Having women in leadership roles be it in business, politics, social enterprise, media, academics, entertainment is inspiring to other women and young girls. Women who dream big, make those dreams a reality, and inspire the next generation of women to dream even bigger. In this SUPER WOMAN series, we will be featuring extraordinary women, who through perseverance and dedication were able to create their own paths for success. In these chats with them their success stories will inspire you to blaze your own trail...
Tricia Iwuoha
Barbara Edoka The Organic Skincare Expert
Can you tell us a bit about you?
My name is Barbara Edoka, founder and CEO, Barbie Exclusives Empire Ltd, a division of B.Xclusive Naturals. I am into fashion and natural formulations of skin care, hair care, and soap productions. I formulate different varieties of body lotions and creams, face creams, beauty serums, face and body scrubs, body enhancement oils, stretch marks treatments, body butters and so many kinds of face and body soaps in tablet and paste forms and as well as hair care products.
What led to you delving into skin care products formulation?
The search for skin care products that work for my skin. I had suffered from skin problems ranging from hyperpigmentation, pimples, sunburn, and so many skin issues for several years, I used both local and foreign creams to treat my skin problems but all to no avail until a certain day, I decided to try my hands on something. I decided to be my own doctor. I gathered a few materials to formulate something natural for my skin and see if it would work. Lo, it worked. Being wowed by that, I decided to get a professional training to help others fight their skin problems. From having skin issues myself to using many skin care products to formulating a product myself, then getting professional training and to launching B.Xclusive Naturals. I won’t call these processes some mere coincidence, it’s purely divine orchestration.
How long have you been into this?
I have been into skincare for over a decade.
What skin problems do your skincare products cater for?
Some of these skin problems include eczema, Hyperpigmentation, ichthyosis, hives, seborrheic dermatitis, dark knuckles, stretch marks, acne and pimples, burnt skin, scars, ringworms, green veins, body odours, razor bumps etc.
Were they trainings you had in regard to skincare formulation?
Yes, I had trainings on skin care product formulation, soap formulations, and hair care product formulation.
Presently, we see more people going into skincare product formulation, tell us what should one look out for when patronising these products?
First, you have to know your skin type and how your skin reacts to different products, this will guide you on products you should patronise. Have deep knowledge of your own skin and most importantly, look at the composition of the products. Buying products that have high chemical content is disastrous to your health. These chemicals are absorbed by the skin to your blood stream. This can cause both system and skin diseases. Most of this skin care vendors are out for money, its wisdom for you to look before you leap. Don’t rub what you cannot eat on your skin. Don’t lose health in your pursuit of beauty.
How were you able to pull through your challenges?
Well, I’d say it wasn’t easy but determination and consistency kept me on the radar. Even when I was good at what I do, getting patronage was difficult. We had to start out on social media, it was even more difficult. Back in the days, we would make posts about our products, it was like I was posting for myself with no reactions from people but I wasn’t discouraged, I kept being consistent, then a few people patronised us, saw the effectiveness of the products and gave us their reviews. I shared them online, then B.Xclusive Naturals became a trusted brand and our number of sales skyrocketed.
What motivates you?
It’s the need to succeed against all odds. I’ve always believed that every dream is valid and achievable if you stay consistent in pursuing it.
As an entrepreneur, what are the challenges you’re faced with?
One of the most challenging conditions is that of the poor economy, the increase in dollar rate. Other problems are the increase in the price of raw materials and customers’ demands for discount sales. When there is a high cost of production and the buyers are demanding for price reduction, it’s really a mountain to climb.
How has social media helped your business?
It gave me more visibility; it helped me in building business relationships and connections. They were sales I wouldn’t make if I didn’t have a strong online presence. Yes, the media is a great tool for marketing, and I leverage on it so well.
Beyond the online presence, how else do you market your products?
I have an offline store located in Owerri, at 52 Onumonu Street and I do conventional marketing as well. I relied on referrals until I was able to build a clientele and now everyone knows me for skincare products. Another point worthy of mention is our clothing line when people visit to buy clothes, handbags, shoes, etc., my glowing skin catches their attention and would want to enquire on how I do it. It’s also a way I market my brands.
How do you relax?
Nothing does it better for me than singing and reading. I relax with these.
Is the business rewarding?
Yes, it’s rewarding. It’s my way of making a living and the exposure to deep knowledge, and valuable connections it brings my way. Nothing could have been more rewarding.
What is your advice to young entrepreneurs?
Here’s my advice; it’s rewarding to have a vision and you must stay focused in pursuing it. Sometimes to see your dreams come to pass would require patience, but you must keep at it, and work it out to fulfillment.
Sandra Chikodili Ella The Event Expert
Tell us about yourself
My name is Sandra Chikodili Ella. I am the Chief Executive Officer of Ella Event Plus. I hail from Umuchu in Aguta Local Government Area of Anambra State. I had my primary education at Awada Primary School Awada, Obosi in Anambra State and my secondary education at Daughter’s of Divine Love Abakpa Nike in Enugu State and Deco Gratias Secondary School Onitsha in Anambra State respectively. I hold a B.Sc. degree in Education Economic from Imo State University Owerri, and Masters Degree in Educational Administration.
Ella event plus is becoming a household brand, how did it all start and what were you into?
Before I started my business, I was a student and a full-time mother. I wouldn’t say it was that easy though because I had my hands on so many things at the same time. I started baking cupcakes, meat pies and other pastries. Then at some point with some financial assistance from my family, I was able to acquire some items for children parties; bouncing castles, mascots etc and gradually I ventured into cooking because I loved seeing people eat what I cook.
How did you get your startup fund for your business?
I had some personal savings and client’s deposits.
How were you able to overcome the tough times at the start up stage?
There’s this saying that tough times go but tough people lasts so I was able to overcome that stage through the grace of God, also by being focused and consistent because I knew it’s something I had a passion for and had to make it work.
What strategies did you use to market your business at the start up stage?
At that stage, I was baking for free because I needed people to see and taste what I have cooked and from there I started getting referrals and orders.
What is your area of expertise?
We specialise in event planning, event styling and catering services.
What makes your event outfit different from the rest?
We have outstanding service delivery and every event we handle is special because we intend to make our clients imagination a reality.
Where do you see Ella Event Plus in Future?
I see Ella Event Plus going global.
What are the challenges you are faced with running a business like yours?
Inflation of prices of food stuffs in the market and difficulty in getting trusted workers.
As a successful entrepreneur, what qualities does one require to be successful?
Passion, creativity and consistency are important qualities one must possess.
How are you able to create a balance between business and family?
Well, I must say it’s been easy because I have grown up kids who can take care of themselves so I have all my time for my business.
What is the secret of your success?
God’s grace.
Looking at your success story, what are you most grateful to God for?
I’m grateful for where we are because it has been God’s grace all the way, also the patience to deal with different kinds of individuals.
How do you cool off?
I try as much as I can to rest a lot or give myself a treat at the spa.
What is your advice for other female entrepreneurs out there?
I would say whatever you intend to do be devoted, make sure you know the business your want to go into as well so that you won’t have to depend on your workers.
