“I enrolled at a nearby cobbler’s shop that has been in the business for several years. The first 3 months were challenging because I was outside my comfort zone. My hands got bruised, my fingernails broke, the chemical gums I worked with nauseated me and I decided to call it quits. But then I remembered the words of wisdom passed on to me by the elderly man who inspired me. As time went by, I discovered some hidden talents I never knew I possessed, which include drawing, designing and attention to detail, as my passion for creating foot wear grew. I was overjoyed to see ideas become realities. In a few months, I made 13 pairs of slippers and sandals all by myself. At the moment, I have no interest in any white collar job.”
Emodi makes unisex bespoke and ready-to-wear footwear for her still-evolving Lagos-based brand House of Theresa (HOT). She is of the belief that the perception to ‘Made in Nigeria’ goods is gradually changing, as people have begun to accept that not all local artisans and designers are charlatans. Presently, Emodi runs her business from home and employs social media platforms to reach her clients, receive orders and obtain referrals.
With big dreams and a tagline that reads, ‘Shoes For All Nations’ Nkiru Emodi understands that everything is possible if you want it to be. “Our potentials are limitless, we only need to let the creativity in us soar. Once you start, you can only get better. Just start. Never give up on your dreams. Never give up on yourself. Don’t let fear rent a space in your mind, because everything you want is on the other side of fear. Be courageous, determined and focused.”
Nkiru Iyabo Emodi at work
Nice Write-up. Please how can someone get one of these?