2Inspire Inspirational Woman: Iman Ogoo - Imanmade

Iman Ogoo is a mother of three from East London and launched Imanmade, a range of gentle natural skincare products in 2012 after successfully creating products at home to care for her family’s eczema and dry, sensitive skin.

Please tell us what is a typical business day for you?
My days are always busy. I work from home so I’m always juggling running Imanmade with mummy duties, household stuff and other family errands. My eldest son (12) is an actor, and has been playing the role of Young Simba in Disney’s the Lion King for over a year now, so I also have to work around his theatre schedule.

On an average day, after the school run I check emails and social media before settling down to paperwork, or if it is a mixing/bottling day I clean the entire work area and sanitise equipment and utensils before the magic happens. My favourite part of my job is creating Imanmade goodies for my customers. It’s very important to me to create my products with positive vibes so I always play music from my favourite artists in the background or inspirational audiobooks/ podcasts. I also love to fill the air with the wonderful aroma of essential oils. On a mix day my workspace smells so heavenly!

I try to stop working after picking up my younger two sons from school so that I can be fully present and engage with them, but sometimes the work just has to get done and I end up multitasking. There are often times when I have to stay up all night to mix, bottle or label products, as I work alone most of the time. If I need an extra hand, my friend Anne comes over to help, and she also assists me with sales at some events. 

What made you start the business and what steps did you take to start operating as a business?
I initially started making natural skin care products solely for family use at home, as I have a lifelong history of eczema and extremely dry, sensitive skin and my youngest two sons inherited my skin conditions in addition to life-threatening allergies.  

I had absolutely no intention of selling anything, until friends and family noticed our skin improvements and started requesting jars of my concoctions for themselves, while suggesting that I turn my skincare ‘hobby’ into a business. I laughed off the suggestions at first, as I didn’t really see how it could possibly happen.  At the time I was a ‘stay at home mum’, highly stressed out, sleep deprived and having a hard time coping with my youngest son’s severe allergies. There was no worse time to start a business, but I warmed to the idea and started doing research, later seeking business advice from local schemes. I had no savings, and didn’t want to put myself into debt, so I took my time and purchased the things I needed bit by bit; equipment, ingredients, packaging, safety assessments, insurance, etc. Just enough to get me started. 

What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment in the business world to date?
I’d say my greatest business accomplishment so far was seeing Imanmade products being sold at the Established East London pop up shop in Westfield Stratford City Shopping Centre. Imanmade was such a big hit with Established East customers in summer 2013 that I was called back to supply their 2014 Christmas Store. It really was a confidence booster, and a big opportunity for a small business like Imanmade.

What has been your biggest challenge in business so far?Actually I’m in quite a challenging position at the moment: Figuring how and when to expand the business. 

What are your future plans for the business?
I’m in the process of reworking my long-term plan and fine-tuning my next steps, but my focus at the moment is launching a few new products for the range and reaching as many people as I can through my website and online store.

I’ll be starting my studies in Herbal Medicine and Naturopathy later this year, so that will open up some opportunities for growth of myself as an individual and Imanmade as a business.

If you had to do it all over again, what would you do differently?
I think I’d take a little more time before launching the business publicly, and I’d

most likely team up with a business partner rather than do it all alone - preferably someone with a passion for doing accounts! 

What’s the best compliment you could receive in business?
The best compliment I could (and already do) receive is that Imanmade products are helping to improve someone’s daily life.  I know the difficulties and discomfort of dealing with my own skin problems and also the stress of caring for children with severe eczema. So when someone tells me their skin condition has cleared up it really makes my day!

Why is it so important to inspire young women in particular to follow their dreams?

I do my best to inspire young (and older) women around me to pursue their life passions. Especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Having real role models, and watching them achieve success instils confidence in these young women, encouraging them to make the most of their abilities, and exceed expectations. 

It’s also important that young women understand their own power; the power of their thoughts, words, and beliefs. Knowing they can be everything they want to be, with focused actions and the right mindset. Though there is still a certain level of inequality in the workplace, young women are now in a position to create opportunities where they see none. Modern technology and social media especially play a huge role in this development.

Just over a year ago, I took on two female college interns from Paris for a six-week period to support their Business Management studies. Though there was a slight language barrier, I was able to guide them to learn new skills and explore first hand how to run a small business. Their internship at Imanmade made a big impact on their grades and the experience really boosted their confidence. One of the interns has now gained full time employment in Paris and keeps me up to date with her new career on a regular basis. I in turn continue to support her with motivation and advice via email.

What advice would you give to somebody who wants to start a business in your industry?

Make sure you are fully aware of the European Cosmetic regulations first and foremost. Many people think its just a case of mixing up some oils, putting them in pretty bottles and selling, but there’s so much more to it. Meticulous record keeping is essential, and there are strict guidelines on both the product formulation and labelling. There is so much that the general public do not see.

What or who inspires you in business and why?
I have various business inspirations. Lisa Price of Carol’s Daughter (Skin and hair care) was my main inspiration when starting Imanmade, but most recently, I have been inspired by Myleik Teele of curlBOX (beauty subscription box). Her work ethic is admirable; she motivates you to make that extra effort, to go that extra mile. I love what she is doing with the curlBOX brand, and her podcasts are very useful. She gives great, no-nonsense advice.

What is your favourite inspirational quote?

I always like to say:  ‘Trust your instincts’. 

Intuition is everything.

Imanmade is offering readers 15% off (minimum £10 spend) until 06 April 2015 using code 2INS15

Iman Ogoo
Imanmade Natural Skin Care
www.imanmade.com
07415518765
Email: info@imanmade.com
Twitter/Instagram: @imanmade

2Inspire Network Interview: Writer, Filmmaker and Poet Lauren Kaye

Lauren Kaye is a Writer above all else, she writes poetry, scripts and about food. She studied Hospitality and Food Catering at college before moving onto Media at university. During and post her studies of a BA in Media & TV Production she wrote, directed and produced over 30 productions. She still freelances as a Filmmaker to this day. In 2008 while she was still a student she founded Infiniti Promotions which hosts events throughout the year. In 2010 she set up her food blog Deevah's Cravings to get back to writing about the food industry as it is one of her first loves. She has written and performed poetry since she was 7 years old and is currently writing her soon to be released book of poetry.

Please tell us what is a typical business day for you?
I get asked that question a lot by people as they find it fascinating that I am self-employed working in creative industries. I am a Filmmaker, I run a multi-service Events company called Infiniti Promotions and I am a Writer (Poet, Author, Screenwriter). Therefore, any day is based on the project at that time. If I am putting on a promotion event which is most likely to be my Infiniti Reels Film Club or Poetic Justice Showcase, then I will most likely be venue scouting, contract writing, budget writing, holding auditions for acts, going through film submissions, holding a team meeting, video or photo editing, promoting at events or on the streets, booking and hiring freelancer’s.

If I am working on a film project I will most likely be spending the day doing pre-production work which is not as glamorous as it sounds as it is full of written work, research, phone calls, meetings and emails. Auditions are fun for the most part but hands-on production is where I find my joy but it often takes months of pre-production depending on the budget and the project itself. It is long hours either way. Film production and event production do not differ too much, which is probably why I find it so easy to bounce between the two, as stressful as it can get.

With regards to my poetry performances and writing, poetry events are mostly held in the evening typically on a Thursday, Wednesday or Sunday however, on Saturdays hours vary depending on the job. I love performing. I get to say what’s on my mind, share my creativity, make people laugh, cry (especially at weddings) or blush. Much of my poetry is “edu-taining” and thought provoking. I am self-publishing more than one book right now so that is dominating my day to day work at the moment. Like most entrepreneurs and creative freelancers, I practically work 24/7 with no average set-hours unless I was on a film set. I typically work all through the night no matter what I am doing, as in literally till the sun rises. I am one of those people who wish there were extra hours in the day and I would clone myself if I could.

What made you start the business and what steps did you take to start operating as a business?
When starting Infiniti Promotions, I was a university student living in my own apartment, who really wanted to make quick money on the side to live better than I was while benefiting socially and professionally from it. For me the most appealing option was to become an Event/Club Promoter and get cash in hand. I tried to work directly with Night Clubs and independent Promoter’s to be a part of their team for just some part-time work and the experience but that wasn’t working out. It’s a very closed crowd where many Promoter’s do not want to share the attention, credibility or money for that matter.

I then decided to put on a rave myself but it flopped, which I blame on my approach to not taking it seriously enough. I was excited, naïve and driven so it was devastating and embarrassing for me to say the least but it made me extremely determined to try again with a more business mind set. I thought of an appropriate company name, there was no one but the Infiniti car manufacturer’s that I knew of carrying that name at the time- not even BT Infinity had come out yet. I wrote an informal business plan, brought the idea to two of my closet friends who I could trust to work with and bring my vision to life and moved forward from there. Raves turned into poetry & music events, which branched out into charity fundraisers and film clubs. Promotion events is a high risk industry as you are not  guaranteed an income that exceeds your expenses let alone efforts, so I added extra services in order for more money to be generated and so that the brand can stand strong.

I have been making films independently since I was 19. I did a summer course at New York Film Academy and came back much more aware of the industry than before which prompted me to build my profile so I started entering film competitions and gaining work experience with production companies. When I was 20 I started my first business as a Wedding Videographer. I began directing Music Videos for up and coming Artists as well as Music students which was good practice, attended high profile film festivals and began freelancing. Since leaving university I have been working on my professional short and feature films under my production company in development. I love business and I plan to be a mogul to be reckoned with in the future.

What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment in the business world to date?
Nothing can top the feeling of your first sold out product or event which I have experienced. When I launched my poetry & music event series Poetic Justice, not only did it sell out on the first night but it was what I continue to describe as a “night of perfection.” I had wanted to organise and host my own poetry event long before I knew I wanted to become a Promoter. I was always a Poet. I have been writing poetry since I was 7 years old. I have been performing since my early teens but kept that to myself. Till this day I only like to perform to strangers but doing this event gave me the nerve to invite my friends (I still prefer not to perform infront of family). I killed it! So to speak, my great line-up of underground Poets and Musicians killed it, the vibe was perfect, my friends and new contacts were telling me how proud they were of me. It also meant a lot because I did not have my team to help me for that event, I had to organise everything by myself and prove to them that my vision still had value regardless of previous losses. The whole experience gave me more confidence as a Performer, Host and Event Organiser.  

My favourite accomplishment to date is my custom poetry greeting cards that I launched via my Infiniti Promotions. The brand was always going to include merchandise and I long had it in mind to have greeting cards be a part of that as I am obsessed with them, so it was only fitting to incorporate my poetry into it. The handmade, custom written cards that I have made so far have had an overwhelming response of emotion. The way that I have touched people with my words, the wonderful, priceless feedback that I get is why I do what I do. Few things make me happier.

I was exceptionally proud of myself when I made a commercial for Emporio Armani back in 2008. That was actually an international competition set by the fashion brand for independent filmmakers to compete at the chance of having their ad broadcasted on television and winning €8-10k. I was a media student at the time working on several other freelance projects as well as my coursework. I had no budget what so ever to make my ad but I made it work with my determination, ideas and gift of the gab so that one always makes me feel good about myself and my portfolio.

What has been your biggest challenge in business so far?
Raising funds for such an expensive industry and I mean that in regard to both film and promotion events. In the early days I really impressed myself and audiences who did not know better, with making a micro budget look lavish. Time Management is problematic to say the least when you do what I do. Another challenge that would probably always provoke me is finding creative people who are both talented and professional. Ego’s come before professionalism in the world of creative minds far too often.

What are your future plans for the business?
I am expanding the retail sector of Infiniti Promotions. The promotion events will continue although in a different direction than before so all changes are currently in development. Publishing in general is my current way forward for business in all aspects of what I do and this will include my books and greeting cards. I am all about synergy and developing my brand. A poetry book from me has been high in demand for a while now and I am happy to say that I am finally self-publishing my debut collection of poems, while starting an online crowdfunding campaign. More details can be found on my poetry blog LK Knows Her Writes.

If you had to do it all over again, what would you do differently?
Plenty of things. I would start my business at a later date. I’d still freelance early but would post-pone starting Infiniti Promotions because I did allow its full-time demands to consume my life, affect my school work and jeopardise parts of my film career when that should have been my only focus at that age. I do wish that I enjoyed my youth more and was not so set on chasing paper and trying to prove myself to family, friends or professional peers. I think only people who have a tremendous amount of financial struggles or the few young people who live on their own would understand that kind of pressure.

I would most certainly not underestimate the extent of sexism and racism in business. Prejudice is apparent in a social setting but in business it’s just ridiculous and in the nightlife of Club Promotions there is no PC, for the most part it is blatant. Other than the common issue of money, the battles I faced as a Black person and as a young female were unbelievable. There were many incidences I was not prepared for but it is the reality that we live in and should not be sugar coated or ignored. The Promotions world is hands down a butch industry and the film/entertainment industry of course is male dominated too. I thought it didn’t matter at first since there are many women doing it who have paved the way for me but no-no-no. Thank-goodness that I’m tough otherwise I would not be able to handle it. Bottom line, I would be more aware, sceptical and less trusting of people I work with or share things with not matter how close we are, because as truth has it not everyone wishes you well.

What’s the best compliment you could receive in business?
That you are good at what you do. Having regular customers is also a silent compliment within itself that speaks volumes.

Why is it so important to inspire young women in particular to follow their dreams?
I take the empowerment of women very seriously. Most self-esteem issues start at a young age and most of us have had experiences of being told things like “You can’t…” or “A young woman should….” Females of any age are constantly being put down and it’s disgusting, we must fight against that everyday to change this mind-set and break this barrier. Regardless of what country or culture that they are from that tells them otherwise. I also think that it is more important to inspire young women today than 10 years ago because evidently we have relapsed. What was once a progressive movement with significant change has significantly back-tracked in recent years, this is even in regard to the Western World. So much so that last year new quotas were introduced in the UK to make sure that a woman is to be a part of the board of a company that is of a particular size.

Generally, women earn at least 23% less than men in the corporate world, while working at the same level or job role as their male counterpart. In India and China it is still common to abort female foetuses and they largely consider girls to be of little to no worth. This day in age is also one of the worst times of underground sex trafficking of under-aged girls. Bear in mind that this is not just referring to developing countries but America, Poland, Italy, France and England. Although these are corrupt, international trades of organised crime, truth has it that lack of encouragement and inspiration within girls and young women does lead to low self-esteem, dropping out of school, under-aged pregnancies, unhealthy relationships, promiscuous behaviour and prostitution. It is common and unfortunate but it can be helped. Installing confidence and encouragement to young women is imperative. We must tell our girls and women that “You have worth!” Once you have life you have purpose, do something with it and don’t let anyone tell you different.

On a less political yet debatable note, we all know that females often look each other as competition hence why jealously and bitchiness often follows suit with our behaviour towards one another and it’s embarrassing. There’s really no need. Not that my words are going to change the world but it’ll make some of us check ourselves. Not everyone is going to like each other or appreciate someone’s work and if you don’t then just leave each other alone and move on. However, when you do appreciate what another woman is working with or you admire their goals and dreams do not put them down about it, discourage them, try to tarnish or take away what they are doing. Encourage them! Praise and collaborate or be quiet is how I see it.    

I don’t feel that we need to keep proving that women can achieve their dreams, can do it as good as, if not better than our male counter parts or what have you because it has been proved numerous times before and for centuries (fact). There has already been and you can very well be; a female Astronaut, a female President or Prime Minister, Film Producer, Fashion Designer, Graphic Designer, Editor In Chief, Song Writer, Plumber, Mechanic, Soldier, Architect, Judge, Hotel Owner etc. Even more so, you can be a mother, wife and business woman. As a matter of fact, ‘Mumpreneurs’ are a big part of what is holding up today’s economy in UK and USA by contributing £7.4 billion to the British economy alone. If you don’t believe me do your research.

What advice would you give to somebody who wants to start a business in your industry?
Self-confidence and research is key. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes just be willing to learn from them. In fact, I have a poem called ‘Lead the Way’ that gives plenty good advice on this, furthermore one of my up and coming books goes into this much deeper. Look out for it on my blog. Convenience is expensive so be prepared to make some great sacrifices to get what you want. Film and events are incredibly time consuming and often go into late night hours and weekends so be aware that it will effect and overlap into your social life. It’s all about balance.

Being an entrepreneur or freelancing for a living is never easy but it can be a lot of fun and incredibly rewarding. Have a side hustle because while you are chasing your passion you will be broke and you won’t enjoy it. Either start your business part-time while paying your bills with a full-time job or go into your business full-time while you manage a part-time job.

What or who inspires you in business and why?
It’s very seldom that I have one answer for questions such as these so I’ll put it like this; my biggest inspirations in business are Donald Trump, Hugh Hefner, Kimora Lee Simmons, Russell Simmons, Diddy, Richard Branson, Tyler Perry and of course Oprah Winfrey. This is obviously a diverse, distinct group of people but what they all have in common is that they are innovators who have put themselves above everyone else in their field because they knew or came to know how to develop their brand, branch out into ‘the unknown,’ knock down barriers, sustain longevity and become a profitable, relevant, mogul force to be reckoned with.

The people who inspire me creatively, which in turn effects some of my business decisions are; Spike Lee, Maya Angelou, Steven Spielberg, Terry McMillian, Natalie Stewart, Hype Williams, Chris, Diane Martel, Brett Ratner, Dave Myers, Shonda Rhimes, Ed Libby, Jennifer Saunders, John Singleton, Quentin Tarantino and F. Gary Gray. These people are at the top of their game with what they do, I admire and respect their work immensely. I would be lying if I said that their work does not inspire me or that I would not want my creativity to emulate the creative genius of theirs. There are others but I’ll need more time to think and that will take up too much print space.

What are your favourite inspirational quotes?
It’s not the load it’s how you carry it.

Entrepreneurship is spending a few years of your life living the way that most people won’t to spend the rest of your life living the way that most people can’t.
Tough times don’t last, tough people do.

The biggest enemy to creativity is self-doubt.

www.infinitipromotions.co.uk

www.lkknowsherwrites.blogspot.com

LKsamuels@infinitipromotions.co.uk

@LK_ReelDeevah, @Infiniti_Pro

2Inspire Network Profile: Author Molly Gambiza

In this profile interview we meet Molly Gambiza, who has published her second novel "Mistaken Identity", set in Uganda. A book full of twists and turns it's set to be a bestseller across the world we hope! Read more about Molly's journey here and catch her at the 2Inspire Ladies Day on June 28th.

Please tell us what is a typical business day for you?

I wake up at 4:45 in the morning to get ready for work, by 6 a.m. I’m waiting for the bus. That journey always provides some sort of inspiration for my stories. By 7 I’m booking on duty and at 7, 12 hours later I’m signing off for the day. In between however with what moments I do get on breaks I write or read. I’m a receptionist in a very busy building so I relish any chance I get to jot down a few notes.

What made you start the business and what steps did you take to start operating as a business?

My passion for books started from an early age when I was still at primary school where you would find at least twenty pairs of eyes sharing one book. There weren’t enough books to go around so we were told to put our heads together and share my desire to create more books was born during that time. It wasn’t until after reading Flowers in the attic by Virginia Andrews some decades later, that I wrote my first novel True colours and soon after that my second novel Mistaken Identity.

My Sons encouraged me to turn to Self-Publishing and I sought to republish my 2^nd Novel Mistaken Identity. I wanted to have more control over my books and how they would be published and advertised. So at the beginning of the year I registered my company ‘Through My Pen LTD’ with company House, and here I am today.

What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment in the business world to date?

Having Mistaken Identity re-published and made available in e-book format, the task of which was very meticulous. As a semi computer literate person I had to bring myself up to speed on what tablets and e-books are. I am very proud of the new cover and the journey I’m being taken on with my stories.

What has been your biggest challenge in business so far?

Getting my books into major bookstores has been a struggle, when approaching some of the major stores I was asked “Are you a celebrity” before I was asked my name. I knew the journey would be tough but it’s about how you overcome those challenges that define you.

What are your future plans for the business?

I plan to write more successful novels. I have already finished writing my third novel I am just waiting for the right moment to have it published. I have a few other plans cooking in the lab but all will be revealed soon.

If you had to do it all over again, what would you do differently?

I would definitely go with self-publishing from the beginning; I prefer the freedom I have in the publishing and promoting of my work, as a Mother and Wife I’m used to being the boss I guess.

What’s the best compliment you could receive in business?

Being recognised by successful writers like Wilbur Smith, it would be like celebrating my Birthday and Christmas at the same time. My bookshelf has well over 30 titles by him; a “Well done Molly” by him would make my year. He’s one of my major inspirations to keep writing.  

Why is it so important to inspire young women in particular to follow their dreams?

Every young woman has a dream, as a young girl I had a dream to create a better life for myself and my family. I also wanted to be like my sisters who were doing very well so in essence they were my inspiration. It’s important for role models to be there for young Women to help them realise they can accomplish anything in this world and should not feel held back on account of their gender. We live in a World where there’s so much noise and distraction that it makes it harder for our young Women to hear their own voices, at least through my writing I hope to remind Women of that voice.

What advice would you give to somebody who wants to start a business in your industry?

To work hard and to be prepared for ups and downs, it’s not always smooth, to keep pushing until they get the right formula, persistence and perseverance pay. 

What or who inspires you in business and why?

I would say Wilbur Smith, JK Rowling, Tolkein, George R.R Martin, Danielle Steel but above all my Family. My Husband and Children are my driving force in everything that I do and knowing that they are there to support me pushes me to make them proud.

What is your favourite inspirational quote?

The man who does not read has no advantage over the man who cannot read. 

Knowledge is power!

Molly Gambiza

Twitter-@GambizaMolly

Instagram-@mollygambiza

Facebook- @SanyuGambiza

Google+ Molly Gambiza

Mistaken Identity Synopsis:

What happens when no-one can tell you or your sister apart?

Many people find it hard to tell Identical twins Denise and Annabella apart. This leads to all sorts of complications, especially with an impending forced marriage to content with…

Set in Uganda, this tale of multiple twists and turns proves that the course of true love never did run smoothly

All aboard for the ride!

Mistaken Identity can be purchased from any bookstore and also from the links below

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Mistaken-Identity-Molly-Gambiza and

www.smashwords.com/books/view/408593

Visit Molly's Site http://www.throughmypen.co.uk/

2Inspire Network Business Profile: Adeline Sede-Kamga, Founder of FabAfriq Magazine

In this interview we meet the founder of the Pan-African glossy magazine, FabAfriq, Adeline Sede-Kamga. FabAfriq is a lifestyle magazine which celebrates African achievement in all areas of society. Read this inspirational interview and be motivated by her journey.

Adeline

Please tell us what is a typical business day for you?

My Business days are different depending on what I am doing or which cap I am wearing. Generally, I will start my day at 2AM. This is the time spent to read and reply emails and read business books online. I also use this time for social media updates. Around 6:30, I start sending out emails from my draft folder and creating contacts I need for my next interviews, meeting, reviews etc. I am usually in the office around 8:30 when I hold skype/ viber or face to face meeting with my team or clients. By 2PM, I am ready to hang out with some friends who inspire me or organising files and folders in some of my numerous online storage devices.


What made you start the business and how did you get started?

When a mother of 2 is faced with redundancy, ideas of what to do next started to manifest. With a previous experience in journalism, a husband who is an amazing web designer amongst other things, my abilities to connect with people, negotiation skills, high level communication skills and a love for all things creative, I decided to start a web business. One year later, it was no longer an ”I” business but a “we” business. With the pressure to satisfy different type of readers, we decided to turn our online magazine into a print magazine and later a magazine publication company into a Digital marketing agency.

What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment in the business world to date?

It is very difficult to name one achievement, but the biggest achievement so far has been my ability to influence change in people’s lives. This has been done through my natural coaching skills. As a coach, every positive result gives me great satisfaction and I can’t thank God enough for this gift. Other achievements include the publication of one issue after the other of our amazing FabAfriq Glossy magazine, collaborations with the amazing FabAfriq creative team to host Fashion events, facilitating workshops and seminars and the launch of a FabAfriq branch in Cameroon (Africa)

 
What has been your biggest challenge in business so far?

My biggest challenge has been managing across boundaries. With a team scattered around 4 continents, it is very difficult to manage time differences thus missing some key deadlines.

Further challenges are Funding availabilities. It has been very challenging, raising funds to run the business. As we all know, more than 60% of small businesses shut down due to lack of funding. So far, we are still trying to solve this issue but as you all know-where there is a will...

As a woman and a Mother, it is also very challenging to raise little children while trying to run a business (I have 3 kids, 19 years, 5 years and 1 year).


What are your future plans for the business?

We plan to publish every 2 months going forward from next year. This will give our readers an opportunity to enjoy exciting new articles at a regular interval. We have launched our consultancy, which supports businesses in Digital marketing and communication. We plan to grow over the years in human resources so that we’d be able to support our ever growing clientele.


If you had to do it all over again, what would you do differently?

When I look back at some of the mistakes that I made, I smiled to myself. In life it is OK to make mistakes, you learn faster. I think what I might do differently is to work on my relationship with anyone who has ever contributed to FabAfriq Magazine. Most of them were like butterflies, flying to FabAfriq only to fly away again-chasing other passion, bigger pay cheques and other adventures.


Why is it so important to inspire young women in particular to follow their dreams?

As we all know, women have been marginalised in the past. Inspiring more women means more women would be in control of their lives. We need to save our continent, statistics show that men are not doing a pretty good job- Inspire a man, you change his family, Inspire a woman, you change her village...just twisted that but you know it is true.

What advice would you give to somebody who wants to start a business in your industry?

1- Research

2- Plan

3- Gather a lot of images and articles. Make sure you ask for permission before you re-publish published work and please always include a reference link.

4- Kick start. You do not need all you need to start a successful business. Once you have kicked started your business, other things would fall into place.


What or who inspires you in business and why?

The final products always give me a kick to start all over again. I see every publications as a project, as soon as it has been published, I jump on the next project. Team FabAfriq is a very big inspiration, everyone takes their role as their best friend, delivering on time cost and quality.

My family, who doesn’t like a holidays in The Bahamas? I want to work hard, so that I can take them there every other year.


What is your favourite inspirational quote?

“Don't walk behind me; I may not lead. Don't walk in front of me; I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend.” Albert camus

+FabAfriq Magazine
www.fabafriq.com

@fabafriq 

2inspire Network Profile: Meet The Motivational Listener - Noreen Makosewe

On June 28th 2014, at The 2Inspire Ladies Day, Life and Executive Coach and Strategist Noreen Makosewe, will share ways to unleash your personal power, overcome adversity and colour life beautiful so you can live the life of your dreams boldly and powerfully. Read this powerful and inspirational interview with Noreen and motivate yourself to be the best that you can be.

Noreen Makosewe

Please tell us what is a typical business day for you?

Business days are often planned a week or weeks in advance. With multiple projects on-the-go most days are not the same. Working to a structured time and workflow schedule keeps me focused and minimises distractions and overwhelm caused by the volume of things that require ongoing attention.

Silence, gratitude, prayer and setting a clear intention for the day is how I like to begin each day. These times of quietness keep me centred through fast-paced days and constant change.

I give priority to making or returning calls and sending or responding to emails as that is how I communicate with potential clients, existing clients, JV partners or suppliers. When an upcoming seminar or conference is on the calendar I have regular telephone updates with my events manager who works remotely. I’ve learnt that building a big dream requires building a great team. I’m still learning to delegate as part of the growth process. After emails and phone calls, I then systematically work through the day’s agenda which could include following up leads, scheduling meetings, preparing for a presentation/workshop/seminar, negotiating with venues for upcoming events or writing my book.


Coaching clients or strategy consulting will often take place in a city meeting room, online or via telephone. On work-at-home days I stick to working UK business hours (9 – 5 or sometimes longer) like I would a corporate job. Being self-employed and working at home requires time discipline. If anything, it can require more discipline than working an office job. Potential distractions are many so without personal discipline productivity suffers. I believe entrepreneurs can benefit greatly from treating their own businesses as they would a big corporation, whether working alone or with a team.

What made you start the business and what steps did you take to start operating as a business?


I always knew I wanted to get paid for doing work that makes a difference in people’s lives and the world. My late father made me believe I could achieve anything I set my mind upon. Those words keep me motivated. Also, growing up I saw many women juggling a corporate job, raising a family and setting up businesses. As much as I admired their tenacity, I saw the pressure juggling all of these things put on them, their health or their families. This is not always the case of course, but they inspired me begin business-building early in my singlehood.


The first year of my degree course in Information Systems and Management helped me figure out very quickly that although I enjoyed the technical know-how of IT, I did not want to work with machines long-term – I wanted to work directly with people. Informally involved in music and putting together youth and music events in my early twenties, I toyed with the idea of setting up a music recording studio or a corporate events company. Stints in various client-facing jobs didn’t yield any career options that resonated with my vision. Whilst researching jobs and courses online one day, I came across Life Coaching and discovered there was an entire industry that offered the opportunity to build a career out of something I felt was a strength. A good friend recommended Noble Manhattan Coaching. I liked their ethos and values as a company so I trained to become a Certified Life and Executive Coach, set up www.radicalleap.com and never looked back. I eventually also became a Strategic Partner of Noble Manhattan, helping others become certified life, executive or corporate coaches.


Some of the key steps I took to start operating as a business included:

• Getting clear about what I wanted to do and how I was going to make it happen 
• Getting the vision down on paper to keep me focused 
• Lots and lots of research 
• Registering the company as a legal entity 
• Speaking to lawyers and accountants about pitfalls and growth strategies in business 
• Attending business start-up, personal and leadership development events 
• Reading business books and books written by those already accomplished in my industry 
• Setting up the back-end systems and processes I would need for the day-to-day operations of the business. Knowing IT helped 
• Preparing myself mentally and financially to balance having corporate job while I built a new business from the ground up. I had to be strategic 
• Setting aside a budget for continuous professional development as is required in my industry – training, courses, events, books 
• Bags of focus and determination 

What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment in the business world to date?

According to Bloomberg, 8 out of 10 entrepreneurs who start businesses fail within the first 18 months. That’s a whopping 80%! Being around since 2007 and making a difference in the lives and businesses of entrepreneurs and leaders not only in Europe but also in Africa feels like a great accomplishment. We still have a long way to go but I’m grateful we’ve made it this far. The brand has evolved and grown over the years and we’re looking forward to impacting more lives and being a company that creates changes of generational significance.

What has been your biggest challenge in business so far?

Juggling multiple projects has challenged performance and productivity. It’s both exciting and adventurous but can put pressure on profits as well as wellbeing. The lessons I’ve learnt over the years have been incorporated in coaching programmes that helps busy entpreneneurs manage their time effectively, and maximise performance and productivity. 

Noreen Makosewe means business!

What are your future plans for the business?

Expansion. Africa has been on the agenda from the beginning and right now there are great opportunities to take our products and services to entrepreneurs and business leaders in Africa. There’s a hunger for knowledge, personal development, leadership development and business development and I’d like Radical Leap to be a part of meeting that need. We have some clients in East and West Africa and are forging alliances with complementary organisations to collaborate on people development projects.


If you had to do it all over again, what would you do differently?

I would invest in business and leadership mentoring very early in the business. Mentoring would have helped me avoid certain pitfalls, access better resources and accelerate the growth of my business.

What’s the best compliment you could receive in business?

“You changed my life!”

Why is it so important to inspire young women in particular to follow their dreams?

“You educate a man; you educate a man. You educate a woman; you educate a generation.” ― Brigham Young


I believe this statement to be true. My experience of working with the Women of Africa charity has given me the opportunity to read as well as hear the challenges women experience, some of them heart-breaking. I believe investing in men is worthwhile too but there are so many odds stacked up against women worldwide and it’s going to take a lot of policy changes to bring about gender balance that will place many women in a position of safety and power to impact their communities with their knowledge and their talents. In the meantime, we should not stop inspiring and empowering the next generation of women who will carry on the work of ‘being the change’ and creating a better world.


What advice would you give to somebody who wants to start a business in your industry?


Here are a few simple tips:


· Study the industry. Here are 5 free downloadable coaching reports that might help: http://tinyurl.com/lu79xm9


· Invest in the best professional coach training programme you can find


· Invest in mentors – personal, business, financial, spiritual


· Invest in continuous professional development


· Know who you are and what area of coaching you would like to focus on. Play on your greatest strengths and don’t be distracted by how everyone else is doing things


· Know who you want to serve with your gift and then give them your all


· Prepare to put in the work. It is a rewarding industry to be in and persistence pays off


· Learn from those with experience in your area of expertise


What or who inspires you in business and why?

I believe we all have internal wiring that compels us to pursue our individual life paths. I’m inspired to be the best I can be and fulfil my life purpose helping others fulfil theirs boldly. Things my parents said to me when I was growing up remind me that nothing is impossible. I’m also inspired by the women in my inner circle. The ups and downs of this journey are easier to handle with a good support network and lots of laughter. “No wo/man is an island.”

I’m inspired by the countless women all over the world who feature in lifestyle, inspirational as well business publications like Forbes; women who are boldly living out their purpose and making a difference whilst remaining authentic to their personality and their message.

There are also “invisible women” who inspire me. Women no one knows about but who are using the resources they have to change their world. They work quietly but their legacy will live on for generations. I know about these women through association with various charities. Because of them, light shines in dark places.

What is your favourite inspirational quote?

“The heights by great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden flight, but they, while their companions slept, were toiling upward in the night.” ~ (Henry Wadsworth Longfellow)


@noreenmakosewe  

www.themotivationallistener.com

2inspire Business Profile: Strength of a Woman Ladies Day Competition Winner: Zara-Shola Odeniyi of Cocoa Cabin

Zara-Shola Ode was the winner of our Strength of a Woman competition with her slogan: "Brick to Brick we stand firm together building walls to inspire others". As part of her prize Zara will be exhibiting her business at the next ladies day on 28th June at the Novotel hotel in Greenwich, find out more below about this young entrepreneur and her business Cocoa Cabin from her interview.

Zara is 23 years old and first started planning her business in 2010 but was too scared to start as she was defeated by the start up costs. However 9 months ago, she went back to her plan, figured out ways to cut costs and went ahead and registered her business. 

Zara describes Cocoa Cabin as a  Hot Chocolate Company that specialises in whipping up Luxury Melted Dark Chocolate into a delicious drink available in an array of flavours. She  is also keen to promote the health benefits of Raw Cocoa and educate people on how good chocolate is for the body and also the mind!

Zara-Shola Odeniyi

Please tell us what is a typical business day for you?

 A typical business day for me currently evolves around events that I exhibit at and so it involves getting to a venue, setting up the table and preparing the chocolate and milk.

What made you start the business and what steps did you take to start operating as a business?

I started this business because I wanted to change from an employee to an employer and become the captain of my own ship. The first thing I did was a business plan. I started to establish what my business was, what we do, who we were targeting and where we wanted to go.

What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment in the business world to date?

 My greatest accomplishment is yet to come as I progress and build my company name.

What has been your biggest challenge in business so far?

 My Biggest challenge has been finding funding for my business in order to do more events

What are your future plans for the business?

 In the future I plan to have franchises of Cocoa Cabin stores

If you had to do it all over again, what would you do differently?

 I would have started sooner. Regardless of what it looks like, You do not have to see the entire staircase, just take the first step.

What’s the best compliment you could receive in business?

Somebody saying we do the best Hot Chocolate in the world!

Why is it so important to inspire young women in particular to follow their dreams?

Women can easily be mislead by society about who they are suppose to be, what is expected of them and what is acceptable/unacceptable. It is important to inspire women to follow their dreams so they are maximising their potential and not being held back by what society feeds them. It is a blessing to be a women and we are so capable. This is an era where we no longer have to depend on men to bring the bread home.

What advice would you give to somebody who wants to start a business in your industry?

I would say do practice runs and source your strengths and weaknesses. Get people to try it and note down everything that went well, everything that went right, what can be better, what do you need/lack. This way you have a rough idea of what a customer wants

What or who inspires you in business and why?

 I am inspired by entrepreneurs who reject the path that we are all taught (Get a degree and find a 9 to 5 job for life) and start up a business that makes money for them.

What is your favourite inspirational quote?

 If You Believe You Can, You Probably Can, If You believe You Wont, You Most Reassuredly Wont, Belief is the Ignition switch that gets you off the launching pad-Denis Waitley

Register to catch @ Cocoacabin at the next ladies day : http://2inspireladiesday4.eventbrite.co.uk

Contact Information:

www.cocoacabin.com

@cocoacabin