As we continue to promote and encourage the entrepreneurial skills of this blessed and rich country(Nigeria).
We met this young good looking lady that graduated from covenant university,making the best out of the richness of the popular "ankara" clothing material and beads that adds a spark to dress styles, we were able to pick a little of her thoughts and how far she's gone in an interview we had with her.
1.What's
your full name?
Answers: Ekanem Oluchi Ukeme
2. Where
are you from?
Answers: Akwa-Ibom State
3. What
was your growing up like?
Answers: It was very calm. I was more of an introvert,so I had few
friends,stayed indoors most times and watched a lot of TV programmes.
4. What
inspired your love for making Ankara accessories?
Answers: Well I don't only make ankara accessories,I also make beads. I was
inspired by the way accessories ordinarily accentuates one's dressing, and one
thing i know for sure is that the way one dresses,has a way of boosting one's
esteem
5. For
how long have you been making Ankara accessories?
Answers: Close to 2 years
6. What
has been the challenges so far, and how have you handled them?
Answers: Human beings are generally insatiable, so we all have our
preferences. For ankara and bead accessories,some people have the opinion that
they would be choosy when combining with their outfit because of the variety of
colors they come in. So I try to make accessories with neutral colors for those
with such preferences.
7. What
has been your family's response (so far), to your choice of making Ankara
accessories and not having a regular 8 to 5 job?
Answers: My family have always supported me right from day one. They prefer me
being my own boss instead of having the regular jobs because of the growth of
businesses in Nigeria, the current state of unemployment in the economy and
also to have time for myself
8. Can
you give some examples of clients and jobs you've handled so far?
Answers: I have partnered with some upcoming fashion designers to make beads
for their outfit,I have made several bridal beads for traditional weddings,made
beads to be sold along side aso ebi materials for weddings and also ankara
patched t- shirts for a group of university students for independence day
celebration.
9.
Asides making Ankara accessories, what else do you do, what are your hobbies?
Answers: I love dancing and planning events
10. Who
are your role models?
Answers: My role model is Warren buffet. He is not just a business man, he is
an expert in investment
11. Where
do you see yourself within the next 5yrs?
Answers: Having chains of accessory stores,where I would sell my products
along side other fashion accessories made by fellow accessories makers.
12.
What's your take on the evolution of the business in Nigeria, since you became
an active player?
Answers: Business has brought about a positive impact in the Nigeria economy
most especially in the fashion industry because Nigerian fashion is now
recognised internationally. Business in Nigeria has also to helped in reducing
the rate of unemployment because an average youth in Nigeria is now business
inclined and would rather start up a business than look for a job
13. What
do you do to remain relevant in the business, in today's fast-pace world of
technological advancements?
Answers: I surf the Web a lot to research on trending designs and
concepts suitable for various events and occasions,and also make available
various accessories so as to meet people's preferences.
14.
What's your advice to young ones that wants to venture into this business?
Answers: Just like every other business, one needs a lot of
courage,patience,self confidence and determination to stay relevant in the
competitive business world.
Thank you so much for your time, we hope to hear from you in the nearest future,and we wish you well in your chosen caree.
So change your dress style,add some richness and uniqueness to your bags,slippers,bangles,necklaces e.t.c, give a friend something different don't do the regular, be tush be unique be different... contact Zing Accessories
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/pages/Zing-accessories/284303548416147?pnref=lhc
Tel: 07062421542
BB pin: 7b44d315
#ChasingTheNigerianDream.
