be hundreds of scarfs………

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

I believe all dreams are valid and I see Asologe becoming a household business name with proper and operational manufacturing systems in play. I just don’t want to have dyeing pit. I want to have a manufacturing plant where we can manufacture our dyes and chemicals, workers that are ready and totally in sync with the company’s vision.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I cherish family so much and for that, one of my goal is to keep my family as the priority above all.

What profession would you be in if you weren’t in the Fashion industry?

I am a big lover and die-hard fan of bread (smiles)…….and I hope to have a mini bakery someday. For profession, I can’t think of any really……… but maybe an investment banker.

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

My first advice will be, ensure you have an extra stream of income. Be ready to meet an entirely new people. Be patient.

Bellafricana published in Meet The Founders November 15, 2017

Meet Itoro Okon “The Jeweler” | Exclusive Interview

In the year 2015, Bellafricana digest started the exclusive interviews section to give you a close insight to the beautiful minds behind the brands on our platform. The first day this was launched, Bellafricana founder, Bukky Asehinde, was opportuned to interview this young, artistic and talented young lady called Itoro Okon.

Itoro is a Geologist turned jewelry designer. She has a great personality, very smart and straight to the point. She is one of the Nigerian born talents doing great things in the economy.

Q & A

Please introduce yourself and your background.

My name is Itoro Okon and I am a jewelry Designer based in Lagos, Nigeria. I studied Geology but have a passion for crafts.

Please tell us about your work.

I craft unique and artistic jewelry pieces with the use of semi precious stones, crystals, corals and a variety of materials. Each craft is inspired by short stories

How did Jewelry by Itoro Okon start?

It started as a hobby and slowly transitioned into a business.

Where do your ideas for jewelry come from? Where do you find the inspiration for your jewelry designs?

I gather my inspiration from nature, culture, people and precious stones that inhabit the earth.

Can you remember one of the first things you crafted? What makes it memorable?

It was a strand of red faux pearls and crystals. I never took a picture of it but I remember it so vividly. It’s just one thing that you never forget so soon, it’s a representation of where I started from.

How long does it take to design and make a particular work?

It depends on the style of the pieces, but on average it takes about 15 hours.

Can you explain a bit about your techniques to make jewellery?

I mix different techniques together to come up with very unique pieces. I love experimenting.

What are the challenges you face in business?

Apart from the usual traffic in Lagos, light situation and poor logistics, getting reliable and trustworthy workers.

What is your most popular item (including a photo would be great)? My most popular item is the piece called ‘sincerely, Josephine).

Itoro Okon Josephine jewelry — Sincerely, Josephine Jewelry By Itoro Okon

What are your goals for the future, both work wise and life?

My goal is to be the number one creative jewelry brand in Nigeria.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I studied Geology but now have a passion for crafts.

For someone who wishes to take up this kind of career, what kind of advice would you give them? Also, if you could give one piece of advice to youths who want to start their own company, what would it be?

You have to be passionate about what you are doing. It requires a lot of patience and perseverance. Have a mentor and ask questions, a lot of question. Never ever give up on a design you have in mind. Be unique and let your work speak for itself.

And finally, I would like to give you this opportunity to share two to four images of your work and tell us a little about each.

aurora jewelry by Itoro Okon — Aurora Jewelry By Itoro Okon

aranha jewelry by Itoro Okon — Aranha Jewelry By Itoro Okon

Firduasi jewelry by Itoro OkonFirduasi jewelry by Itoro Okon — Firduasi Jewelry By Itoro Okon

garden of hope jewelry by Itoro Okon — Garden of Hope Jewelry By Itoro Okon

You must agree with me that not only is Itoro Okon talented, but her beauty reflects in her work.

To reach Itoro;

Email her on : [email protected]

Look up her website at: www.itorookon.com

Bellafricana published in Meet The Founders July 12, 2017

Meet The Founder of Ethnikologie | Exclusive Interview

Ethnikologie CEO, founder of the African arts and craft store has a lot to inspire us with. Have you always had a passion to do something but always take a step back thinking maybe it’s not the best path for you?

You need to meet the founder of Ethnikologie, Titiloye Ashamu who’s passion has led to the creation of her amazing business in arts and crafts.

Let’s meet her now and take a note or two from her. Come on!

Q & A

Please introduce yourself and your background.

My name is Titiloye Ashamu. I am the Creative Director of Ethnikologie (NIG) LTD.

Please tell us about your work. How did Ethnikologie start?

I source for African handicraft gift and home products and implement new designs.

I have always had a passion and keen interest in arts and craft. Prior to opening Ethnikologie, I provided customs made arts and craft pieces for my clients. However, it was one of my friends that encouraged me to start Ethnikologie. Her mum had a similar shop, in Nairobi, and they both convinced me to follow my dreams.

Where did the idea for Ethnikologie come from? Where do you find the inspiration for your designs?

The idea for Ethnikologie came from my friend’s mother’s NGO and visiting various handicraft shows. Being a creative person who is always open to fresh ideas, I am inspired by everything around me. Most inspiring are things that make me think deeply.

Can you remember one of the first things you crafted? What makes it memorable?

I have crafted a number of things but the most memorable one, will have to be a mini clay pot. I was amazed when someone offered to buy it as a gift!

How long does it take to design and make a particular work?

Designing could take from a day to weeks. It depends on what you are designing. On the average, I would say about a week.

What are the challenges you face in business?

Artisans producing quality products, finance and Nigerian customs

What is your most popular item (include image)?

Storage and decorative baskets.

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

The African culture represents beauty and vibrant colors. I love to be surrounded real authentic handmade pieces, that beautifies the home and express abundance.

What are your goals for the future, both work wise and life?

Be a channel of trade between local artisans and the global marketplace. We are also looking at training sessions with artisans, on how to produce global quality standard and reduce errors.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

That I am an easy going person

For someone who wishes to take up this kind of career, what kind of advice would you give them? Also, if you could give one piece of advice to youths who want to start their own company, what would it be?

Start with something that really excites you and don’t be discouraged when things don’t turn out right on your first try. Be flexible because you have the opportunity to learn and change things.

My advice to youths, interested in starting their own company is to research and understand the industry. Draw your inspiration from creative people who are transparent about their creative process.

Check out some of Ethnikologie products below;

Thanks a lot Titiloye for your beautiful response. We are always proud to see people growing a business passionately.

We hope to join you in your journey as a successful business owner.

Here’s a LINK to Ethnikologie’s page as a verified lister on Bellafricana

Bellafricana published in Meet The Founders July 5, 2017

Meet The Founder of African Things | Exclusive Interview

I haven’t met this talented lady just yet but after speaking to her, I can already tell you how cool she is. A creative mind with a company that promotes African designs and culture in our everyday lifestyle called African Things. A graduate of the University of Nottingham with a BEng (Hons) in Product Design and Manufacture. Her name is Tosin Lawal. Let’s meet her.

Q & A

Please introduce yourself and your background.

I, Tosin Lawson, am a graduate of the University of Nottingham with a BEng (Hons) in Product Design and Manufacture. Coming up with new designs, whether it’s a new logo or a new product is what I live for. Every time I am out with friends or family, I am constantly observing my surroundings and getting new inspiration for new designs and solutions especially to empower Africans. My aim is to produce creative designs that contribute to make the world an easier and more enjoyable place. With my background in Product design I am able to be more creative and find new ways to improve the current designs that we have available; see some of my product designs on tossysibi.wix.com/tlawson-designs.

Please tell us about your work. How did African things start?

The reason I started African Things was to promote African designs and culture in everyday lifestyle. After schooling abroad and seeing how foreigners saw Africans; as poor and backward, I was very inspired when I returned home and saw that Nigerian fashion design especially in the area of accessories was beginning to boom. But I felt I could push the business further to international standards and include lifestyle items such as plates, household furniture and home accessories.

Where did the idea for African things come from? Where do you find the inspiration for your designs?

We take our inspiration from “Africa of the old”. Our African culture is rich in tradition, colour and excitement, but due to westernisation young people are rapidly losing touch with Africa, especially in their lifestyles. We want to modernize Africa, specifically the way the western world sees us. With African Things customers can feel connect with their roots by using our products such as backpacks, jewellery and more in their everyday lives without feeling embarrassed to say it’s African.

Can you remember one of the first things you crafted? What makes it memorable?

A pair of Ankara earrings, I remember I took an Ankara making class and one of the first things I made was an Ankara earring. I was so proud of how they came out; they were neat and looked professionally done. Wore them none stop for a week.

What are the challenges you face in business?

Quality control and logistics are the major challenges for African Things. Production in Nigeria has not been up to international standards but we are looking in to international production companies to outsource production and hopefully in a few years to develop a relationship where those companies may establish partner factories in Nigeria. In doing so they would also bring their skills and experiences to the youth of the country.

What is your most popular item ?

Backpacks

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

African heritage is at the root of our designs. The whole aim of African Things is to promote the African culture not just Nigeria’s culture. We have taken inspiration from Ghana, South African Even Kenya. We hope to someday sell across Africa and have our products unite the countries in Africa.

What are your goals for the future, both work wise and life?

My most important goal is to be happy and make a positive impact in the world. To know that my life made a difference to somebody’s life is my ultimate goal.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I love movies and the beach.

For someone who wishes to take up this kind of career, what kind of advice would you give them? Also, if you could give one piece of advice to youths who want to start their own company, what would it be?

Stay positive; don’t just make excuses make solutions.

And finally, I would like to give you this opportunity to share two to four images of your work and tell us a little about each.

This was one of the first bags I ever designed. I was so proud of how it came out in the end. It was the stepping stone to future things. It was a mono-strap bag that could also carry a laptop.

Dela Bag

The name ‘Dela bag’ was inspired by Nelson Mandela as it was finally produced around the time he died. The Dela bag was the bag that made people finally take me seriously. It was amazingly well done and looked expensive even though it did not ever cost more than N10,000. Right now it even cost N7,000. This bag taught me so much about business and myself and continues to motivate me to push the limits of my creativity.

Here goes another Nigerian talent doing great things. Well done Tosin, I am so excited to meet vibrant artisans like you that have a vision and are chasing that vision. I pray by Gods grace you will be successful in all your doings. Can’t wait to open your shop on Bellafricana marketplace.

Thanks Tosin for participating in Bellafricana’s Exclusive Interviews!

Wish you the very best in your business and look forward to partnering with you soon.

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Please Introduce yourself and your background.

Tell us about your work. How did your company start?

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

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

Where do you get inspiration for your products?

Can you remember one of the first products you made?

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

Do you have any regrets about venturing into this business?

What is your most popular product?

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

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

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

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

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

1. Perspective is Everything

2. Passion first, reward later.

3. Add Value

4. Enjoy the Process

Q & A

How did Jewelry by Itoro Okon start?

Q & A

Please introduce yourself and your background.

Please tell us about your work. How did Ethnikologie start?

Where did the idea for Ethnikologie come from? Where do you find the inspiration for your designs?

Can you remember one of the first things you crafted? What makes it memorable?

How long does it take to design and make a particular work?

What are the challenges you face in business?

What is your most popular item (include image)?

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

What are your goals for the future, both work wise and life?

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

For someone who wishes to take up this kind of career, what kind of advice would you give them? Also, if you could give one piece of advice to youths who want to start their own company, what would it be?

Check out some of Ethnikologie products below;

Q & A

Please introduce yourself and your background.

Please tell us about your work. How did African things start?

Where did the idea for African things come from? Where do you find the inspiration for your designs?

Can you remember one of the first things you crafted? What makes it memorable?

What are the challenges you face in business?

What is your most popular item ?

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

What are your goals for the future, both work wise and life?

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

For someone who wishes to take up this kind of career, what kind of advice would you give them? Also, if you could give one piece of advice to youths who want to start their own company, what would it be?

And finally, I would like to give you this opportunity to share two to four images of your work and tell us a little about each.

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