I came to Lagos, Nigeria with just one green duffel bag and I was determined to succeed no matter what. My dreams was almost shattered when my previous employer owed me unpaid salaries for months. And I never really didn't get the satisfaction working for someone but I continued regardless (paying my bills, learning good habits - spearheading project or owing a business). On my way to get to my final destination as a bosslady, yes there were different obstacles and constraints.
I learned being diligent, hardworking and producing results no matter the circumstances. First things first, being an entrepreneur and running your own business sounds very exciting and may look very lucrative from the outside but on the inner it is entirely a different story. As a matter of fact @sgtcclothing started by “chance" and maybe "timing". My journey started when I posted a picture of me wearing an Afrocentric piece (Ankara) that was a gift from my mum on Instagram. Later, an entrepreneur in London saw it, loved it and reached out to me and that meeting birthed the business you see today. All I learnt serving others came out to play and my experience in fashion was just a seed. That was how I crossed over from Television to Fashion, and ”A post on Social Media". However, I am grateful to have had my stint in the entertainment industry as a producer and a presenter but before that I was a Banker. As an entrepreneur it is very very important the personal struggles that you are going through does not show up in office or at home.
What were the biggest initial hurdles to building your business and how did you overcome them?
My hurdles was being able to sustain my business. Doing business these-days is not at all easy. There is so much competition so it may take a while to get some grounding and attain a basic level of business stability. It is essential one has the necessary finances to back themselves during this early period.
What books are you currently reading? And your recommendation for entrepreneurs to read?
The Smart Money Tribe by Arese Ugwu
Did you ever deal with contention from your family and friends concerning your entrepreneurial pursuits?
How did you handle it? What would you do differently in hindsight?
Having unconditional support and backing from my family helped me wade through the initial very tough days until I got the hang of it. My family is my No 1 supporter. Anything that makes me happy
What would you say was the single most influential factor in your business success?
Hmmm, I would say the day an International Influencer wore my Brand for the first time. My Brand skyrocketed from then on. I am so grateful.
What advice would you give to an upcoming entrepreneur locally and internationally?
Keep building and acquiring more knowledge. Opportunities could show up out of nowhere - yours is be prepared and be patience always. There is nothing like “overnight success”, You need to find avenues to learn and keep on par with the industry. The spotlight would come, Lastly network - you gain knowledge through attending some conferences but mostly it is all self learning and meeting people, because we all do need people.
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