Hard work pays, youthprenuer Sopuruchi says

Chikere Sopuruchi Priscilla, a French graduate is the brain behind SODIVA DESIGNS. In this interview with The young fashion designer speaks on her journey so far and why she opted for self-employment.

How long have you been in fashion designing and what was the motivation? I’ve being into fashion all my life. The motivation came from seeing the stress people pass through to secure a good job. It made me decide to be a job creator and employ people with like minds. I wanted to help youths like me to show their creative side.

You are into fashion designing. How did you learn it?

I started designing professionally before gaining admission into the university and did it all through my stay in school. It wasn’t easy but with good time management and God’s grace I was able to pull through. Learning it was so easy because my mum is a professional.

How much capital did you use to start Sodiva designs?

Well, not much because with as little as N50, 000 one can start up the business.

No business venture is immune to challenges. What challenges have you faced and how have you coped?

The greatest challenge we face now is electricity supply. It is not encouraging and we depend on generator for it.

How do you source for your sewing materials?

The materials we use are mostly sourced in Aba because that is where you can get good textile material and also other locally manufactured materials in Nigeria.

Seeing that you have gone quite far in the art, what does it take to be successful as a fashion designer?

It’s not been easy but to succeed, it takes creativity, perseverance and the grace of God.

How do customers? you attract your

We attract customer through adverts and our good works also speak for us. In other words, we get referrals from other customers.

So many people jump at the prospect of having a 9-to-5 job. Would you leave fashion designing if you are offered a white collar job?

Not at all!!! I can’t imagine myself doing a white collar job. It is not my thing. Fashion designing is what I have a passion for.

Your advice to prospective young entrepreneurs on starting the business

For upcoming designers never be discouraged by anything whatsoever. Hard work pays and little by little, your dreams will come true and always trust God in all things.