She’s beautiful. Isn’t she? Well, she is into the skincare/beauty business and definitely portrays what she does for a living. For elegant Abiola Ahmed, establishing the skincare company, Hush’D Makeover Limited, is a dream come true. Quite industrious too, her beauty comes combined with high intellect. How has she coped with a huge business like Hush’D Makeover Limited? She opens up in this interview with Owambevibes
Owambevibes: Kindly introduce yourself?
I am Mrs. Abiola Ahmed and I am the Managing director of Hush’D Makeover Limited, with experience in managing cross-functional teams to deliver scalable results. My background in brand strategy, customer service; management and cosmetology informed my mindful but competitive approach. I am fueled by my passion for understanding different kind of skins and developing products that suit all skin types. I consider myself a ‘forever student,’ eager to both build on my academic foundations in business administration and cosmetology and stay in tune with the latest digital marketing strategies through continued learning. I hold a degree in Office Technology and Management from the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi and a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from London Metropolitan School of Business and Management. I am from Ondo State.
Owambevibes: You founded Hush’D five years ago. Why did you delve into skincare?
My affinity for beauty and style was why I launched Hush’D Makeover Limited five year ago and we are now Nigeria’s leading skincare and cosmetics company with varieties of cutting-edge beauty products. I am passionate about giving people a sense of confidence in themselves through a glowing skin. My primary goal is to make men and women alike, feel beautiful and comfortable in their own skin. Due to my vast experience in the skincare/beauty industry, we have churned out a string of amazing products, which have given our customers confidence in their skin.
Owambevibes: Skincare seems to be a viable business in Nigeria and many are joining the fray, what makes HUSHD different from others?
It is tough to operate in Nigeria skincare industry primarily due to negative macroeconomic factors. However, the key is getting the product and marketing right. We are glad that we have amazing products that make your skin do the talking and these products are certified by the appropriate authorities.
Another key factor is my dedicated team of amazing employees working day and night to make our customers fulfilled. I am glad to lead those talents to blaze the trail in our harsh operating environment. So, my team and customers unwaning support makes us different in the skincare industry.
Owambevibes: Can you highlight the achievements of HUSHD in five years—products, acceptability, branches and more?
We started out as a business venture with few products. Within three years our product range has increased significantly. Our product range continues to increase to meet the demands of our customers. Every product range is formulated to solve a specific skin concern for the different skin types. In addition to sales of skin care products, we have a logistics company responsible for ensuring that our products get to customers conveniently. We also opened a world class spa in 2019. The acceptability of our products has been amazing and is evident through the feedback we receive from our customers and the number of referrals we get.
In our five years of being in business, we moved from occupying a one-bedroom flat office to a 3-bedroom flat office and eventually built our head office in Opebi. The head office currently houses all the three business units of the company.
Owambevibes: As a successful businesswoman, how have you achieved a peaceful home front?
I have a very understanding partner who recognizes my passion and ambition for business. I understand him and his needs as well.
The foundation of my home is built on mutual love, respect and understanding. My husband knows everything I get up to and the same applies to me. So, we make sure to bridge the communication gap between us.
Owambevibes: How supportive is your husband?
My husband is a huge pillar of support in my life. He makes things very easy for me and understands the responsibility that comes with running a business in Nigeria. So, he does not put unnecessary pressure on me. Most often, when I face certain challenges in my business, he guides me to get a solution. Despite his busy schedule, he often makes out time to visit me in the office and buys me surprise gifts to encourage me.
Owambevibes: Advise women on how to successfully run a business and manage a home?
Planning and prioritizing are key. We need to understand the things we can do ourselves and those that can be delegated. Also ensure that you carry your partner along with these plans. That way, you can avoid unnecessary pressure. Ensure that your business has a good and reliable team. With the right team, people can take initiatives; solve certain problems which makes it easier for you to delegate certain tasks that you would ordinarily be worried about. Once this is in place, your work is basically to motivate, supervise and strategize.
Owambevibes: So, what are tips to managing a home?
In managing a home, the first ingredient is having a very supportive partner who understands you and your needs. Then, you both need to practice consistent communication and must be willing to compromise in certain situations.
Owambevibes: What does style means to you?
Style to me is much more than what I wear. It is a clear expression of how I feel internally and externally. It is a reflection of my mood and my personality.
Owambevibes: What are you comfortable wearing the most?
Anything I wear must look good and impeccable. I especially have a knack for bright colors because it reflects my personality and makes me feel happy and bubbly.
Owambevibes: Can you be described as a fashionista?
I would like to believe so because I go all out when it comes to fashion. I pay so much attention to what I wear and when I wear them. I see Fashion as an art and as such, there is no limit to how creative I can be when it comes to being fashionable.
Owambevibes: What inspires what you wear while dressing up?
My major inspiration when dressing up is to feel confident and stand out positively. When I dress up, I ensure that my dresses speak for me even before I talk and that it leaves a lasting memory with the people who happen to meet me.
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