Fashion designer Afomia Getu talks about how selling notebooks was the very start of her career and how family, friends, and hard work are essential for a successful independent entrepreneur.
01. When was this business founded?
➤ The business was founded in 2017
02. What advice would you give to others wanting to get into this business?
➤ Although I haven’t been in the business for very long, the biggest thing I would say to those starting out is to be prepared to work hard. If you work hard, you can accomplish anything. Just like any other business, shortcuts won’t work. Be sure you have a passion for it, as it will require sacrifices.
03. Who or what inspired you to do what you’re doing now?
➤ It was my aunt who inspired me to pursue this career. Growing up, I always saw her sewing different things which definitely influenced me.
04. How did you raise funding for your business?
➤ I raised the initial funding for my business by making hand-crafted notebooks and selling it at open bazaars. I learned how to make the notebooks by watching tutorials on YouTube and practiced making a few at home. I used Ankara fabrics with different patterns as covers for the notebooks.
05. To what do you attribute your success?
➤ I would attribute my success so far to the people around me who have supported me before AFOM was nothing but an idea. I am blessed to have a family that supports me and friends who encourage me.
06. How do you advertise your business?
➤ I advertise my business on social media, mainly Instagram. Word of mouth is my biggest advertisement though – most of my customers share my work with their friends and family. Happy clients are always the best advertisers.
07. What are the biggest challenges facing the business today, if any?
➤ The biggest challenge for me is access to fabric. It’s very hard to find the materials I want on demand.
08. What do you love most about doing business in Africa?
➤ The amount of opportunities that exist in Africa excites me. There is a lot that hasn’t been done, which leaves so much room for creativity and entrepreneurship. A lot to explore!
AFOM ON SOCIAL MEDIA:
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