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<\/figure>\nToday ON THE BLOG<\/strong>, we interview Dasaolu Ayodeji. <\/em><\/p>\n Dasaolu Ayodeji is the founder and the Creative Director of Startouch Concepts, a growing and formidable Startup in Nigeria. A brand that aims at creating fashion accessories and statement pieces for men and women<\/em>. <\/p>\n He takes us through his journey of starting a business in his university days and business now especially during the COVID-19 Pandemic.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n Honeydrops:<\/strong> So, tell us about yourself?<\/strong> Honeydrops: That\u2019s cool.<\/strong> Deji: Okay\u2026 My journey of entrepreneurship started in my University days. In 200l, I wanted to learn a trade. I was enrolled under someone who taught me how to make roses and decorative flower designs. Then, I saw a lapel pin for the first time and I fell in love with it. Rather than wanting to buy it, I wanted to make it. Then I started applying the knowledge of the trade I had learnt into making lapel pins. Same is the story for all of our products too. I saw them, loved them, became curious about making them and learnt how to. We started with lapel pins, then went to pocket squares, neckties, bowties, e.t.c.<\/p>\n Honeydrops: Nice. Are your products for men only or are there some ladies can add to their closets?<\/strong> Honeydrops: That\u2019s lovely\u2026 We hope to see more for ladies Honeydrops: So, what has business been like especially during the COVID-19 Pandemic and can I say post lockdown (as the gradual easing up occurs)?<\/strong> Currently, there\u2019s been a positive change in business flow since the ease of the lockdown. I hope that things continue to get better and trust God for increase in coming days.<\/p>\n Honeydrops: Wow, that\u2019s cool Honeydrops: Alright, If you can say 1 thing to entrepreneurs what would it be?<\/strong> Honeydrops: Thanks Deji<\/strong> Honeydrops: On a final note, how can we contact you or find your business.<\/strong><\/p>\n Deji: Follow us on Instagram via @Startouch_concepts and call\/SMS\/WhatsApp @08160077755<\/p>\n
Deji: Hmm\u2026 Well, my name is Dasaolu Iyinoluwa Ayodeji. I am the Founder and Creative Director, Startouch concept. I am also a graduate of English from the University of Ilorin. I love to create, sing and watch movies.<\/p>\n
Tell us more about Startouch Concept? What is it all about? How did you start and why did you see the need to?<\/strong><\/p>\n
However, the brand, Startouch concept, came as a result of the fact that I wanted to show people that Nigerian products could compete with international standard, making quality affordable. I couldn\u2019t do everything, so I chose to focus on accessories. This brand got it\u2019s name in 2018, and it\u2019s been quite a ride since then.<\/p>\n
Deji: Well, we started with men\u2019s accessories. I noticed that men\u2019s accessories are more expensive compared to that of the ladies and wanted to do something about this. However, we are working towards something special for the ladies.
Also, lapel pins are used by ladies too. I smile when I\u2019m told that it\u2019s for only men. I have pictures that say it\u2019s not. Okay, I will send only a few though. Check out the rest on our Instagram page.<\/p>\n
<\/strong>Deji: Certainly\u2026 I can\u2019t wait too.<\/p>\n
Deji: Hmm\u2026 At the start of the lockdown, it was terrible. There was nothing! I am grateful for it though. I got to do a lot of thinking, strategizing, rebranding, learning and came up with ideas that I know will change everything once the country is fully reopened. The lockdown allowed me to come up with some crazy ideas and solve foundational problems I had with the business.<\/p>\n
You started your brand in your university days. Do you have any advice for young entrepreneurs and tips for how to manage time and balance business with other life activities (like in your case schooling)?<\/strong>
Deji: Truth is that doing business while in school means you have to put in more effort than the rest. So, get people who will work with<\/em> you to lighten your load. Secondly, capital is first people before it becomes money. When you do business, let it meet a need. That\u2019s the easiest way to people\u2019s pockets. However, focus more on the need than the profit, so you\u2019ll notice when their needs change and can easily adjust. Doing business in school is mostly dependent on the relationships you make. Make good relationships within and outside business. It helps.<\/p>\n
Deji: Never stop learning. Wait, listen and learn.<\/p>\n
Deji: My utmost pleasure. Thanks for having me.<\/p>\n
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