Page 28 – Bellafricana

Jemimah Iwok published in Fashion, Gift Items, Health & Beauty, Home & Living, Life Style February 13, 2020

Valentine’s day gift packages on a budget

Valentine is around the corner. With so many things on your mind, you might have forgotten to get that special someone a gift. Don’t fret, they’ll understand if you chose February 14th (of all days) to show how much you mean to them.

Wait, before you give up, there just might be a solution. Say you’re stuck in a sea of options and you’ve got to do last minute shopping on a budget, there are some places that come highly recommended where you can get your loved one budget-friendly gifts this valentine’s day. Let’s dive right in:

1. Beautiful Hand printed fabric:

Step outside the box and dazzle your loved one with beautiful, hand printed fabric from Mimiremi Textiles.

These fabric come in a variety of designs and colors, all crafted with care, reflecting how much you feel about that special one.

What you’ll love the most is them is how inexpensive they are. A yard goes for ₦4,000 only

Hard to believe right? Place your orders right away.

Visit them on Instagram here

Place an order directly on whatsapp here

2. Beautiful Briefcase Package:

Treat your loved one like the boss they are. Get them this economic valentine’s package from Detail Africa. In this package, you get:

A briefcase with a customised tag.
Product packaging
Selected photograph with a special valentine’s card
Freshly cut roses ( for females only)

Price : ₦50,000

Order today

Visit them on Instagram and make an order here

3. Love themed Throw pillows:

Get all lovey-dovey with customized throw pillows from Adire Lounge.

You also get to select a box containing throw pillows, scented candles, adire printed mugs, tote bags, and lots more. Set the right mood with these and more.

Select your preference below:

Valentine's package for Him Adire Lounge — ₦20,000

Valentine's package for her — Price: ₦20,000

Throw pillows from Adire Lounge — Price ₦3800, Big throw pilllows: ₦5,000

Connect with adire lounge on Instagram here

Place your orders here

4. Handbags for the one you love:

Make Valentine special for the one you love with this Naserian bag, or the Utu bag in all their glory from Ethnik by Tunde Owolabi.

A tasty blend of Asooke and leather, these bags are the perfect gift for her. You need to order this beauty?

Click on this link to connect with Ethnik by Tunde Owolabi.

Place an order directly on whatsapp here

5. Scented candles to set the mood:

Set the right mood for valentine’s day with relaxing, aromatherapic candles made of musk, amber and rose. Or you could settle for the pink champagne and Pomelo. From prices as low as ₦5,500 you can literally sniff love in the air. Dach Home and body is here to take your orders.

Visit Dach Home and Body’s instagram feed here

Or Place an order directly on instagram here

6. Scented Perfume Oils

Tiwi home fragrances has a range of scented perfume oils which you can gift your loved ones that special day. Sensuelle. Rose and mask. Oudh Arabia. Oudh Savour. Any flavours you choose sends the right message and will serenade your loved one.

Connect with Tiwi Home Fragrances on Instagram here

You can place an order here to get your scented perfume oils.

7. Lover’s Foot pack

Take this as a bonus. It comprises the Foot balm, Foot mask, Foot soak bath bomb, and peppermint foot scrub. Use it to give your love a pedicure. It is endearing, caring and sensual!

I suggest you wear the free Valentine hat while giving the pedicure for a good laugh! Price: ₦4,000.

Connect with Sahara Sunrise on Instagram here

Order for your foot pack here

Are you ready to stun that special someoene this valentine’s day? Select any (or all 😂) of the gift ideas above, and you’ll be glad you did.

Jemimah Iwok published in Destinations, Life Style, Resorts, Travel February 9, 2020

11 Places in Africa to spend Valentine’s day

Valentine’s day is just a few days away and a romantic getaway always readily comes to mind.
If you are still stuck as to where to go this year, this is a well curated list of eleven romantic destination spots within Africa that you should consider visiting to have a memorable Valentine’s day experience.

1. Casablanca, Morocco

Without a doubt, Morocco’s largest city is a wonder to behold. From the busy city landscape to the calm waters by the beach, Casablanca is a must-see for lovers and adventurers. There is plenty to see and do in this Arab city.

It is filled with ancient architecture with records of French influences and couples can spend a day exploring old buildings or shopping at the largest mall in Africa, the Morocco Mall.

2. Capetown, South Africa

Often tagged as one of the best places in the world to visit, Cape Town, South Africa serves travelers and tourists with expansive views of the Table Mountain.

Couples can spend a day at the Cape Town Waterfront taking cruises and tours or just enjoying lunch or tea at one of the best restaurants in South Africa.

If you’re the classy type, set a course for the Cape Winelands to engage in wine tasting adventures only an hour from the city Centre. The scenic vineyards allow for an intimate time with that special someone.

3. Badagry, Nigeria

Whispering Palms is located within the lush tropical landscape, swaying palm trees and pristine beaches of Badagry.

Toast your special moment together with an intimate luxury sunset ride on the beach, or indulge in a romantic dinner with your partner while watching the sunset.

The resorts offer various amenities such as a mini zoo, classic restaurants and comfortable hotel rooms that will definitely enhance the mood throughout your stay.

This is an ideal destination for those seeking romance or utter relaxation.

4. Port Louis, Mauritius

Located in Mauritius, Port Louis is an island nation off the eastern coast of Africa.
It is surrounded by the Indian Ocean and is home to some of the island’s finest resorts and the Flic en Flac Beach, known for its beautiful turquoise lagoon.

5. Diani, Kenya

Diani, Kenya is often described as a tropical paradise, and for good reason. The Diani Beach has shallow waters at the shore, perfect for intimate romantic dips in the Indian Ocean.

For an unforgettable valentine getaway, get up early to watch the sunrise by the beautiful beach and palm trees or relax on the white sands while watching the sunset.

6. Accra, Ghana

Labadi Beach has been known as Ghana’s most beautiful beach for many years. It fosters an atmosphere for romance with the Atlantic Ocean washing over its coast, swinging waves back and forth to create a beautiful backdrop for lovers.

Every visit to Labadi Beach welcomes you with a concert or performance booming with youthful energy unlike any you’ve experienced elsewhere.

The beach is located in the Greater Accra region of Ghana which gives you the opportunity to shop for African food, attires and souvenirs.

7. Kaduna, Nigeria

This enchanting medieval style resort sits amidst the Kajuru village in the trade city of Kaduna. The hideaway is perfect for couples dreaming of a romantic haven with spectacular views, peace and tranquility, glittering night and nature at its best.

Wake up to spectacular views of Kajuru village and enjoy breakfast served with true ‘Naija’ hospitality. Enjoy a barbeque or cookout and relax by the pool. If you are in the mood for some self-care, head to the sauna and loosen up your nerves.

Kajuru is an ideal place to visit for an awesome romantic getaway.

8. Zanzibar, Tanzania

Zanzibar may be one of the most famous archipelagos in the Indian Ocean, but there’s more to it than luxury hotels and infinity pools.

Even besides the beaches and the safaris, numerous romantic adventures await you and the lover. For instance, you could enjoy a quiet retreat, at Chakwa, a modest fishing village, and watch the pink sunrise over Michamvi Peninsula.

9. Calabar, Nigeria

Deep in coastal southeastern Nigeria lies the great Obudu hills. Wrapped around the multicultural ethnicity of the people of Calabar, the city and the hills are filled with numerous wonders stretching further than the eyes can see.

One can explore the modern city untouched by the effects of political unrest, or explore the captivating hills. At only a few minutes by air to Calabar, couples can take a short weekend trip while still enjoying a great valentine experience.

`10. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Addis Ababa is Ethiopia’s capital city situated in the magnificent Ethiopian Highlands creating a cool and pleasant atmosphere for love.

An ancient city bursting with culture, Addis Ababa has more to offer than meets the eye. Couples can take time out for African safaris at Omo Valley and discover ancient tribes and animals.

Coffee lovers will be thrilled to learn that Addis Ababa has an engaging coffee culture, famous for its locally made coffee variant. Addis Ababa is one of the most affordable cities to visit in Africa so you can have a great time without burning a hole in your pocket.

11. Cape Verde, Senegal

Cape Verde is fast rising among favorite vacation destinations in Africa. And what’s not to love about it? From the local cuisine, to whale watching, to the rich upbeat dances, you’re sure to have a swell time with your loved one. Also, don’t forget to jump in the sand dunes while you’re there.
Go on, have lots of fun!

Jemimah Iwok published in Fashion, Uncategorized January 27, 2020

Meet Bukola Asafa, creative director for Oba Couture

Africa is blessed with talented creatives, and Bukola Asafa, CEO of Nigerian brand, Oba Couture is not an exception. Her amazing shoe and bag collections all have indigenous names, and that’s one thing we love about her brand. Read on to see what else there is to know about Oba Couture.

Please introduce yourself and your background.

My name is Olubukola Asafa, I was born into a family of five comprising of myself, mum, dad, 2 brothers and 1 sister.
My Dad worked with the Nigerian Television Authority and my mum was an Entrepreneur. I was born in Ilorin, Kwara State, and moved to Lagos at age 3.
I attended Queen’s College ( Yaba, Lagos) for my secondary school education, then went to the University of Abuja for my tertiary education.

Tell us about your work. How did Oba Couture Limited start?

It started in 2011 while studying for my MBA. I wanted to be an Entrepreneur and I wanted to start to implement all that I was learning.

Prior to that, I had been praying to God for direction. I started selling readymade shoes and bags, but because I love to create and work with my hands, I knew that I had to start making them.

I also noticed that a lot of footwear and bags which were made in Nigeria always claimed to be ‘Made in Italy’. I had many questions and so I decided I would make a difference and bring ‘made in Nigeria’ back. That was my mission.

Brown Leather sandals from Oba Couture — OBA ‘Laura’ smooth leather sandal.

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

OBA means KING in Yoruba Language, but the brand OBA is referring to GOD the King of all Kings. OBA is also my initials: OLUBUKOLA BODUNDE ASAFA.

Croc leather bag — OBA ‘Donna’ embossed croc skin bag

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

My niche market is buyers like me who are fashionable and want something unique and of exceptional quality.

Where do you get the inspiration for your products?

I get inspired from everyday living, time spent with loved ones, my quiet time, and sometimes just interacting with my customers.

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

Yes. I remember a bag I made for my Pastor (Pastor Mrs. Bemigho).

She ordered a bag to encourage me when I just started. It was an ankara bag and what makes it memorable is that it was made of carton (lol).

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

Some of the challenges are poor infrastructure, inadequate power supply, lack of adequate skill, and unfair competition with imported shoes and bags.

OBA 'Remah' snake skin bag — OBA ‘Remah’ snake skin bag

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

I have no regrets whatsoever. I love what I do and I am very passionate about my craft.

What is your most popular product?

Hmm. It’s difficult to say which one, but customers tend to purchase our unique line of male sandals more than the rest. So I guess those are more popular (lol).

OBA 'Harold' sandal — OBA ‘Harold’ sandal

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

Our exotic leathers are gotten from the northern part of Nigeria. We also try to make our products as natural as can be. We do not use the professional processing machines used abroad, and most of our products have unique African names.

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

For my business, my Short term goals are: Engaging in more unique strategies for sales and marketing , getting the word out and making our products more accessible to our target audience.

My long term business goals would be building a sustainable brand that will stand the test of time and build a lasting legacy.

For life in general, my short term goals would be to read more books and exercise more. In the long term, I’m working towards eating healthier, making every second count and impacting the world positively.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I am a shy girl

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

I would be a Lawyer

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

Do not despise the days of humble beginnings, you don’t have to start big you can start small and then grow.

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

OBA ‘Tutu’ crocodile skin bag is made of original crocodile skin and is our most expensive product. It is priced at N220,000.

I also have the OBA ‘Lala’ bag which has an edgy front flap which makes it unique it is priced at N40,000.

See more beautiful bags and Footwear by Oba Couture

Jemimah Iwok published in Articles January 23, 2020

Entering the Export Market: What you should know About Trade Missions

Trade missions are an important indicator of expansion. They are crucial for creative businesses within Africa willing to enter new markets, mainly to facilitate, streamline and optimize the process that must be followed to export to many countries.

How do Trade Missions Work?

Trade missions are pre-arranged working trips that are conducted by organizations, to serve the interest of exporters.

A trade mission brings together suppliers and potential customers in one place for a few days of intensive meet-and-greets and matchmaking.

Generally organized by governments, in conjunction with trade groups, trade missions allow a lot of business to be done within a short period.

Why go on Trade Missions?

The trade mission allows you to gain better market intelligence to expand your markets.

In terms of marketing, a well-organized and properly lead trade mission is a great leveraging tool.

What do Trade Missions offer?

A well-organized trade mission provides expert service and assistance to include the following activities:

Qualify potential customers pertinent to your company’s product.
Identify potential representation partners.
Provide contact with government and public officials.
Offer translation as needed.
Arrange logistics, including local transportation, accommodations, appointments, and meeting facilities.

How do you get the most out of Trade Missions?

First, clearly define your expectations for participating on the trip. (Be sure to write specific, simple and quantifiable objectives).

The second most important criterion to get the most out of a trade mission is to provide your mission leader with a one-page profile. This should be sent as far in advance as possible. One page is preferred as it can be faxed, emailed and handed out in pre-mission recruiting activity.

What should your profile contain?

The first item of your profile should clearly state a one-paragraph description of your company.

Second on the list should be a paragraph explaining, in lay terminology, your product or service.

Next, you should include an explanation of the type of company and person you need to meet with.

The fourth item to include is a brief list of your most important expectations.

This one-page profile makes it easier for the mission leader to understand how to best help you.
It will also be a constant reminder to keep you focused and on track before and during your mission.

In summary, a well-organized and clearly defined trade mission can be one of your best marketing and sales tools to help you grow your creative business internationally.

Did you enjoy reading this? I’d love to hear what you think.

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

Jemimah Iwok published in News January 16, 2020

Electricity Tariff Increase in Nigeria: How It Affects Businesses

Dear Business Owner in Nigeria,

Are you aware that come April 1st, 2020, you’ll be paying a lot more for electricity than you presently do? If you aren’t, there’s been an electricity price increase in Nigeria. This is no “April Fool” Prank. It’s the sad reality.

In the tariff review clarification notice from the Association of Nigerian Electricity Distributors (ANED), the Discos said the tariffs would change from April 2020. “The tariffs shall remain an equivalent as they presently are (i.e. 2015 levels) until April 1, 2020 when there will be an increment to cater for tariff shortfall”. This shortfalls or losses shall be gradually passed on to the buyer until this is fully completed by the end of 2021.

According to the PUNCH newspapers, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), has approved that an additional N8 to N14 per Kilowatt hour, will be added to the present tariff.

LET’S DO A QUICK MATH…

Let’s say you spend an average of N3 per Kwh, and you use, say 12,000 Kwh monthly. That’s 36,000 right? ( Still a lot but what can you do?). Now imagine that an extra N8 is added to the daily cost. That means you’ll pay N11 * 12,000. That’s N132,000 monthly! Wow!

Electricity Tariff Increase in Nigeria: How It Affects Your Business and what you can do about it

As a business in Nigeria, a constant struggle is trying to keep expenses to a minimum. With the unanticipated shoot in the cost of electricity, how are businesses being affected by the increasing cost of this unavoidable business expense?

HOW THIS AFFECTS YOU

Increment in budget for power: Due to the tariff increase, Business owners will be forced to increase the amount budgeted for power. This might negatively affect the running cost of the business.
High Running Cost of Buying Fuel: The increase of electricity tariff coupled with the low supply of electricity will lead to an increment of the daily consumption of Petroleum products by Business owners.
Risk of Folding up: For businesses heavily reliant on electricity, the risk of closure might rear its ugly head. This might in turn, spike up the rate of unemployment.What then can you do, to ensure that this unanticipated electricity tariff increase doesn’t run your business to the ground?Consider Other Energy Alternatives
One of such alternatives is having renewable forms of energy supplying energy consumption demand at a business premises.

Using the likes of biomass, wind and solar systems to deliver energy can help businesses save on energy bills, as well as help reduce their contribution to climate change.

Solar Inverters and Bio Fuel might be Cheaper alternatives to the cascading power supply, in the long run. So, why not make some research and see if it’s a viable option?

Installing a Prepaid Meter

If you don’t already use one, a pre-paid electricity meter in your work environment may be a way to help you better monitor your electricity spend and usage.

While this won’t cost you less in terms of cost per kilowatt hour, you’ll be more conscious of your electricity usage, as well as how much it is costing you per day.

Limiting your Electricity Consumption

Remember the Warren Buffet Quote: “If you buy things you do not need, soon you will have to sell things you need.”
So, you might need to take a step back and do some analysis. Discard or reduce use of equipment you might not be needing. This will help motivate you to lower your electricity usage and better budget your monthly electricity spend.

Know better solutions to dealing with this Electricity Increase Tariff in Nigeria? We’d love to hear from you! Please leave a comment below!

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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What would people be surprised to learn about you?

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

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

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Tell us about your work. How did Sisi Aladire Enterprises 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 the 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 venturing into this line of business?

What is your most popular product?

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

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