Meet an amazing Public Service Retiree, who ventured into bag making business, just about the time of her retirement. Her story is one that would encourage many aspiring entrepreneurs that it’s never late to start and other retirees looking for what to do with their time after retirement.
With no further ado, let’s meet the Founder of Zeeza Bags for an exclusive interview.
Please Introduce yourself and your background.
I am Azeezat Modupe Sadiq. A retiree turned entrepreneur.
Tell us about your work. How did your company start?
I manage Zeeza bags where we design and manufacture premium bags made from real leather as well as heritage bags made with local materials. I developed interest in bag making after participating in a training with school leavers towards the end of my career in public service.
How did you come about the name and what does it mean?
The name of my business “Zeeza bags” is coined from my first name Azeezat.
What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?
My niche is handmade fashion bags. I have realized that the bag a woman carries tells volumes about her personality. I also desire to promote local production and enable import substitution.
Where do you get inspiration for your products?
From the younger generation. I seek them out everywhere.
Can you remember one of the first products you made?
Yes I can. The bag was stitch free and full of gum.
What are some of the challenges you face in your business?
Labour/ Manpower.
Marketing/ Sales.
Do you have any regrets about venturing into this business?
None whatsoever
What is your most popular product?
To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian heritage for your work?
Highly inspired by culture and heritage.
What are some of your short term and long term goals, both in your business and life in general?
To take Zeezabags into Nigerian homes for all who want to be noticed.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
That I never knew how to use the sewing machine before Zeezabags.
What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this industry?
I will be in the Food 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?
Go Digital
To connect with ZeezaBags you can follow and contact her via:
Instagram: ZeezaBags
WhatsApp: +234 802 320 3765
