Bellafricana published in Beauty, bellafricana, Gift Items, Health & Beauty

5 Popular Black-Owned Skincare Brands In 2022

Skincare products on bellafricana marketplace

Black-owned Skincare Brands have done so much in the beauty industry within and in the diaspora. To support the businesses run by us and for us, who are working tirelessly to emphasize, enrich, and showcase everything that is delightfully Black and beautiful, we must continue to work towards diversity and inclusivity throughout the beauty industry. Paying close attention to your skin is as important as studying and knowing the best skincare brand to go for.

Here are 5 popular black-owned Skincare Brands in 2022:

 1. Modara naturals

Modara naturals is a Nigerian-owned skincare brand. it deals with premium plant-based natural skin care products that nourishes the skin with product straight from mother nature. One most incredible thing about African manufacturers of skincare products is how tactical and meticulous they infuse the rich blend of African natural ingredients. This African beauty brand is inspired by the love for the African race and heritage. No wonder its branding style is African-themed and targeted toward treating skin issues relatable to Africans and also foreigners.  Modara naturals have tons of products such as Asakwa African Black soap, Modara Haske, Modara pholiso, Laushi, and a lot more. Certainly, this rich combination and formula are suitable for every skin type.

Modara beauty products
Skincare by Modara Naturals on Bellafricana Marketplace
2. Organic life plus

You will be committing a crime under the skincare laws, if you haven’t allowed your skin to be pampered by this refreshing and replenishing beauty brand. Organic life is also a Nigerian-owned brand, Esione Asakome is the founder of this enriching skincare brand. This brand is most suitable for any skin type and most essential perfect for any season. Moringa oil containing Vitamins A, E, C, Phenols, and omega fatty acids, is a great therapy against dryness or dry skin. Its products such as glow oil, baobab oil, plush hydrating moisturizer, etc, also contains antibacterial and anti-microbial properties so that not only does it gives you radiating and glowing skin, it’s good riddance to bacterial and infections. However, it is dermatologically tested.

beauty products by organic life plus on bellafricana marketplace
Beauty products by organic life plus on Bellafricana Marketplace
 3. Amal Botanical

This brand no doubt was conceived in love and care. As its major concern is on the needs of children. Amal Botanicals is an African-inspired children’s care brand that focuses on giving children healthy-looking, gentle and enriched skin. We all know that motherhood can be very tasking. One major concern for parents is the skin needs of their kids. Our kids are exposed to things in the environment that could damage their skin. Children’s skin are more prone to moisture loss and tends to dry out more quickly. I always recommend Amal botanicals beauty products to mothers who want their children’s skin moisturized, fuss-free, luminous, and bacterial-free. This brand also has a ton of children’s skincare as well as hair products.

Children's beauty product by Amal botanical on Bellafricanan Marketplace
Children’s beauty product by Amal botanical on Bellafricana Marketplace
     Also read: 8 Best Natural And Organic Skincare Products
4. Janeli Global

The keyword for this brand is “non-toxic”. Janeli Global Skincare is a Nigerian-grown brand that intentionally and proportionally uses the right set of only natural based ingredients to avoid skin blemishes, irritation, aging, and other skin-related issues. Just the right amount as recommended can give you that clump-free, Oxidant rich and firm skin. its also best for repairing and replenishing worn-out skin. Do you have very sensitive skin and you need that product that will be mild and gentle on you. Then Janeli Global Skincare should be your one-stop-shop.

 

Janeli Global skincare products on bellafricana Marketplace
Janeli Global Skincare Products on Bellafricana marketplace
5. Treda Organics

Treda organics is a natural skincare brand, Made in Nigeria to promote black Melanin skin tones. This popular Black-owned Skincare brand has done so much justice to the black race. Treda organics helps us appreciate our skin color and tone but helps you get that confident, blossom and bright texture skin surface. Sit well perfectly and courageously in your skin by getting your Treda Organics beauty product.

Treda Organics skin care on bellafricana Marketplace
Treda Organics Skincare On Bellafricana Marketplace
CONCLUSION

Long before ”Melanin Popping” became a standard. The only skincare brands truly appreciated were white-centric brands, Black women were the only ones who paid attention to the needs of our African community. They were the only ones who taught us how to embrace our skin colors.  Click here to order for your illuminating, soothing and ever youthful skincare products.

 

 

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Bellafricana published in Fashion

5 Elegant Handmade Bags In Nigeria

O'Eclat Bailey Box Bag

Handmade bags are great accessories I have always loved to have around me. I must say, the importance of handbags can never be overemphasized. No amount of handbags is too much to own as there are handbags for every occasion, seasons, and outfit. But having to choose from your myriad of bag collections can be very tedious atimes.

Choosing handbags to fit your style could be a whole lot of work, more reasons why I came up with ten(10) elegant handmade bags that are proudly made in Nigeria. These handmade bags are flexible to use as they fit any occasion.  these handbags are well patterned with perfectly designed colors to make them a must-have for every lady.

In no particular order, here is my list, and feel free to order using the link on their bio.

  1. BLACK LEATHER BATIK MILA BAG

This black leather batik Mila handbag made by O’Eclat designs, is nothing below standard, with its good sequence pattern in hues of burnt orange and bright yellow colors with a slim purple color running through it, is a one of a kind style. This nicely embellished purse will go with any type of dress and are perfect for any occasion, whether it is used casually or for official purposes.

Oeclat-Black-Leather-Batik-Mila-Bag on bellafricana marketplace.
Oeclat-Black-Leather-Batik-Mila-Bag on bellafricana marketplace.
 2. TOTE BAG

These tote bags are perfect for casual outings. The reason why this is a great piece of item is  because it’s large enough and can contain  lot of bulky items all at once. This bag looks smallish but in a real sense can fit in so many items.  Pillowtalks, the tote bag maker, beautifully and neatly mend tote bags to serve significant purposes. This bag idea draws attention with its colours, designs, faces, and characters as its also conveys one’s personality.

Tote bag by pillowtalk9ja on bellafricana marketplace
Tote bag by pillowtalk9ja on bellafricana marketplace

Also read: 10 Craft Ideas With African Fabrics

3. RAFFIA BAG

This beautiful handmade bag is a great piece of item your wardrobe certainly needs. In this clime and time where a little piece of item brings out the statement in your dressing, this bag made from yarns and fibres is a great choice for you. The amazing design fits any color or style of dressing. Depending on how it’s combined, it can go perfectly for an official gathering. Nonetheless, this allows you to effortlessly stand out because of its uniqueness, attractiveness, and elegance. Yasmin crafts never fails in its assignment of crafting and designing woven fashion items.

 

Yasmin crafts Amina rattan bag on bellafricana marketplace.
Yasmin crafts Amina rattan bag on bellafricana marketplace.
4. BLACK LEATHER BAG

When it comes to designing handmade leather bags, O’Eclat always understands the assignment. Do you want poise, class, elegance, standard, luxury? then get styled with O’Eclat Bailey’s classic bag. If you love to get attention and praises for your fashion style then, this made in Nigeria Bag designer got you covered. Try this brand and thank me later.

Morin O Bailey box bag on bellafricana marketplace.
Morin O Bailey box bag on bellafricana marketplace.
5. BROWN LEATHER BAG

We don’t go out of style and designs here with Morin O bags, please pardon my hype, like the saying, “when you are good, you are good”. Morin O designer brings the likes of Fendi and Versace vibes from the stables of Nigeria. Moreover, from the reviews gotten online about the brand, these bags are durable, high quality, and never goes out of fashion.

Morin O leather bag on bellafricana marketplace
Morin O leather bag on bellafricana marketplace
CONCLUSION

In summary, Bags are to dressing, as to what bread is to butter. This implies that bags essentially compliments one’s dressing and it’s a great piece every lady must own. Apart from serving as a safe keep for all valuables, it also helps to accentuate our dressing. That’s why its needs to be carefully combined to suit our sense of style. For more options on elegant handmade bags in Nigeria, click here to order.

 

 

 

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Bellafricana published in Arts & Crafts, bellafricana

5 Unique Woven Craft items

MitiMeth Water Hyacinth woven cup holders with adire fabrics sold on bellafricana marketplace

Gone are the days when woven craft items were only used in local places, and were not valued but thanks to several craft designers that have helped in repurposing craft designs and adding more aesthetics to fit different purposes.

These unique woven craft items are used in places like homes, offices, hospitality industries, etc, and also used as fashionable pieces too.

Here is a list of 5 unique woven craft items you would love:

 1. BAGS

Yasmin crafts, a craft design and interior decoration company indulge in creating beautiful, elegant, and creative designs using natural fibres. Apart from designing interior decorative items for your homes, offices, or recreational centres, this craft maker also creates upholsteries as well as fashion items such as bags and purses. Combining this beautiful raffia bag will most certainly help spice up your look, making you look casually funky and edgy while still dripping in your beautiful and ecstatic drip. These beauty bags can be used casually to outings, hangouts, or mini parties.

raffia bag made by yasmin craft on bellafricana marketplace.
AMINA RATTAN BAG
2. POUCHE BAGS

Another good thing about transforming natural fiber into usable items is that there is no limit to what one can create with these resources. Creating any piece of the item can be spurred by certain circumstances and needs. I will give you a short story of how mitimeth a brand and creative craft company came up with making an appealing zipper pouch.

“Once upon a time mitimeth visited a company that had loads of jute selvages. Management figured that since they were into Upcycling, they will be able to do something useful with the selvage material which was waste generated from their manufacturing process. Super thrilled and beaming with ideas, we took the Jute selvage waste and ran with it. They used the selvages to create   zipper pouch bags with layers of frills to add just a little bit of drama to the mix.

The detachable turquoise bag handles are made from fish leather. Yep, you read that right! Leather made from the inedible skin
of the Nile perch by a Social Enterprise in Kenya Upcycling and combining waste materials is the name of our game mitimeth

This goes a long way to show how waste materials are now absolutely important. And can be used to add glamour and beauty to any work of art and craft.

Pouch bag by mitimeth on bellafricana marketplace
Pouch Bag

Also read: Top 6 Afrocentric Gift Ideas

 3. LADDER SHELF/ BASKETS

Good riddance to a decluttered space is this ladder shelf. Not only does this beautifully woven raffia basket and free-standing structure add glam and intrigue to a space, but it also helps create extra surface space around the house. It’s stylish and attractive as well and it is used in places like the bathroom or bedroom. Certainly, this helps in neatly arranging, decluttering, and organizing items around that space. Yasmin crafts carefully pays attention to every detail in a space, I recommend this for people with much clutter, this is ideal because you can easily locate items when need be.

Woven shelves/Baskets by Yasmin Craft on bellafricana marketplace
Woven shelves/Baskets

Also read: 10 Craft Ideas With African Fabrics

4. STORAGE BOXES/ TRUNKS

From harvesting eco-friendly raw materials to curating beautifully, sustainable, and environmentally friendly handmade trunks. These handcrafted, luxury and multipurpose storage trunks made by Yasmin crafts are certainly a must-have in our houses.  It helps a lot in keeping our valuable fabrics well scented and straightened over a long period.

Storage boxes and trunks by yasmin craft on bellafricana marketplace.

STORAGE BOXES/TRUNK

5. LAUNDRY BOX

As earlier stated, Yasmin Crafts aims at refurbishing and organizing any space with still a high degree of class, beauty, and glam. That is why this eco-friendly laundry box was made. However, one advantage of this beautifully crafted woven laundry box is that it adds to the aesthetics of any space. It also adds extra elegance to your space, Moreso, its aids in hiding unpleasant stuff in a pleasantly, decorated, and well-patterned box.

laundry box by yasmin craft on bellafricana marketetplace
Laundry Box
6. DINNING WARES

Having this stylishly decorated piece of dining wares on the dining table is another unique woven item you would love. It is a highly decorative piece that will quickly draw attention to your table and your space. Adorning your space with a bit of nature helps in projecting the elegance and radiance that you so desire for your space. This is a creative piece made by mitimeth using hyacinth and waste materials.

hycinth dining wares made by mitimeth on bellafricana marketplace
Dinning Wares
CONCLUSION

In conclusion, every space, whether an office, your house,  or a hospitality industry indeed deserves a cozy, warm and earthly feeling. That can be done effortlessly by using woven and crafted pieces of decorative items in it. Fashionable items can be crafted using natural fibres and yarns. For more unique woven items ideas click here to see other beautiful pieces.

 

 

 

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Bellafricana published in Beauty, Health & Beauty, Life Style

5 Effective Skincare Routines For Overnight Beauty

Treda Organics Glow Oil on bellafricana marketplace

Having glowing and shiny skin entails a lot. An effective skincare routine helps necessitate overnight beauty. One needs a very meticulous process to be able to achieve that attention-getting skin.

Stop feeling insecure and uncomfortable in that skin. Here is a list of 8 effective skincare routines that will bring your long-anticipated beauty and glow.

1 HYDRATING CREAM:

Whether or not you wear makeup, cleaning your face at the end of each day is critical for maintaining a clear complexion. Cleansing twice a day doubles as a gentle exfoliation, removing the top layer of dead skin cells. Dirt, grime, sweat, and excess oil are also removed.

It’s also important that after cleaning the face, it leaves your face dry and wrinkled, that’s why you will need the hydrating cream. Treda Organic’s hydrating cream contains relaxing ingredients that help smoothen, rejuvenate, and calms the skin, and more importantly, make it even more adaptable to your lifestyle (especially if you spend a bit of time under the sun or you are open to harsh weather conditions).

Treda Organics Hydrating Face Cream

2. BODY TONER:

Okay, toners aren’t strictly required for skincare, but toners can make such a difference in how your skin looks and feels after cleansing that you should probably want to try them. Body toners help to refresh and brighten the skin. It is an ancient West African soap recipe, tested and trusted to treat many skin conditions and give an even-toned glowing skin.

This blend is handmade with love, infused with Turmeric, and made by an excellent skincare brand, Modara naturals, is an age-old Asian ingredient, known to brighten and above all, give an even skin tone. It contains relaxing essential oils and helps in clearing breakouts on the face and body. Applying about two pumps on your sponge or hands daily as an effective skincare routine will give you the perfect skin tone and Asakwa Tumeric black soap is quite foamy and makes bathing a lot more fun.

ASAKWA AFRICAN BLACK SOAP, Body toner,for effective skincare routine with tumeric by modara naturals on bellafricana marketplace
TUMERIC BODY TONER

 

ALSO READ: 8 Best Natural And Organic Skincare Products

3. GLOW OIL;

Glow oil is one skincare solution that should own. No matter the skin type, texture, color, this essential cosmetic helps illuminate your skin and gives you shine all day.  Nevertheless, some glow oils are usually adulterated, Treda organics glow oil has a moisturizing blend is made up of carefully selected nutrient-rich oils. Daily use will not only keep your skin soft and moisturized; it will also give you a natural glow all day long.

Treda Organics Glow Oil on bellafricana marketplace

4. MOISTURIZER:

Face/body moisturizers are next, which keep your skin soft and hydrated while also helping to improve its barrier. If your skin is oily or acne-prone, use a lighter moisturizer during the day, such as a lotion or gel that absorbs fast and doesn’t pill beneath makeup. If your skin is dry, consider a cream or a heavier product. Dermatologists prescribe moisturizers for all skin types all year since hydration is essential for keeping skin looking young and healthy. “Look for compounds like ceramides or hyaluronic acid, which are the building blocks of skin moisture retention,” says the expert.

Rosehip oil for effective skincare routine by organic life plus on bellafricana marketplace
ROSEHIP OIL

Rosehip oil is High in Vitamin A known as trans-retinoic acid which helps prevent premature aging. It’s a product of Organic life plus, this product helps prevents and treat acne, and fades acne scars, wrinkles, and fine lines. It protects the skin from sun damage and is useful in the treatment of eczema and other skin infection. Moreover, rosehip oil can also be used to effect hair growth as well.

5. BODY SCRUB

Janeli Skincare scrub has over time been able to stand out from the crowd, but why do you need a skin scrub? First, it helps in natural skin lightening and it’s perfect for fighting acne. it’s a preventive measure for body hair growth, and reduces scars, stretch marks, and cellulite appearance. Janeli body scrub has a perfect combination of coconut, avocado, and sunflower-seed oils to soothe hormonal skin to eradicate the accumulation of dead skin cells that will result in excess oil or acne especially if you have oily skin.

Tumeric Scrub bu Janeli Global sold on bellafricana marketplace
Body Scrub

Similarly, Another excellent body scrub is the Laushi Coffee Scrub, formulated with the right blend of natural ingredients. Laushi is an invigorating scrub that effortlessly sloughs off dead skin. It also reduces scars and the appearance of cellulite, thereby stimulating blood flow and awakening your senses. This product will certainly leave your skin smooth, supple, and with an undeniable glow. Additionally, Laushi scrub is made of raw coffee beans from the Mambilla plateau, and the Himalayan mountains. This scrub will tighten, soften and brighten your skin, increasing cell turnover and giving you younger-looking skin.

Use this amazing scrub to – Slough off dead skin and real new skin beneath . This effective skincare routine helps achieve firmer younger skin. Made by Modara naturals.

Laushi body scrub by Modara Naturals on bellafricana marketplace

Conclusion;

Just as the saying “practice makes perfect”. it therefore means, to achieve that bright, glamorous and breath taking shiny skin, one has to have a special routine of skincare product to help nourish the skin with just the right nutrients and ingredients.

This daily or weekly routine will enhance your skin beauty and live your skin flawless. If you need more options of skincare items to work with click here, to select from tons of products on this marketplace.

 

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Bellafricana published in Gift Items, Health & Beauty

Make A New Mum Smile With These Gifts

zivanora jewelry culla collection trio necklace sold on bellafricana marketplace

Do you know a new mum/mum-to-be? Would you want to make a new mum smile with these gifts? Then you might want to surprise them with some thoughtful gifts because well, who doesn’t like surprises, right? Even more so at that delicate/ sensitive time in their lives, gifts will be very much appreciated, don’t you think?

You have come to the right place, so stick around, explore and shop for these gifts. The best part, they are from brands proudly made in Nigeria (Africa) and their quality is second-to-none (Check out some other trusted brands here). Let’s dive in, shall we?

  1. BABY BLACK SOAP

Hygienically and skin beautifier, this product from one of the best baby skincare brands, Amal Botanicals black soap, is ideal for any baby’s skin type. Therefore this is highly recommended to gift to a new momma. Its dermatologically tested and consists of all the right ingredient ingredients suitable for a baby’s skin. Not to forget how tender it is, with its nice fragrance allowing kids to scent so well all the rest of the day. so, save a new momma by gifting this to a wonderful baby.

Amal Botanicals Black soap sold on bellafricana marketplace

2. BABY HAIR KIT

This excellent hair kit enhances hair growth to a very high proportion. Even from parents who have used this brand, this seems to be a very perfect hair combo for any baby, and every new mother would love to see their baby have full-grown and beautifully textured hair. This is another wonderful package to gift a new mom. Amal botanical hair kits are just a great hair enhancement therapy every mother would love to try.

 

      3. AN ALL NATURAL BABY SKINCARE SET THAT NEW MUMS WILL LOVE 

A new mom/ mom-to-be will want to give her baby all the skin-pampering she can. But, you know that she’ll also be mindful of what she puts on the baby’s skin too because of their sensitivity and delicateness. That’s why we recommend the Newborn set from the tested and trusted Amal Botanicals. Their range of Babycare will make a New mom smile and fall in love. Trust me.

How about some gifts for Her?

Now that we’re done with some gifts that Mama would use on Baby, how about some gifts for Mama herself? She deserves some, don’t you think? So, let’s see some gift ideas to put that smile on a New Mom.

      4. LOVELY BRACELET

Ah! Who wouldn’t receive this beautiful bracelet with a big grin on their face? Anyone, you gift this jewelry will fall in love. It’s beautiful, isn’t it? Zinovora  is your quality plug, assembled-in- Nigeria timepieces. Perfect to rock anywhere. women still want to look classic and stylish even after birth, this jewelry piece is an elegant way to style a new mom.

      5. BEAUTIFUL NECKPIECES

This beauty you’re beholding is called the Culla trio necklace. And, it is one of the many stunning jewelry pieces from Zivanora that is bound to make the wearer light up with joy. Another perfect gift for a New Mom? Yes, we think so too. it’s a very simple piece of work suitable for any skin type and will look great for any lady.

       6. FASHIONABLE SLIPPERS

Now, what new mom wouldn’t want to get back into looking and feeling young again? This Morin O pair of slippers is suitable before and after delivery, as preggy aren’t advised to wear heels, so this seems like a very fascinating item, not just because of how beautiful it is but also its functionality. it’s super comfortable to wear to any gathering. it’s a fantastic gift idea. 

 

Now that you’ve been provided with a variety of options, go ahead and make a purchase. You’ll come back and thank me later. if you still need more options to choose from for a perfect gift, click here to shop for other wonderful items.

 

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Bellafricana published in Exclusive Interviews, Meet The Founders

Meet the Founder of Ogicentric [Exclusive Interview]

Meet the founder of Ogicentric, Adejumoke Solomon bellafricana member exclusive interview

She was not a pap lover until she had the one her aunt made many years ago which was a combination of grains. She enjoyed it and thought to herself “what if this turns into a business and packaged properly for the sake of people like her who wouldn’t be caught taking the regular pap”… the rest as they say is history or shall I say led to the birth of Ogicentric. I bet you can’t wait to meet Adejumoke Solomon, the founder of Ogicentric in this exclusive interview.

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

Please Introduce yourself and your background.

Hi! I’m Adejumoke Solomon, a beautiful mum of three, graduate of Lagos State University, a freelance real estate consultant and an entrepreneur.

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

I produce, package and sell our locally made pudding called pap/ogi/koko/akamu. I was not a pap lover until I had the one my aunt made many years ago which was a combination of grains. I enjoyed it and thought to myself ” what if I turn this into business for the sake of people like me who wouldn’t be caught taking the regular pap”..since then we have been able to create more variants to suit everyone.

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

Well, it’s our desire to meet everyone halfway, a central point where both the young,old and even the aged on special diet can benefit from our range of products hence the name Ogicentric. “Ogi” is pap.

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

The desire to see people eat healthy meals that are natural and affordable, also, we do our best to disabuse minds of the nation that pap is for the poor and sickly.

Where do you get inspiration for your products?

I get my inspiration from the needs of people God opens my eyes to, especially adults and the aging on special diet.

Can you remember one of the first products you made?

Ogicentric Big4. The fact that it was warmly accepted.

Ogicentric Big 4 pap bellafricana exclusive interview

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

Access to funds. We produce in batches and/as ordered due to poor power supply, because we are not 100% tech savvy, we appear inconsistent on our social media platforms as we are also unable to outsource social media personnel due to lack of funds.

Do you have any regrets about venturing into this business?

None whatsoever

What is your most popular product?
Ogicentric Big4
To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian heritage for your work?

100% as all raw materials are locally sourced for

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

Short term goal is to distribute consistently to major stores in Nigeria so our products can reach as many homes as possible and i would like to speak someday at the White House as ogicentric compliments the moimoi that made this milestone.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

That I’m shy

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

Media, most likely

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

A lot of people make pap now, different variants and quite interesting ones but something singles you out and that is your target audience. Why are you venturing into this industry? Know your WHY, it keeps you going.

Ogicentric Big 4 pap bellafricana exclusive interview

Ogicentric Big 4 pap bellafricana exclusive interview

Ogicentric Big 4 pap bellafricana exclusive interview

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

Instagram: ogicentric

WhatsApp: +234 803 444 4616

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Bellafricana published in Exclusive Interviews, Meet The Founders

Meet the Founder of Kisah Lagos [Exclusive Interview]

Meet the founder of Kisah Lagos Akinola Saheed Bellafricana Member Exclusive Interview

In 2020, the moment parties and events were banned during the COVID lockdown in my home town Lagos, Nigeria and I trade in party fabrics (popularly called asoebi), the yearn to make income led to the birth of Kisah Lagos. From selling fabrics to making premium quality shoes with asooke (a Nigerian woven fabric), I bet you can’t wait to meet Akinola Saheed, the founder of Kisah Lagos in this exclusive interview.

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

Please Introduce yourself and your background.

My name is akinola saheed. Newly married businessman.

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

I make shoes from premium quality asooke. The lockdown birthed kisahlagos. Parties and events were banned and I’m into asoebi, man must chop o (meaning money must be made).

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

Originally it was akisah(First 3 letters of my first and last name) but God forbid I use “akisah” as a Yoruba boy that I am. Akisah means rag in Yoruba so that’s a No No… so the A was moved up to be the logo, leaving me with kisah. So we have kisah lagos as a born and bred lagosian 😉

Kisah Lagos logo

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

There are a lot of shoe brands in Nigeria as a whole, but asooke shoes? Not very saturated, we are not many hence why I’m excited to build the brand. I have designed different unique shoes for the young and old, even children. The fact that I use asooke is already a selling point. Not everyone believes it can be done.

Kisah Lagos half shoes bellafricana member exclusive interview

Kisah Lagos Shoe bellafricana member exclusive interview

Kisah Lagos white shoes bellafricana member exclusive interview

Where do you get inspiration for your products?

Asides my asooke background, I have people around me that mentor me. I also did a leatherwork training. I didn’t just start stitching asooke together. So seeing what can be done with leather, I’m like why not asooke. Just like that the mixing started (asooke fabric and leather).

Can you remember one of the first products you made?

My very first product was a shoe made by Gandyfootwears (mentor). It was just a trial, I supplied the material and she went to work. She delivered, I rocked it and the acceptance was wow! That was the ginger I needed to get started. Just like that I found myself in Mushin, Nigeria learning shoemaking.

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

Asooke weavers disappointing, scarcity of thread to weave colours being requested. Of course dispatch trouble, we are still outsourcing that.

Do you have any regrets about venturing into this business?

No regrets so far alhamdulilah.

What is your most popular product?
I call it the krisskross, bestseller any time any day

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

100% as Asooke originates from Nigeria

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

Well we are still online(Instagram/WhatsApp) at the moment, so no walk in store yet. It’s coming in the near future by the grace of God.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I actually sell gele and asooke for asoebi

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

Most likely a tech guy, I know my way around computers. Studied computer information systems at Babcock university.

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

Just start, it’s as simple as that.

Kisah Lagos slippers bellafricana member exclusive interview

To connect with Kisah Lagos, you can follow and contact her via:

Instagram: kisahlagos

WhatsApp: +234 813 799 3229

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Bellafricana published in Exclusive Interviews, Meet The Founders

Meet the Founder of Artini [Exclusive Interview]

Meet the founder of Artini Omisakin Temitope Bellafricana member spotlight exclusive interview

Have you ever met a female string artist? Yes you heard that right, one who uses strings and nails to make an artwork! I am excited to introduce you to the Founder of Artini (string art), Omisakin Temitope in this exclusive interview.

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

Please Introduce yourself and your background

My Name is Omisakin Temitope, I’m from Osun state in Nigeria. A graduate of economics.

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

I found out about string art when I was surfing the internet for church stage decor ideas, we needed to come up with something creative and I was a member of the decoration team. And that is how my love for string art started.

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

Coming up with a brand name wasn’t an easy task but at the end of the day we came up with ARTINI which means: A creative piece (craft, literature, filmmaking, etc.) that causes emotion or a new awareness.

What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?
ART and HOME DECOR is our niche and it was pretty easy for us to know our market due to the nature of our products
Tree String Art by Artini

Artini string art

Where do you get inspiration for your products?

I’m a strong believer of JESUS and I believe my creativity comes from him. So I pray for creativity and inspiration. I also believe he lead me to string art in the first place for the church stage decor. Apart from this I watch tons of YouTube videos and also check out art pages, art blogs and Pinterest.

Can you remember one of the first products you made?

As the JESUS girl that I am, the first string art I made was “GOD” I just felt like it should be the first Art I make even before we did the stage design.

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

For challenges I’d say string art is not taught in this part of the world so I was only left with Russian YouTube videos that where often times not translated, calculating geometric patterns and designs where hard at the beginning. Another challenge was sourcing materials, I did a lot of improvisation when I first started out, especially with nails since they weren’t available in Nigeria

Do you have any regrets about venturing into this business?

I have faced a number of challenges but no regrets at all.

What is your most popular product?

I have two actually. “The African woman” and “Red hat lady”

The African Woman String Art by Artini Bellafricana Member Exclusive Interview

Red Hat Lady Artini String Art

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

To some extent actually, I’ve realised African inspired work are easily accepted and look unique. Like the “African woman for example “

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

For my business I’d say getting a work station that would also serve as a training centre for students and also double as a mini gallery for walk-in clients And to also be a leading and learning art centre in Nigeria. In life generally would be to teach, impact and empower people.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I’m not sure it would be a surprised but for what it’s worth I’m “Left handed “.

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

I would probably have a business consulting firm.

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

Whatever mistakes you make, learn to move on from it, you’re only human. Just work on improving yourself and your business so it doesn’t happen again

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

Instagram:madebyartini

WhatsApp: +234 814 610 4662

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Bellafricana published in Exclusive Interviews, Meet The Founders

Meet the Founder of Scents Pro [Exclusive Interview]

Meet the founder of Scents Pro Boluwatife Adeife

I am honoured and thrilled to introduce you to the Founder of Scents Pro, Boluwatife Adeife in this exclusive interview.

With no further ado, let’s meet the Founder of Scents Pro Luxury for an exclusive interview.

Please Introduce yourself and your background.

My name is Boluwatife Adeife. A Nigerian and the creative director and chandler of Scents Pro, an indigenous fragrance company where we create premium quality, hand crafted home and space fragrances in diffusers, scented candles, et al.

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

Scents Pro was birthed from the love for scents generally and how particular I’ve always been about my space and it’s general appearance. I was (still am) a fragrance lover, but when I did my research on home scents I realized at that time, there wasn’t a lot of indigenous brands, accessibility to international brands was a challenge and the quality of these international brands, as regards raw materials for production, was not 100% in most cases.

So Scents Pro Luxury came in, to bridge the gap by providing eco friendly, toxic free and luxurious home scents that’s would bring some level of comfort into homes and spaces.

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

An expert in any field is called a PRO. An expert with Scents, is a Scents Pro.

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

Indigenous and Toxic free(eco friendly). These were what seemed to be missing at the time we were going to start. These days, people are more open to buying locally made products and the fact that they are vegan and eco friendly makes it even better as people have become more conscious.

Scents Pro Candles

Scents Pro White Candles Scents Pro Pink Package Candles

Where do you get inspiration for your products?

I get inspiration from everywhere, from different people and brands.

Can you remember one of the first products you made?

A scented candle. I was over the moon excited even though it was obviously not perfect.

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

Running the business in general. It can be overwhelming

Do you have any regrets about venturing into this business?

Not at all.

What is your most popular product?Scents Pro Luxury Diffuser

Scents Pro Luxury Diffusers

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

Scents Pro is an indigenous brand. Our products are all 100% locally hand made

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

Short term goal is to evolve and improve generally in every area of the business. Long term goal is to be the leading and most preferred home fragrance brand in the Nigeria and West Africa.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I speak French

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

Sales and Marketing

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 brand at your own pace and not compare with existing brands.

To connect with Scents Pro, you can follow and contact her via:

Instagram: scentsproluxury

WhatsApp: +234 905 922 1317

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Bellafricana published in bellafricana, Bellafricana ACE Awards, Entrepreneurship, Press Release

Bellafricana members gets 60 million naira export grant

Mr Olusegun Awolowo at the third edition of ACE Awards Africa by Bellafricana with Bukky Asehinde founder Bellafricana

Small and Medium sized Entrepreneurs across the country are putting in a lot of efforts to survive, scale the hurdles and compete favourably in different sectors.

To carve a niche for themselves they need support, encouragement and a business friendly environment.

The immediate past Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mr Olusegun Awolowo has been a pillar of support to many. He recently supported Bellafricana members with a 60 Million Naira Grant.

This opportunity is meant to support their businesses through the Export Development Fund (EDF) via the Expansion Facility Programme [EEFP] which issued a 60 million Naira grant to the 15 awardees of the 3rd ACE Awards as well as a few other Bellafricana members that have shown export potential.

The opportunity unveiled during the 3rd edition of the African Creative Exhibition and Awards, held on the 29th of October 2021, at the BWC Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos will help to transform this businesses to the next phase with ease.

There Mr. Awolowo made clear the commitment of the NEPC to support and grow non-oil exports in the country.

Crude oil forms the major commodity that is being exported in Nigeria currently. In 2020, Crude petroleum topped Nigeria’s commodity export for the year according to COMMODITY.COM. Nigeria presently ranks as the tenth most petroleum-rich nation and by far the most affluent in Africa which makes the reason for being such an exporter of crude oil not far-fetched. This has in some ways made other industries take the back seat because, in recent years, there has been more focus on the country’s exportation of crude oil.

The Export Expansion facility programme, founded as a part of Mr. Awolowo’s legacy to grow Nigeria’s export industry has therefore provided a catalyst that supports the country’s active export businesses and export-ready businesses.

Speaking on this development, the CEO of Bellafricana, Bukky Asehinde could not contain her excitement as she spoke about how Mr. Awolowo through the Nigerian Export Promotion Council has been supportive of the growth and expansion of not just Bellafricana but her members.

“Mr Awolowo has time and time again proven to be a huge supporter not just to me or the over 5000 creatives he has supported through Bellafricana but to many creative entrepreneurs all over Nigeria.

Since the over 5 years that Bellafricana was founded, Mr. Awolowo has been a strong pillar of support to this community, endorsing us fully and boosting our brand credibility”.

She added: “This 60 Million Naira grant by the Export Expansion facility programme will go a long way in pushing many businesses forward. I celebrate Mr. Awolowo for showing us who a true leader is and I know that his legacy will always be known for generations to come”.

Asehinde went on to express her gratitude to Mr. Awolowo for standing by Bellafricana over the years and thanking him for building a legacy through his leadership as the former Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council. “We are proud of his legacy and his support by helping and enabling MSMEs to get to the export level.”

Mr. Awolowo has always supported Bellafricana and her vision to give more visibility to African-owned creative businesses.

He has shown this through his continuous support at every edition of the ACE Awards held since 2017 to laud and encourage the work of highly skilled individuals who are making significant contributions to their respective industries and putting Africa on the world map with their creations.

He has through the Nigerian Export Promotion Council [NEPC] sponsored and supported over 5000 creatives and is now wrapping up with this grant so creative entrepreneurs can scale up their businesses while growing the country’s export industry.

He has also used his encouraging words to push not just entrepreneurs but everyone around him beyond their limits so they can achieve their goals and even surpass them.

It is no wonder Bukky Asehinde describes him as “The father of non-oil exporters.”

One of the awardees and a beneficiary of the grant also appreciated Mr. Awolowo for believing in Nigerian creative entrepreneurs and supporting them in scaling their businesses beyond the shores of the country.

“If we had more people like Mr. Awolowo in this country who have demonstrated true leadership, I have no doubts that we will see more Nigerian entrepreneurs succeeding and getting the visibility they deserve in the global space.”

The Export Expansion Facility Programme [EEFP], a flagship project of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council [NEPC] founded under the leadership of the now former Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council.

The Export Expansion Facility Programme seeks to democratize the discovery of exporters and their access to relevant government incentives to grow. The initiative supports businesses in Nigeria, with at least one customer abroad, or working on acquiring customers abroad.
It also supports businesses in Nigeria that provide services that an export business might need and it offers these businesses a series of incentives to expand their reach and become an exporter.

Bellafricana is a tech-enabled community that provides a platform for Nigerian and African Creative entrepreneurs in the Fashion, Arts & Crafts, Home & Living, Beauty, and Food produce & Snacks Industry to gain visibility, increase sales, and have the right business support and structure that gives them the capacity to grow their business.

Bellafricana’s vision is to become the biggest e-commerce company that promotes African products to the world and is on the verge of accomplishing this as it recently launched a Marketplace [www.bellafricanashop.com].

ACE Award third edition Winners 2021 Mr Olusegun Awolowo endorses Bukky Asehinde, the founder of Bellafricana as the zero oil ambassador to Nigeria Mr Olusegun Awolowo endorses Bukky Asehinde, the founder of Bellafricana as the zero oil ambassador to Nigeria Mr Olusegun Awolow receiving an award at the ACE Awards Africa third edition

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