Home Blog Page 3

How to write a business plan. The simple structure.

Joadre
-
0
How to write a business plan. The simple structure.

Updated October 2021.

Before you invest so much effort and resources into your idea, you might want to be able to see the potential of your idea. Right? For many, financial resources are very limited, so who wants to start off investing so much money without any hope of making some of it back? Nobody! That is why you should take time to develop a business plan or a strategy document. I like to call it a “fluid roadmap”. The core purpose of this business plan is for you to be able to transform your “plentiful” ideas into a structure that can develop. 

3 reasons why you need  a business plan

Sometimes you might even need this document to relate with other potential investors, fundiers, partners and so on. But I know that many people are scared about developing a business plan.The process is a very technical one and if you are a creative person, then it might even be your worst nightmare. But relax. That is why we are here. In this blog, I will explain how you can easily develop your own business plan. I will also share the standard structure with you, but before here are 3 reasons why you have to engage in creating your business plan now. 

  1. A business plan allows you the time to think through as many steps as possible. From your idea to actually making your first sale, launching or scaling. 
  2. There is no failure, there is only feedback. However, you will reduce the risk of making massive setbacks and mistakes. I do not want you to lose money. So you will need to sit down and think through what you want to do. This way, you get to discover even more areas that need some more thought from you. 
  3. While you craft out your business plan, you get to develop a budget too for your idea. This allows you to know roughly how much money, resources and capital you will need. 
Watch this video on why you need a business plan.

Every business idea must solve a problem and/or give extremely important value to a target audience. No matter how small or huge. So if you have started already, this is excellent! However, it is never too late to do this part. 

Can I hire someone to write my business plan for me?

Many people want to know if they should/can write their plan themselves or hire someone to do it. My advice is that you should try to write your plan yourself. Because that is a great avenue to think of the most important parts of your idea. You only need to hire someone to write a business plan for you if 1.) You intend to show someone important the plan, 2.) and you do not have good writing skills. In this case, you can record an audio version for someone to put down in good writing.

No luxury of time to read a long business plan

Many people would not have the luxury of time to read through your complete business plan. So they will want a quick overview to understand the idea and see if they will support it. There are some easy formats to present this. Either you develop a 2 pager or a 5 slide deck of your business plan to show people. I have included links to our business tool that will help you create  these formats. Now, let’s take a short look at 2 very important parts of your business plan. After that, I will list the items that need to be in your plan in a structured way. 

The opener and problem

Remember the saying that the first impression matters. Same goes for a business plan. The executive summary opens the door for you. It is your first impression. An executive summary is a short summary of your idea or business plan. This means you actually write it after you have finished your plan. Meanwhile you can write anything you believe is a summary of your ideas first and come back later to upgrade it after you have thought through the questions and points we explore beneath. Start your business plan with a clear and precise problem statement.

A problem is always the driver of a business case. 

A problem is basically something that causes discomfort to either people, animals, things, structures or our environment. Defining the problem you are solving for your customers is far and away the most critical element of your business plan. It is crucial for your business success. When we talk about a problem in a business plan,  it is actually viewed from a positive perspective. Problem as an opportunity. A perspective of how it can be solved. A solution based view. 

To find out if your idea has a demand, let’s dwell on the problem your idea would solve for the specific customer. Ask yourself these questions and if your answer is yes, you can happily move on. If your answer is no, then you need to do more thinking in depth to analyze your business idea.  

  1. Would your idea solve a specific problem for a customer?
  2. Would your idea be more efficient for the customer?
  3. Is your idea better than the way the customer is already solving the specific problem?

Simple standard structure of a business plan

  1. Executive summary – basically summary the whole business. 
  2. Problem statement – this highlights the situation your product or service will solve. Apart from what I have explained above, here is a blog where you can get to read more on developing a problem statement. 
  3. Solution – product/service you intend to offer. Here you get to highlight key research information that you have carried out. Research is so important. When you research you want to know more about the market, the potential customers, your competitors. 
  4. Marketing – product, price, promotion & placement. Identify your unique selling value. 
  5. Finance plan – this will include your budget of expenses you estimate to spend, the income streams and how much you forecast to make. Also you can include how you intend to start financing the business for the first 6 months. 
  6. Operations – this is a part of a business plan that many people forget. Operations refer to what you will do daily to make the business work. I advise you to actually develop a kind of milestone with a work plan about your major and sub activities of the next 6 months. 
  7. Scalability – this simply means that you think about the potential opportunity your business can have and how you will expand. It might mean that you open up new locations, sell to new audiences, launch new products etc.
  8. Team – the uniqueness of your team. This is all about competence. Why they or if it is just you, why you are the best person to carry out this business. 
  9. Contact details are self explanatory if you want to show someone the plan. 

Some more tips for your business plan

Make sure to add a picture in the executive summary, but the picture must show the solution you are creating. If you will show someone else the business plan, then write the plan in a reader friendly manner. Do not use industrial buzzwords or technical jargons.

3 take away from this blog – business plan creation
  1. Brush Up your executive summary after you have developed your business plan. 
  2. Establish a good problem statement.
  3. Take time to think through each point and write the plan yourself. 

Hey, thank you so much for stopping by and reading through to the end. I really appreciate it, because it takes so much to put this together. Hope you liked it. If you did, remember to share this blog on social media. 

Meanwhile, we have developed a unique app to bring together on one platform,  both international partners/investors and Nigerian entrepreneurs to share business data intelligence and connect both to the market. The App is going through the test stage and you can be a part of the testers by downloading right here. Want to stay connected to know when we have opportunities, kindly sign up to our newsletter. For more content, check our YouTube channel. If you need to book a FREE  Q&A with Joadr, then make reservations here. 

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

Cheers

Joadre 

6 steps to start Wig & Weave Business//Business ideas with low capital

Joadre
-
0
6 steps to start Wig & Weave Business//Business ideas with low capital

Since the advancement of fashion, wigs and weaves have become a trend that has women across all age groups rocking the look. And it has even become a more lucrative business idea since many women wish to have changeable looks now and then. If you are looking for business ideas you can start off with low capital, in this blog I will law out all the steps you need to start.  Weaves are hair extensions that women fix on their heads either by sewing or gluing, while wigs are already styled weaves that women wear like a cap on their heads.

Like the popular saying goes; “looking good is good business” wigs and weaves business is a very lucrative business as all women use them across all age groups and all works of life. From the many beauty business ideas out there, wig and weave is an idea you can start with about 70k Naira. But maybe you do not have any capital whatsoever. here is a quick tip on how to start this business idea without cash in hand.

How to start with no money

With no money, it simply takes having a supplier that trusts you enough to give you the products before payment is made. Or you do drop shipping. Drop shipping strategy allows you to  take customers orders and they pay before delivery. Then you pay the supplier.  Thus you gets the money and buys from the supplier while keeping her own profit.

So if the supplier sells to the person at 15k, the person tells the customer 25k and 2k delivery, when the customer pays the seller buys it 15k from the supplier, keeps their 10k and delivers with the 2k, The downside though is that not everyone will be willing to pay before delivery. More on drop shipping in another blog. Now let us get back to our initial blog idea.

Steps to start a wig and weave business – business ideas startup step-by-step
  1. Step 1: Research – Research to understand the market, trend, pricing.
  2. Step 2: Product clarity – Learn about the product – weaves & wigs.
  3. Step 3: Stocking product – Contact Manufacturers/wholesalers to purchase your first stock.
  4. Step 5: Presentation cost – Find ways to showcase.
  5. Step 4: Delivery & logistics – Decide how to deliver.
  6. Step 6: Promotion  – Reach your potential customer.
Step 1: Research

Market research is always the first step before you start up with any business ideas. Believe me, if you want to fast track your way to become successful, you need to know what the other competitors or people offering the same or similar product are up to. You can carry out a market research by reading magazines about retailing wigs and weaves, watching adverts related to wigs and weaves, by attending beauty fairs, by studying the competitors, by actually talking to your friends and colleagues who love wigs and weaves.

Look for blog articles in the beauty industry. Know who your key competitors are. Outline your own key findings so that you have a broad view about the market. Your key findings should cover the trends, the competitors listings, the prices wigs and weaves are sold, who the potential customers are and what kind of product they like. So you to do action under this step to come up with your key findings. I have a video coming up on my YouTube channel about  how to do the market research as part of the free business training program called the 6 KEY. So not to miss out, make sure to subscribe.

  • To do – come up with your key findings.
Step 1: Product clarity 

Wigs and weaves can be differentiated by various factors ranging from colour, to length, to texture and also the materials used ( i.e human hair, kanekalon, synthetic etc.) as this will determine the price of the wigs and weaves. Your next step of action now after having a good overview of the market is to decide what kind of wigs and weaves you would like to start off with. 

Find out what people want, what prices they are willing to pay for it, the different kinds of weaves and wigs, the differences between them, the lengths and also how to care for each type of hair as you need to be able to teach your customers. Your reach should also include where to get these products at a very cheap rate. All that you have found out should be listed down to create a potential product list to start with. Include the prices and where to get these products. 

  • To do – Make your own product list.
Step 3: Stocking product

After you have a list of products you want to sell, it is important that you make that move to contact the suppliers or manufacturers. No matter how lucrative your business ideas might seem, you have to take some logical actions like actually reaching out to partners. You need to source for wholesalers or manufacturers who are willing to sell to you at discounted prices as this will enable you to realize your own profits. Your discounted price must give you at least 40% margin to converse all your cost and make room for profit.

Be careful to rely on suppliers online as you can not know the exact quality of the wig or weave. If you feel you can get the product cheaper online, maybe from Aliexpress or a shop in china, here is what you can do. Go to your wholesale market on the Island and check the products there. If you find what you like, note the name, make, brand features. Go back online and request the supplier to get you this exact piece. Still there is the risk that it might be fake. So to start, i suggest you make a good rapport with a local supplier who has a shop where you can actually feel the quality and texture of the wig.

Get good quality weaves worth about 60k so that customers that want them on that same day can easily get from you. You can go to markets like Yaba and Aspamda( trade fair at Ojoo) as you are likely to be able to purchase these products at affordable prices there. It is important to make special arrangements with wholesalers or manufacturers that allow you to return the product if not sold within a time and exchange for another product. In this case, if one product does not sell after a while, you can get a more trendy product.

  • To do – Stock 60K worth of wig or if you are starting cashless, get 60k worth of wigs based on arrangement with the supplier/manufacturer.
[trx_sc_action type=”default” full_height=”” actions=”%5B%7B%22position%22%3A%22mc%22%2C%22subtitle%22%3A%22Get%20the%20full%20content!%22%2C%22description%22%3A%22%23E-8_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%3D%3D%22%2C%22link%22%3A%22https%3A%2F%2Fjoadre.com%2Fcomplete-6-steps-to-start-wig-and-weave-business%2F%3F%22%2C%22link_text%22%3A%22Access%20the%20full%20content%20for%20FREE%22%2C%22color%22%3A%22%23dd4444%22%2C%22icon%22%3A%22icon-pin%22%7D%5D” title_style=”default” link_style=”default”]
* indicates required
Blog readers
4 key takeaway from this blog
  1. Do your research properly before you start.
  2. Contact wholesalers or manufacturers and make a deal to be able to return products if not sold after specific time.
  3. Design a strategy to promote your product. Remember to watch this if you want to promote online.
  4. Remember that it is important that you host life showcasing events.

Hey, thank you so much for stopping by and reading through to the end. I really appreciate it, because it takes so much to put this together. Hope you liked it. If you did, remember to share this blog on social media. Yes, more free training and videos on this topic will be out this month on YouTube. Not to miss out,  subscribe and turn on the notification on Youtube. It would be nice if you follow me on instagram as I share daily strategies and personal fun stuff. I am on facebook as well but to get it all in one place, subscribe to my free newsletter. Drop your comments, questions, feedback beneath using the comment section and I will be happy to answer your questions in my next video or blog.

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

Cheers,

Joana

Useful links:

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joadreofficial/
  • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/joadretv
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjoadre/
  • Joadre blog: https://joadre.com/blog/
  • Joadre Newsletter: https://joadre.com/newsletter

Why to use content creation to make money online.

Joadre
-
0
Why to use content creation to make money online.

If you are looking for a way to make money online, this blog is for you. I want to introduce you to content creation as a business idea that you can start right away in Nigeria or anywhere you are. I am passionate about this business because it is a good way to make money online and you can start with almost no big financial investment. This is how we will explore this idea in this blog. Firstly, will explain what a content creation business is. Then I will link you to some of my previous blogs about this topic. I will go further to show you why this business idea is for the future. I have a new video on Youtube about this business idea. Follow me on my YouTube channel to stay updated and know when I release new videos.

What is content creation/marketing business?

Content creation business is a way to make money online. It involves the creation and sharing of online material in diverse formats. The form of content can vary depending on your concept, your skills, the platform and the target audience.  The major formats include still images which are pictures, text content like written words, audio content and motion images like films and videos. Text contents are majorly used in combination with other formats. You often release videos integrating audio and maybe some still images. In my blog on content creation as a low capital business idea, I explain more about this business idea. So the point here is that there are no rules. You have to be creative to define how you will approach this business.

Why you should start this business today in Africa!
  • Africa has about 50% of its population beneath the age of 25 years.
  • Nigeria alone has 205 million people, out of which about 47% now have access to the internet (2020).
  • In 3 years, it would be about 85% having access to the internet.
  • Which means that about 77 million new users will be available to you as a target audience.
  • See how the shutdown affected many businesses in 2020? Those who had online businesses were less affected.
  • You have 3 years to develop your business and grow to become a brand in Africa. If you do not, foreigners would. The internet is at a global pace. So if you do not target your own community, your community members online will consume the information and products/services offered by another person in the USA or somewhere else. So you lose the potential influence and income to someone living thousands of miles away.
  • In Nigeria alone, we have about 90 million underemployed and unemployed people. So if your excuse is cash to start a business, I am offering you an idea that you can start with almost no investment. Start Making money online! Get on my platforms to stay connected and learn how to start, grow this business.

Maybe I have convinced you enough now and you are wondering what skill set you will need to start this business? Here is a blog on that. Here is the basic skill set you will need for any type of content creation business.

  1. Research & analysing ability.
  2. Creativity – outside the box – taps into the global market.
  3. Producing the actual end product.
  4. Monetize your content or platforms. I will release videos and detailed blogs showing you how to do this step by step.
Where do I start from?

If you are serious about venturing into this business, you can start easy by starting a blog. A blog allows you to brush up your online skills. If you want to venture into starting a blog, here is another blog on the basics to writing blogs. Can I start targeting business clients? You can venture into offering your services for business clients. In this blog I explain a bit more on that. If you are wondering what tools you need to start, here is another blog on the 7 gears you need to start making money online.

What products and services can I develop?

You have to define what your product or service will be. What your product or service will be depends on the goal you have and the target audience. Looking at the different formats available to you based on the skills you have or can acquire, you can venture into multiple services or specialise in specific areas. Here are a few options: blogging, vlogging, videography for others, distribution of content, marketing content, podcasting, production of content, copy writing and so on!

Hey, thank you so much for stopping by and reading through to the end. I really appreciate it, because it takes so much to put this together. Hope you liked it. If you did, remember to share this blog on social media. Yes, more free training and videos on this topic will be out this month on YouTube. Not to miss out,  subscribe and turn on the notification on Youtube. It would be nice if you follow me on instagram as I share daily strategies and personal fun stuff. I am on facebook as well but to get it all in one place, subscribe to my free newsletter. Drop your comments, questions, feedback beneath using the comment section and I will be happy to answer your questions in my next video or blog.

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

Cheers,

Joana

Useful links:

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joadreofficial/
  • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/joadretv
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjoadre/
  • Joadre blog: https://joadre.com/blog/
  • Joadre Newsletter: https://joadre.com/newsletter/

Lucrative online business ideas to start from home

Joadre
-
0
Lucrative online business ideas to start from home

In my previous blog from last week – 12 online business ideas for students, I listed these 12 ideas and encouraged Nigerian students to start now. Why?  Because in 2023, over 85% of Nigerians will be online and that will create a massive opportunity. In this blog, I want to encourage stay home parents to look into these 12 online business ideas. I will only give very short details about the 12 ideas and also highlight some major skills you will need for the respective ideas. If you want to know more about specific ideas, you have to subscribe to my YouTube channel and turn on the notifications because I will go into details about each single online business idea and how to start them in Nigeria.

12 online business Ideas and short explanations
  • Affiliate marketing: You register with brands that offer affiliate links and prospects, promote a product or service online and get commissions if someone buys.
  • Network marketing: You promote a product or service to your network, also offline and get commissions. More often there is multi-level-marketing involved, where you build a sales network and get commissions from what they sell too.
  • Content marketing/Developer, including copywriting: You develop content (text, visual, audio or mix) for other businesses to market their product. The businesses pay you for this service. I have a blog on this online business idea. Check my blog on content marketing business ideas.  Also copy writing falls under this category, just that you specialise in text format.
  • Social media marketing: You manage the social media accounts of others and get paid to do so.
  • Search engine digital marketing: You optimise the websites and contents of others to be published on google, youtube and get paid to do so.
  • Website design & management: You create a website for others and get paid for the service. You can also manage the website for them for more fees. Many people who want to run an online business do not know how to create nor have the time to manage their own website. So this is where you come in.
More online business ideas to start now
  • Drop shipping: You create your own platform and present manufacturers products. If you get orders, the manufacturer delivers and you get paid.
  • Photography marketing: you develop a network for photographers, get their pictures and sell them on platforms like iStock etc. Most platforms allow selling of commercial and editorial images. You can also sell these pictures to cooperate businesses.
  • B-roll marketing: You develop video materials called B-rolls and sell them on platforms that sell video footage to journalists or businesses. Most of the platforms for photography also sell B-rolls.
  • Blogging: you develop your own platform and begin to blog. After your blog begins to get traffic, you can monetize it. For ways to monetize your blog as an online business, follow me on YouTube.
  • Vlogging: You  create video consistently and build a channel or video platform. After your platform begins to get traffic, you monetize it. Platforms recommended are YouTube and Instagram, depending on your type of content and that target audience.  For ways to build a video platform as an online business and monetize your blog, follow me on YouTube.
  • Video editing: You can offer editing services to content producers and businesses. They pay you a fee for the job delivered. Content can be transferred (up and downloaded) using online tools, which means you can do this anywhere.
What skills do you require to start any of these businesses?

Now the general skills you will need for any of these online business ideas as a student will be the ability to navigate the internet, access to the internet. Access must not be that you own a subscription or a computer. You can use internet cafes.

Specific skills for the specific online business ideas.
  1. Affiliate marketing: online marketing skills
  2. Network marketing: Management skills to build a team, ability to talk to others to introduce products.
  3. Content marketing/developer,  including copywriting: Writing skills. Graphic  design and/or video skills if you offer quail content. You can collaborate with others who have some skills you do not have.
  4. Social media marketing: Social media skills.
  5. Specific digital marketing: Google marketing knowledge. Analytical skills.
  6. Website design & management: Ability to design websites. Maybe wordpress skills for beginners.
  7. Drop shipping: Ability to design websites. Maybe wordpress skills for beginners.Online marketing skills. Product presentation skills.
  8. Photography marketing: Online skills. Network of photographers.
  9. B-roll marketing: Online skills, Network of Videographers.
  10. Blogging: Writing skills. SEO skills.
  11. Vlogging: video making skills. SEO skills.
  12. Video editing: Editing skills. Online skills.
3 takeaways from this blog
  1. You should start now as a stay home parent or underemployed person. More people are coming online!
  2. Start learning new skills.
  3. Access to the internet si skey to develop these ideas, so you can find ways to save to get your own computer as this would make you more flexible.

Hey, thank you so much for stopping by and reading through to the end. I really appreciate it, because it takes so much to put this together. Hope you liked it. If you did, remember to share this blog on social media. Yes, more free training and videos on this topic will be out this month on YouTube. Not to miss out,  subscribe and turn on the notification on Youtube. It would be nice if you follow me on instagram as I share daily strategies and personal fun stuff. I am on facebook as well but to get it all in one place, subscribe to my free newsletter. Drop your comments, questions, feedback beneath using the comment section and I will be happy to answer your questions in my next video or blog.

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

Cheers,

Joana

Useful links:

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joadreofficial/
  • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/joadretv
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjoadre/
  • Joadre blog: https://joadre.com/blog/

4 must do before your start your online business in Nigeria

Joadre
-
0
4 must do before your start your online business in Nigeria

Are you eager to start an online business in Nigeria? Before you venture into any online business, here are 4 things you must consider so that you can fast track your way to be successful without having to waste time later on these. Online business provides a massive opportunity for those with the required skills as many Nigerians are getting online. According to expert predictions, over 85% of Nigerians will be online by 2023. Which means that about 180 million people will be online. If you minus the children, very old people and maybe those not employed and therefore do not have strong buying power, you will still be left with over 50 million potential consumers. Well, this is the right time to start building a business online in Nigeria. On the left is my video on my YouTube channel that explains this topic. Lets dive into the 4 must consider to start an online business in Nigeria.

WHAT: Knowing what you want to sell

This is basically the first thing every entrepreneur looking to venture into online business or any business has to think about properly. I do not mean, just know the name of the product but find out how viable the product will be in the next coming years. You do not want to build a business around a product that is seasonal and might get out of trend. So knowing exactly the features of the particular product is important. And I urge you to look beyond tangible products and check out services that can be offered online as well. There are many services you can market online.

When you begin to research for what type of product you will sell online, make sure to look at the competitors. I would rather call the competitors your mentors because they have already started and you are now exploring their progress to start your own business. Look at bigger brands that are already becoming successful online like Jumia, Etsy, Amazon. What is their top selling product? Can you get these products to sell? Depending on the skills you already have or can acquire, you can venture into services like content creation. I have a blog on how to start a content creation/developer/marketing business online.

So invest some time to do your product analysis. Your product analysis must include the pricing, cost for sourcing the product, who manufactures the product. If you will manufacture the product, then make sure to check for raw materials availability. I always encourage entrepreneurs to focus and choose one core business. If you want to manufacture, then focus on production and let others do your retailing. If you want to retail, then focus on retailing and let other produce. This is a very effective strategy to grow fast and not to stretch yourself too thin.

WHO: who will buy

This aspect is so crucial and we often forget to consider the potential customers at the beginning. Because we believe the product will sell, doesn’t mean it will sell. Who do you intend to target this demands a thorough customer analysis which means you research to know who the potential person is that would want that product. Their lifestyle, where they go, how much they will be ready to pay for that product. All these simple factors will affect the success of your online business in Nigeria. How do you find these questions out?

Simply by also studying the competitors. Who do they target. Look around your network, who uses this kind of product. Look at medis adverts or social media campaigns where similar products or exactly that kind of products are marketed. Who is the target audience. Begin to draft out a potential customer profile. Profile must include simple demographics like age, gender, location, job status, religious status and so on. Are they on social media? What do they like? What area do they live in? Where do they shop?

HOW: How will you sell?

After you are sure of the products or service and you know the target customer, now is time to develop a plan on how you will deliver the product. Here I want you to consider who will do the delivery. It is an online business, so the potential customer will order online and you will have to have a platform form where they can place orders. So it is either you host your one platform. Check So if you are looking into where to host your platform, check Whogohost to host your platform in Nigeria.

Starting off, you can sell your products on existing platforms. Check such existing online platforms to know their conditions. Some offer delivery, others expect you to manage the logistical delivery. If you have to manage the delivery, then you will need to research for delivery companies like ACE, Area boy express or such. Some people use the classic Uber, bolt or Taxify drivers to make delivery. Find out a low cost and effect system that will work for you.

WHY: Why should a customer buy?

This is the last aspect that is very crucial. Now that you want to venture into online business in Nigeria, remember that there are other competitors. Some of these competitors are large companies with a massive marketing team behind to address customers’ needs. If you are a solo entrepreneur who doesn’t have this kind of luxury, then crafting a strategic plan to promote your products to the customer is essential. Here are some questions that can help you through this process.

What Makes your product better than the existing ones in the market? Is it the quality? Is your price cheaper? Do you package it differently? Do you have better promos? Is your delivery time shorter? Is it the social value you will create? Creatings social value with your business can be the key driver of sales. Take for example you have a product that is handmade and made to support a specific group of producers, you can use this to communicate your products value. Also, including the lifestyle flair of your product is very important. I have another blog on how to present your products properly to sell more online. You can learn some quick tips to make more sales online.

3 key takeaway from this blog
  1. Understand your product and define what makes it better than existing products in your target market.
  2. Know exactly who the potential customer is and profile them before you start.
  3. Learn how to best promote your product depending on the platform and method of delivery you choose.

Hey, thank you so much for stopping by and reading through to the end. I really appreciate it, because it takes so much to put this together. Hope you liked it. If you did, remember to share this blog on social media. Yes, more free training and videos on this topic will be out this month on YouTube. Not to miss out,  subscribe and turn on the notification on Youtube. It would be nice if you follow me on instagram as I share daily strategies and personal fun stuff. I am on facebook as well but to get it all in one place, subscribe to my free newsletter. Drop your comments, questions, feedback beneath using the comment section and I will be happy to answer your questions in my next video or blog.

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

Cheers,

Joana

Useful links:

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joadreofficial/
  • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/joadretv
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjoadre/
  • Joadre blog: https://joadre.com/blog/
  • Joadre Newsletter: https://joadre.com/newsletter/

3 tips to make more sales for your online business in Nigeria

Joadre
-
0
3 tips to make more sales for your online business in Nigeria

[trx_widget_video embed=”#E-8_JTNDaWZyYW1lJTIwd2lkdGglM0QlMjI1NjAlMjIlMjBoZWlnaHQlM0QlMjIzMTUlMjIlMjBzcmMlM0QlMjJodHRwcyUzQSUyRiUyRnd3dy55b3V0dWJlLmNvbSUyRmVtYmVkJTJGZ2lHNlFtclpWczAlMjIlMjBmcmFtZWJvcmRlciUzRCUyMjAlMjIlMjBhbGxvdyUzRCUyMmFjY2VsZXJvbWV0ZXIlM0IlMjBhdXRvcGxheSUzQiUyMGVuY3J5cHRlZC1tZWRpYSUzQiUyMGd5cm9zY29wZSUzQiUyMHBpY3R1cmUtaW4tcGljdHVyZSUyMiUyMGFsbG93ZnVsbHNjcmVlbiUzRSUzQyUyRmlmcmFtZSUzRQ==”]

Have you posted your products on social media and nobody buys them? You might feel discouraged and want to stop. Please wait, as I will share 3 tips that can bring your more sales for your online business in Nigeria or anywhere in Africa. If you want to sell more online, you need to master the following – presentation of your product online, targeting customers on the right platform and creating your own platform for long term results. On the left is a video where I talk about these 3 tips. Read further to learn more.

Tip 1: The right presentation attracts more online customers

Most people rely on their smartphone pictures to promote their products. Yes, you can use a smartphone to take your product pictures but I want you to know that pictures are a visual representation of your product. Remember that the customers are not right in front of you and they cannot see the product. The customers rely solely on the pictures you post to make a purchase decision. The pictures show the customer what you are selling and also represents your online business in Nigeria. Therefore it is very important to create the best possible picture for your products. There is a whole science and psychology behind visual representation of products, but I want to give you some quick tips here.

Number 1, make sure to take high quality pictures.

High quality does not mean you have to invest in new photography gears. You can use your phone. All you need is the natural sunlight to give you good lighting. The picture should be clear and taken on a background that enhances your products. There is so much competition in online business. So you want to present your products better than your competitors, right? Remove extra distractions and focus on only that product. You can take a look at this pillow cushion case that we sell on our platform to see how clear and distraction free we represent it.

Number 2, more is better

Take as many pictures from different angles and close up as possible.  A close up is meant to show details of the product. So for example if the product has special features, like the kind of material, a special finishing technique. Your goal should eto show these details properly. Create multiple pictures to display the product very well. Professionals and bigger brands invest in editorial pictures. What are editorial pictures? They show the lifestyle of the product. So it might not simply be only the product that is shown but how the product is used and the flair of the product.

Extra product display tips for online

Customers are not right in front of you, which means that they rely on the information you give them about a product. You must add a description of the product.  The more you describe the product, the easier it is for the customer to visualise and imagine the product. This would help the customer make a purchase decision and therefore lead to even more sales online for your online  business in Nigeria.

Tip 2: Target your customers where they are.

This is key and so important. I have seen too many people post their products on platforms because they believe it’s a social media platform, which is free and there are many customers there. Are you sure? Have you researched to see that the potential customer is on that particular platform? Do not restrict yourself to social media platforms. There are many selling platforms which already have the potential customers that you might be looking for. Your clients might not even live in Nigeria or your community. That is the beauty of online business.

Other platforms to leverage selling

You can leverage on these already existing networks to post your products on. Most of these selling platforms online are free but you need to to register on them. And by the way many have their own product picture minimum quality requirements.. Some examples include Etsy, Jumia, Amazon, Ebay, Ruby Lane and Bonanza. Do your research to find out where your customers might be. I will release a blog and video about how to know where your customers are. So if you want to know when I release this content, make sure to be subscribed to my newsletter and YouTube channel  – Joadretv where I release the videos.

Think long term side income – develop your own platform

This might sound off the topic but believe you me, if you are in Africa today, you might have to start developing new skills to be able to meet the demand of the 21st century. Look at it, over 50% of Africans are beneath the age of 25 years. So these potential customers grow up in the digital age. In 10 years, they will buy more products online. Moreover, if you are in Nigeria and want to build an online business in Nigeria, you should start developing your own platform.

Why to develop your own platform?

Right now, you have about 47% of Nigerians online. In 2023, just 3 years from now, it will be about 85%. So more people are coming online. Imargine 85% of the 204 million Nigerians and many would shop online. So if you start building your own platform and collecting emails of these potential customers, you will have a sound foundation to sell and market more products online. How do you build your own platform? You can start easily by  launching your own website or blog.

This is very easy, even without digital skill, although you should learn more digital skills now, but even without, there are simple programs you can use to develop your own platform. If you are looking for a platform to host your own website or blog, you can visit Whogohost using my Affiliate link – My link. I will release more training content on how to create your own platform. So remember to follow on all my platforms like instagram, facebook, Youtube and subscribe to my newsletter.

3 key takeaways from this blog.

To promote your products online and make more online sales;

  1. Focus on presenting the products well using distraction free pictures.
  2. You must know who your target customers are and what platforms they use so that you can reach them there.
  3. Think long term to develop your own platforms.

Hey, thank you so much for stopping by and reading through to the end. I really appreciate it, because it takes so much to put this together. Hope you liked it. If you did, remember to share this blog on social media. Yes, more free training and videos on this topic will be out this month on YouTube. Not to miss out,  subscribe and turn on the notification on Youtube. It would be nice if you follow me on instagram as I share daily strategies and personal fun stuff. I am on facebook as well but to get it all in one place, subscribe to my free newsletter. Drop your comments, questions, feedback beneath using the comment section and I will be happy to answer your questions in my next video or blog.

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

Cheers,

Joana

Useful links:

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joadreofficial/
  • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/joadretv
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjoadre/
  • Joadre blog: https://joadre.com/blog/
  • Joadre Newsletter: https://joadre.com/newsletter

Self improvement through deep health. Pt. 2

Joadre
-
0
Self improvement through deep health. Pt. 2

Continuing the previous blog from last week – Self improvement through deep health. Pt. 1, let’s understand the last 3 areas and find out how to develop our own program that suits our lifestyle. But remember that deep health is the whole person approach, a whole life approach to health. 

The social area – deep health. 

Now we talk about your tribe. But before, let’s talk about your immediate connections. Social dimension covers your relational life. Do you have a supporting family and friends network that you can access. I say access because of our today’s world. Gone are the days where families  used to live together from one generation to the next and friends grew up on the same elane, got married at the same time and had kids living nearby as neighbours. That might have been paradise for some, but today, mayn move to the cities in pursuit of a better life, right? 

So lets say “access”. You can access your friends and family  via  phone call, video call. Bottom line is that the relationship is strong and valuable. Nobody is draining anybody. All parties involved are building the relationship together. This also applies to your friend circle, your work space and even to distance networks, including online. Building a healthy relationship to friends and family, as well as to strangers online, can impact our physical health for the positive and vise versa. When you surround yourself with people who share values you respect (see I did not say similar values), values you respect and they respect your values, you can grow. 

Your environment matters – deep health. 

Wao, this is so important, especially for entrepreneurs living in the so called emerging countries. I refuse to actually label these places emerging, because it is often based on perspective. For example – tech emerging. However,  when we talk about the environment, we talk about your immediate environment and how it impacts you. I remember the noise I had near my work space in Lagos. It was a generator and it was consistently loud as the power supply just failed regularly. So everyone nearby had to turn on their generators. It was impossible to work. To get to a quiet place on the Island, a more luxurious district where people could afford soundless generators, I had to drive through the city and get stuck in a 4 hours traffic. 

At the end of the day, I felt already exhausted before resuming work. This is a massive issue for entrepreneurs. This state of stress imposed by the environment you live in, might not even be worth it, especially when it affects your wellbeing. Do you feel safe and secure in your space? Does your environment support your health and wellbeing? Remember in the first blog on deep health where I shared my one personal story, I talked about how I had to change my kitchen to  create a supportive environment for healthy cooking. I will definitely post a video on my Youtube Channel showing you what and how I changed my environment to support my goals. 

When you find existential purpose, life is sweet!

Wao! This is the core of deep health. Staying motivated and inspired to balance the different dimensions of your life often depends on your WHY. Do you feel a sense of meaning and purpose? Have you found that thing that makes you extremely fulfilled? I am getting some great life coaches to expand on this because this is hughe.

3 takeaways from this blog
  1. Find your tribe and build a great relationship. 
  2. Your environment is key. How can you make it favour your goals?
  3. Finding an existential purpose is the core foundation that connects all the other deep health dimensions.

Excited that we have some basic understanding about the 6 areas we would explore on my platforms. My next blog will be about sharing daily practices you can easily integrate into your entrepreneurship lifestyle. I used them and am still using them till now. Not to miss out, make sure to get on my platform.  Yes, more free training and videos on this topic will be out this month on YouTube. Not to miss out,  subscribe and turn on the notification on Youtube. It would be nice if you follow me on instagram as I share daily strategies and personal fun stuff. I am on facebook as well but to get it all in one place, subscribe to my free newsletter. Drop your comments, questions, feedback beneath using the comment section and I will be happy to answer your questions in my next video or blog. 

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

Cheers, 

Joana

Useful links: 

 

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joadreofficial/
  • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/joadretv
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjoadre/
  • Joadre blog: https://joadre.com/blog/
  • Joadre Newsletter: https://joadre.com/newsletter/

 

Self improvement through a deep health. Pt. 1

Joadre
-
0
Self improvement through a deep health. Pt. 1

If you have read my previous blog on work life balance, you will understand my journey. In this blog, I want to deepen your understanding about the deep health approach. Deep health means that you approach your life from a wholesome perspective. So when you feel uneasy, you do not focus solely on the pain alone but begin to question yourself about how you feel generally, what might have led to that pain. We have different areas in our life that significantly affect the way we live and the quality of life that we have. These areas could be sectioned under 6 dimensions;  our physical, our mental, our emotional, our social, our environmental and our existential. In this blog, I will expand more on 3 of these dimensions.

Lets stay with our physical here – deep health

This is easy, you might think because you can touch and feel it right now, right? Well, some of us believe that our physical body is a machine that does not need any special care apart from daily hygiene routines and any food that seems extremely yummy! Hell no, every single day, our body needs 3 very important things that if it is deprived of them, it pushes back hard in the form of pain and illness. If our Bodies push back really hard after a long warning through body cues and signs, you might end up needing medical attention and therefore close your business for weeks. That could put a hole in your pocket! We do not want that.

So let’s understand thes 3 vital things we should give our bodies regularly. Our bodies need powerful nutrition, purposeful movement and quality recovery. In upcoming videos on my Youtube channel and in future blogs, I will explain so much about these 3 must dos deep health approach – Movement (Exercise), recovery (detox and sleep) and nutrition (Nutrient density and meal habits).

Lets touch our mental state – deep health

Wao, this is a huge one my dear. In some communities it is even still a taboo to talk about this. But our fast lifestyle today makes it inevitable. Anxiety, depression, consistent fatigue are just a few issues we in the 21st century deal with. But here is the catch. Our mental state is strongly connected to our physical body. You can literally eat your way out of depression and move your way out of anxiety. More practical tips coming up on my Youtube channel and in my blogs where I share details. A tip,purposeful movement changes the molecular state of your body. So when you feel locked up in a depressive mood, you feel like you can’t breathe due to high work load. Go outside. Move!

Emotional state in deep health

We all feel diverse ranges of emotions, depending on our lifestyle, the people we surround ourselves with as well as what information we choose to consume. Also, how we interpret the experiences we have affects the emotions we generate. You could be a calm, hopeful and positive person but still be exposed to information that can trigger worry, negativity because you are human. Cut yourself some slack, here!

However, emotions changed the state of our body. Our neurons get active. Our hormones change. Consistent exposure to negative emotions can result in a stressor. When we experience stress, our bodies release hormones which coil sleep us in an unbalanced state. The truth is that this is normal. The issue is when it becomes our regular experience – negative emotions, stress, unbalance state.

The Goal is to always get back to a balanced state. Experts call this state homeostasis. Have you not seen people trying to lose weight and get on a diet, but lose nothing? So in my next blog, I will complete the remaining 3 dimensions.

3 Key take away in this blog
  1. These  6 key – physical body, our mental, emotional, social, environmental and existential, aspect of our being are interconnected.
  2. No one-size-fits-all. Sorry! But I am here to help you develop your unique plan.
  3. The goal is to get back to homeostasis using a deep health aproach.

That was it on this blog episode. I hope you got some useful tips out of it and now begin to understand the deep health approach. Yes, more free training and videos on this topic will be out this month on YouTube. Not to miss out,  subscribe and turn on the notification on Youtube. It would be nice if you follow me on instagram as I share daily strategies and personal fun stuff. I am on facebook as well but to get it all in one place, subscribe to my free newsletter. Drop your comments, questions, feedback beneath using the comment section and I will be happy to answer your questions in my next video or blog.

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

Cheers,

Joana

Useful links: 

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joadreofficial/
  • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/joadretv
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjoadre/
  • Joadre blog: https://joadre.com/blog/
  • Joadre Newsletter: https://joadre.com/newsletter/

How my health drama led to work life balance

Joadre
-
0
How my health drama led to work life balance

I am an advocate for living a balanced life, but that was not the case from the on set. Work life balance was never a thing I considered. Even though it’s actually life balance, since work is part of life.  When I get passionate about a project, an idea or something, I tend to dive in with all that I have. This often results in massive results at the detriment of my own wellbeing. After such projects, I tend to be so exhausted. What lacked the most is my health, my family and my peace. My work-life balance concept was work to survive.

[trx_widget_video embed=”#E-8_JTNDaWZyYW1lJTIwd2lkdGglM0QlMjI1NjAlMjIlMjBoZWlnaHQlM0QlMjIzMTUlMjIlMjBzcmMlM0QlMjJodHRwcyUzQSUyRiUyRnd3dy55b3V0dWJlLmNvbSUyRmVtYmVkJTJGQWpuTUF5dFdNRkElMjIlMjBmcmFtZWJvcmRlciUzRCUyMjAlMjIlMjBhbGxvdyUzRCUyMmFjY2VsZXJvbWV0ZXIlM0IlMjBhdXRvcGxheSUzQiUyMGVuY3J5cHRlZC1tZWRpYSUzQiUyMGd5cm9zY29wZSUzQiUyMHBpY3R1cmUtaW4tcGljdHVyZSUyMiUyMGFsbG93ZnVsbHNjcmVlbiUzRSUzQyUyRmlmcmFtZSUzRQ==”]
No time to live, that was me!

I have barely no time to eat well, no time to move my body as I often sit before a laptop or the computer. Even getting to bed early with my spouse became a challenge. My lifestyle resulted in several illnesses and the doctor was like – Well you start with these drugs! Hell no, I thought! I knew that this lifestyle had to stop immediately! I had to change everything.  But I still wanted to continue my passion, my work. How would this be possible? What self improvement approach do I need to employ to achieve a life balance? The first solution was for me to take over 6 medications to get better. Check out me sharing this story on my YouTube channel and see some real pictures/footage.

The documentary that changed my life

But as I read the medications from my practitioner, I realised that I might end up even worse afterwards, because the side effect was more severe than my condition. The big question hit me after I watched a short documentary about health. I saw myself as a protagonist in the documentary and wondered if there was a link between what I ate and how I felt, as that was the approach in the documentary. By the way, the documentary is called “Forks over knives” – a must watch! It captured my attention.

I got even more serious about this new approach. What if I can do without these drugs? A disclaimer here – If your condition needs instant medical attention, then visit your practitioner and go for it. In my case, my health condition would not kill me the next week, so I had an opportunity here. I spent the next week’s reading, researching about health, nutrition, movement and mindfulness. I stumbled upon many articles, books, audio books and more documentaries that spoke to my heart. I was so passionate about getting more knowledge because I wanted to take control of my own self improvement and define what work-life balance or life balance means to me and my family.

What’s the next step of action?

Questions started popping up in my thoughts. My mind! It had been overloaded. I need to dejunk. My mental state, how do I feel? I began to look at my environment to see how I can change things to make me feel better. My kitchen was the place to start. I started training on nutrition for health and fitness. I am not a sport or fitness freak, ubt I wanted to learn the basics. As a mumpreneur, I needed to design a program that could fit into my new daily life. And that’s what I did.  I read a whole unit about deep health approaches. That was it! Yes, that was what I was trying to do. Articulated and structured, I happily began to study this amazing approach to work-life balance and self improvement.

More about deep health

In my next blog, I will share more understanding about what deep health is. So if you feel the way I did a couple of months ago, there is sunshine at the end of the tunnel. It has been a 15 months journey for me now and I am getting stronger, healthier and better everyday. My whole family is involved. I love this new me.

3 key  takeaways from this blog
  1. Listen to how you feel. Be sincere with yourself for that is true self love.
  2. Research and take control over the situation.
  3. It is a gradual process, so design your own program. No one-size-fits-all!

Thank you so much for stopping by and reading through my story to the end. I really appreciate it. Hope you liked it. If you did, remember to share this blog on social media. Yes, more free training and videos on this topic will be out this month on YouTube. Not to miss out,  subscribe and turn on the notification on Youtube. It would be nice if you follow me on instagram as I share daily strategies and personal fun stuff. I am on facebook as well but to get it all in one place, subscribe to my free newsletter. Drop your comments, questions, feedback beneath using the comment section and I will be happy to answer your questions in my next video or blog.

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

Cheers,

Joana

Useful links:

 

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joadreofficial/
  • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/joadretv
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjoadre/
  • Joadre blog: https://joadre.com/blog/
  • Joadre Newsletter: https://joadre.com/newsletter/

Staring off on YouTube. Lots of business ideas coming up soon!

Joadre
-
0
Staring off on YouTube. Lots of business ideas coming up soon!

Hey I am so excited to announce my new YouTube channel. Are you looking for business ideas with low capital to start? Do you want to stay healthy while you develop income streams? Do you want to help others beneath you to grow as well? Then my Joadretv Youtube channel is for you!  find business ideas to grow sustainable income.  I actually created the channel in 2014, but I allowed life to get in the way. So now, it is time. I receive so many questions, comments, enquiries from guests visiting my platform Joadre. I am eager to answer your questions and share my journey with you.

[trx_widget_video embed=”#E-8_JTNDaWZyYW1lJTIwd2lkdGglM0QlMjI1NjAlMjIlMjBoZWlnaHQlM0QlMjIzMTUlMjIlMjBzcmMlM0QlMjJodHRwcyUzQSUyRiUyRnd3dy55b3V0dWJlLmNvbSUyRmVtYmVkJTJGYnJPRUdBVy16cXMlMjIlMjBmcmFtZWJvcmRlciUzRCUyMjAlMjIlMjBhbGxvdyUzRCUyMmFjY2VsZXJvbWV0ZXIlM0IlMjBhdXRvcGxheSUzQiUyMGVuY3J5cHRlZC1tZWRpYSUzQiUyMGd5cm9zY29wZSUzQiUyMHBpY3R1cmUtaW4tcGljdHVyZSUyMiUyMGFsbG93ZnVsbHNjcmVlbiUzRSUzQyUyRmlmcmFtZSUzRQ==”]
What to expect on my channel

I have launched several business ideas and had to learn the hard way. Why should you when I can share tips and tricks on how to stay on the fast lane and build your income? On my Youtube channel, I will release weekly videos, even sometimes I will share multiple videos a week. In my videos, I will share business ideas and strategies to grow, show your daily practices to stay healthy and how to create social impact that will skyrocket your sales.

Holistic approach using business, wellbeing and social impact

My holistic approach is to help you develop a  business that can bring you sustainable income but while you do so, you do not forget yourself. Too often are we pursuing the cash that our health is ignored and begins to decline. But you need the right state of mind and body to actually grow your income streams efficiently. So well being is a big issue we will explore on my channel. And how do you step up your game to stand out? I have been in the social impact sector for years and have seen how creating deep and high value can help you boost your business. Social impact gives you existential purpose to stay motivated and inspired to do the work. So yes, you will learn simple strategies to integrate social value into your business ideas and daily lives. Hey, if you are struggling to find ideas, read my blog on small business ideas you can start now. Actually, I recently released a blog series on content creating business which you can read as well.

So how do you join the community and what’s in it for you?

It is simple! My focus now is to release content for you on my Youtube channel. So all you need to do to be part of this community is to subscribe to the channel and turn on notifications. Then come back to my website and subscribe to my newsletter. I will not only share the information you need, but also get some experts to teach on very specific topics. For example, if you have been marketing our products on social media and you do not see results, there will be a social media marketing expert giving you free tips on how to get sales. Through my business and social network, I will launch funding opportunities for the hardworking members on my platform, so that capital is not what will hold you back. As my platform grows, I would offer massive giveaways and give you the opportunity to promote your products and services. So you see, there is a lot to be worn by joining the community.

Quick wrapup of this blog

As a mother of two amazing kids, I know how quickly you could forget about self love when your plate is full and you are enthusiastic to create sustainable income streams for your family. I want to share strategies to help you grow income streams but also stay healthy and create impact while you do so. I will post weekly videos, answer questions from our multiple platform members, interview experts to give deeper insight, release seasonal shows and show you behind the scenes of how and what I do. My goal is to help 100000 African entrepreneurs achieve financial freedom, live a healthy lifestyle and positively impact their communities.

I look forward to tons of free training and videos that will take you from where you are to achieving the life you love. All you should do now is to make sure that you do not miss any of this content. Subscribe to my YouTube and remember to turn on the notification on Youtube. It would be nice if you follow me on instagram as I share daily strategies and personal fun stuff. I am on facebook as well but to get it all in one place, subscribe to my free newsletter. Drop your comments, questions, feedback beneath using the comment section and I will be happy to answer your questions in my next video or blog.

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

Cheers,

Joana

 

Useful links: 

 

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joadreofficial/
  • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/joadretv
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjoadre/
  • Joadre blog: https://joadre.com/blog/
  • Joadre Newsletter: https://joadre.com/newsletter/

3 reasons to start – Entrepreneurship 101 series

Joadre
-
0
3 reasons to start – Entrepreneurship 101 series

If you want to venture into entrepreneurship, but are afraid that  the risk might be very high, the capital too much and maybe you will suck at it, here are 3 reasons why I think it is still worth a try, but before let’s understand what entrepreneurship is.

What is Entrepreneurship?

Entrepreneurship is the process of designing, launching and running an idea that is either in the form of a business, venture or simply a project. You are an Entrepreneur if you can find and act upon opportunities that you then transform into products and services. Your sole aim is to create value to your audience or consumers.

Venturing into entrepreneurship gives you some amount of freedom as you become your own boss, but it also comes with a huge amount of responsibility, as you have to pay your own bills and maybe employees later. So I understand if you feel that stomach ache just by the thought of entrepreneurship!

Beneath are some reasons why you should start now and also start with what you have. Yes, I said it, start now with what you have because if you wait, you might never start. You can read my previous blog on how to start your business with what you have if you feel like it is impossible.

You can control your destiny.

When you work a 9-to-5, you’re at the mercy of your boss and the company you work for. They can decide to hire or fire you, they decide how you spend your eight hours or more every day. You have little control and in exchange, they give you a paycheck. Do not get me wrong, a fixed job, a consistent salary and stable work hours are valuable to many people, and even needed in our economy. However, if you feel like you cannot grow or you feel trapped in that fixed structure, then take control by venturing into entrepreneurship. And by the way, you must not quit that job today, today to be able to start your own. I will share more content about “should I quit my 9 to 5”? “How to start while in a fixed job” and such,  on my YouTube channel.

Make pension paradise

Gone are the days of working at a company for years and retiring with a pension. Actually, depending on what country you live in and for whom you work. In some countries, the private sector hardly makes provision for adequate pension. My Mum has been a teacher in Edo State all her life. She turns 60 next year, guess what? She has no pension.

I did not want to include the public sector, but I would because it is annoying. My grandmother worked her whole life at the Nigerian prisons, a government job and retired as a Lieutenant and sorry, her pension cannot take care of her. So today, entrepreneurship is your pension plan! Do you want to start at 60 or would you rather start building now, so that pension becomes paradise? To help you expand your ideas about what to start, here is a blog on great ideas to start with low capital.

Impact lives even after you’re gone!

When you build your dream business,  it can carry on to your kids and their kids. Well that’s if they want to venture into the same line as you did. If that’s the case, then you will be extremely lucky! If not, you can sell off the business and leave them the capital to explore. Still a legacy left behind! But let’s assume your kids are so excited to take after your footsteps, what starts as a quest for freedom can end as something that’s in your family for generations. If your business is started out of something you are passionate about, that passion will impact lives for years and generations. You can leave your children something you’re proud of.

3 key takeaways from this blog
  1. Entrepreneurship is designing, launching and operating an idea.
  2. You can start with what you have and begin to build your business or project even while still in your 9 to 5.
  3. This is why you should give this a try: control your destiny, impact lives and enjoy pension paradise.

Hey, thank you so much for stopping by and reading through to the end. I really appreciate it, because it takes so much to put this together. Hope you liked it. If you did, remember to share this blog on social media. Yes, more free training and videos on this topic will be out this month on YouTube. Not to miss out,  subscribe and turn on the notification on Youtube. It would be nice if you follow me on instagram as I share daily strategies and personal fun stuff. I am on facebook as well but to get it all in one place, subscribe to my free newsletter. Drop your comments, questions, feedback beneath using the comment section and I will be happy to answer your questions in my next video or blog.

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

Cheers,

Joana

 

Useful links: 

 

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joadreofficial/
  • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/joadretv
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjoadre/
  • Joadre blog: https://joadre.com/blog/
  • Joadre Newsletter: https://joadre.com/newsletter/

 

 

7 Start-up gear for online business

Joadre
-
0
7 Start-up gear for online business

In this blog I am sharing the basic start-up gear you will need for your online business. Remember that there are different kinds of online business. I covered content creation for online business in a previous post blog. Here we will focus on the needed tools, and I will make up a budget estimate to help you see that this is a low capital business. Let’s start! 

Your number 1 gear – a computer

You will need a laptop or desktop computer. Can you use your phone or tablet to start any online business? Yes you can but in the long run, it will become very tedious to use and there might be limitations as many platforms may not be compatible with such. Phones or tablets can be used most effectively for research or updating stuff, but to actually develop the content, I will advise a laptop or a desktop where you can actually type on a keyboard. Must you own the laptop or desktop? No.  You can go to the internet cafe and use theirs or find ways to get cheaper second hand laptops or desktops. It is not about how fancy  but about what functions. 

Your number 2 must have! Internet

Internet connection is really important to build an online business. Like the name goes, “online business” , so you have to be online. And you can get online only when you have an internet connection. You will need to carry out research, draft the content, send emails and so on.  Nowadays, there are several internet providers in your region that offer new startups good deals, make sure to ask. . 

A gmail account for access to google

You must have a gmail account so that you can carry out even more keyword research and access the google drive which we would talk about in the next point. I suggest a gmail account, even when there are other search engines, but believe me, google has the largest market share when it comes to online. They own YouTube, so you should have an account on google which is the gmail account.  This is essential for internet marketing, digital marketing and so on. I will teach more on this in upcoming videos on my Youtube channel and in future blogs. Make sure to be subscribed to my newsletter to know when I release or schedule the release of these free resources. 

“Cloud service” is a must!

A cloud service is a service that allows you to save content online or upload content online. There are many out there that are affordable but I recommend you start this as a no cost using the free version on google which is google drive. It allows you to word on documents and save them online which you can access from anywhere. The google platforms include – google doc, google sheets, google slides, google forms. There is a free access that gives you up to 15GB of saving space. So there is basically no investment here.  

Power Bank depending on where you live. 

A power bank is essential especially in Nigeria where NEPA (power supply company) is a joke at times. 

My traditional must have – A journal and a pen. 

As a content creator, you have to be always ready to take down impressions, notes, ideas, feedback into your journal. If You have a phone, you can use this as well, but the traditional way with a pen and a notebook, is still the most creative approach, believe me. Read how to capture your ideas and see why I love journaling. 

Something to boost your creation process

A nice, creative workspace is a must. I know that some of you might not have that luxury to have a quiet space. That’s why a laptop is great . and also journaling on a traditional notebook helps. You can make time to go somewhere that enhances your creative process. So maybe you thrive in a noisy place or maybe you thrive better in nature. Whichever, find out where you are most creative and efficient and make it a routine to work from there.  

Extras for specific content forms

If you are creating visual content you will need more gears like a camera, an editing software, your own laptop or computer except you will not edit but source that out, an external flash drive.

Now lets see what it will cost you in the first year: 60K
  1. Laptop, fairly used and functioning: 30K naira
  2. Internet connection on your phone so you can hotspot: 24K
  3. Gmail account: free
  4. Cloud service: free up to 15GB
  5. Power bank: 5K
  6. Notebook and pen: 1K
  7. A smartphone is an essential!
  8. Creative workspace: free if you can create a space at your home or outside in a public space like a park.
3 key takeaways from this blog
  1. With 60K, you can start an online business. 
  2. Find out where you are most creative and make it a routine to work from there. 
  3. Start with all free services like google drive to save your work. 

Hey, thank you so much for stopping by and reading through to the end. I really appreciate it, because it takes so much to put this together. Hope you liked it. If you did, remember to share this blog on social media. Yes, more free training and videos on this topic will be out this month on YouTube. Not to miss out,  subscribe and turn on the notification on Youtube. It would be nice if you follow me on instagram as I share daily strategies and personal fun stuff. I am on facebook as well but to get it all in one place, subscribe to my free newsletter. Drop your comments, questions, feedback beneath using the comment section and I will be happy to answer your questions in my next video or blog. 

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

Cheers, 

Joana

Useful links: 

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joadreofficial/
  • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/joadretv
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjoadre/
  • Joadre blog: https://joadre.com/blog/
  • Joadre Newsletter: https://joadre.com/newsletter/

Side income with content for online business

Joadre
-
0
Side income with content for online business

When you create content for an online business to earn side income, you’re providing free and useful information to the target audience, attracting potential customers, and retaining existing customers through quality engagement. In this blog, I will explain how to monetize your content using the B2B (business to business) approach or the B2C (Business to customer) approach. 

If you want to focus on business clients, it is very important that you understand who the business client target customer or audience is. You can’t set up a meeting with the business to find out who their online  audience is or will be. Most businesses use content curation to develop internet marketing strategies or digital marketing strategies. So you want to help that business client to achieve their marketing goals. 

Understand the business client goals

This is the next topic, what is the goal of the client? What do they want to communicate and how, what style? Do not be afraid to ask these questions. And yes, you charge the client per content or for a fixed amount of content for a fixed period if you are developing a business. What should you charge? It depends on the content, the form, the scope of your work. 

Would you also develop a presentation like adding pictures to the text? Does your client require that you post the content online for them on their platform? Who will respond to the comments, questions and feedback from the audience to build engagement, would that be you? These are very important questions to consider before you send the business client a quote. I will release several videos about this and how to price your service. 

Content creation for the end consumer. 

This is rather a more flexible business because you decide who the end consumer is and what content you want to put out there would be. But also a very high work-load setup as you will have to find publishing platforms, though it is not hard as you can create your own website or publish on other existing platforms like social media, depending on your target audience. The truth is that you will be responsible to promote the content and this falls under specific digital marketing skills that I would share in future blogs and Youtube videos. 

How would you generate income from this B2C setup?

First, your focus here is the long term sustainable income, as your goal in the first place is to build audience influence and reach. You can develop different monetization strategies with your content like affiliate marketing which I will blog and vlog about in the future. You also have platforms where you can sell your content like Udemy. Actually, there will be a video on how to monetize your content on different platforms, so make sure to be subscribed to my Youtube channel not to miss out. 

If you want to create content for online business or online marketing or your content creation business revenue model demands that the revenues come from online (I will share a video on how to develop a revenue model), then you will need to develop multiple presence online targeting your target audience. Like for example, Linkedin, or Udemy where you can sell your content (monetization strategy). You can also leverage other platforms to get added income streams like Philip platform, iStock, Adobe stock, shutter stock and many more platforms where you can sell your visual content. I will make a video about this income opportunity and include all necessary links, but meanwhile you can google them.

You can monetize your content by providing the reader with valuable, more intensive content upon small payment. If you decide to sell your content directly, it would be efficient to have your own website. It does not cost you more than 4K naira a year and it’s so easy to make. Watch out for my video on website creation for content marketers. 

In general, this business demands very low starting capital. Read the introduction about this side income opportunity with content for an online business blog to get the main idea. Is there a skill set needed? Yes, check that blog  to see the list of skill sets needed. Important is that your content is very good and created well. I have a blog on how to write a blog, there you can learn the basics on creating written content. 

How can you grow your income with this business?

I am a preacher of applying a “deep focus” approach to every venture. What is deep focus? Coming up on a new blog and YouTube videos.  It is all about finding ways to squeeze out the potential in one idea. So here, you can develop more services to your portfolio like developing content for advertising campaigns, content marketing, content distribution and content publishing. I will explain more in future videos on my Joadre YouTube channel.  

3 key takeaways from this blog
  1. Define who your target audience will be. Do you want to develop a B2B or B2C business?
  2. If you go for B2C business, you will have to focus first on building influence and reach before monetizing. 
  3. You have many opportunities sto monitise and build income streams like selling content, affiliate marketing and making more content available upon a small fee. 

You will not go out of business, even with a shutdown like the CoVid-19 pandemic shutdown that happened! Because we are now in the digital age and there is rapid development in Africa regarding telecommunication and internet accessibility. So be sure to think about trying this business out if you are passionate about creating any type of content – text, visual, audio. 

Hey, thank you so much for stopping by and reading through to the end. I really appreciate it, because it takes so much to put this together. Hope you liked it. If you did, remember to share this blog on social media. Yes, more free training and videos on this topic will be out this month on YouTube. Not to miss out,  subscribe and turn on the notification on Youtube. It would be nice if you follow me on instagram as I share daily strategies and personal fun stuff. I am on facebook as well but to get it all in one place, subscribe to my free newsletter. Drop your comments, questions, feedback beneath using the comment section and I will be happy to answer your questions in my next video or blog. 

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

Cheers, 

Joana

Useful links: 

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joadreofficial/
  • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/joadretv
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjoadre/
  • Joadre blog: https://joadre.com/blog/
  • Joadre Newsletter: https://joadre.com/newsletter/

Online business – content creation as low capital digital marketing

Joadre
-
0
Online business – content creation as low capital digital marketing

In this blog series about online business, you will learn about a good legit online business opportunity that you can develop with very low capital – content creation. Content creation is an online business and a digital business or digital marketing strategy used by so many individuals and businesses to connect to old and new potential paying customers. Your title can be content developer or content creator.  

What is a content creation business?

Content is any creative process where you come up with or generate topics, themes, concept ideas that appeal to a target audience, often the customer. Content for online business could be distributed in different forms. I have listed the major formats beneath; 

  • text which is written content: Content that you create can be published or presented to the target audience in different forms. We talked about written content as text, which you can present as a blog, as a slide presentation or an article. 
  • visual content: Visual content you can present as a vlog, video, graphics and so on. Check out my video on Youtube about creating content for online business, that is a typical visual content form. 
  • audio content: You can stick to audio which can be presented as a podcast, audio file and there are many platforms to distribute this content.  
  • a mixture of 2 or all the different forms.  

In another blog and in another YouTube video I will share the top 3 platforms to distribute your audio content. So make sure to follow me on Youtube and Instagram not to miss out on these free strategies. . 

Your skill set to activate!

Your major skill set required to start this business is research ability, ability to work online, analysing ability, creative thinking, articulating and writing or producing the actual end product which is the content. Writing is important. Check my blog on basic for creating a blog content. I have seen people just copy and paste the content of others, that’s not innovative. It’s actually stealing! If you want to develop an income stream in this business, you have to do the work to create innovative content that would bring in paying clients to your or for the business client you create content for. In another video on my YouTube channel, I will talk about intellectual property, how to protect your content and why to or why /when not to bother. 

How do you start the business?
  • To start this income venture, you would need to identify who your audience is.  Who do you want to create content for? For the end user or for business clients? Would they be the end consumer like you reading this blog or would they be a business consumer who then connects that content to their audience? So you see, you can venture into content for the end consumer, meaning you publish the content by yourself or you can create content for other businesses, which are then your business clients and they publish the content. Check out the blogs on that by clicking the highlighted text respectively!
  • Research the content that is needed by the audience you want to target.
  • Get your startup gear ready and this is where we will estimate the cost to start this venture. A new blog on startup gear for content creation business is on its way. 

In another blog about side income with content creation, I explained 2 different ways to start thug business. No matter which way you choose to start this business, you will need to create some influence and name for yourself to be able to get business clients or to be able to attract paying end target clients. To create influence from zero, I advise you to start releasing content today.

Start small, by publishing content on Quora, facebook or Linkedin in for example. There is basically no investment for now. This business idea is a low capital side income business. Later you can create your own website and publish the content there. You can grow by optimising your website to generate traffic and then monitise the traffic. More on this growth strategy on my youtube channel. 

3 Key takeaways from this blog 
  1. The skill set you will need is something you can grow. Basically developing topics and ideas for a content is the end result you want to achieve. 
  2. You can decide to start by creating content directly for the target audience you identify or you can create for business clients and get paid. 
  3. You can start now by using specific social media channels to release your first content. Consistency is what would bring in the cash!

Hey, thank you so much for stopping by and reading through to the end. I really appreciate it, because it takes so much work to research, try out this stuff and then put together what works as a blog. This is an example of content created by me. Hope you liked it. If you did, remember to share this blog on social media. Yes, more free training and videos on this topic will be out this month on YouTube. Not to miss out,  subscribe and turn on the notification on Youtube. It would be nice if you follow me on instagram as I share daily strategies and personal fun stuff. I am on facebook as well but to get it all in one place, subscribe to my free newsletter. Drop your comments, questions, feedback beneath using the comment section and I will be happy to answer your questions in my next video or blog. 

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

Cheers, 

Joana

Links: 

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joadreofficial/
  • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/joadretv
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjoadre/
  • How to write a blog: https://joadre.com/how-to-write-a-blog/

How to write a blog

Joadre
-
0
How to write a blog

When I visited our Lab in Lagos in February, I engaged in a serious discussion with some digital markers as they auditioned to join our team. Btw, yes we are still searching for a competent digital marketer! My major approach for the audition was to find out how skilled each one was in their digital marketing strategies. So I asked them to tell me 10 things they must consider when writing an online blog.

To my suprise, so many crucial tips were not mentioned. I heard things like the blog must be catchy, enticing, interesting and so on. Yes these are important but also relative. We release blogs weekly and have come to realise that there are must-includes and here is how to write a blog if you want to build your project through low or no-cost digital marketing strategies.

Why blogging as a digital marketing strategy?

Written content on your website generates traffic to the website. Think about it like your writen content is the attraction on a driveway. People are driving and their attention is caught by the content. They either stop, park and dedicate their attention or they stretch their necks out of the car, still trying to drive without causing an accident. You want them to stop, right? Because the chances are that they would look for more and maybe even open their wallets.

If not, it is also ok that they stuck their necks out in the first place. Maybe some other day, when they are looking for something, they would remember you and come back. Good prepared written content is key for any website and that is why I want to share practical tips on how to write a blog post.

Why I picked up this topic – not all blogs are equal. 

We have had the experience that certain blogs push people searching for specific information to our website. We even have one blog that ranks really high on Google search. All this was done without investing one Naira into digital marketing. But since not all our blogs generate the same amount of traffic, I decided to examine those that do generate the most traffic to our website, so as to understand why they do so. So here are some key tips on how to write a blog that would truly be your traffic engine and increase your sales. so it i easy to learn how to write a blog.

Tip 1: Know your target audience

This might sound very logical but believe me, it is not as simple as you might think. If your business or venture or project is not clearly defined to know who you want to target, it is almost impossible to know who you should write for. Knowing who you are speaking to with your blog would help you shape how you write, what language you use, what style, what pictures, what headings and so on. If you want to understand how to know who your target audience is, make sure to enrol for our 6 key program where you learn how to build your business strategy. We have a special tutorial in the program where I teach about customer profile and target audiences.

Tip 2: Keep the length readable

Now this is where I personally struggle because, sometimes, what I have to share is very lengthy. But the truth is, most of our target audience read our content using their phone. See why it is important to know that target audience? Now we know that they read it on their phone. How do we know that? There are tools like Google analytics that can help you find these simple facts and statistics.

Since the articles are read on phones, it has to be short, because it is extremely challenging to read a very long piece on the phone. We advise between 450 to 900 characters per blog article. If the topic demands very long text, then break it down into parts and release them in the subsequent weeks as follow up. This strategy is actually extremely good and leads me to tip number 3 which explains why!

Tip 3: Interlink and backlink within articles. 

Actually, this is a great tip that you will find only in paid training. Interlinking within your website is crucial for the search engine and it helps to optimise the results you will get on each search engine. Backlinking and external links to other websites is a must include! The best case would be if another site adds links to your site as well. So find ways to integrate good and useful links. A quick tip here also is to highlight the links so that it is obvious that it is a link. See my pink colored text? Those are links! Make sure to have about 4 to 6 links in one blog.

Tip 4: Let the flow be authentic and useful to the reader. 

Adding interlinks and links, special titles etc, just to fulfil a great SEO would make search engines fine you when they find out. How would they find out? If the content is useless to the target audience, the target audience would not spend 15 seconds on the page. So if over 80% leave your page after 15 to 20 seconds, but the content on the page shows the need to read for at least 50 seconds, search engine crawlers would figure this out and conclude that the content is irrelevant to the target audience, therefore it would not be pushed out in any future search. 

A quick wrap up – target audience, links, short writeup.

Know who your target audience is so that you can design the content to suit them. Find useful links and external links to integrate. Keep the whole writeup short, precise and also useful. Here is a tutorial on how to write or pitch content to get more turnout. So there are more tips and tricks here. Stay connected to Joadre through our platforms. My instagram page gives you daily updates. My newsletter gives you all in one place. Thank you so much for reading till the end. Expect the next parts of this blog where I would talk about pictures, Alt text labelling, title and keywords. 

Cheers, 

Joana

 

Startup Nigeria. Developing a growth mindset.

Joadre
-
0
Startup Nigeria. Developing a growth mindset.

We keep hearing that there are 2 types of mindset – the growth mindset and the fixed mindset. Well before I explain how you can choose the later and begin to develop your idea, lets shout out to this platform, startup Nigeria. Startup Nigeria is an incubator program designed to provide Entrepreneurs and individuals in Nigeria who are solving big problems in a new, better, and cheaper way with free entrepreneurship skills training, mentorship, and funding to help them start and grow their businesses. In 2019, they launched a 3 months program for entrepreneurs. 

I am excited that it is not only IT based. When one industry blows up, there is always a tendency that everyone is running towards that sector, forgetting that we still breathe oxygen and therefore life needs even more than apps. That is also why, we at Joadre do not focus on the tech industry. Our newly launched audio and online business training program – the 6 key, focuses to take anyone who is a potential startup with an idea, irrespective of sector, to the next level. Learn more here.  

Fixed mindset goes against startup

That said, let’s see how we can really startup Nigeria and boost every individual effort using the power of the mind. You know that your mind is an extraordinary machine that fuels your whole state of being. So your belief system is key! When you believe that you are not capable because you do not have a certain skill, you end up with what is called a fixed mindset. You believe that these qualities or capabilities that’s missing in your skill set is a fixed trait, maybe inherited or so and you simply stay comfortable not to do anything about it. 

Growth mindset is what you should aim for.

But when you believe that everything is figureoutable like Marie forleo explains all through her new book Everything is Figureoutable, you have a growth mindset. A growth mindset allows you to believe that intelligence and skills can be learned and developed. So for you as a Nigerian entrepreneur, you might see the challenges you face and get paralysed by it. But wait a minute, what happened to the ability to learn, to navigate through challenges?  Why get so comfortable with surviving and just doing that routine of things you do well already? For you to become successful beyond what you even imagined, you have to stay focused on learning. Your willingness to learn will bring you results and take you places you never even imagined. 

Fear can hold you back.

Ok let me share my experience with the Joadre fashion project. When I started or better said, when the idea was on the table to expand the fashion project from just a weekly workshop with 6 women to a real business, I chickened out the moment my mentor asked me to work out a financing strategy for the business. 

“Shit, I was like. No o. I do not know how to do this. Finance Kini..?” 

I said that to myself. 

I felt so ashamed to admit to the mentor that I actually have never really created a financing plan for a business. Forgetting that I have created thons of finance budgets for social projects in the past. I have created budgets with United Nations officers to finance an EU project well over half a million Euros. So I actually can go into my files to find that document and begin to refresh my memory. But it was my fear to have that workload, to go through the learning process that was keeping me small. Keeping me from starting up. Is this you? 

You know you are capable.

You know that you can achieve even greater things. You know what the next level is but you are afraid to do all it takes to get there. You already have enough on your plate, why spend more time exploring new grounds? But how can you startup Nigeria to be the country you want to live in if you are not ready to do what it takes? How can we start up in Nigeria to be a country tourist and people will do anything to visit, if we all are not willing to explore new skillset? 

So I love the idea behind startup nigeria, as they provide entrepreneurs with knowledge to move to the next level. These entrepreneurs are people who have taken a risk on themselves to actually do the work. To stay in a growth mindset space. You too can do the same. While you work multiple jobs to pay the bill or you go from one office to another to seek employment, take time to ask yourself this question. 

What would it take me to move from now to the next level I want to be. What is the next level? What do I have to master or do to get there? 

When you find out the things you need to do, then be open. Be ready to take action. Yes you can do it. It is never rocket science. Yes, you can learn that new skill. Yes, you can take that next action. Move yourself to the next level and leave anyone behind that’s not ready to move with you. 

A quick wrap up – You have the power.

You either stay with a fixed mindset of “I cannot, I am not” or you choose a growth mindset and venture into new waters open and excited to make mistakes but to come out victorious that you took a step. Check out startup nigeria, check out some of their projects. We also offer training online for african entrepreneurs, so make sure to visit our 6 key program for more information and follow me on instagram to know when I would be hosting a life session close to you.

Love you for reading till the end. 

Joana

Inevitable side income of human trafficking! Sustainable fashion is the future.

Joadre
-
0

Gone are the days where shoes were worn just for functionality. Shoe is  fashion and can become a key driver to promote sustainable fashion. They tell you a story about the wearer.  With so much technological and industrial revolution, one would think that most of our shoes are made by robots. If you mean human robots, then yes! But hell no, shoe production demands extreme series of work processes which sometimes can only be done by human hands, precise craftsmanship and patience.

With some shoes having over 200 work processes to finish just a pair, imagine how much jobs could pop up in Europe is we were to promote sustainable fashion. The only problem is that one might not be able to afford 10 pairs of shoes. Anyway, we end up not really wearing most of them. So let’s be frank, apart from crude oil and bananas, shoes must come from our economic allies in Asia, and now Africa.

No matter what type of shoe we love, be it ballerinas, sport shoes, low,- high,- or medium heels, flip flops, boots, even the barefoot shoes (do not ask me what those are, but they are healthier than heels for sure), no matter what style of shoe we wear, we leave footprints every day with them. Footprints having either positive, neutral or negative impact in other people’s lives like that of Selema and thousands of Selema.

Who the hell is Selema?

Selema is closer to you than you think. Yes, she hand sews sport shoes for large international companies groups far away in China and the other Selemas are in Vietnam, India, Ethiopia….I will not tell you her personal story, because its not your business. But I will tell you about the “silent deal” we are making with her.

Every year, about 21 billion shoes are produced globally and about 40% is for Europe. So if you live in Europe and buy shoes, you probably have a silent deal with Selema. A silent deal where you say, “make these shoes as quick as possible and as cheap as you can, dear!”

20% goes into designa nd conecpt.

But before we can launch the deal with Selema, our shoe has to go through the first stage of its birth, the concept phase. What is trendy? What is functional? What do you as a customer want to buy? How much are you ready to pay? What material should be used? How should it look like? What details do we need? Design, prototype. All these thoughts and work process cost money and time, sometimes up to 24 months before you get to be able to buy the shoe. This could cost over 20% of the money you finally pay for the shoe. Still no deal for Selema.

Your shoe finally gets to the next phase which is production.

This is the part that we actually have less insight, less control, less interest. Here we are lost and disconnected with our future shoe. Actually this process demands a serie of work processes like leather tanning, hand stitching, special cutting etc. Leather tanning for example is very often done with chemicals that could result in severe work injury. Out of the multiple processes needed to complete your pair of shoes, some have to be done by hand, by Selemas hand. This is when we hold a silent deal with her.

Imagine social media without fashion

Since we will buy the shoe anyway later, she receives 10 to 20 cents now to complete the tedious hand work needed on that pair.  Selema is fast and make even 9 more pairs per day so that our neighbours and friends would not go barefooted to the next party. At the end of the day, she gets about 1.5 euros. Gracious right? She probably would not have received that 1.5 euros if there was not this kind of job, right? Or maybe we could change the perspective for a second. We probably would not have content for instagram if we can’t afford a new shoe every time we wanted one.

Disregarding any perspective, Selema cannot pay pension or health insurance with that daily income, but she can count on her daughter to take care of her at old age. In such an environment, only family matters. Now is it still surprising to you that  Selema sells her daughter to a man who would bring her to Europe to work as a prostitute and earn over 100 euros per day. Even after debt is paid back to the trafficker, Selema would receive more than 5 euros daily from her daughter. An inevitable side income indeed!

Retailers have the power to influence trends

Selema finished the shoe and now it can go to the last phase to get to us in about 8 months. Before us, retailers are invited to screen the shoe. Which shoe will survive the trend hunt? Which shoe will be buried before its birth? This destiny is influenced by the retailers. Which shoe receives more orders, goes into production and Selema can rejoice for steady main income.  Retailers, therefore have the power to influence trends. The power to give Selema hand work more financial value, more ethical value, the power to give our shoes a face, a voice, a name.

Retailers do not only have power but also the largest portion of the cake, leaving about 35 – 40% of the money you pay for a shoe to them. They have to survive, just like Selema. They do not have side income, no daughter to sell to human traffickers! They have bills to pay, tax to pay, social security to pay, rent to pay, light to pay, holidays to pay, therapies against burnout to pay, donations to give, they barely even make ends meet. Unlike Selema who has none of the above to pay but a daughter to sell. Our footprints must change!

Companies with power and politics must take responsibility.

Also, we, we consumers cannot plead not guilty. We cannot play the victim here. Yes some fair shoes could be ugly and expensive sometimes, but if you invest time and ambition, you will find just one pair of fairly made shoes that fit the rest “I had no choice but buy” trendy shoes in your closet. Just that one piece is enough, for now! If you have ideas and know of nice labels, brands, structures, people, groups, individuals creating or advocating for shoes that improves the livelihood and increases the income of Selemas, please comment beneath and let us know about it.

Xoxo

Joana

 

7 ways to protect against Covid-19.Pt. 1 

Joadre
-
0
7 ways to protect against Covid-19.Pt. 1 

*Pardon me because this blog has to be very long! This blog article is long and I have divided it into several parts. 

As we face these pandemic crises and our healthcare centres begin to get jam packed with critical respiratory problems, I believe the most important thing now master ways to protect against CoVid-19. To find out what each and everyone of us can do to reduce the strain on our healthcare system. Most countries did not develop a health care system to cope with the massive influx of high attention patients. Therefore, I have researched and compiled 7 ways to protect against CoVid-19 as this will help ease the global health challenges we have. If you are not sure what CoVid-19 or coronavirus is, you can take a quick read at our short blog What is Covid-19? 

The list beneath is not exhaustive. As the crisis goes on, new findings and new information will emerge. So stay with me and come back to our CoVid-19 page daily. I kept wash your hand to be number one, since you probably have heard this now a million times, let’s get it over with. As I wanted to write this blog, I was curious about ways that could make a sustainable difference because we all know that next year, a new influenza season would come. One very significant redline we see, like seasonal flu, is that the majority of those that die from or are seriously affected are those with compromised immune system. So here is the list of ways to protect yourself. fOr some its unavoidable. As you grow older, your immune system might weaken. But for many of us, seriously? We can do better. So in my CoVid-19 blog series, I will focus on how to boost your immune system. 

7 ways to protect yourself and others from CoVid-19:
  1. Washing your hands frequently. Use alcohol-based sanitisers.
  2. Avoiding touching your face. 
  3. Avoiding close contact (1 meter or 3 feet) with people who are unwell.
  4. Managing your high blood pressure. 
  5. Managing your diabetes. 
  6. Boosting your immune system. 
  7. Avoiding others, especially older people if you have any symptoms.

Read details about the other ways in part 2 of this blog series > 

Wash your hands: What about millions of children without clean water? 

You have heard this a million times now and are already in doubt about if you actually do wash your hands well. In my daughters school, she was taught that she has to sing 2 verses of “happy birthday” completely to be sure she washed her hands properly. I understand that children need special and exciting ways to do this right but does that not sound like a method for privileged people? Because, what I see happen is that people put on the tap and wash their hands underneath as it flows almost like endlessly. 

Yes, for many clean water is not an issue. For others, clean running water is a big issue. In Fact, access to clean water is number 1 killer worldwide in my Covid-19 blog called Global health challenges. Make hand washing stimulating and healthier by actually massaging your finders, palms, caresing the veins if you wish. Just don’t sing happy birthday because you are actually killing a microorganism, except it’s really your birthday. I had to show my daughter another way to wash her hands. Like I did as a child. 

Growing up with limited access to running water

When I was growing up, we did not have running water in the bathrooms or kitchen. I had to go downstairs to fetch water from the drum which was pumped in from the large tank, which was filled in by a water truck twice a month. When we had a borehole, I would get a bucket of water from the borehole tap in our compound. Dare you let the water run and wash your hands underneath the flowing water! Still sounds like a luxury alternative as many have to walk kilometers to get just a gallon of clean water. So washing their hands often and long might not be very accessible. All the same, if you have access to the smallest amount of water, keep the hand washing in that same water longer than 20 seconds. You still end up neutralizing most of the germs. 

Corona can’t drink.

Now, your other option is to use an alcohol-based hand cleanser. Seems like the virus dies after getting drunk! But remember that hand sanitizers are not as reliable as soap. Alcohol-based sanitizer is a good backup when soap and water are not accessible. Is there a  downside about alcohol based solutions for regular hand cleansing? Alcohols like ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, alcohol denat, and methanol are used as ingredients to penetrate your skin,  and as a preservative, which can cause dryness and irritation for some people. If the Alcohol used is fatty-alcohol like cetyl, stearyl, and cetearyl, then you might not need to worry much. If you are not sure, listen to your body talk.

Feel your hands and if they feel dry or seem irritated, make sure to get fatty cream to moisturise your hand after a full day of a dozen times hand washing episodes. Regularly and thoroughly cleaning your hands with soap and water is the best and maybe even cheaper option. Why? According to the New York times, ordinary soap diluted in water is sufficient to rupture and kill many types of bacteria and viruses, including the new CoVid-19 (coronavirus) that is currently circling the globe. Some soap molecules disrupt the chemical bonds that allow bacteria, viruses and germs to stick to surfaces, lifting them off the skin. 

Now this is key: RINSE YOUR HAND! Don’t let your hand be a virus grave.

You do not want your hand to be a virus grave!  When you rinse your hands, all the microorganisms that have been damaged, trapped and killed by soap molecules are washed away. So if you do not have excessive running water, split the water to have enough to rinse after excessive scrubbing and washing with soap. 

Soap and water can change the game. 

Washing with soap and water is one of the key public health practices that can significantly slow the rate of the CoVid-19 pandemic and limit the number of infections, preventing a disastrous overburdening of hospitals and clinics. It is up to you to choose if you want to be on the positive side of history now, because our children’s children would examine how we overcame this pandemic, just as we have looked back to understand how the spanish flu was eradicated. 

More articles on wellbeing for entrepreneurs will be posted weekly. Due to the CoVid-19 crises, we would update our CoVid-19 page daily or even multiple times a day to give entrepreneurs, especially mumpreneurs the best possible support through this season. To stay updated about new releases and published content, subscribe to our wellbeing newsletter. For general Joadre updates, use our main newsletter. Follow on instagram to see how I am spending my time #homeoffice #social distancing #immune booster.

Thank you for reading till the end. If you have worries and need details about the ongoing Covid-19 crises and other global health challenges , be sure to write to your local health center or the provided email/telephone contact available in your region for this issue. 

Stay safe & share to keep the awareness alive!

Joana

What is CoVid-19 a.k.a Coronavirus?

Joadre
-
0
What is CoVid-19 a.k.a Coronavirus?

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a new Coronavirus which is spread primarily through contact with an infected person when they cough or sneeze. It also spreads when a person touches a surface or object that has the virus on it, then touches their eyes, nose, or mouth. And unfortunately the virus can stay on surfaces for hours, even days in some cases, depending on the surface. Check out my blog on facts about CoVid-19 for details. Similar to the seasonal influenza symptoms, coronavirus comes in the full package and has joined the list of global health challenges that we now face in teh 21st century.. 

CoVid-19 Symptoms. 

These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually. Some people become infected but don’t develop any symptoms and don’t feel unwell. That is why it can also spread so quickly, because while you look out for those with symptoms, you might just be the one everyone has to look out for. That is also why social distancing makes sense. The most common symptoms are Fever, tiredness, and dry cough. Symptoms vary from patient to patient. Other symptoms include: 

  • Aches and pains. 
  • Nasal congestion
  • Runny nose
  • Sore throat and/or diarrhea. 
  • In more severe cases, difficulty breathing.

As we face a new global health challenge, we are individually tasked with the responsibility to combat the spread of this new CoVid-19 virus. Masks are almost turning to gold in some regions.  Many are ready to pay anything to get one. Celebrities are blinking up their mask. Here is the thing you should consider now about masks – we have a world-wide shortage, which means we have to use them wisely. It is recommended that you only wear a mask if you are ill with COVID-19 symptoms (especially coughing) or looking after someone who may have COVID-19. 

Except you have abundant supply. If so, donate them to the health care personal as they need it the most. Disposable face masks can only be used once. This is a fact. Read more facts about CoVid-19. According to WHO, If you are not ill or looking after someone who is ill, and then wearing a mask, you are wasting a mask. Now I am wondering. If people do not show signs or symptoms but have the virus and are contagious, would wearing a mast not be wise? What can you do? Check out effective ways to protect against coronavirus, both to keep yourself safe and others. 

Chloroquine is not confirmed as a medication against CoVid-19. 

As the media explores all possible storytelling approaches to keep the issue “breaking news”, one voice must cause alarm – president Trump. President Trump seriously suggested during an interview that chloroquine, a drug used for malaria, might just be the medication for CorVid-19. Trump is Trump and chloroquine is for malaria! So no, Chloroquine has not been confirmed to work as of the date of publishing this article. And the Coronavirus is not malaria. So when you waste your money on malaria medications, remember to save some for soap and water, as this has been one of the most effective actions so far to combat the spread of the virus. To learn about more actions, kindly read my article on 7 ways to protect against CoVid-19. 

Does antibiotics work against Coronavirus?

No. Antibiotics do not work against viruses, they only work on bacterial infections. COVID-19 is caused by a virus, so antibiotics do not work. Antibiotics should not be used as a means of prevention or treatment of COVID-19. They should only be used as directed by a physician to treat a bacterial infection. Actually that’s an order by the World Health Organisation!

That was a short overview of the current CoVid-19 pandemic crisis we are facing. In this blog series, we have dedicated a number of articles to show you how to protect yourself and give you in depth information about this issue. More articles on wellbeing for entrepreneurs will be posted weekly. Due to the CoVid-19 crises, we would update our CoVid-19 page daily or even multiple times a day to give entrepreneurs, especially mumpreneurs the best possible support through this season. 

To stay updated about new releases and published content, follow me on instagram and/or comeback to our CoVid-19 page daily. For general Joadre updates, use our main newsletter. Follow me on instagram to see how I am spending my time #homeoffice #social distancing #immune booster. Thank you for reading till the end. If you have worries and need details about the ongoing Covid-19 crises and other global health challenges, be sure to write to your local health center or the provided email/telephone contact available in your region for this issue. 

Stay safe & share to keep the awareness alive!

Joana

Global health challenges: Flu, water, malnutrition, now CoVid-19.

Joadre
-
0
Global health challenges: Flu, water, malnutrition, now CoVid-19.

The new COVID-19 has led to more than 454,000 illnesses and more than 20,550 deaths worldwide. While we fight the CoVid-19 pandemic, we should also not forget that we have other global health challenges which have been evident to cause even higher deaths within the past years. 785 million people lack even a basic drinking-water service, including 144 million people who are dependent on surface water. This is a global health challenge we have faced till now! Despite that, Malnutrition has done more harm so far even in developed economies where Obesity is taking over and people are losing their own sense of what healthy nutrition actually means. Malnutrition is not a virus against which we are helpless, still it is the main cause of death in the world today.

Lack of safe water leading to about 829 deaths.

Safe and readily available water is important for public health, whether it is used for drinking, domestic use, food production or recreational purposes, and now even more important for hand hygiene due to the CoVid-19 virus. According to the world Health Organisation, some 829 000 people are estimated to die each year from diarrhoea as a result of unsafe drinking-water, sanitation, and hand hygiene. Read more. As we focus now on CiVid-19, as it poses to be a new threat despite all other global health challenges we already have, we should keep the awareness about the older challenges alive. Because at the end of the day, people often die from a combination of health conditions, mostly interrelated and connected to the compromised immune system of the patient. More on the immune system in another blog article.

Malnutrition is the main cause of death in the world.

Dysfunctional global food systems are fuelling soaring levels of malnutrition and causing a world health crisis. Dr Francesco Branca, Director of the Department of Nutrition for Health and Development at the World Health Organization (WHO), says more must be done to ensure people have enough to eat and access to the right foods.

One might think of malnutrition and remember super skinny children in Africa, but let’s face it! Malnutrition is not just about bonny skinny babies, but also about Obesity which is way too often found in industrial and what is called “developed countries” in the world today. Millions of people are suffering from different forms of malnutrition. In fact, 1.9 billion adults are overweight or obese while 462 million are underweight. So you see that we have even more Obese adults that skinny underweight. Read more. 

Malnutrition – skinny and Obese

Malnutrition is a condition that results from eating a diet in which one or more nutrients are either not enough or are too much such that the diet causes health problems. Which means we have undernutrition or undernourishment (not enough nutrients) and overnutrition (way too much nutrients that exceeds the amount required for normal growth, development, and metabolism). 

Overnutrition creates diverse health problems in the host, increases susceptibility to disease and disability, reduces worker productivity (that’s why I am passionate about nutrition for our entrepreneurs), and lowers life expectancy. But the good news is that malnutrition, like I said, is not a virus for which we need a vaccine against. The major solution lies in your hands and on your plate. Educating yourself about how to enjoy a nutrient balanced lifestyle is key. Read more in my coming blogs – Joadre Wellbeing. 

Seasonal Influenza a.k.a Flu. 

Flu is long considered a dangerous seasonal scourge, until Covid showed up to take the limelight. Seasonal influenza is characterized by a sudden onset of fever, cough (usually dry), headache, muscle and joint pain, severe malaise (feeling unwell), sore throat and a runny nose. Notice the similarities between the symptoms to Corona virus? Most people recover from fever and other symptoms within a week without requiring medical attention. But influenza can cause severe illness or death especially in people at high risk, similar to CoVid-19. Hospitalization and death occur mainly among high risk groups. Worldwide, these annual epidemics are estimated to result in about 3 to 5 million cases of severe illness, and about 290 000 to 650 000 respiratory deaths.

Amongst our global health challenges – CoVid-19

The death rate due to CoVid-19 is still unclear but experts suggest that it might be higher than the seasonal flu. Well then remember that the new CoVid virus is “new” and therefore there are no vaccines as of date and no direct medications developed yet. Which means, many treatments are administered in the hope that your own immune system would take up the battle against the virus as well. So being a relatively new virus, where the world has to catch up with it while still battling other global health challenges, it is not surprising that the death rate is high for now. Lets not forget fighting this virus demands a structured interplay of government legislations and mobilisation, health care system, global mobility, individual responsibility and so on. So it’s a tough job imposed on the world with short notice!

The point of this blog is to draw your attention to the fact that CoVid-19 is not the first health issue we have faced. In the midst of all these health challenges faced by the world today, there have been measures to prevent, intervern and prepare by our respective government. But you are not helpless as you too can work to develop the best possible immune system your body can offer. That’s just one step you can take. It is so important that we all take these small steps because at the end of the day, we want to reduce the burden placed on our health care system.

Dedicated healthcare workers are in the forefront caring for the sick and risking their lives. It is only fair to do what you can to ease their burden, like stay at home, like take care of yourself. This is not the time to keep up with eating junk food! This is the time to take care of what comes into your mouth. Take your contribution seriously. We have listed 7 things you can do from wherever you are. Let us know how you are coping with the CoVid-19 pandemic news reports, your social distancing experience and any health tip to strengthen our immune system that you have tried out. Read my blog on how to boost your immune system to learn more stay home activism. 

More articles on wellbeing for entrepreneurs will be posted weekly. Due to the CoVid-19 crises, we would update our CoVid-19 page daily or even multiple times a day to give entrepreneurs, especially mumpreneurs the best possible support through this season. To stay updated about new releases and published content, subscribe to our wellbeing newsletter. For general Joadre updates, use our main newsletter. Follow on instagram to see how I am spending my time #homeoffice #social distancing #immune booster.

Thank you for reading till the end. If you have worries and need details about the ongoing Covid-19 crises and other global health challenges, be sure to write to your local health center or the provided email/telephone contact available in your region for this issue. 

Stay safe & share to keep the awareness alive!

Joana

How to capture your best business ideas.

Joadre
-
0
How to capture your best business ideas.

Life in Africa is beautiful, especially if you have financial resources and access to a profound social network. But what if you come from a background where you might have to create your own blueprint to success. You might be the first to get higher education and everyone expects you now to shoulder the whole family. This is when you need to be on the safe side to work with business ideas that are best for you.

What if you did not have a rich uncle or aunty with connections? And you had to hustle multiple ventures on the side to support your 9 to 5 job. How do you still find time to build your side hustle into your dream life? You have to pay bills and send your kids to school, so there is no time left to actually invest in your dream venture.

There is power in an empty book.
There is power in an empty book.

I have been there as well. I have had to clean toilets and make beds to pay my bills. It was so hard to find the time to work on my ideas. I literally came back from work dead tired and started the same routine the next day. Thats how weeks flew by and my idea disappeared in thin air.  Until I discovered a new habit which I still practice today. Here is a simple practice I have been using to capture almost every best business idea or potentially great idea that comes into my mind. Let me share this habit with you and I sincerely hope it will help you capture the best business ideas that you have. This habit has also helped me today to keep my motivation high and dedicate time. This is what I did.

  1. I invested in an empty book. Now this might sound funny. But believe me there is power in an empty book. And the book was soo beautiful. It was a glittering light pink A5 sized book without any lines inside.
  2. Then I bought a special pen. Any time I saw with my pen, it was like magic. I just had the urge to write down something.
  3. I placed both the book and the pen beside my bed. Sometimes I took it along with me if I had along ride. anytime I was on a flight or train to another city or country, be sure that I have my glittering book and unique pen.

These simple tools where always by my side. So anytime I had an idea that could be a business or an idea that could be beneficial to my venture, I wrote it down. The phycology behind this habit is that i felt free after pouring all my ideas and junks into the book. I had no scrutiny. No critic. The book was mine alone and I could write any idea into it. It is crucial to write down you idea before your brain begins to scrutinise the feasibility or viability of it.

To groom this habit, you must learn discipline.

Now, you goal after reading this blog is to get your empty book and pen. But you need to become disciplined. You are on your own path to being successful. So you need to do one more thing! you need to create time to read through your ideas and begin to see how to start any of them. Read my blog on how to achieve your dreams.  Say no to those friends that assists you in wasting your time – name it, gossip, gist, window shopping, on clubbing etc. You need your precious time to begin with your idea.

I hope I was able to share a useful habit with you. It’s all in your hands now.

Thank you so much for staying till the end of this article. Please, please do me a great favor. Share your thoughts beneath as comments and share this article with your friends if you liked it. Remember to stay connected on social media @iamjoadre for instagram and @joadre for facebook. Subscribe to my newsletter to know when the next article or video is posted Or when I will host a life event close to you. By the way, the next event is on Exporting African products to Europe. Held in Lagos on the 15th of february 2020. Visit the event page to learn more. 

Chears

Joana

Blueprint To Succeed in 2020

Joadre
-
0
Blueprint To Succeed in 2020

2020 came in a rush for many of us. We barely wrapped up 2019 and here we are almost 3 week in. Nevertheless, I am very excited because I have a whole lot of exciting results I want to get this year. Have you set the results for 2020 straight? Are you aware about what your entrepreneurship path, your personal journey should be this year? I know that starting a new year could be very overwhelming for many because of the expectations we have carried on into the new year. Maybe you even have some unfinished work from last year. I am here to tell you that it is all ok. Relax. 2020 is part of the big plan. Here is a Blueprint To Succeed in 2020.

2020 is a continuation of your journey. 

Blueprint To Succeed in 2020I want you to see it this way. Look at your life in larger bits. In a 10 year span. More like planing out a decade of results you want to achieve and then make every single year, month, days, hours, count towards achieving those results. So 2020 doesn’t get to stand alone. Everything you do this year is part of the bigger goal. I want to encourage you to focus on the process. When I talk about the process, I specifically mean the daily activities that you have to carry out to achieve every set result you have identified. 

Get your results figured out!

Which means that you have to identify some results first. If you have not really identified results, it is time to do so. Let the results you want be in line with the vision you have for yourself, your business in the next 10 years. When you find out the results you want, then you now have the foundation to begin to design your activities in 2020 to match those results. For some, results might be called goals or vision for 2020. No matter what you want to call it, at the end of the day, it is the same thing. It is what you want to accomplish. Those achievements you want to look back on and smile because it elevated you higher towards who you want to become. 

Enjoying the process – Blueprint To Succeed in 2020. 

What daily or weekly activities do you need in place this year? It is like creating an action plan for 2020. Oh God, another write up to do. But sincerely, this write up is the only write up you should have by now. Identifying the results you want and creating an action plan is the Blueprint To Succeed in 2020. In my 6 key audio training program, I explain how to create an action plan from scratch. How do you go about developing this action plan? Here is what I did. I created a list of things I want to achieve this year. Make sure they match up with my 10 year journey and then begin to break down these things into smaller parts that I can accomplish within some months. Afterwards, these smaller parts get broken down into bits for each month. I actually integrated a time plan in my action plan so I can hold myself accountable and also evaluate my progress. It is all about progress!

Plan to get the resources you need!

After I had created my action plan for a month, I divided them according to priority within the 4 week I have that month. Blueprint To Succeed in 2020While doing this, I could then see what is a “must do” or what can be shifted to another month. I get to see what resources I might need. This is key this year, because the earlier you know what kind of resource you need, be it finance, network, skill, the earlier you can craft out a way to get them. I know that I want to promote this 6 key program this year, I would definitely grab every opportunity to speak, hold workshops with my target audience. Get what I mean? Actually in the 6 key program, I have a full milestone where you can learn how to map out your resources and match them up to have all you need to get the best results. 

Dedicate time to love the actually activities.

Now that you know what the activities are, it’s time to dedicate more love to them. Find out ways you  can enjoy doing them. If you do not enjoy what you are doing, there is hardly any way this Blueprint To Succeed in 2020 would work. Ways that would make you inspired to actually get those daily activities done on time. I hope I have been able to give you a blueprint on structuring 2020 to accomplish your goals. Thank you so much for staying till the end of this article. Please, please do me a great favor. Share your thoughts beneath as comments and share this article with your friends if you liked it. Remember to stay connected on social media @iamjoadre for instagram and @joadre for facebook. Subscribe to my newsletter to know when the next article or video is posted Or when I will host a life event close to you. By the way, the next event is on Exporting African products to Europe. Held in Lagos on the 15th of february 2020. Visit the event page to learn more. 

Chears

Joana

 

There is greatness in simplicity.

Joadre
-
0
There is greatness in simplicity.

I grew up in a very complex culture where you have to be super creative which on the other hand even leads to more complexity. At the end of the day you are overwhelmed with so much ideas and things to do that you end up not actually taking one single action. This is a no go if you want to be successful in your business or daily life. Then i stumbled upon an article on how simplicity is the secret to being successful and this is what i am sharing with you in this blog. The problem about complex ideas and activities is that it distracts us from focusing  on our primary mission and purpose. A healthier way to bring about business growth is by mastering simplicity. But how?

  • Step 1 >  Redefine your goal.
  • Step 2 > Stay loyal and focused to that goal.
  • Step 3 > Eliminate processes and todos that takes you away from your goals.

“There is no greatness where there is not simplicity, goodness, and truth” ~ Leo Tolstoy. A Russian writer referred to as one of the greatest authors of all times.

When we launched our lifestyle brand Joadre, what mayn of our fans did not know is that we also launched a fully equipped in-house production in Lagos, then we created a training programme to teach vulnerable women how to make clothes. The workload for us was soooo much. We ran a training programme, a production, then a design department and then distribution, promotion before the actual sales logistic. This is just how complex a single business idea or a project you are passionate about could sound.

The best solutions are the ones that break down and simplify a problem, making the solution obvious.  And here is one of his rules of simplicity every business should follow. Make your ideas fit on the back of an envelope. Because if it is too hard to explain, then it is unlikely that your customers will understand leading to less sales and revenues. Imagine that! Decreased income due to complexity!…

Richard Bradson, the founder of the Virgin Group siad  in one of his articles,  “

Now think of   people you know or probably you who is super creative and you burn with dozen of ideas. You launch 2 to 5 businesses or projects at the same time even when you whole team consist of you and yourself all together. How are we  solving our complexity problem at Joadre?

Earlier this year, we started with a strategic downsizing. It was hard work and we are still in the process but we finally made it to cut off many complex activities in order to be focused on our primary goal which is to improve the lives of vulnerable groups by creating more income streams for them.

To be simple, we need to re- identify our goals and find synergies within our network or activities. If our goal is to increase the income of vulnerable groups,  then we needed to focus on things that generates income for this target groups. On the other side we had to determine challenges that are really extreme. Like things taking so much steps, processes, time etcetera.
Have you experienced exactly just this same issue or something similar. Multiple complex ideas. And you have managed to develop a strategy to simplify everything you do? Please share your ideas and feedback with me using the “Ask Joadre” button in the menu left. Follow me on instagram @joadreapp.

Cheers, Joana

Find your power and the secret to success.

Joadre
-
0
Find your power and the secret to success.

I am not going to list out a step or guide as the secret to success. No, I would rather want you to understand how to develop a lifestyle that would bring you lasting success, in your personal life as well as in your professional life. There is only one secret and that is “knowledge”. Knowledge is power. Knowledge is the key to your own freedom. It is the step out of poverty, the bridge between where you are now and where you want to be. Your goal after reading this blog should be that you want to become a Key Person of Influence (shortened as KPI) in your environment. Why? Because it’s only KPIs that actually get successful in what ever they do. They are the ones that have the power to impact their own lives positively and the lives of those around them.

Joadre business lab become rich

Every successful entrepreneur today invested in becoming a Key Person of Influence – watch my tutorial on How to become a Key Person of Influence. Ask yourself, why should you be successful or enjoy success if you do not care about yourself and your environment? The truth is that, in todays economical space or professional space, there are thousands, even millions of people just like you. They have the same or similar idea and often with the same capability, maybe even better! This means that you need to invest smartly in yourself to stand out. It does not necessarily mean, you have to work harder or a dozen times more, no. It means you have to work smart. Investing your time and energy in only those things that really matter and making it a routine. Thats what I am asking you to do from now on.

What type of knowledge do you need to get to be successful?

First of all, it depends on what area you desire success. Exactly in that area, should you devote your energy to get more knowledge about. If you want to be successful in your catering business, then, you need to invest time to gain more knowledge in catering. The driving questions should be – who is the best catering business in town? What do I need to know to become better than the best catering business in town? Does it mean, you have to know more about healthy eating and food nutrients? Do you get what I mean? Go deep. do not take short cuts. Learn. If you have specific questions regarding what type of knowledge to acquire to become even more successful, then I will be happy to answer them. Simply drop your question beneath this blog article. Feedback, critic and praises are all welcome as well.

How do you acquire knowledge?
The power of an empty book! Read blog…

One key step successful entrepreneurs consistently take today, is to gain as much knowledge as they can about their industry and workspace. Take for example the giant of all – Google. They have series intelligence tracking algorithm, softwares and programs that captures information their users post on their platforms. Why? Because this is how they know what their potential customers want. If they know, they can create better solutions that will generate money. If Google, after all their financial wealth, consistently gathers information, why are you not doing the same? Google gathers using their platform, you can begin to gather information by reading articles about your profession and industry, by reading books, by attending event specific to your sector, by watching documentaries – not just feature films, real documentaries, listening to news, holding constructive debates and conversations.

How early can one begin?

The easiest way to develop this attitude is to start right from a very young age. This is where parents come in. I have met adults who were neglected by their parent. Who never received any kind of general training and boost towards attaining extra knowledge outside of school. Funny enough, what you will need out there in the practical world is the knowledge you learn outside school. Therefore, as an entrepreneur parent, the willingness and hunger for knowledge is a very important gift you should try to give to your children.

As a child, my mum will wake me up every morning to read before going to school.  My mother was a teacher and is still a teacher. It was impossible to say no! As a child, I was so irritated about it.  I have 2 kids of my now now. I can imagine how my mum must have felt when I will be like “no I want to sleep, I don’t want to learn”.  I am so grateful to my mother that she forced this gift into my life: the urge and happiness to want to know more. The gift of wanting to learn more.

Triumphing over negative experiences.

I have worked with women who were not privileged to have a mother who made them love to learn. These women were majorly victims of human trafficking who found themselves in Europe. In a foreign country, having to learn a new language, a new style of living, a new way to interact and a new art of carrying themselves, while still being authentic to their origin culture. Imagine how challenging it was to introduce the idea to these young adults, that they would have to begin to embrace new ideas, new cultures, new knowledge.

Especially considering that some of them had become traumatised from the experience of human trafficking. Only those young women who had somehow received that foundation from their parents or community to learn, to be ready to embrace new knowledge could survive and triumph out of their traumatised situation. So no matter what you have experienced in your life. Be it issues like domestic violence, like being unemployed, like not having enough to take care of yourself, like neglect, illness, failed relationship or whatever it is. You still stand a better chance to overcome all these downsides , if you seek information revolving around the situation.

Recap and key take-aways

The secret to success is knowledge. Knowledge is power. You can acquire knowledge.  The willingness to learn, to know more, to ask questions is crucial to the development of our minds and our lives. If you are a parent, dedicate time to teach your children to ask, to learn, to want more knowledge, because that is the true key to freedom. My mission is to help you develop your ideas to becoming real successful ventures, to transform them to wealth. And the first step is to be ready to know more. I look forward to your comments and do not forget to subscribe to our weekly blog using the subscribe section in the footer. Thank you for reading.

Cheers, Joana

Start a business with what you have

Joadre
-
0
Start a business with what you have

I keep getting people write me saying they do not have capital to start a business. Some even send me these kind of one liner questions – business to do with 100k, best business to invest in, small businesses to start in Nigeria. First of all, let me say that these phrases are not proper questions. If you cannot send me a full question or request, I would not understand what you require and cannot respond to your enquiry.

If starting a business is important to you, then you could as well invest time to articulate your request either in writing or as an audio message. The way you communicate to strangers, reflect the kind of mind-sett you have. That said, let me introduce you to a strategy to start off your idea with what you have.

secret to wealth

Before you start, map it out.

Before you start a venture, a business, an idea or a project, it is very important to map out the resources you have or have access to in other to start your idea. Why? Very often we overlook what we have and solely let the absence of finance cloud our judgement about our capabilities. Wealth is not simply cash! A financially poor person is not automatically a poor person. I believe more in the possession of resources. Visit my FREE tutorial on Understanding wealth.

Resources is key and that is why you have investors investing their money into startups that do not have a dine. These investors know that money would not multiply itself, except you have a team of individuals with great resources involved.

Resource is a means to achieving your own goal. So why wait for external help, money or material? Why not look inwards to find out what you have that could be useful to start off your business. This is what I call resource mapping. If you are interested, click to join my program and learn  about this process. Here are 7 actions to carry out now to help you  map out the resources you have and identify the ones you need;

  1. Identify your personal skill needed for your venture.
  2. Get passionate.
  3. Identify material resource you can access.
  4. Identify how much financial resources you can raise.
  5. highlighting your resource limitations.
  6. Match needed resource with shared resources opportunities. 
  7. Design your plan.
Let’s expand on these actions.

Identify your personal skill: What personal skill do you master that is relevant to the entrepreneurship idea you want to start? These skills are more like gifts, talents, things that you can do with easy by your nature or they could be learned skills. Write them down. If you do not have one, then you need to rethink the idea or business you want to start. If you find it challenging to identify this, you can get support by starting a conversation in our forum.

Get passionate about the personal skill you have identified: You can develop this skill or acquire new skill by improving your knowledge. There are benefits to becoming a KPI in your intended sector. Learn how to be a KPI from this free blog – Find your power and the secret to success.

Identify material resources available to you: What do you own?  Material resource is basically anything that you will have to spend money buying in other to start your business or project idea, but you already have them. For example computer. Find out what material item you have that is needed to start your business. Do you need an office space and have a corner in your living room that would suit the requirement? Do you need a laptop and have one? List them all out.

How much financial resources can you raise? Do you have any form of money at your disposal like Savings, extra cash from monthly salary, money you intend to spend on some leisure or luxury item that you can do without for now. I have a full tutorial milestone in my program on how to raise finance. Join if you are interested. 

Resource limitations: Ressource limitations are the missing things you need. Create your have and don’t have plan highlighting your resource limitations. What resources do you lack right now or do you still need to start off your idea? This list will help you visualise where you are and what the next steps would be.

Match needed ressource with shared resources opportunities: What resource do people i know have that can be useful to me? Look at your network of friends, families, colleagues. Is there anyone that you can work with to get some of the resources you need? Now match up resources from your network with the resources you still need.

Design your plan: Design your business plan around these resources you have identified above. I know some might want to skip this step – developing business plan. But remember, if you fail to plan, you have planed to fail. Learn why you need to have a plan for your business in this FREE tutorial. Can you start your business from that point?

Anytime I have an idea that I believe is worth venturing into, I simple follow this actions to begin realising the idea. I have put together a resource mapping strategy in my 6 key foundation milestone program for those interested.  Feel feel to connect with me here if you have questions and I hope this blog have given you more reasons now to start with your idea.

Cheers, Joana

7 entrepreneurship steps to get great things done!

Joadre
-
0
7 entrepreneurship steps to get great things done!

Today, I want to share a very useful work process that has helped me through very complex projects or ideas in my entrepreneurship journey. Many of us carry on our very extraordinary goal in our minds everyday.  Only you can feel the heat in your stomach when you think about it. It’s so precious and you see it happening but it’s all in your head and you seem to get overwhelmed. If I am talking to you, it is ok. You are super creative, passionate and I get you. I have this vision to empower small enterprise owners in Africa. This vision came about from my own personal experience.

When I was in school, at Auchi in Nigeria, I literally managed a secondhand boutique business from under my bed on campus to  pay for tuition. I say under my bed, because the clothes where stalled in a carton under my bed. I was not the only one. So many young ladies on campus then had a side business. Some earned enough to send money home to their families. So basically, millions of small business owners, side business owners, entrepreneurs in Nigeria, around the cities in Africa, are the backbone of our continent. Entrepreneurship is the key and spine of any economy.

Governments are less invested in visions.

But unfortunately, Our governments are more interested in their own pockets. Ok, nope! That’s is a negative and discontructive way to express the reality. Rephrase! Some officers in power who would be capable of empowering the SME landscape are just not invested. Others lack sincere knowledge about what to actually do. Others are so corrupt, that they get a heart attack from their obesity caused by lavishing stolen money. You just have to take matters into your hand and begin to develop your own vision and ideas.

Entrepreneurship in Nigeria is like a norm for many youths. Some do not realise that they are entrepreneurs but they know that they do business in Nigeria. With my vision to create a massive impact in the SME sector, it could be overwhelming sometimes. Especially when I see the loads of work that needs to be done. So how do I cope and keep myself inspired, on track as an entrepreneur? I use my favorite goal-to-habit strategy, that I will share now beneath, but before, I should introduce my 6 key program to you.

In my 6 key program, you can follow a structured step guided with short tutorials on how to transform your ideas, be it gigantic or extraordinary ideas, to a real business. You can visit our program page to learn more. If you already have an idea and entrepreneurship is something you will like to venture into, then join my one-on-one coaching room for free now to connect and get feedback to grow your idea. Now here’s a list of the process i follow to streamline my ideas.

List of the secret work process.

  1. I name it – give the idea a name. Articulate it!
  2. Find the big picture one goal in the articulated idea.
  3. Break the goal into sub-goals and keep breaking sub-goals to sub-sub-goals etc.
  4. Choose one sub-goal according to logic thinking of what’s next and break it down again  until it is a “skill”.
  5. A skill is an ability or your capacity, so now, it all depends on you. No external factor involved. Find the skills you need to master.
  6. Build the skill through practice.
  7. Target one practice and break them down into bits. These bits we call habits when you make them consistent.

You are your boss! That’s entrepreneurship. 

Make sure each habit does not demand more than 1 hour of your time on a stretch, except you are now super motivated. Build consistency and continue to do your habits. Follow through with the other sub-goals. Entrepreneurship is a blessing but also a challenging journey to embark on. Be aware that you would not have someone bossing you around or setting deadlines for you to make you work within a structured framework. Nope! If you need that, go get a job.

If you are in for doing business and you want to engage in entrepreneurship, then this is a special work process technique that will come handy. It is also similar to our action plan technique that I teach in the 6 key program. Now let me expand more on the list above.

Articulate it. Name it, to frame it

If you cannot name it, you cannot frame it. So try to articulate the idea into one or more sentences. This is the first thing I tell my students and producers in our network to do. This is what the dictoíonary say articulate means – having or showing the ability to speak fluently and coherently: . Well then, you have it. You should be able to speak your vision. Speak it out loud to yourself, fluently. The moment you have this exercise done, you can move to making it the big picture goal.

So for my idea to create impact in Africa, the big picture goal would be to empower African SMES by giving them the tools they need to build a life and business they love. See that I included the “how” – giving them the tools. So you should try to be very specific in outlining your big picture goal. If you still find it hard to find an idea for yourself, here, read my blog on how to find the right idea. Maybe this would inspire you.

Shred that big picture. 

Have you been able to articulate your vision or mission? If you have then, we can move to the next which would be to make this your goal. So, since my goal is to empower African SMES, this is the clear goal – “to provide African SMEs with the tools to activate their own power and create the life they love”. You can see that there are so many aspects within my goals. My goals is still very giangiantic. So we need to put it in a shredmill and shred it down into the significant parts.

In this case, it would be;

  • Goal 1 –  identify and create the tools
  • Goal 2 – find ways to help the SMEs activate their own power

Start with the most significant. 

So you see I have broken down this big goal into 2 parts again. Now I will choose one part to focus on. Let’s say “creating the tools” is my current focus. I often love to start with the most significant part and focus on that. If you have a team, it is much easier. One team member can be responsible for one major goal. If you do not have a team, then you sure would love to follow the next tips I would be sharing.

I know that doing business in Nigeria, or entrepreneurship in general can be even more challenging if you are on the journey alone, so I also encourage you to read through some old blog articles, visit our free forum to get some more useful content and definitely subscribe to my newsletters to stay updated.

Why do something that doesn’t fulfill you and doesn’t pay your bills? 

Sometimes, some goals have to happen simultaneously to work properly. What do you do if you are all alone or you have a very small team. It is simple, scrap out the goals that does not bring you the most income and the most fulfillment . Why do something that doesn’t fulfill you and doesn’t pay your bills? Now, it is often easier to stay on board if you have this goal hand written out large on a sheet of paper and placed in front of a place you visit up to 4 times a day.

So for me it is my bathroom, my workspace, oh and of course my kitchen. Well, my kids are curious, so I have to place it way high up and have copies ready to replace it just incase someone else decided to add their goals on it as well:-). If I place it there, I get to see it very often and when I find myself caught up doing something not in line with the goal, I self correct. That’s how impactful entrepreneurship works.

What is the next logical step?

Now that you have one goals to focus on, lets skill it out. Skills are  personal abilities. So if your goal still has a big “to do”, you need to continue to break it down, till you get to the stage that it becomes a skill. A skill, meaning, it relies solely on your personal ability or capacity. What are the abilities or capacity you will need personally to be able to create this goal. For example, for me, I need to create tools for African SMEs – Goal.

To be able to identify the tools I want to create, what would be the next logical step? I have to come up with the tools. Meaning I have to identify the tools. This is yet another sub-goal! How do I identify the tools? I need ideas. I have to research to get those ideas. It required a skillset – the ability to research and gather information.

Get more skillsets. 

Another skills could be time management. I guess this second skill would often be in your skill list as this is the center of everything. We all have only 24 hours and approximately 7-8 hours out of it, we have to sleep and let our bodies regenerate. So basically we have less than 16 hours for everything else. Now I have identified 2 skills. Let me use the second skill to illustrate the journey from here, since that would affect many readers. Entrepreneurship in Nigeria or elsewhere in the world demands that you can manage your time effectively.

From skill to practice to habits. 

What practices do you need to do to build that skill of time management? For example you need to make time. Yes, that’s how simple it is. Make time. How do you make time? You need some habits. Now you need to identify some little but specific things that you can do consistently to make time. For example on Sunday evenings, you would sit down for 10 minutes and plan out 1 hour in your schedule to dedicate to identifying the tools. Another path following the second skill of research skill would be to develop the practice of gathering information.

A habit or specific action would be;

  • to go to the library for an hour.
  • listen to the news for 10 minutes. etc.

Top bottom to bottom top  again.

Get what I mean? All these habits has to connect to the goal of tool identification. Because the goal of tool identification is connected to the goal of creating tools, which is then connected to the big picture of empowering African SMES with tools. You see how we went from top bottom to bottom top  again? If you work your vision and idea using this process, you can, and have the power to achieve anything. Just activate it.

A quick recap – Get the key take away.

No matter what your idea is or how extraordinary or gigantic it may seem in your mind. Name it. Articulate it into a goal – the big picture goal. Then begin to shred it down into smaller goals. From sub-goals, you end up with skills which you build through practice. And practice is successful only if you can get habits to master consistently.

Thank you so much for staying till the end of this article. Please, please do me a great favor. Share your thoughts, experience and share this article with your friends if you liked it. Remember to stay connected on social media @iamjoadre for instagram and @joadre for facebook. Subscribe to my newsletter to know when the next article or video is posted.

Chears

Joana

 

 

Get the glow without bleaching cream.

Joadre
-
0
Get the glow without bleaching cream.

From traditional television adverts to rap music videos and social media postings, society is consistently preaching “ the lighter your skin, the sexier you are and more opportunities would knock your way”. For this simple, but bizarre message, millions of “darker skin” people are battle-ready, equipped with the most lucrative weapon of all times, bleaching creams, ready to conquer their own natural glow. It is an individual choice! Nevertheless, bleaching or like it is now called whitening, glowing or toning, has terrible health risk attached.

Bleaching is a choice. A choice with a strong message to society!

Yes it is choice. People choose to smoke  and eat very unhealthy. So why can’t we let those who choose to bleach fall into depression, and anxiety? Afterall, these health side effects complete the devil’s circle for them. The more anxious and depressed, the higher you crave to look lighter, as this visual effect would make things better. But that’s not the reason for this article. You can continue to bleach to whatever degree you intend to. But read through to see how you can actually become an entrepreneur solving real problems around this lifestyle.

The issue here is the message that is now prevalent in society about lighter skin being a better option and appearance. There are countless studies that have shown this perception to be in strong existence. Therefore the lifestyle of bleaching strengthens the perception in itself. And please save that argument that white people tan. Yes, many do, but must that be our measurement standards?

When you focus on trying to be what you are obviously not, you fail to see how extraordinary you could be.

We have a “self-esteem problem” and you can solve it with a business idea. 

Bleaching or whitening is not a financial issue. Financially poor people bleach. Wealthy people bleach. And at the end, the health defects doesn’t discriminate. When the information we consume leads us to believe we are “not enough” but rather to begin to explore ways to “become more” at the detriment of our own health and for the profits of others, in this case, the cosmetics industry, we have to question it!

Especially when the concept sets to threaten the self-esteem of young girls and youths growing up to learn what it means to look a certain way. We have to address it! And addressing these kind of problems is what leads to great business idea. Read more about how to find a business idea using the problem approach.

Get the glow without a bleaching cream.

77% of Nigerians bleaching.

One might think that this is a racial issue and yes, white people tend to fair better because of their white skin. Asia and America have their own fair share of the experience. The black African continent is experiencing a “bleaching creams wave” that needs to end! In salons and beauty spas, the topic of  best whitening cream for face and body, how to attain glow for skin, skin lightening etc. is a non-stop.

Over 77% of Nigerians use what used to be simply called bleaching but now refined with code words like “glowing, lightening, whitening, toning” creams, soaps. Some go as far as taking pills or conducting laser corrections. In South Africa it’s like one third and two thirds in Gambia. Statistics from the World Health Organization. Crazy, right?  Many countries have banned the use of such products, especially those containing harmful chemicals. But there is not an anti-bleaching police on the streets to control or monitor the market. So yes, black market is booming and people are still topping their games trying to be white.

The colonial experience is over but not over!

today, we are literally not colonised. We “choose” to promote “the lighter is better” ideology through our media. Therefore creating a social dynamic and self-esteem easy-fix or booster for teenage girls, for less than a dollar per week at the detriment of their health. As a teenager growing up in Nigeria, someone can actually mean to complement you by saying “Wao, you are not so dark”. Starting from nursery school. The lighter babies dare not cry too much as they are delicate and precious.

Then in primary school. She was much lighter and so was the best fit to stand on stage to represent the group, even when she had definitely less to offer apart from the skin color. It has gotten so bad that even parents tend to bleach their young children. This experience shows that the issue of bleaching in our continent is far deeper than banning the bleaching creams. We need awareness, wokeness and self-esteem building to start right from the kindergarten. Thank God that barbies are now black, brown and many shades too. Economically speaking, it took way too long to get here.

Get the “glow”. Visual benefits vs. health defects!

Who gets the largest profit out of this long trend? The bleaching industry is a multi-billion dollar industry, promising the “glow”. So face it. If about 77% of Nigerians buy these products at an average cost of about 1200 Naira, that’s approximately over 450 million Euros. And you say there is no money in Africa. Check our this interview on YouTube and another one from Al Jazeerea. So that you can successfully lighten that skin, a specific chemical substance is included in every lightening cream – called Hydroquinone. Some products even have high mercury and steroids inside.

Crocodile skin, high blood pressure and kidney failure are all included in the package.

Mercury in consistent consumption either through skin or food, is toxic and can lead to depression, anxiety, memory loss, numbness amongst other health issues. These 2 health risks is cause for alarm –  High blood pressure and kidney failure. And I know that high blood pressure is an issue in many African urban cities today. Simply the waste resulting from the use and production of the cream contaminates our environment.

Skin inflammation and sensitivity to light should not be ignored because at the end of the day, bleaching (toning, lighting, whitening, glowing)  consistently for a longer period affects the deeper layers of the skin, it results to the contrary of what you aimed for. Instead of getting “lighter” you get even more darker patches.

Why destroy what protects you the most. 

The skin on which you apply these harmful chemicals on is one of the most important parts of the human body organ system called the integumentary organ system. Because the skin is the largest organ we have and it acts to prevent the body from damage and helps in multiple ways to keep the body in balance.In it we produce what is called Melanin, which is a pigment that we need to protect us from sun burns and UV radiation after overexposing your body to sunlight.

So when you begin to bleach, you destroy the melanin in your skin and therefore become very sensitive to the sun. Now, remember that the body is made of up many organs that work interconnectedly to make sure everything works perfectly for you. These organs have what is called cells and they are way too small for you to see with your naked eyes. These cells communicate with one another. So when you begin to destroy one cell, it affects another cell. Somewhere else in your body.

How can I achieve a glowing skin? Fat is not the enemy!

Nutrition is important for health. What you eat affects every organ of your body. Remember I told you the skin is the largest organ? So yes, there are natural ways to get the glow and keep it without having to fear the sun or spend a fortune on bleaching creams. Get more healthy fat to your meal plans. The conventional vegetable oil is more or less like poison to your skin and body if used consistently. Why? I would share more in upcoming blogs on Well being for entrepreneurs. For now, know that the healthier the fat you consume, the more glow you will have. Fat is not your enemy, just which, how and when. Healthy fat can heal you and you can find some in avocados.

Benin city avocados are the best!

A couple of months back, when I visited in Benin city, if avocados could make you high, I was definitely 24/7 high. Benin avocados are the richest and most tasteful avocados I have ever eaten. Try to add half an avocado every other day to your breakfast. Avocado is a good source of omega 3 fatty acids and that’s what you want to get  the glow. It helps to keep your skin flexible and moisturised. Avocados are also a good source of vitamin E, which is an important antioxidant that helps protect your skin from oxidative damage.

Also vitamin C is included. There are other foods that contain omega 3, vitamin E and C, find them and incorporate into your meals. Some other nutritious foods that you must include in your meals are Walnuts and tomatoes. But when I say tomatoes, I mean it raw. Not over cooked to the extent it releases harmful substances. I will release new content about this in my Well Being for entrepreneurs blogs, so stay connected via blog subscribing.

Your well being is a priority at Joadre. 

At Joadre, we believe that an entrepreneur is a whole person that approaches life within and outside from a holistic perspective. So therefore, being healthy and attaining a fit state of mind is key in our business platform. The first element to being successful is to take care of yourself. To find ways to understand what you can do better and how you can impact the lives of people around you. Sure you are now aware of the health defects, rather than benefits, that can arise from consistent bleaching.

This is a result of a problem, a much more deeper problem attributed to low self-esteem, societal misinformation and greed to make financial benefits of vulnerable people. If you feel inspired to do something, here are some solution oriented approaches that could even be developed to be a business case. To learn more about how to develop a business case, feel free to either visit and enrol for my 6 key program or join the free online coaching platform.

Some ideas and ways to address the color complex society and create innovative businesses around it. 

  • We need more self-love preaching. Grooming self-love increases your own confidence which would then be the source of your daily motivation. And yes, when you are highly motivated, you go for it. You take the actions you need to get the results you want. You become even more productive and achieving your big “WHY” seems even more realistic to you. If you have the means and voice to motivate others on this journey. Do it! Start by sharing this blog article. Parents can simply start by reframing the messages our children consume to more empowering stuff. Do you see the business idea here?
  • More innovative and confident entrepreneurs can come up with a more healthy and sustainable cosmetic product alternative. I bought an organic cocoa cream from the Lagos brand Aralewa, some time ago and I must tell you, there is so much good stuff out there. And more entrepreneurs will spring up in the future. Would you be one of them?
  • Short-term solution would be to promote  or demand the ban of such harmful products in regions that have not yet implemented the ban but also to create an effective control system of how to monitor the sales even after ban. This would of course include promoting healthy alternative products that actually help to protect the skin while bringing out the true glow which has no skin color other than the native healthy version of the individual person.
  • More health awareness, because sincerely speaking, the most effective way to get the glow on your skin is through nutrition, movement and mindful living. Mindful living will include protecting your skin from long periods of harsh sunlight using sheds if you work exposed to harsh sunlight. Nutrition is not a new way to get the glow. Our ancestors have used this techniques from generation to generation. What you eat, how you eat, when you eat and all these elements play an important role. I will discuss nutrition for entrepreneurs in future blogs. Stay subscribed not to miss out. Movement is key because, even the best food would not complete the equation. Humans are built to move. That’s how we get our multiple organs and systems, such as the skin, up and running.

Can you start a business around my above listed solutions? Sure! How? Join our free community forum to start a conversation with us. Wao, so I hope this was not my longest article. So that you can still take much away, here is a quick recap. Bleaching is bleaching! You can call it glowing or lightening. When you use chemically active creams that intentionally bleach your skin and destroy the melanin, you are set for some health defects in the future –  high blood pressure, kidney failure, anxiety and depression.

It is your own choice. If millions of people are vulnerable to the ideology that they have to be lighter to have a better chance, then we have a deep problem that needs your innovative entrepreneurship ideas to solve. Remember to get some healthy fat, vitamin E and C into your weekly meal plan so that the glow will shine naturally, shining bright like diamonds so that those discriminating your for your darkest skin can now truly have the gift of sight once more.

Thank you so much for staying till the end of this article. Please, please do me a great favor. Share your thoughts, experience and share this article with your friends if you liked it. Remember to stay connected on social media and subscribe to my newsletter to know when the next article or video is posted on Joadre Wellbeing.

Cheers,

Joana

10 things to include in your business plan!

Joadre
-
0
10 things to include in your business plan!

Anytime we hear business plan, the name alone could scare us and make us feel like this is going to be a very tedious and non-rewarding process. No it would not! So many people do not really know where to start from. And hell yes, they are justified. How do you start creating a business plan for a business that does not even exist. Yes, but that is the whole essence, to plan out something that has not even taken course yet. Ok, then how do you go about it? Read further!

In the case of a business, you may only have an idea or the destination card. A destination card is more like what you envision to accomplish. Like seeing yourself as the owner of a very successful restaurant. Your destination card is you in your white sophisticated chef attire serving high-end customers.

Envision your destination card to create a business plan. 

Now that you might envision a destination card, you sure can strategize how to actually create that card. With this approach, I suggest that you see the process of creating a business plan more like a developing a strategic roadmap to the destination. AYou can begin to develop this kind of business strategy plan by visualising and outlining specific business related information based on what you know and what information  you can gather from different sources. In my 6 key foundation milestone program, when you complete the program, you sure would have a really good business plan. I also share how to gather the information you will require to compose your business plan or business strategy document.

Forget strict formats. Rather pay attention to the constants. 

Business plan often has a standard format that anyone needing to review your plan understands. That is why some people look for a  business plan template so as to create a plan that meets the standard expectations of banks, investors, partners, etc.. Who decides what is the standard? Practically no one or maybe your business administration professor. It always depends on your business idea.

Nevertheless, there are constants in a good business plan. Meaning, there are details that should be included in any good business plan and that is what we would cover in this blog. I want to share the 10 must include in any business strategy  document or business plan format. But before we dive into this, here is why you need a business plan. To save you time, money, resources and help you find partners ready to support you. Enroll for free to learn why you need a business plan in this free tutorial.

Everyone needs a plan, be it that you decide to sell akara or gold watches. If you want to grow, you need to strategize and plan. Period!

Even if you decide to start a small road side business, yes you need a business plan or a  business strategy outline. You may not need a 30 page business plan formated or typed in a computer, but you will need to develop a system to outline your planned or potential activities in a logical order. I have met too many young people who are extremely enthusiastic about a specific idea that they have and really want to start a business or a project, but end up carrying that idea for weeks or years.

When I had the idea to start the entrepreneurs lab, I continually remind myself that I have to do it. Especially when I would get request form people to coach them. Then I would think out loud, yes, I need to start the lab. But somehow weeks and months passed, I did not start. I was still stuck in my normal routine. These things that just take up your time because life happens and you get stuck up in the difficult-easy things and lose focus on your destination card.

You can create action plans to be your motivation! 

This is where a business plan can help. Because in a good business plan, you can actually go as far as creating work plans and action plans to help you move further progressively. Not until I actually sat down, bought an empty journal and began to pour out my idea, putting pen to paper as they say, did I really find the momentum to start. It is time to learn what you must include in your business plan and how to structure it. Now do not scream when you read this list, it is not rocket science. I did it, so you can.

I have created a tutorial in my 6 key foundation milestone program covering each point and this will help you develop them confidently. If you feel the need, you can get a friend to work with you on this process.

10 things to include in your business plan!

Your business plan should be structured in a way that anyone reading it would understand it. And here is the structure I recommend and it is written chronologically how it should appear in your plan.

The 10 must include in a business plan.

  1. Executive Summary: this is actually the part you will compost last, after you have covered all other 10 must include. Because it summarizes everything and brings the most important information for example, your solution, on point. I call this writeup a persuasive summary. It should take up a page or less, if you share the page with an image.
  2. Problem –  Here you get the chance to explain the situation you want to solve. Depending on how complex, be precise and clear. You can enroll for our tutorial on how to draft out a problem statement for your business idea if you feel the need to develop more skills in this field.
  3. Your solutions in details – Your product or service that you are offering in details. You have to describe the product/service. Actually, there is a full tutorial on these 10 must-haves where I explain them.
  4. Your unique selling point or proposition – The added value of your solution, why should a customer pay for your product/service or solution?
  5. Operational plan – How would you run your business daily?
  6. Legal structure – Would your business be a sole proprietor company, a joint venture, a non-profit?
  7. Team – Why you or your team is the only one to make the business work. Do not underestimate this part. People are interested in who you are and what your abilities are. Even the customer is interested in teh genuine connection you have to the business idea. Share beyond your professional skills, share your story that resonates with the idea.
  8. Marketing plan – How do you intend to reach your customers? The marketing plan should be extensive enough to cover the price policy, promotion strategy, distribution and expand more on the qualities of the product.You can learn more in our Milestone 3 about drafting a marketing model for your idea.
  9. Financial plan – How will you fund your idea and what are the costs? Outlining your possible expenditures, potential revenues. I always suggest you work this part in an excel sheet and later integrate the key data in the executive summary, then attach the excel sheet to the plan when printed out or sent as a digital file. I talk about all about finance, budgeting and revenue model in our milestone 4 of the 6 Key program.
  10. Scaling & Maintenance plan – yes you have a plan to operate but how do you intend to keep the standards? Do you inetd to grow your business? If yes, how?

Now, let’s have a quick recap! 

10 things to include in your business plan!

I hope I have been able to share a valuable business plan example which will help you or serve as a guide when writing your own business plan. To have a great business plan, you will need to develop a series of information such as the problem, solution, your USP, operational plan, legal structure, team, marketing and finance plan, maintenance plan and scaling plan. After you have developed these, you can then confidently put your executive summary together.

Depending on who you present your plan to, you will need a different version. Maybe a 5 slide deck, a 2 pager or another version. But remember this is the masterpiece. This is the version for you or for anyone who cares to read this long version. I have a tutorial about all other versions of the business plan and how to create them. 

Remember to stay in touch. I need you to work on your ideas and build healthy businesses. My team and I are here to support you through. Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter, join our community forum and of course follow me on instagram to connect in real time. (Instagram botton is beneath)

Thank you once again. This is Joadre, building healthy minds to create healthy businesses.

Cheers, Joana

3 Nigerian export products for small scale export business.

Joadre
-
0
3 Nigerian export products for small scale export business.

When you google how to start a small scale export business and Nigerian export products ideas,  you might end up finding an old school list of conventional export ideas or instructions on how to set up a company name. Yes, set up a company name when you are ready. We all know that we will need to set up a legal structure when the business is booming, right! But  for now, I guess you want to know what export idea areas to venture into and probably you also want more information about Nigerian export products ideas. If this is your goal, be ready to follow me through this blog article as I engage you in a process to think outside the box. 

I guess it is all about finding the right niche, the right Nigerian export products and understanding how to start on a small scale. My goal with this article is to pull you out of the conventional thought process when you think “export ideas” into a deeper and more broadened view of the exportation business. That is actually how we develop ideas in the Joadre lab. Learn more about our Joadre Lab here > . So before I list out 3 unconventional Nigerian export products ideas, let’s be on the same page about what exportation business is really all about.    

Important notes on exportation business in general? 

Exportation business is all about marketing in a global space. Marketing in a global space involves careful planning, producing, placing and promotion of a product and/or SERVICES in a worldwide market space. See that I highlighted services in capital letters. Yes, get ready for some unusual ideas. Exports are goods and services produced in your home community for sale in other markets other than your community where it is produced. So if you produce grandnuts in Auchi and sell them in Lagos, theoritically you have started venturing into Exports. But I know you want the international markets exportation business. Right?

Venturing into international markets simply means that you intend to sell your country product in another country. I do not know why you might want to venture into the export business when the local market is not yet saturated with the local products. Ask yourself this question first. But if you have very good reasons to do so and you want venture into international export to earn for sustainable profits, then you should be ready to make this an intentional  well thought through process. It is not a side business that you dedicate just any spare time towards, except you want to keep it as a side business for small side income. 

From globalisation to colonialism, exportation business has been booming. 

Transporting and trading goods from one country to another has been in existence since mankind existed. Only that, the regions from which a good  was exported from might not have been called a country, instead a kingdom or region. Actually, the whole issue of colonialism started based on the profits made by the Portugese, the English among others, out of trade from Africa. They literally settled shortly at our coast and exported pepper, ivory, gold and more to their countries. 

I will publish content about these historical times, so that you understand where we are coming from, because it often helps you to shape your business ideas if you know more about the economic history of your region. So stay connected by subscribing to my newsletter. As mentioned earlier, Europe literally built its wealth based on the economic value of goods (unfortunately including slaves) that they exported out of Africa. Exportation, in its good sense can help develop an economy and Nigeria needs to expand its portfolio from just oil and gas products to more consumer products. That is why the focus of this blog article will not be on oil and gas products as Nigerian export products, rather more on consumer products that you can start on a small scale. 

What do you want to export?

Before you decide to approach the international market, meaning you want to export products/services out of Nigeria, there are a few things you should think about. First of all, what do you want to export? There are many products that you might not even think of right now that you can export. Have you thought about exporting services? I guess not! People are very focused on “products” exportation, as in tangible products and totally forget services too. Ok then, let’s cover a little about products before we move to services. Here is the classic list of Nigerian export products and their revenues as at a couple of years ago;

  • Crude oil ($36 billion).
  • Petroleum gas ($7 billion).
  • Refined petroleum ($603 million).

So those 3 categories are reserved for the government and their wealthy tribes. 

Other conventional export products are Cocoa beans ($504 Million), Rough wood ($300 million) , then you also have Scrap Copper ($133 million), Tanned Goat Hides ($106 million), Cocoa Butter($76.1 million), Rolled Tobacco ($65.1 million), Rubber ($57.1 million). By the way, Nigerian exports has fallen sharply over the last five years, and so did the import too. We actually import palm oil, sugar, rice, weath, all food worth about $1.9 billion. which signifies that there is a massive market for these food within Nigeria. This is the first think out of the box idea. 

Find your Nigerian export products idea from the imports. 

What about an export business within Nigerian first. Anything that Nigeria imports can become an export good because the fact that Nigeria imports it, already shows you how big the market is within Nigeria. Also think about it, there are many other west African countries with very similar lifestyle to that of Nigerians. So if we buy these products, maybe there is also market to sell them else where.  If there is a local product within your village or region, you can start exporting them to other regions within Nigeria. Then you grow the business to export within West Africa and later expand your reach to outside the continent. Do you understand what I mean? Do you see how this can work from a small scale to a global business? 

Find ways to get these products more effectively from the hidden regions where they are grown and sell them in the cities. How can you make the cultivation more sustainable and effective for the local farmers? The truth is that before you think about exporting, carry out intensive research about the market landscape of what and how Nigeria produces whatever it has to export. If you do not know how to carry out a research, you can visit my tutorial in the 6 key program to learn about how to gather information (tutorial on research) to build your business case.

Nigerian export products – category herbs, fashion and media. 

Since my goal is to share small scale export products in Nigeria, let’s start with another out of the box idea! My number one product category would be tapping into the African Herbal industry. I guess this comes as a surprise right? And no, I am not talking about Babalawos and Native doctors. I will explain further shortly within this blog but if you really want to learn more about the opportunities and which Nigerian export products ideas are available within this sector, make sure to register on my platform for free and join or start a discussion in our community forum. 

Now number 2 product category is fashion services and my number 3 category is media. Oooohh, now you are wondering. Relax. Subscribe to my newsletter to know when I post details about these ideas and how to start. We are currently developing multiple projects within these sectors and are also scouting for potential partners. So be sure to connect with us on instagram as well. The link is beneath this blog. Here are the sectors listed out again: 

  1. African natural herbal medicine industry – Export raw herbs, semi processed herbs, fully processed herbal based products. 
  2. Fashion industry in Africa – Export services such as mass production ability. Export fabrics that are hand woven. 
  3. The Media industry – Export content created for digital consumption. Venture into documentary and show reality to a global audience. Export services such as photography.
Small scale export product in Nigeria – Herbs.

I cannot even say the herbal industry because there is practically none. When I was researching for this blog section, all I could find was how the industry is unregulated and so on. It is actually called the Tradomedical industry. So when I say herbs or natural medicine, do not mistake this for crazy Tradomedical practices that endanger lives, nor am I talking about the spirituality involved within some Tradomedical concepts. No, I am talking about scientific knowledge and real businesses that’s booming around the world now under the name  of “superfoods”. Most superfoods are made out of  natural herbs which has been scientifically tested to show its sustainable health benefits.  Some come fully processed having extracts of the herbs, while others are semi-processed like being dried up, packaged as a tea.

nigerian export products

Copyright image – https://www.shop.tipuschai.com/ + Grow and Make on amazon.

Startups are making millions from superfood. 

Startup companies in Europe and in the USA have branded natural herbs and processed them into real trendy products, selling millions around the world. Now, here is a fact. Africa is home to over 4000 useful herbs with medical and health benefits. So when you want to start this business on a small scale, apply myone-product-to-market approach. I preach about this approach in my 6 key program. Uhps, if you do not know what the 6 key program is all about, make sure to check the curriculum here. 

In the program, we guide you using tutorials to develop your business idea. If you have internet issues to stream tutorials, you can get the 6 key workbook here as well. You can also get free access to my one-on-one coaching where I dedicate Tuesdays to look through your progress, chat with you and mentor you to the next stage. 

Check my Business insight journal for more on this topic.

Sorry my dear,  I have to cut off this blog article here because I always want you to have time to digest the information. So it has to be short. But if you want to read the full article where I expand on these 3 sectors, like I said earlier, subscribe to my newsletter to know when we release the  Joadre Business Insight Journal vol. 1. Export ideas to start on a small scale. This journal volume will be dedicated to Export for small scale businesses and will be published on the 24th of November. Make sure to get on the pre-sale list HERE to secure your digital copy now! 

By the way, Nigerian export products are not only products. What about services? Did you see what Indian call center agencies are up to? They service the USA. This a  great idea that African entrepreneurs can venture into. It is service export and demand is increasing. More in my upcoming business insight journal.  

There is so much business insights I really want to share with you for free. My team and I are constantly on the road and with our laptops connecting, researching and testing ideas so as to put together the best content for you to launch into success. I will sprinkle more important information on this topic through my free communication channels which are –  Joadre community forum, instagram post, newsletters and monthly podcasts. So make sure you are connected to all my channels not to miss out. The easiest way is to subscribe to my newsletter. Here is a quick recap of this blog article. 

Lets recap and take a step of action.

Exportation business can be built with services, not only products. If you opt in for products, then channel your focus towards consumer goods. Here are 3 industry sectors with some ideas: 

  1. African natural herbal medicine industry – Export raw herbs, semi processed herbs, fully processed herbal based products. 
  2. Fashion industry in Africa – Export services such as mass production ability. Export fabrics that are hand woven. 
  3. The Media industry – Export content created for digital consumption. Venture into documentary and show reality to a global audience. Export services such as photography.

Find ways to approach a product idea with your individual unique perspective. Think outside the box. We are here to assist you. You can join our Joadre community forum for free and you can ask questions. Be sure to leave a comment beneath this blog, so that I can get back to you with more information. I hope I could add value to yyour search for ideas and hey, be loving today. Recommend this blog to your friends. You can share on facebook, twitter or mail it to someone you think needs to know more about this. 

Stay blessed and cheers!

Joana

10 lucrative business ideas in Nigeria.

Joadre
-
0
10 lucrative business ideas in Nigeria.

In this blog, I will discuss 10 different business ideas in Nigeria, or anywhere actually, that you can start with very low capital and resources. In future blogs, I will explain each business idea in detail and show you how to go about it. Most of these businesses are small business ideas which you can start alongside a 9 to 5 job or as a student. I published a previous blog on this topic with also 10 very different ideas, so if you need more ideas, feel free to read my blog on 10 businesses to start with less than 100K in Nigeria. 

For those of you looking out for great business ideas to start either as a full time venture or with little capital or as a side business, or for stay at home mums and dads, the simple truth is that you should stop looking too far. The business idea is right within your community and often right in front of you. Great business ideas start with the goal or urge to solve a problem that affects you or people around you. What do I mean by that? Read my previous blog on how to find a great business idea. 

Key to success – solve a problem and add value to someone’s life!

The driver of a business case is a problem. So to find business ideas in Nigeria, you should find a problem to solve. Wanting to solve the problem or something that causes discomfort will lead you to a genius idea. Now you know the first step to take after reading this blog – find a problem to solve, period!  Maybe you already see a problem and you have a genius idea but you do not know what to do next. I shared 2 key tips on how to move from your idea to actually achieving the vision in a previous blog. Click to read – How to achieve your dream or vision, 2 key secret steps. 

Take it to another level to research about it so that you can understand the problem. Then ask yourself how you can solve the particular problem? In my 6 key foundation program, I have a couple of tutorials that explore what a problem for a business case is and how to define it. So if you are hot on how to start a business or what business idea to start, then be sure to join my program. Learn more about our free coaching servicewithin the 6 key foundation program for African entrepreneurs.

Start a business with little capital

Now let’s explore some very unusual business ideas in Nigeria that you can start with very little capital. Due to the lenght, I will expand briefly on only 2, but like I mentioned earlier, more details will follow. Not to miss out, make sure you save my website joadrebusinesslab.com on your phone as an app and turn the notifications on. To be on the safe side, you can subscribe to my newsletter. Want more?  Join our forum discussion and post your questions, I look forward to answering them personally – Join Joadre free forum. Let’s move!

  1. Copywriting & content creation.
  2. Direct sales aka. Network marketing.
  3. Healthy fast food and delivery.
  4. Cleaning and domestic agency.
  5. Designer fabric retailing.
  6. Documentary making.
  7. Healthcare agency for seniors.
  8. Lending and sharing platform.
  9. Personal sport trainer.
  10. Nutrition and dietary practice.
Copywriting and content creation business: 

You will not consider this to be a business idea in Nigeria, but trust me, you need to go out there and see how much “good” content is needed everyday. Copywriting is the act, or occupation of composing and writing text for the purpose of advertising or other forms of marketing. Your product that you sell is called “copy” – a written content! Your business goal is to increase brand awareness and ultimately persuade a person or group to take a particular action. 

So it is more of a service business that you offer to corporate clients. Which means you need a good laptop, internet and fresh ideas. How do you get clients and deals? Join my free coaching program so that I can support you to build this business. You can scale your business by adding content creation to it, which is very diverse. You could offer the clients editorial pictures with nicely made graphic as well as content for their social media and so on. The fees you charge is based on the quality of your work and how you position. 

network marketing jobs
Direct sales aka. Network marketing.

Wikipedia has explained this very well: Direct selling consists of two main business models: single-level marketing, in which a direct seller makes money by buying products from a parent organization and selling them directly to customers, and multi-level marketing, in which the direct seller may earn money from both direct sales to customers and by sponsoring new direct sellers and potentially earning a commission from their efforts. Multi-level marketing is also called referral marketing. 

The deal here is to be street smart. To look for what people need regularly and sell it to them. Actually, this is a very lucrative business idea in Nigeria, because we do not have a fully developed retail system, so we definitely will rely on informal network, word of mouth to access new good products. Key here is to stay ahead. If everyone is selling a particular brand, you can stock it but make sure to get in new brands that is not overcrowded in the selling space because being on top of the network level is key! That is how you earn more money in network marketing. 

You do not need to stock any product. But when you venture into network marketing, it is advisable to take on several products categories and I mean “diverse” categories. Network marketing is a type of business opportunity that is very popular with people looking for part-time, flexible businesses. Find the company that suits you and apply to be a sales rep. You have companies in cosmetics and makeup like Avon (here is the link to their site for more information), or health products like Riviera (This is an Austrian company, so I can connect you to become a consultant if you wish), or kitchen wares like Tupperware. Even smaller brands offer referral programs. 

If you want to take this to another level, You can create your own drop-shipping site and integrate multiple products into it without having to stock any product or handle shipping.

Recap of key takeaways.

Finding the right business idea is all about finding a problem you are passionate about to solve. Look deeper into the service industry as there are many opportunities there. Service industry does not really require high capital, and your fixed cost could be as low as zero if you work from home. Ok, maybe internet cost and transportation, some advertising cost and setup of company. 

Yes, company setup has been an issue many students ask me about. I will cover this topic in the future. What is the best legal set up for you and why? We now partner with a law firm that helps our students with such setup matters at a very affordable rate. So make sure to take advantage of this. You can request more information by posting a topic or question in our Joadre forum.

There are more ideas and remember I only introduced 2 from 10 business ideas to start with less capital. I would love to share more but at the same time, I do not want this blog to be too long as some readers have told me to reduce the length. Look out for upcoming blog content, courses, tutorials and life conventions. Thank you so much for reading this blog. Share with people you know will need the information. If you are really serious about starting up something soon, then be sure to join my free coaching sessions. I look forward to working with you soon.

Cheers, Joana

Fashion industry business ideas in Nigeria in fashion

Joadre
-
0
Fashion industry business ideas in Nigeria in fashion

In the first blog episode in this series “business in fashion”, I expanded a lot about the diverse opportunities in the fashion industry without actually focusing my attention to tailoring. Because tailoring is just one aspect in the industry. This automatically explains why a real fashion designer must not know how to sew, nor must they know how to make or assemble shoes or bags. The fashion industry, like any other industry in the world, provides opportunity for so many business ideas in Nigeria and in Africa as a whole. 

If you decide to focus on fashion designing, then your major skill set as a fashion designer is to be able to create an aesthetics that is appealing to your target market. To create products that your target customers are likely to purchase. Mastering how to create your own signature aesthetics that will eventually build your brand is inevitable. To learn more about other fashion business ideas in Nigeria that you can start with, please subscribe to my weekly newsletter to know when we release new series under this topic. You can also read the first episode to see my 30+ list on fashion careers available.

In the first blog episode in this series “business in fashion”, I expanded a lot about the diverse opportunities in the fashion industry without actually focusing my attention to tailoring. Because tailoring is just one aspect in the industry. This automatically explains why a real fashion designer must not know how to sew, nor must they know how to make or assemble shoes or bags. The fashion industry, like any other industry in the world, provides opportunity for so many business ideas in Nigeria and in Africa as a whole. 

If you decide to focus on fashion designing, then your major skill set as a fashion designer is to be able to create an aesthetics that is appealing to your target market. To create products that your target customers are likely to purchase. Mastering how to create your own signature aesthetics that will eventually build your brand is inevitable. To learn more about other fashion business ideas in Nigeria that you can start with, please subscribe to my weekly newsletter to know when we release new series under this topic. You can also read the first episode to see my 30+ list on fashion careers available.

Fashion industry business idea in Nigeria – tailoring.

I am actually excited writing this topic because I can finally pour out so much market intelligence we have gathered over the years building Joadre fashion. When you look for business ideas in Nigeria, you can become easily diverted to a specific sector because you have seen one or two people you know become very successful doing this. Fact is that only those that become the master of a specific trade or skill succeed fast. So let’s say you can sew very well or you actually love sewing, tailoring is your passion. You can read about how to find business ideas by following your passion in a previous blog. What business ideas in Nigeria can you build within the fashion industry? 

African fashion
Let us start with tailoring in this blog. 

There are many paths you can take to build and expand. As a tailor, what is your goal? You can decide to sew clothes for private clients which is a business-to-customer business idea. You can opt in for soley corporate clients like fashion designers which is then referred to as a business-to-business idea, because the fashion designers will sell the clothes to the end customer. Can you go for both? Well depends on your ability, team, skill and time. My advice is no, do not go for both! I often advise to start with one, because it is easier to have a focus and to build that one in depth. 

After ripping almost all benefits from that approach you can add the other service to expand. So choose! If you decide to stretch yourself to start with both, you are taking a great risk, you will be slow in growing your business and you will not be able to target your customers properly as they need very diverse approach! If you feel lost here and now you are worried because that was how you carried on with your business, then make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel to get weekly adivice on how to build your business. 

Now, let us continue to build your business idea.

You can decide to integrate an all-round service, where you provide the client with the opportunity to source fabrics and raw materials directly from you, even for business clients like fashion designer. If they know you have one of the best threads stocked, they will opt in for it and you make some profit selling it for their production. Meaning you have added retailing to your business. You might now wonder how to get these materials cheap and in great quality. Check Alibaba or Aliexpress for import deals, make deals with your local market suppliers . 

When you know who your client is, you can develop more services to make their life easier. By doing this, you are solving a problem for them and therefore your reward is new income stream. 

5 more business ideas to boost your shop location. 
  1. Now, some more business ideas would be that you add pattern making to your service for fashion designers. If you know how to make patterns very well, there are simple ways to digitise them and also sell them to other tailors, especially new tailors whose hands are not strong when it comes to pattern making. You can offer them that service and create patterns for them when they need to sew for a customer. Make sure you are paid for this as it is a very demanding task to do.
  2. You can also offer your shop location as a pickup place for courier services. By so doing, new and potential customers will visit your space regularly. Your goal is to increase the traffic to your shop, so think about ways to do so that would not cost you money. 
  3. For example, if you have more space, you can add a small laundry and repair service to your shop. 
  4. You can decide to sell jewelry  that fits the kind of customers you are already serving. Selling jewelry do not take so much space in a shop.
  5. A very great side service is that a bag designer who cannot afford a shop can rent a shelve at your store to showcase and sell. You can charge monthly for the space. 

Now be careful not to make you shop clumsy. Check Pinterest design on how to design the interior of your shop in an appealing way. So those where some added income streams that you can add to your shop to increase traffic of potential customers and at the same time leverage your fixed cost. In future blogs, we will explore low cost ways to market your business as a tailor. 

Let us explore more on the fashion industry.

Like every other industry, the fashion industry has so many professional services or jobs that makes it a full industry. Here are a list of a few services within the industry: Pattern making, tailoring, shoemaking, bag making, jewellery making and all the other technical assembling of fashion products, fabric production, raw material production, sourcing, custom production, retailing, marketing, advertising, modelling, consulting, events and many more. You can visit the first blog episode to see a 30+ list of professions in the fashion industry. You will quickly notice that it takes a whole village to actually build an all-round fashion house. 

Do you have to do it all?

This is what I have seen coaching Nigerain fashion business students and visiting several designers in Lagos is that many are challenged with the fact that they have to do it all. There is little or no headspace to actually master the art of designing because many have to assemble or sew the product as well as market them. This is ok, especially if you are a small or medium sized business, a startup, it is totally normal to be a jack of all trades. But the main issue here is to decide where your strength will be and then design your time to develop this aspect of your business. 

Recap

The industry offers you numerous business ideas in Nigeria which you can start today. The trick here is to be very smart. Craft out services to add together to develop one business idea. We talked about identifying your niche and being specific. So for example you decide to start out with a small shop and 3 machines. You focus to make clothes for the end customer. So you have a catalogue of styles, you stock really nice fabrics and findings, you have improved your skills when it comes to finishing. 

You have wisely integrated some side products such as jewelry and some side services such as courier pickup and laundry to your business. These side products and services will enable consistent traffick. Your goal is not to build on those, but to build a strong customer base. So find some side services or products you can integrate to your business. 

The ideas is unlimited. You can join our lab to grow your business and get new ideas. You can also get our business 6 key workbook delivered to your door step to learn offline. Thank you so much for reading till the end and make sure to follow on instagram. 

Cheers, Joana

Business in fashion. 35 careers, which is for you?

Joadre
-
0
Business in fashion. 35 careers, which is for you?

In this blog, I would love us to explore the business in fashion. I believe it is high time this issue is addressed so that you can be clear about the type of business you want to build and also know how to establish a business in fashion. In our Joadre Lab program term 2019/2020, we currently have over 6 businesses in the fashion industry in Nigeria and Ghana. Coaching these African entrepreneurs in our coaching room, has provided me with more knowledge about the diverse significant challenges they face and the misunderstandings they have about business in fashion. 

If you are or want to be either a fashion designer or build a business in the fashion industry, this blog article series “Business in fashion” and the upcoming podcasts is for you. It will help you get more clarity about the industry, about how to build your business and what paths are available to you in the 21st century global fashion market. Before we dive into some more business technical stuff, let us understand what fashion is all about. What it truly means. 

Joadre-urban-backpack-joana-adesuwa-reiterer-1

What does fashion actually mean?

The term “Fashion”, it is sometimes vague, as everything is considered either fashionable, in fashion or out of fashion. But for you and me looking at the business in fashion, here is a universal definition. Fashion is a popular aesthetic expression in a certain time and context, popularly attributed to in clothing, footwear, lifestyle, accessories, makeup, hairstyle and body proportions. So you see that that word “Fashion” is broad. Accessories is fashion. Footwear is fashion. Makeup is fashion. Which means that, being a fashion designer does not restrict you to designing and selling clothes. 

You can be a footwear designer, a jewellery designer, a makeup artist, a hair stylist and a bag designer. As a fashion designer, your core calling is to develop an aesthetic expression that defines your taste as a designer. An expression that is you. A reflection of  your world, your experiences. A portrayal your hope, your vision. An aesthetics that you are proud to market and put your name in front. So what are we talking about? We mean every detail matters.  The quality, the look, the statement, the message, the uniqueness and every other element you intend to ignore right now. That’s what makes you a fashion designer. Those little, simply unique edges you create.

So when you design your pieces or fashion products, you are communicating your unique aesthetics and in return, you want a specific audience to pay for it, to be your customer. Business in fashion is vast and opens doors to so many other sectors, cutting across the art industry, event industry, graphic design among other industries. Within the fashion industry, there are so many paths you can take. 

Here are some, not all, but some of the professions or business you can build in the fashion industry; 
  • Hairdresser
  • Personal shopper
  • Stylist, style specialist
  • Perfumer
  • Model
  • Image consultant
  • Show director
  • Pattern maker
  • Textile designer
  • Raw materials producer – textiles, findings etc.
  • Tailor/Seamstress/Dressmaker
  • Fashion editor
  • Creative director
  • Graphic artist, graphic designer
  • Photographer – editorial, commercial, products, studios photographer
  • Fashion promoter
  • Retailer
  • Fair organiser
  • Fashion marketing
  • Costume designer
  • Showroom designer/Architect, window stylist
  • Fashion blogger
  • Fashion photographer
  • Garment technologist
  • Fashion illustrator
  • Merchandiser
  • Fashion PR
  • Creative director
  • Apparel Production Coordinator
  • Brand coordinator, brand strategist
  • Fashion Buyer
  • Manager – showroom, sales, store, marketing
  • Designer – associate, bedding, technical
  • Textile Fabric Colorist
  • Trend Forecaster
Do not think clothes only when you think of business in fashion!
business in fashion. 25 career

So when you think about fashion and you say you want to get into the industry, do not just think clothes. Think deeper and broad. Actually, you can start a business by combining some of these and offering them as a service. For example, a fashion agency can offer the following: Fashion photography with great studio and good photographers, model casting for shoot, graphic and editorial design, makeup, hairdressing and fashion PR. If you create a business in fashion that offers these service package at an affordable rate to upcoming designers, so they do not have to break their heads about where to shoot, how to organise the stuff, get the models, do the editing and creating the content for their postings, then you are solving a real problem. 

These designers can then refocus and reinvest that time into developing new collections. The key here is to specialise in a nice of service. But if designing clothes is what you want and fashion designer is the title you crave for, then let us explore more about what every fashion designer in Africa must know in part 2 of this series. 

Recap

We opened this new series “business in fashion” because many of our Lab students and alumni are working hard to build their fashion venture. I too have spent a couple of years in the industry in Europe, producing in Africa and that is how we launched the Joadre fashion. Now, it is important not to forget that fashion is all about the unique aesthetics you create. Also that the fashion industry offers you a great opportunity to explore different jobs, services or professions. 

Being smart means you have to carve out your own niche and build a business around it. And guess what, there are a couple of ways to actually start this business from home, with very little investment needed. In future blog under this series, we will talk about how to start some businesses with little capital. I also would love to invite you to read some of my old blogs, especially this one – start a business with little capital. 

Thank you so much for staying till the end and I look forward to a free coaching session with you in my Lab. If you want to get hold of our 3 months free coaching session, then visit our lab page nor to know the 2 minutessteps you need to get on board. By the way, we will be launching a business journal before the year runs out. It is a “must-have resource”. Stay connected on instagram (link icon beneath) and subscribe to my newsletter not to miss out on my updates. 

I love you and stay blessed!

Joana

How to achieve that dream or vision of yours.

Joadre
-
0
How to achieve that dream or vision of yours.

so this week, I will talk about how to achieve that dream or vision on yours. I am dedicating this blog article to our Joadre Lab students who newly joined us. Welcome on board! To anyone out there stuck in imagining the big dream, this podcast and blog is for you. in this blog, I will share a simple doable strategy, which I have used and it works, to transform that idea, dream, vision of yours to reality.

We currently have 17 new projects in Joadre Lab. The first thing I ask our students is what is your vision, then identify your milestones. Many are dem clear about their vision but that’s it. There is no plan on how to achieve that dream or vision. Now you have the vision articulated, what next? How do you want to achieve this vision, that’s always my next question. That’s also exactly where the conversation ends. Do you know why? Because many people tend to focus mainly on the big picture.They forget that multiple actions has to be set in motion to achieve this vision. This is a biiiiiig mistake, which you should embrace because mistakes are not necessarily negative, if you can find the lesson in it.

Hang the vision on the wall, now focus on the next logical action!

I also used to make this same mistake too until I kind of cracked the secret code. To do anything successfully, you need to take specific actions. Do we agree on this? Yes.  There is an African proverb which says a tree leave does not move unless there is wind. I love African proverbs. I actually included many in my new 6 key workbook, because they simply drop the bomb on the truth. To achieve your vision, you need to create wind.

Get out of that your comfi zone of imaginary ideas.

Yes, you should have a vision, the big picture, your purpose, mission, passion. Whatever you call the big dream or goal you want to accomplish. Know it. Believe in it. Remember it always, that said, you still have to move and take action. You need to get out of that your comfi zone of imaginary ideas and wishes. So number 1,

Grab and take control of your focus from that big picture towards the next logical thing to do so as to actually attain that big dream. 

If you focus your 100% energy on dreaming and imagining, you might float through life overwhelmed because your subconscious mind actually adds its own spice to the drama. It begins to show you the limitations you have or might have. Here is how the subconscious mind works.

Do you know that your sub-conscious mind could prank you out of achieving your dreams?

The brain operates on the conscious and sub-conscious level. Your conscious mind was that which you often have control over and it receives, analyses and stores the information you expose it to. The sub-conscious mind is a like a big memory bank that stores your beliefs, memories and life experiences. The sub-conscious mind is the part of your mind responsible for all of your involuntary actions. Your breathing rate and heart beats are controlled by your sub-conscious mind. But your sub-conscious mind, which according to several scientific studies and research and experts, works far more effectively than the conscious mind.

Your subconscious mind works without you being aware and you often do not regulate or control what it does. It collects more information, processes or analyses more information and stores even larger and longer what ever it has been exposed to, sending information out into your conscious mind whenever it is triggered. So when you think or remember your vision and you have exposed your sub-conscious mind to the possibilities of limitations, it sends limiting beliefs into your conscious mind . Then you feel paralised about how to achieve that dream or vision.

how to achieve that dream. subconscious mind

Activate your ability to think logically

You have the power and ability to deactivate this circle from repeating itself often. You need to activate your ability to think logically. Activate this ability by questioning your self often. Like what do I need to do to achieve this vision? By evaluating your actions regularly. Like what have I done this month, this week, this day, this hour, this minute that would take me closer to my vision. So if you want to be an award winning author, have you written a book, even if it is unpublished?

If you want to own your own saloon, have you actually budgeted to know what financial capital you require? If not, then question yourself why? Is it because you feel you cannot write a novel? Then have you taking free online writing courses? Or is the issue because you feel you would not know how to budget correctly? Then have you taken free online budgeting classes or checked within your network of friends for who can actually help you budget?

I talk about how to map out your resources and tap into your social network in one tutorial at milestone 5 in my 6 key program. The key here is to keep identifying the next logical action your can take to achieve that goal. You can start from top bottom which is often very effective. Top bottom meaning the big picture and then your start breaking down the next logical step until you get to where you are now. after you have identified the next step from where you are now, move to number 2 strategy. This is a simple strategy that would help you achieve that dream or vision of yours. 

Number 1: Identify the next logical action to take now!

Remember, number 1 is to identify the next logical thing or action to take. Number two is to create an action plan for yourself. Take a pen and paper and outline all the activities for that action. Let’s say your vision is to be the best fashion designer in Nigeria. Great. Simply wishing or visioning that will not Katapult you to become Nigerians number 1 designer. You have to identify what you need to do now. To be able to identify this, know where you are now and know what it takes to be the best designer.

If you know how to sew but do not know how to design, then find free courses online to learn how to design. That would be the next action that would take you a mile closer to that vision of being Nigerias number 1 designer. If you can design but have no avenue to produce or sell. Your next logical step will be to develop a distribution plan or strategy, look for potential partners etc. So you see how this is done. When we launched Joadre fashion, we were shortly overwehlmed about the big picture, but I applied this 2 strategies and today, work happens seamlessly. Now number 2 is simply bringing this next step to paper. As a Form of commitment to yourself. An action plan.

Make a commitment to yourself – Action Plan!

You must not write it on a computer. Get an empty book that you devote to this vision. I have a blog on the power of an empty book. Get your pen and begin to create your action plan. Action plans actually helps you take your ideas, thoughts, dreams, imaginations to the real world where you kick asses. I have a tutorial on how to create an action plan. Check the full tutorial in the 6 key program here, but you need to have amembership on our lab to access it or you can signup for free by 1.) registering on our platform and 2.) submitting a good busines profile here for us to assess your idea and grant your free 3 months pass.

Now follow the steps in the tutorial to get your action plan ready. When you have gone through this, and actually takes these steps, channel your focus to the next logic action. Repeat creating your plan and keep doing this until you receive that award and Nigerians number 1 designer or in your case until you achieve that vision, dream etc.

A quick podcast recap. 

Know your vision, but focus mainly on the actions you need to take to achieve that vision or dream. With this 2 step strategy anyone can use today, begin to create the momentum that needs to be in place for you to develop that vision. Number 1, is to identify the next logical action from where you are now to the vision and number 2 is to become devoted to your very own personal manifesto which is your action plan.Remember you sub-conscious mind works while you sleep, that why you dream. So make sure to break the circle of self doubt and limiting beliefs by activating you conscious mind through consistent and intentional questioning.

In my previous podcast, I talked about how to find that great business idea for you. In future podcasts and blogs, I will  share more teachings and wisdom from my lab around starting and building a business and live that you love. And yes, from time to time, I will chip in some health lifestyle issues on nutrition and movement because these two habits affect your ability to perform highly as entrepreneurs – be it your ability to think innovatively, concentrate, stay motivated and so on.

Entrepreneurs, this is your time, you are alive, so rock it. If your are in Lagos or Vienna this year, check our website joadre.com to know when the next ARISE event will be happening. I wish to welcome you there and get to meet you life. Not to miss out on my next podcast, blog or videos, make sure to Subscribe to our lab updates and follow me on instagram to get firsthand updates of all my activities.

Thank you so much for investing the time to read to the end. I hope I was able to shed more light on how to achive your dream or vision using simple and rational techniques.

Its Joadre. The place to transform ideas to wealth.

How to find a great business idea

Joadre
-
0
How to find a great business idea

Ok, I have this chat box on my website Joadre.com that allows visitors to make enquiries. Do you know what the top 1 question is? What good business idea can I start with little capital? The first time I received this question I actually thought it was a joke. Why would you ask a total stranger to give you an idea to start your business? After I got the second, third, dozens and more of such enquiries,  I woke up to the fact that this is for real.

People find it challenging to come up with business ideas for themselves. Of course. When I look at the day to day struggles many people have to put up with just to make ends meet, it is definitely very difficult to find the headspace to come up with innovative business ideas. That is why, I have dedicated a series of podcast episodes on how to find the right business idea for you. Let’s dive in after this short break!

The most successful approach to find great business ideas for yourself.

My goal in the first episode on business idea series, is to show you the most successful approach to find great business ideas for yourself. But before, let me clear that notion of trying to get a business idea from external sources. If you want to start a business and you want to be successful on a long term, then what I am about to say now, is key, the idea for your business should come from within you. Not a suggestion from someone else. Not replicating a business idea you have seen that works for someone else. When I say from within, we are now talking about things like your passion, your interest, your skill set, your purpose.

Do you get what I mean? Look, I am a big fan of building a sustainable business that will flourish for decades to come. A business that would stand multiple challenges and you will come out even stronger and more profitable. A business idea that would be your daily motivation to do the work. So I am not talking about quick quick money or ideas for lazy people. If that is what you are looking for. Don’t join my lab, please, I beg you! Otherwise, you will get disappointed.

Know what you are passionate about.

If you are passionate about your business idea, you will be ready to do what it takes to make it become successful. So the first approach to finding a great business idea for yourself is to know what you are passionate about. So wake up . wake up. I have met too many enthusiastic people that do not really know what they are passionate about. They know they want to be rich. Yes, they want to earn money. And of course they know they want to be successful. But successful in what, as what? They tell themselves that one day I will make it. Make what.  Many even possess the stamina to do the work but they are not really clear about what they are passionate about.

If you want to find a great business idea that will work for you, you must love the idea. Like you love it so much that it motivates and inspires you everyday. If you do something that you are passionate about, I promise you, you will wake up almost every day filled with motivation to get to work. And it is only with high internal motivation and passion to perform, can you build your business idea successfully. Then when you have built it, someone will see you and they think they too can start the same idea. Sorry, if they do not have the motivation and endurance that you had, due to the passion for the idea that you have, they will not go very far.

It is time to tap into your own mind.

Dig deep and recall those activities that make you feel like you are on top of the world. Those activities that when you start it, time stops. Everybody is born with an innovative mind. But not everybody has been feeding their innovative mind with empowering content. For some it’s been social media glamorous postings or comedy videos. Great, I know, we all need to laugh, sometimes pose and probably be a little vain from time to time. But how much empowering content have you been exposing your mind to in the last 3 days? If you have not, then how do you want to be innovative? How do you want to be exposed to find that that creates a sparkle in your brain, and whala, you have an idea, a great business idea.

See a problem, think solution.

Some people have groomed their minds to become so passive that great business ideas are right in front of them or deep in their passion, that they fail to even realise it. So it is difficult to craft out a business idea from that kind of mindset. Now, your first practice is to begin to tap into your mind. Begin to groom your innovative mind into a mature mind that can see a problem and think solution.

See a problem, think solution. This is actually part of my number 2 approach to finding a great business idea for yourself. If you are not ready to tap into your own innovative mind, then go and get a job. Abeg! And nope, do not tell me you do not have an innovative mind. Everyone is created with the ability to think innovatively. Groom your mind. How? We will explore after this short break!

African entrepreneurs, you are unbeatable!

Look, African entrepreneurs, your creativity is unbeatable. Have you not seen how some boutique owners will buy a second hand cloth and wash it, put a new tag and label and sell it as a new piece of fashion? Yes o. Our people are drop dead innovative. Key here is to build that hidden innovative thinking and creativity to become a valuable asset, beyond any limitations you might have set for yourself.

Think bigger yes but also think better. So instead of washing, ironing and tagging second hand clothes that was made somewhere in China,  enriching the chineese population, why not begin to think of owning your own boutique retail chain with clothes made in your community?

Ah, you will say, second hand clothes are well sewn, cheaper and stylish compared to made in Africa. Ah, it is people like you in China that invested energy, time and innovative thinking into developing a textile landscape that now serves billions of people around the world. They do not have two heads o. And sorry, I would not buy the excuse of no financial capital o, infrastructure is bad and so on.

Think big. Be ready to learn. Find a mentor. Get a couch and begin to build your legacy. Well I coach more on how to start with the resources available to you in my entrepreneurs lab. And our goal is to make you globally competitive. I actually teach about problem and solution in some tutorials, about developing a problem statement, I listed some examples of problems that can lead to business idea and even how to filter using my SWOT analysis in my program. You can click the links to read more.

Now my number 2 approach to find great business ideas for yourself is to change your perspective.

The way you see things around you and the perception you create about what you see, affects your ability to imagine what is possible.  If you see a problem and all you see is a problem, then it will be impossible to discover a solution. So when you are scouting and asking google for great business ideas, because by the way, that’s also one of the top 10 questions nigerians ask google, great business ideas, so when asking google this question, also try to pay attention to simple little problems happening around you. Because a great business idea starts by trying to solve a problem.

Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg said “When I started Facebook, I wasn’t trying to build a global company. I realized you could find almost anything on the internet—music, books, information—except the thing that matters most: people. So I built a service people could use to connect and learn about each other”.

So you see, he found a simple problem and nailed it with his solution. A problem must not be catastrophic. It could be simply finding ways to make people’s lives easier. Or is it the solution global fashion retail chains are providing? They realized that customers would find it easier to walk into the store and get something that fits, instead of spending time sourcing fabric looking for the right tailor and so on.

That said, I love my asoebi and my local tailors sha. Thank God for that. Otherwise, we would just be groomed robots who do not have a choice of individuality anymore in fashion. But the underlying message here is to find a problem to solve around you. Within the process of trying to carve out a solution for that problem, a great business idea or ideas will pop up.

Another example from teh digital world.

Look at paystack for example, they realised that as the Nigerian economy begins to develop and digital shopping grows, companies will need efficient payment solutions. So they created one and it just makes life easier for companies. They did not pay me for this advert. I just love their customer service. Customer service. Oh, a series of podcast and blog will come on that later. Meanwhile people have asked me how to join the Joadre lab. Simply get a full membership to get access to everything and new content by Joadre. Ok after this break, I round up by talking a bit more about the problem as the driver for a great business idea.

Do you see opportunities within a problem? If you feel that there is no opportunity around you, your ability to find one will decline to zero. Wake up with a mindset that there are opportunities out there for you and today you will find one. Don’t see only problems, see solutions. See problems, think solution. Find a problem to solve, you are giving them added value and they will be happy to pay you money for your services or product. When you find a problem or discomfort to solve and it in line with what you are passionate about, become even more passionate about developing a solution. This is where the business ideas will come from.

Now, lets extract the key takeaways  from this blog and I will live you with a quick to do! If you are looking for a great business idea and you want it to be successful on a long term, then let the idea for your business come from within you. The first approach to finding a great business idea for yourself is to know what you are passionate about. It is time to tap into your own mind, to dig deep and recall those activities that make you feel like you are on top of the world. Those activities that when you start it, time stops. Everyone is created with the ability to think innovatively. So use it. Groom your mind. Change your perspective.

Now, your To do.

Identify 3 things you are passionate about and one problem you can see now that you feel any of your passion can solve. You can DM me or post them as comments beneath this podcast episode page. I will read every single one and I will select one person to get a free 4 weeks participation in my lab.  Thank you so much for listening till the end. Follow me on instagram and facebook not to miss out on my daily post and updates.  Thank you so much for staying till the end. Love love you. Remember you possess the ability to transform your ideas into action, into wealth. It is all about how you set your priorities. Look forward to sharing some more tips and wisdom from my entrepreneurs lab with you next week.

Cheers,

Joana

Introducing my podcast “Activate by Joadre”

Joadre
-
0
Introducing my podcast “Activate by Joadre”

Are you looking to develop a sustainable venture and lifestyle in Africa? Then my podcast is your must-have on your phone.  As an entrepreneur who travels between Africa and europe consistently, I know that there is so much prospect in the African continent! You know what, when I keep reading about the thousands of African lives lost on the medittereaner sea, in the quest to migrate out of Africa, to look for a better future, to look for better prospects in Europe,  I am like noooo. Hey, the prospect is right in front of you. Dozens of international multi-million dollars companies are investing thousands to enter into the African market. Where are you? On the road to Europe? Wait a minute.

There is so much prospect in Africa.
Activate by Joadre Spotify
Listen on Spotify

There is so much opportunities and prospects in Africa. I know this from my experience, my projects. Yes, the environment could be super challenging, but that’s even more reason to start developing your ideas now into a business to solve these problems. Remember that a problem is always the driver of a great business case. I shed more light on this topic in my business program. You just need to know where and how to look for your idea. This is what we will talk about here in my podcast and I already have a long blog article on 10 businesses to start with less than 100K.

I am excited to welcome you to my brand new podcast coming up on Joadre lab. Like the name goes – a lab, we are going to experiment, research, lay out ideas and develop together a holistic approach to starting off strong with your idea. My mission is to shape the new generation of high-performance African entrepreneurs dedicated to creating positive social impact through sustainable ways.

Podcast manifesto:  It is about growth.
Activate by Joadre google podcast
Listen on Google Podcast

In my weekly podcast episodes, I will dive deep into daily issues that affect us all as entrepreneurs. I will get more specific with issues that affect African entrepreneurs the most, especially mumpreneurs. Do not be scared I would not put out just the challenges on the table, but I will come equipped with solutions. Solutions that I have tested, practiced and learned from the experiences of other entrepreneurs or aspiring entrepreneurs like you. On this podcast, it is not about barely achieving your goals anymore. It far beyond. It is about growth.

Approaching entrepreneurship from a more holistic perspective.
Activate by Joadre Apple podcast
Listen on Apple

I want you to become high-performing entrepreneurs.  And this, we would strive to create through approaching the topic of entrepreneurship from a more holistic perspective. So we would talk about business which is the main things, but also about health, family, relationship, balancing all, growing to be competitive in a global market space and lots more. Stay tuned in for interviews with outstanding people who come from the practice. In our Joadre lab, we have lots of exciting courses and tutorials waiting for you on joadre.com. Not to miss out on any of our upcoming activities and life events close to you, make sure to stay subscribed to my newsletter. So I hope you are as excited as I am about our podcast launch. Thank You for reading and do not forget to share.

Cheers

Joana

How to start a fashion business with less than 80K!

Joadre
-
0
How to start a fashion business with less than 80K!

Starting any kind of business requires determination, endurance and dedication. But the fashion business required even more than ten times of these qualities, especially now that everyone is a designer, right? The fancy idea of parties, creativity, runway shows is all a huge lie. In fashion business, you will spend less than 10% of your time actually designing or having parties. If you still feel like the fashion business is for you then stay on screen as I show you how you can start from scratch with less than a 100k.

First of all, not all fashion business have to operate at the high-end of luxury. It seems that many designers or wannabe designers focus to become Karl Lagerfeld, Zizi, Deola Sagoe and Vivienne Westwood. This is a big mistake, because remember, you want to offer your customers value, and you can also do that with world-class design at affordable prices. Some of the most influential fashion businesses are on the high street  becauses the real cash is in the masses, look at H & M. I do not want to kill your luxury-end fashion designer dream. I simply want to draw your attention to another market, because you can always start your high-end fashion brand after you have enough cash to eat and play around with. Ok, lets get started!

Create a plan, less than 8K > Take a week and create your business plan. Yes, especially in fashion design or tailoring, depends on how you decide to call your business, a plan is like oxygen. If you do not know how to go about creating your plan, check out our business course online. A tip while creating your plan is that you should use this time to develop a network of tailors.

Design & Development, less than 10k > Do what you love best. Design something irresistible, trendy, comfortable and wearable daily! If you do not love to design, then get someone to do it. What you will be doing here is to make your sketches, develop the patterns (where to get patterns? send me an email > [email protected]), research fabrics and materials you will need and then make the first sample.

I will share 2 tips with you on how to do this on a budget. 1.) Design just one piece. If it is a dress, then it is one dress. Focus on how you can use fabrics to make variations of that same dress. Now sew a sample for yourself to wear for feedback. Never believe those friends that tell you, “Oh my God it is a beautiful dress”. If they do not place an order immediately after seeing the sketch or sample, then they are lying to you and you will hardly sell that piece! Tip 2 > If your design demands that you import more than 20% of materials you need, then do not risk it. Design something else.

Produce the first lap, less than 25K > Remember as you were creating your plan, you started building a network of   tailors. Now you need them to work. Give them each, one sample of the dress you made and show them  how you want it sewn and finished. Tip 3 > let them make the first sample using cheap fabric. If you feel the quality is what you can sell, then pay the best two very well, i mean a really good amount to make you four to five outfits properly. One size 38 for each fabric variation!

Promotion, less than 15K > this is where you produce a small amount of your packaging and tags you thought about duning creating your plan. Get the campus photographer and a size 38 student to pose in front of a white background with your outfits. Take some editorial pictures conveying the idea behind the design and some neutral straight picture portraying the actual product.  Then get yourself a space online. I would not say you should get yourself a website, no, we need to stay beneath 100k right?, So get yourself a landing page on our website for example or on any other online store that sells fashion from others as well.There are platforms you can actually use. With our mobile app, you can actually create your own store and sell your designs directly to people you know.

Set up all this pictures on the website landing page, do not forget description and price. Now that your products is online, it is time to let your friends know that you are ready to  sell! In the digital age we have tools like social media to help people know your brand exists, and most of these tools are free. Now if your first design sells very well, repeat the same design, just with different fabrics. Let the tailors keep producing more sizes as people order. If it did not sell very well, get feedback to know why and make adjustments in next designs. The great thing here is that you did not stock much products. You make as you sell!

Doing all this could be really stay under 80k if your are creative and have a vrey good eye. Now, if you are excited and really want to venture this new ground of fashion business, come over to my creators lab program by subscribing with the form beneath. You can get my app soon where I will have more resources such as  video tutorials, blog articles, consulting service, Q&As, investors, retail stores and many more to help African entrepreneurs start off.  So subscribe to know when I release the Joadreapp on google play store and launch the programme. Also follow me on instagram to stay updated – @joadreapp.

Cheers, Joana

How second-hand clothes disrupt Africa

Joadre
-
0
How second-hand clothes disrupt Africa
$ 46 billion worth of clothes is stuck in Britisch wardrobes

Contrary to the British who stuck an unbelievable $ 46 billion worth of clothes in their wardrobes, here in Austria we love to send our used clothes, which was meant to be disposed, to Africa. Why? To reduce textile waste in Europe and to give clothes a second life. Often, these textiles come from people who believe in helping and doing good, who donate them and give them in old clothes box along the roadside. This was meant to be a good deed but is now the basis for a whole economic structure. A number of companies have specialized in exporting these textiles, to the developing world saying it is “green economy”.

Africa as a dumping ground prevents negative ecological impact in Europe!

There are numerous arguments against this – especially when it hinders reviving local textile production in the affected developing countries. But the arguments that speak for this trend are also interesting. On the one hand, it seems necessary to send these textiles far away, in order to avoid the negative ecological impact of thousands of tonnes of textile waste in Europe. Really? As if the textiles would then dissolve in thin air in Africa after it has survived its second life! It is ironic, then, that these developing countries, which are known for inefficient upcoming and waste infrastructure now have to  bear the responsibility. Take for example, Nigeria,  mountains of clothes is visible on many streets.

Second hand clothes is not given out for free, as we hope, but will be sold again.

A further argument for this is the economic contribution to such developing countries. Second hand clothes is not given out for free, as we hope, but will be sold again. Revenues generated, of course create an important income stream for the local retailers (around whom a whole economy has already formed) – some experts say. For a 100 euros you can get 50 kilos of used garments at the port. By the way, the fact that this is also an important source of income for European export companies should not to be forgotten. Actually, articles report of the slowing developing regular jobs emerging in Europe around sorting out second and clothes and making them ready for export.

So, speaking of economic profit, on the streets of Austria, you can see metal boxes availably ready for anyone to dump in their used textiles. The visible surface of the metal boxes are rented out for advertising, well then benefiting western advertising industry as well. So who benefits here the most? Is it the local retailers in developing countries? The argument that these traders would be unemployed, if the secondhand business did not exist, seems to me a bit naive. africans would not go naked if these cone-hand clothes do not arrive the shores of the cost. There is a textile industry struggling to survive. Our fashion label also started a production on ground in Lagos were we run trainings programs from the Joadre lab and we have seen that there is great potential if the textile industry is left to boom. If there was a domestic textile production in these countries, traders would also need to market the newly produced product. But there would be even more jobs created around the product itself.

At 17, I also sold secondhand clothing to finance my studies.

I traveled almost 20 hours to from Auchi to Badagry to and fro. The best designs, even Prada and Gucci, were hot cake. If you do not make 6am, sorry. It was a battle. You could feel like in the middle of an iPhone release or a mega sales at a New York high street fashion house.  You have to fight for your piece. I got pretty fed up of the long trips and wanted to start off making my own designs locally. I contracted two tailors, made the first set of outfits and nobody bought because they complained it was way too expensive. “With this money, i will buy 5 oki-rika (second-hand)” complained several clients. I had to dismiss both tailors.

It is a complicated situation. Would it be better to support these countries in the development of their own textile industry, and in the meantime, consumers in Europe simply wear less clothing, recycle, epicycle and give their clothes a second European life? Do we really help the development of these countries by exporting second-hand clothes or are we destroying one of the very major industries that can create thousands of jobs? How should we handle this situation? Please share your thoughts comments and stories beneath this blog.

Xoxo, Joana

Building freedom with Osato

Joadre
-
0
Building freedom with Osato

Over 22000 Migrants have lost their lives on the high sea trying to migrate from their home country to Europe. Because these migrants cannot tell their stories anymore, does not mean all is well. Many were children, fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, uncles, aunties, friends. They all had someone they left behind, they all had dreams to achieve. May of us are unaware of the challenges migrants face before reaching the coast of Libya and crossing the Mediterranean sea. I know that many cannot swim. Even if you could swim, it’s one of the craziest risk and danger to embark on.  Obviously this migration route is one of the most dangerous, but still many people are stuck on the road. Osato unwillingly found herself tied up in the danger to migrate through this route. She got jailed in Libya, spent 3 days on high sea. It is a ridiculous experience.

Migration route through the MEDITERRANEAN joadre

copyright/source: https://www.ecfr.eu/specials/mapping_migration

What prompts many young African migrants to risk their lives on this journey? Is it enticing images, stories and messages we get about Europe?  Are the circumstances in our home communities that bad to risk one’s life just to escape it? Can we reduce the reasons to ignorance or are there criminals out to profit from the exploitation of these migrants? Who profits from this at the end? Is it their family members who do not care about or who are ignorant to the risk and dangers that might lie ahead? On the other side, does Europe need the services of these migrants urgently to keep the offering of cheap products and services in the European market booming? No matter who profits, at the end it is migrants like Osato experience the trauma of this journey. They are the ones that fall short from the system and that is why we should let them speak.

Osato’s story is a vivid account of many stories we are yet to hear or might never hear.

Osato’s story is a vivid account of many stories we are yet to hear or might never hear. At a very young age, she found migration to Europe as an alternative to her current life in Edo State, Nigeria. So what is happening in our society that a young girl chooses this danger as her next best alternative? Did she know that there are european embassies in Nigeria, where she can apply for a visa? Even if she was aware of this, would she event make it to apply? Would she get a visa? Visas are reserved for the wealthy, the connected maybe through marriage or family connections or for those students who manage to get stipends through their extraordinary achievements. Does this automatically disqualify Osato from the opportunity to migrate in a dignified way?

building freedom, arise against human trafficking
Does Europe meet expectations?

Then she lands in Europe with all her expectations, but can these expectations be met? Does Europe confirm the images, the stories, the messages the media had showed her about itself? In her case, exploitation was pre-programmed to happen. She has to work as a prostitute. Did the sex clients, the thousands of European men roaming the streets at night looking for cheap sexual services to pay for, did they realise that she is serving them against her will?

Nevertheless, within the density of violence and oppression, where Osatos freedom was takes from her, she found the courage to think differently. She found the courage to say no the first time. Then again, then again, Slowly she could build on her courage and reclaim her freedom. Her did she get there?

Are you caught up in your own issues?

We are often caught up in situations in our lives that seem inevitable. That seems forever even when they are obviously contrary to the values we stand for. We get stuck in these situations, in these relationships, in these political atmosphere, in these family structures, that it is almost impossible to break free. Because we might have to risk it all to break free. I spent over 5 hours listening to Osato. Trying to understand how she, a young 22 years old woman, could summon the courage, in a foreign country to stand her ground, to say no. To flee. To reflect. To learn. To become independent and now to be able to find a space in her heart to love. To forgive. To feel the need to help others like her. Osato founded her organisation Free-me to empower young vulnerable people in her home community in nigeria through education and micro-credit.

On the 16th of June, we will welcome Osato Odion to our ARISE stage in Vienna.

There are tons of initiatives happening on ground in Edo state, where many victims and survivors of human trafficking come from. Just to mention a few is True identity and Pathfinders Justice Initiative. These 2 organisations are out there working with women to give them the needed support to live their full potential. But there are still so many questions I want to ask. So many lessons I want to learn from extraordinary women like Osato.  That’s why we feel honored to host Osato on the 13th of June in Vienna, to learn, to listen, to celebrate her courage, to make her story valid. You are invited. Click to reserve a seat now. If you would like to learn more about how you can be instrumental to prevent human trafficking, visit our newly launched online course program Fair Friday. I look forward to welcoming you at our event on the 13th. Thank you for sharing this blog post and see you soon.

Cheers,

Joana

Stay focused to your goals

Joadre
-
0
Stay focused to your goals

The information we consume, generates a perception in our minds. Very often we lose control over ourthoughts. Our minds begin to  ponder on things that would not bring us any value. If we dwell on thesethoughts, it will influence our ability to act. We get distracted from our goal. How do we stay focused?

Take for example social media postings –  a glamorous post of a friend that you might have not seen for along time. Maybe they now have a fancy car, glamorous clothes and a big house. At least the picture showsthat, but the truth is that you do not really know if they have it. You do not really know how they feel. Butyou panic and judge yourself!

Are you judging yourself based on someone else achievements?

 

You begin to question your achievements. The truth is that we all process the information we consume inyour conscious or unconscious state of mind. I have even seen people who then channel all their efforts to belike someone they saw in a social mdeia post. To achieve what they have achieved, so that they too can sendout such postings on your social media. Do you know what you are doing? Wasting your precious time. Youare wasting your time because no two individuals is born to achieve the same things. No two individual isborn to walk the same path.

Getting distracted to divert from ones own path is super easy.

External factors can be very instrumental in distracting you. Especially when you live in an environment that’sway too comfortable. Believe me, you might say, never! Comfort is a great privilege but also a state that canmake you distracted to lose focus of the things you want to achieve. Comfort can keep you running in ahamster wheel. You could get stuck doing the same things everyday just simply because its comfortable. Onthe contrary, hardship is bound to make you distracted, if you let your focus dwell on the limitations and lack. So, at the end of the day, there are so many factors that can pull you away from your desired path.

What do you do when this happens? How do you get back on track?

When you find yourself caught up in this trap, try this simple practice to get you back on track — Reset yourintention. In my 6 key foundation program, we will explore practices that can help you stay focused. When we talk about resetting our intention, it means to align your intentions towards actions that take you to your own goals. Reseting your intention means to identify actions that brings you a step closer to your goal. Sometimes you panicking to meet up a race that’s not your own can lead to anxiety.

It took me a long while to realize that I am here just to walk my own journey. No matter the critic, the comfort, the achievements, the struggles, I am on my own journey, so I can choose my pace, I can choose my actions. Iam therefore constantly resetting my intentions when I feel lost or distracted.

To be able to do this you should already have figured out your own goal. Be it a small goal or the big picturevision. Now, what is left for you to do is to consistently be aware that life involves consuming information. Weare consistently consuming information. And the information we consume will shape the goals we set. Whatever goal or vision you have set for yourself this year, this month, this week or this hour, this is your focus. Your sole focus should be on contiously creating actions that would lead you to achieving these goals.

How do you create conscious actions to reach your goal?

By setting and resetting your intentions towards the goal. I emphasis on resetting because we live in a worldwhere we recieve consistent information. And this information, which were supposed to be barely externalfactors can influence our day to day intentions. They can make us lose focus. In order to build a consistentstrivie towards your goal, you can master the simply habit of asking why. This is an internal exercise that runsin your mind but helps you monitor your actions and identify if they connect with your goals.

I actually do this very often during some hectic days. I have my once empty book where I write down exactly the why. If I find it hard to write this down in my book, maybe its too complicated to explain why, or Ifind it hard to articulate it properly or I just do not find a good why,  I shift that action backwards. I hope you all have your books, once empty but now getting filled with ideas and practices. I talked about the power of an empty book in another article which you can read here. 

Ask why!

Why do I have this meeting today? Why do I want to be a mother? Why do I feel unhealthy? Why do I want totravel abroad. Why should I vote for this politician? Why do I invest my energy in this relationship? Theconscious and consistent questioning of your thoughts and proposed actions will lead you to be the master ofyour actions.

I know that some of you out there have really great experience practices on how to stay focused. I also know that some of you out there struggle with staying focused. Please share your thoughts, struggles, practices that work for you and comments on this topic.

Thank you so much for staying till the nd of this article.

See you next week as we handle a brand new issue that entreprenuers experience in their daily lives.

Cheers,

Joana

Ordering directly from the makers. The impact!

Joadre
-
0
Ordering directly from the makers. The impact!

If you have been following our work since we founded our organisation EXIT in 2006, you will know that our sole vision is to prevent disadvantaged Africans from falling victims of human trafficking. That is why we launched  the Joadre project in 2014. But we have come to a point in our engagement that demands us to expand our social impact, beyond creating jobs for a dozen women through our fashion production. It is time to be more innovative and develop strategies to scale. For this simple reason, we are transmitting our work with Joadre fashion to create a broader service and structure that can empower even more Africans. A structure that leads to more social impact.

It is time to be more innovative and develop strategies to scale.

During the last 4 years, I spent over 85% of my time teaching tailors and our producers how to optimise their skills and work to become independent. Part of this experience led me to develop our new business platform – Joadre entrepreneur Lab. Our goal with the entrepreneurship lab is far beyond a fashion production model. Our goals are to educate young Africans about building a life filled with dignity. Expose them to the global economic world. Show them their potential and the hidden potential in Africa. Showcase the different sides of the truth and myths behind the narrative about Africa. Debate sincerely about the problems we face in the continent. Give them access to the global market. Discover their different skill set and help them leverage their opportunities. Abolish the mentality of poverty and grow the mind-set of prosperity. Prosperity that goes beyond mere financial reward. To learn from the mistakes we all have made and to celebrate what is possible.  

sustainable impact joadre verein EXIT
Now you might wonder what happens to the fashion project.

Our Joadre fashion carries on but with another structure behind it. Previously, our team in Austria was responsible for designing, developing patterns, developing trainings, training the tailors, sourcing buyers, attending fairs and organising pop-events. We took care of logistics, storage, communication, programing and maintaining the online store amongst many other functions. With this enormous workload, it was impossible to grow as fast as we wanted. It was not possible for us to expand our employment from a dozen tailors to hundreds as we desired and envisioned.

So we decided to rethink our approach and filter the best practices gained from this process. What we have done now, is to support as many of our tailors to start their own mini production in Nigeria. By July 2019, we will have just one fixed worker on ground who will be our country director managing and coordinating a network of independent tailors who can produce for our existing customers. We would be holding a final management workshop training with our director in June 2019 so that she too can manage the Joadre online store and logistics. 

What changes for the customer? 

Basically nothing really changes, except that you now get your products directly from our storage facility in Lagos. This means that the shipping cost increases but the cost of product reduces significantly as the cost of management from Austria has reduced since Joadre fashion is now managed by our country director. The products are sold to target the Nigerian market as well. With the revenues our director generates, she can keep the storage facility, earn a fair income and also develop trainings by herself for the independent tailors she works with. If you are wondering how long it will take to get your ordered product, here is your relief! It will take no longer as usual. Our tailors are always excited to produce. Producing for you, means work for them. So when they receive your order, they actually make it the same day or the day after. We work with DHL for now, so DHL comes to pick it up and depends on how long DHL takes, you get it within a week. 

What about returns and refunds? 

Firstly, we hope that there is no need to return a product. But if for any reason, there is need to return a product, our charity organisation EXIT would handle the issue for you. You can write us using our email address [email protected]. Depending on your customer address, we would send you the appropriate address to return your product and refunds would be made accordingly. 

African inspired fashion
Would there be pop-up events?

Yes, there would be pop-up events. Our charity organisation show cases the work of our partners from Nigeria, so you will have the opportunity to see the products. Moreover, we have some stores who stock our products. You can visit our stockist page to see which store close to you have the products. These stores buy directly from the makers as well.

It is very important to us that we can build a sustainable structure that actually creates more impact. I hope you understand why we have made this change. I would love to invite you to join our mission and attend one of our upcoming events. Check our event page for details. You can also invite us to host an event together with you. If you have enquires, please do not hesitate to write me personally using my email address [email protected].

Thank you for reading this article and I hope to meet you one day soon.

Joana 

Find your power and the secret to success

Joadre
-
0
Find your power and the secret to success

I am not going to list out a step or guide as the secret to success. No, I would rather want you to understand how to develop a lifestyle that would bring you lasting success, in your personal life as well as in your professional life. There is only one secret and that is “knowledge”. Knowledge is power. Knowledge is the key to your own freedom. It is the step out of poverty, the bridge between where you are now and where you want to be. Your goal after reading this blog should be that you want to become a Key Person of Influence (shortened as KPI) in your environment. Why? Because it’s only KPIs that actually get successful in what ever they do. They are the ones that have the power to impact their own lives positively and the lives of those around them.

 

Every successful entrepreneur today invested in becoming a Key Person of Influence – watch my tutorial on How to become a Key Person of Influence. Ask yourself, why should you be successful or enjoy success if you do not care about yourself and your environment? The truth is that, in todays economical space or professional space, there are thousands, even millions of people just like you. They have the same or similar idea and often with the same capability, maybe even better! This means that you need to invest smartly in yourself to stand out. It does not necessarily mean, you have to work harder or a dozen times more, no. It means you have to work smart. Investing your time and energy in only those things that really matter and making it a routine. Thats what I am asking you to do from now on.

What type of knowledge do you need to get to be successful?

First of all, it depends on what area you desire success. Exactly in that area, should you devote your energy to get more knowledge about. If you want to be successful in your catering business, then, you need to invest time to gain more knowledge in catering. The driving questions should be – who is the best catering business in town? What do I need to know to become better than the best catering business in town? Does it mean, you have to know more about healthy eating and food nutrients? Do you get what I mean? Go deep. do not take short cuts. Learn. If you have specific questions regarding what type of knowledge to acquire to become even more successful, then I will be happy to answer them. Simply drop your question beneath this blog article. Feedback, critic and praises are all welcome as well.

How do you acquire knowledge?
The power of an empty book! Read blog…

One key step successful entrepreneurs consistently take today, is to gain as much knowledge as they can about their industry and workspace. Take for example the giant of all – Google. They have series intelligence tracking algorithm, softwares and programs that captures information their users post on their platforms. Why? Because this is how they know what their potential customers want. If they know, they can create better solutions that will generate money. If Google, after all their financial wealth, consistently gathers information, why are you not doing the same? Google gathers using their platform, you can begin to gather information by reading articles about your profession and industry, by reading books, by attending event specific to your sector, by watching documentaries – not just feature films, real documentaries, listening to news, holding constructive debates and conversations.

How early can one begin?

The easiest way to develop this attitude is to start right from a very young age. This is where parents come in. I have met adults who were neglected by their parent. Who never received any kind of general training and boost towards attaining extra knowledge outside of school. Funny enough, what you will need out there in the practical world is the knowledge you learn outside school. Therefore, as an entrepreneur parent, the willingness and hunger for knowledge is a very important gift you should try to give to your children.

As a child, my mum will wake me up every morning to read before going to school.  My mother was a teacher and is still a teacher. It was impossible to say no! As a child, I was so irritated about it.  I have 2 kids of my now now. I can imagine how my mum must have felt when I will be like “no I want to sleep, I don’t want to learn”.  I am so grateful to my mother that she forced this gift into my life: the urge and happiness to want to know more. The gift of wanting to learn more.

Triumphing over negative experiences.

I have worked with women who were not privileged to have a mother who made them love to learn. These women were majorly victims of human trafficking who found themselves in Europe. In a foreign country, having to learn a new language, a new style of living, a new way to interact and a new art of carrying themselves, while still being authentic to their origin culture. Imagine how challenging it was to introduce the idea to these young adults, that they would have to begin to embrace new ideas, new cultures, new knowledge.

Especially considering that some of them had become traumatised from the experience of human trafficking. Only those young women who had somehow received that foundation from their parents or community to learn, to be ready to embrace new knowledge could survive and triumph out of their traumatised situation. So no matter what you have experienced in your life. Be it issues like domestic violence, like being unemployed, like not having enough to take care of yourself, like neglect, illness, failed relationship or whatever it is. You still stand a better chance to overcome all these downsides , if you seek information revolving around the situation.

Recap and key take-aways

The secret to success is knowledge. Knowledge is power. You can acquire knowledge.  The willingness to learn, to know more, to ask questions is crucial to the development of our minds and our lives. If you are a parent, dedicate time to teach your children to ask, to learn, to want more knowledge, because that is the true key to freedom. My mission is to help you develop your ideas to becoming real successful ventures, to transform them to wealth – FREE welcome series tutorial on wealth. And the first step is to be ready to know more. I look forward to your comments and do not forget to subscribe to our weekly blog using the subscribe section in the footer. Thank you for reading.

Cheers, Joana

What if Africans are half the world’s population?

Joadre
-
0
What if Africans are half the world’s population?

As an entrepreneur, your first duty is to care about what happens outside your world. Observing the view from a foreign perspective is an essential action that allows you even come up with business ideas to increase your income. Do not sit lamenting about Africa’s poor infrastructure. While you do that, western companies are strategically planing how to enter into the African market irrespective of the existing infrastructure. Get up, quit lamenting, stop complaining, take action. Begin to brainstorm and come up with ideas to start either a full business or a side business. You can join my 6 Key program to get the knowledge and support you need to develop an idea.

This is the fact – Africa’s population is on the rise.

Africa is the second-largest and second most populous continent on earth with an estimated population in 2016 of 1.2 billion people. Based on the 2050 prediction, Africa might make up half of the world’s population by 2100. How does this affect the current SMEs ecosystem? I would say, this means opportunity for us!

Africans might make up half the world population by 2100.

Increase in population can be viewed from different perspective, but my focus for this article would be restricted to the economical value for the continent. Many could view the rapid population growth as a threat and claim that there is not enough resource out there for this kind of growth. The truth is that  resources are not used and managed responsibly at the moment and that is why the fear for a population rise is justified. But does Africa actually profit from the squandering of ressources today? No!

There is enough resources, but how is it managed?

Take for example, there is a large amount of food waste every day, not to even talk about how European retail standards encourages store owners to get rid of fruits and vegetables that do not conform to a specific “aesthetic” look. Imagine that for a second, then imagine this! Mama John is a road side fruit seller in Liberia. Mama John sells her “not so sexy” bananas to happy customers everyday. She barely earns enough to eat, let alone educate her children properly. At the other end of the world, million tonnes of food is being wasted. In the EU, around 88 million tonnes of food waste are generated every year with associated costs estimated at 143 billion euros.

Bananas like Mama Johns would never be sold because they do not look sexy enough. The resources to produce and to mange the waste of mass foods is terribly expensive. Waste management contributes to about 8% of Global Greenhouse Gas Emissions destroying our natural environment, leading to hunger in many regions. Quick explanation here – the earth is supposed to be a lot cooler than it is now.  It has become about 40% warmer than it should be due to too much increase in these type of gas solution caused by many factors including food production, the associated consumption lifestyle and waste.  I included a link above, so you can check it for more details about this solution issue.

Africa on the rise should mean, we have the chance now as entrepreneurs to learn from the experiences and mistakes of the western world and sieze this opportunity of a growing continent to do it better. business ideas that revolve around up cycling, re-use, lending services, co-sharing, recycling, biodegradability etc. are viable sectors that could even get you lots of extra funding from local and international governments and foundations. I will introduce lots of ideas in the future, so make sure to have a membership as I only send these exclusive business insights to our members.

Digest these facts. Then think of a new business idea!

Here are some facts for you to digest before you think of a new venture to start. Africa now has over 1.2 billion people and about 41% is under the age of 15. Which means that if you start today to create a solution targeting youths and children, you will never go out of business in the next decade to come. All done well, You could literally build a family empire.

There is an up and down side to the lack of infrastructure, limited technology, health system and services, name it. The downside is that developing businesses would be challenging and probably not efficient at all. Now, the upside is that you now have space, as Africans to develop new solutions, replicate best-practices and create sustainable solutions for a rising population. Before you rush into a brainstorm session for new ideas, kindly take 20 minutes to watch my FREE tutorial welcome series about understanding wealth.

In future blogs, I will introduce a good number of business ideas for a rapid growing population in Africa and also create video tutorials that might assist you into venturing in one or more of these businesses ideas. Stay connected by subscribing to our newsletter at the footer beneath this blog article. you know, I love us to interact and discus. Please drop a comment, question, feedback beneath this article.

Cheers, Joana

21 billion shoes made and yet people are poor.

Joadre
-
0
21 billion shoes made and yet people are poor.

Who actually feels more comfortable in heels than barefoot? Gone are the days where shoes were worn just for functionality. Shoes are fashion. They tell you a story about the wearer.  With so much technological and industrial revolution, one would think that most of our shoes are made by robots. If you mean human robots, then yes! But hell no, shoe production demands extreme series of work processes. And some of these work processes can only be done by human hands, precise craftsmanship and patience.

With some shoes having over 200 work processes to finish just a pair, imagine how much jobs could pop up here in Austria. The only problem here is that we might not be able to afford 10 pairs of shoes that we end up not really wearing. Are there shoe workshops here in Austria? Yes,  but about 20 with less than 1000 people working there all together. So let’s be frank, apart from crude oil and bananas, shoes must come from our economic allies in Asia, and now Africa.

No matter what type of shoe we love, be it ballerinas, sport shoes, low,- high,- or medium heels, flip flops, boots, even the barefoot shoes (do not ask me what those are, but they are healthier than heels for sure), no matter what style of shoe we wear, we leave footprints every day with them. Footprints having either positive, neutral or negative impact in other people’s lives like that of Selema and thousands of Selema. Whos the hell is Selema. Selema is closer to you than you think. Yes, she hand sews sport shoes for large international companies groups far away in China and the other Selemas are in Vietnam, India, Ethiopia….I will not tell you her personal story, because its not your business. But I will tell you about the “silent deal” we are making with her.

Every year, about 21 billion shoes are produced globally and about 40% is for Europe. In Austria, individuals buy more than 2 pair of shoes from the mainstream retailers on the average every year,  making you hold a silent deal with Selemas. A silent deal where you say, make these shoes as quick as possible and as cheap as you can dear.

But before we can launch the deal with Selema, our shoe has to go through the first stage of its birth, the concept phase. What is trendy? What is functional? What do you as a customer want to buy? How much are you ready to pay? What material should be used? How should it look like? What details do we need? Design, prototype. All these though and work process cost money and time, sometimes up to 24 months before you get to be able to buy the shoe. This could cost over 20% of the money you finally pay for the shoe. Still no deal for Selema.

Your shoe finally gets to the next phase which is production. This is the part that we actually have less insight, less control, less interest. Here we are lost and disconnected with our future shoe. Actually this process demands a serie of work processes like leather tanning, hand stitching, special cutting etc. Leather tanning for example is very often done with chemicals that could result in severe work injury. Out of the multiple processes needed to complete your pair of shoes, some have to be done by hand, by Selemas hand. This is when we hold a silent deal with her.

Since we will buy the shoe anyway later, she receives 10 to 20 cents now to complete the tedious hand work needed on that pair.  Selema is fast and make even 9 more pairs per day so that our neighbours and friends would not go barefooted to the next party. At the end of the day, she gets about 1.5 euros. Gracious right? She probably would not have received that 1.5 euros if there was not this kind of job, right? Or maybe we could change the perspective for a second. We probably would not have content for instagram if we can’t afford a new shoe every time we wanted one.

Disregarding any perspective, Selema cannot pay pension or health insurance with that daily income, but she  can count on her daughter to take care of her at old age. In such an environment, only family matters. Now is it still surprising to you that  Selema sells her daughter to a man who would bring her to Austria to work as a prostitute and earn over 100 euros per day. Even after debt is paid back to the trafficker, Selema would receive more than 5 euros daily from her daughter. An inevitable side income indeed!

Selema finished the shoe and now it can go to the last phase to get to us in about 8 months. Before us, retailers are invited to screen our shoe. Which shoe will survive the trend hunt? Which shoe will be buried before its birth? This destiny is influenced by the retailers. Which shoe receives more orders, goes into production and Selema can rejoice for steady main income.  Retailers, therefore have the power to influence trends. The power to give Selema hand work more financial value, more ethical value, the power to give our shoes a face, a voice, a name.

Retailers do not only have power but also the largest portion of the cake, leaving about 35 – 40% of the money you pay for a shoe to them. They have to survive, just like Selema. They do not have side income. They have bills to pay, tax to pay, social security to pay, rent to pay, light to pay, holidays to pay, therapies against burnout to pay, donations to give, they barely even make ends meet. Unlike Selema who has none of the above to pay but a daughter to sell. Our footprints must change!

Companies with power, politics are called to take responsibility. Also, we, we consumers cannot not plead not guilty. We cannot play the victim here. Yes some fair shoes could be ugly and expensive sometimes, but if you invest time and ambition, you will find just one pair of fairly made shoes that fit the rest “I had no choice but buy” trendy shoes in your closet. Just that one piece is enough, for now! If you have ideas and know of nice labels, brands, structures, people, groups, individuals creating or advocating for shoes that improves the livelihood and increases the income of Selemas, please comment beneath and let us know about it.

Xoxo

Joana

Before you start a business idea, do this!

Joadre
-
0
Before you start a business idea, do this!

If you live in places like Lagos, Nigeria or some mega city with a very dense population, there is so much going on. Both positive and negative. There are challenges that you see and wonder why on earth are things this way. Get stuck in a traffic jam on the Lagos third mainland bridge and you will understand what I am saying. Well, the truth is that great business ideas are developed by wanting to solve these daily challenges or issues.

Sometimes, the urge to solve these pressing issues with a business idea, can supersede the need to do your homework before starting. More of the time, rush to success or to become a millionaire is what prevents a good homework to be done prior to launching the idea.

 a problem is always the driver of a business case”

Many start-up launch and closing up within the first one year. You might wonder if there is a secret trick that would keep you immune against start-up bankruptcy. Nope, there is no trick, there are just some basic rules to keep in mind. Here is the rule 1 never to forget >

Rule 1: Your idea must solve a problem for its potential customers.

If you have a great idea but the people you expect to pay for this idea do not see its need or relevance to their lives, you will never succeed. That is why the very first question, you should be asking yourself before starting off any new ideas or expanding on your current business, is if you are actually solving a problem for someone.

How do you know what a business problem really is?

A problem is basically something that causes discomfort to either people, animals, things, structures or our environment. Defining the problem you are solving for your customers is far and away the most critical element of your business plan and crucial for your business success. Look at you environment to see the problems you are passionate to find solutions for and then go further to see how others are solving just the same problem. A problem must not be a huge thing like house collapsing. this part of problem finding is actually the very first step when you create your business plan.

Great businesses solving problems.

Let’s take a look at some simple problems solved by amazing business ideas around the world. In large cities like Lagos, working class hardly have time to complete grocery shopping. Not to think of the traffic jam after work hours. Well Supermart discovered this problem and created an online solution to offer almost everything you can buy in a life supermarket and they deliver it to you. Amazing right?

Your to do:

Identify the problem that you think you can solve. If you want to learn more about how to identify a problem in order to create a best business case, visit our online business course to learn more on how do you identify the problem? 

Please feel free to leave a comment.

Cheers, Joana

How to raise funds for your project, Pt 1

Joadre
-
0
How to raise funds for your project, Pt 1

If you intend to start any business or a project, there is almost no way around having money, right?.  But how do you raise the money you need? When you do not have a water proof business plan, then topic of  investors, business angels and venture capital money can not be on the table. Our brand is a sustainable one with the idea to create more Jobs for African youths, so HubCouture all about handmade fashion empowerment which makes it even more difficult to get funding. Lets check out some of the classic ways available when it comes to raising start-up capital.

Number 1: Crowd investment – In countries with reliable economic structures, the new hype now is crowd investment. Instead of one big investor to bring a couple of millions, hundreds of people invest smaller amount like from 1K up to  30K. Everyone shares the risk. If you fail, no money. If you succeed, you pay back with interest.

Number 2: government Grants  – Federal, state or local government issue out series of grants to people with solution and access to specific problems like in field of health, education, empowerment. Sometimes grans get really serious and becomes consistent contracts in some communities. The great thing here i that you are not expect dto pay back this money.  But this money is always tied to obligations, so sometimes, your business idea might not even fit this grant. And the possibility of getting this grant is less that 5%. First of all you need to know that this grant exist, secondly, does it fit your agenda, thirdly, can you present a badass proposal, fourthly, must you have the right connections? Fifth, do you have the ability to perform and deliver?

Number 3: Bank – Seriously, I would want to skip this, because if you do not have a guarantee, guarantor and or a badass business plan, do not even make the call. In upcoming weeks, i will talk about a badass business plan. That is the business plan that even if your plan is thrown into the pacific ocean, it will be intact.

Number 4: Crowdfunding – This is similar to crowd investment, only that you do not pay back on the investment nor do you have interest. So  your friends, family, partners, people who like your ideas, potential customers donates a specific amount and in return you offer them something on the spot. So for example, if you want to start a music label company, you can make a demo single and offer them the cd, merchandise items, like your poster, tshirt with your musicians and in return they pay some amount of money. Crowd funding is limited to a specific time and you  need to have the right platform to do this. whats absolutely great about crowd funding is when your project involves consumer goods or B2C market. So you can actually test the product through the crowd funding campaign. If you fail, whatever you have offered is already gone. If you succeed, then everything you earn belongs to you.

Here are the top ten crowdfunding platforms to check out: Gofundme, Kickstarters or Indiegogo, Teespring, Patreon, Youcaring,  Croadrise,  Donorschoose, Kiva – micro lending, Giveforward, Startnext (Fro german speaking audience). You also have Causes, Cwrodit, first giving, Honeyfund, Fundrazr, Razoo, fundable, Crowd funder, Circleup, Rally.org and many others. Some are worth a try But there are rules, must dos and don’ts. To get money from the crowd, you should make a video, write up, pictures,interesting gifts, pledge, social media active. Make another video to promote your youtube video, tel friends. You will see dozens of project that was set up to do something in Nigeria. Like people travelling for a business, humanitarian cause or to start a project – check this link – https://www.gofundme.com/mvc.php?route=search&term=nigeria

If you really want to raise funds for you business, then you should register for my business lab. Check out the course curriculum and you will be amazed! You can take the free welcome series to learn more.

Its our right to demand equality!

Joadre
-
0
Its our right to demand equality!

Women should earn less because they are less intelligent? Weaker? Dumb? I guess Korwin-Mikke never heard of Valentina Tereshkova who visited space while he was still struggling to understand his masculine privileges or neither has he heard of  Liala Ali who could definitely rehabilitate his mind with one left-hand punch.  I must say, he bluffed me. When you hear something like this, you might say “we need a political and legal reform to create gender equality” but when you wait a decade for that reform to have effect in your domestic environment, you definitely will get bored and take to the streets again, but this timedemanding  a new reordering of society where we completely eliminate male supremacy and the the concept of gender entirely.

Or maybe just “Encourage feminine behaviour rather than masculine behaviour”. At one point, you simply get confused. What do we want? Lets agree on something that globally affects every woman. Financial independence! If we can eliminate financial dependence of women, probably that would bring more equality. Whats you take on this approach? Korwin-Mikke could not be more wrong!

Talking about female independence and taking action, many African entrepreneurs have taking the situation into their hands. Take for example fabric weaving tradition in the Nigerian textile industry. Over decaded, the art of hand weaving fabrics on a loom has been passed down from generation to generation. Aso oke fabric, (Yoruba: Așǫ oke, pronounced ah-SHAW-okay) is a hand loomed cloth woven by the Yoruba people of western Nigeria. Aso oke means top cloth. Usually used to make men’s gowns, called Agbada, women’s wrappers, called iro, and men’s hats, called fila. From our collection, we have different urban products  made out of the same handwoven Asooske fabric. The fabric is prestigious.

Actually, people wear this original fabric to weddings and celebrations. But what I love about the Aso-Oke is that it has this pro-female vibe around it. When we visited some weavers down south Nigeria, we were amazed to see the division of labour between the females and males. The designs and styles to be woven are dictated by the women, while the actual weaving is done by the men. If translated into the urbanised fashion industry, the chief designers are females and producers carrying our the designers instructions are males. Awesome.

Ok, if we had stuck to the UN 1999 women’s day theme, “World Free of Violence Against Women” , we would have definitely been in a much more better place. They have some amazing themes but some, especially the ones with “and” is hilarious. 1998  it was “Women and Human Rights”, 1997 “Women and the Peace Table”, 2001 “Women and Peace”, 2004 “Women and HIV/AIDS”, 2009 “Women and Men…”. But thank God, that was the last with the “and “ conjunction. Like I said, I am sticking to the 1999 theme “World Free of Violence Against Women“. Let simply elaborate and be clear about the term Violence. Violence against women is, collectively, violent acts that are primarily or exclusively committed against women (also future women included called girls) because they are women.  I love this UN theme because, Violence against women is something happening everywhere, to the poor, rich even if you are Rihanna, no matter your religion, age group, origin. Its the incurable virus out there that we need to fight till the end of humankind.

Please feel free to leave a comment. Follow me on instagram @joadreapp.

Cheers

Joana

5 businesses to start with less than 100K in Nigeria. Plan for it!

Joadre
-
0
5 businesses to start with less than 100K in Nigeria. Plan for it!

What business to start? This is a hot question! Very Often we are not satisfied with our 9 to 5 jobs because we know that we have more potential and probably the job environment will not allow us develop and grow this potential. And maybe the salary we earn is not actually sufficient to cover our expenses. Or you might be craving for new challenges and you know deep down in your heart that you want to achieve greater things. These might be some reasons why you will begin to search for business ideas to start with less capital or very little financial capital in Nigeria or wherever you live.  I get you!

How To Launch A Low Capital Business // FREE WEBINAR!
You will find out profitable business ideas you can start with less than capital. We will go through some of the major things you need in place to start from skills, free tools to how we can support your business.

You can ask specific questions which my team and I are happy to give answers to.Only those attending live here on our zoom channel can ask questions directly to us. We have a maximum of 100 FREE seats. We will send you a reminder to attend a couple of hours before, so you do not miss out. Register here now to secure a free seat at the webinar >

Here are 10 business ideas to consider when looking for a business to start with little capital. We will release concrete courses and tutorials on how to start with these ideas.
  1. Soap making business.
  2. Food stuff delivery service business.
  3. Affiliate marketing or direct sales business.
  4. Perfume production business.
  5. Fashion production business.
  6. Fashion retail business.
  7. Digital content creation business.
  8. Marmalade production business.
  9. Jewellery production business.
  10. Portable furniture retail business.

You can find more ideas here as well in my blog on 10 lucrative business ideas in Nigeria.

Here are 35 Business ideas you will love and you can start with very low capital.

I release new blog every week about starting, building and growing your business in Africa. If you want to keep updated and get new ideas as well as our support, then I suggest you subscribe to our business blog for Africa beneath. The issue about having little financial resources to start an idea is a very prominent topic. But I must tell you that, very often you do not need so much money to start off with your idea, if you take the time to actually plan how to start.

Good, so let’s dive into 5 of these business ideas.
Soap making
great business ideas
Soap business to start with less than 100K Naira

I am not talking about some kind of no-fragrance soap. I am talking about luxury soap with a yummy appearance – just that you cannot eat it:-). The equipments, work tools and materials for making a soap are not so expensive. The first thing you will need to do here is to educate yourself further about soap making, create a business plan and decide what which niche you want to serve.

In soap making, you can strictly decide to serve cooperate clients like hotels and restaurants or you develop a retail brand of soap you sell strictly to smaller retailers. You can decide to go into direct to customer selling which is very time intensive.I always advice my students to choose between focusing on production or focusing on retailing. Doing both is possible but it will not allow you grow fast into a  world-class business.  I will expand on these selling strategies in future blogs, tutorials, courses and in my upcoming life conference in Lagos, Nigeria.

Food stuff delivery service business
supply business
Food delivery business to start with less than 100K Naira

As Africas population begin to grow massively, migration from rural areas to urban areas is increasing. What does this mean for you as an entrepreneur? We have seen this happen in Europe. People begin to live very fast lives and are disconnected to healthy source of food. Soon health issues increases and people then get conscious about what they eat. This would happen in Africa soon. So now, you have the opportunity to build a fresh business idea by connecting local farmers to the urban areas.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Affiliate marketing or direct sales business.
entrepreneurship is our black super power against racism
Affiliate business to start with less than 100K Naira

The concept of direct selling is not new to Africans at all. Actually it is laid in our DNA. Remember those ladies selling clothes on campus? Or that your mums friend selling Ankara fabric to her friends, including your mother? Remember Aso-ebi? Global brands like Tupperware and Avon have long mastered this business and are multi-million dollar companies.

They offer customers the opportunity to build a network and sell the products. The advantage here is that you are showered with amazing tools and selling techniques. The cost to start is very little. So you can primarily learn from them and build your network of direct selling with local products from producers within your country.  With some great communication skills you can select a good number of unique products to sell to your network.  If you intend to explore or learn more about this business, then be sure to join our Master Class “DEBUNK”  where we will help you build your business idea.

Perfume production business
joadre wellness for healthy living
Perfume business idea to start with less than 100K Naira

This business requires basic chemistry knowledge though, but  with a capital of less than 100K Naira, you are good to go. If you do your homework, meaning educate yourself more about the art and chemistry of perfume making and you have the right product and packaging, you can target high class professionals like bankers, marketers and other service professional, because they just “need” to smell good, right?

Like I mentioned, packaging is key in this business. If you are interested in this business idea, you can enrol for our upcoming tutorial on “Branding with packaging design” to learn more on how to develop the right concept for your idea. Even due to the fact that perfumes have a very long shave life, meaning they do not get spoilt easily, you can quickly grow this business into an exportation business. It is always safer to have one product line and make sure it reaches more customers around the world than to expand to many product line in the same location. I will explain why in upcoming tutorials and my free weekly videos.

Fashion retail business
Fashion business idea to start with less than 100K Naira
Fashion business idea to start with less than 100K Naira

Ok, this is a business where I have 100% experience as I launched my own fashion production and retail business in 2014. You can visit the online store to see some of our products. In this sector, you have so many option and mind you, Africa is a massive market. When I view fashion as a business, I am in no way referring to high-end fashion or what they call “Haute Couture”. That is not where the big money is. Look at brands like Zara, H&M, Mango, Asos and such. Although I do not recommend their some of their business ethics, it is clear that these retail houses are leading when it comes to fashion and you know why? Because they discovered and focused on the mass market.

So you as an aspiring entrepreneur in Africa, where the mass market is massive like hell, I wonder why we do not have real big or multiple mass fashion retail brands. There is a way to start off your retails brand and grow it into a chain with very little cash. Start with a consistent pop-up plan in strategic locations and leverage the power of digital marketing. I am here to show you how this would work, but you must first work on creating a plan for this idea.

Conclusion – Its not all about cash, it is about if you know how to start!

There are more ideas and remember I only introduced 5 from 10 business ideas to start with less capital. I would love to share more but at the same time, I do not want this blog to be too long. Look out for upcoming blog content, courses, tutorials and life conventions. Thats where I will explore more ideas, show you how and also look for ventures to support on a long term.

Thank you so much for reading this very long blog. I know, it is long. Sorry jare (Nigerian slang), but I just felt it is important to share this knowledge for the common good.  If you are really serious about starting up something soon, then be sure to join my program. I look forward to working with you soon.

Take care and cheers,

Joana

JOIN THE FREE MASTER CLASS NOW >
Click to start FREE class now!
But now, what exactly can you start with very little funds?

Thank God, we are living in a digital age. So there are lots of opportunities around the internet technology. I are passionate to share even more ideas with you on my Youtube Channel. Make sure to visit my channel, subscribe an dturn on notifications. In this blog, I will list 10 different business ideas you can start with very little money. I will also explain 5 out of them in this blog that you can start in any African country with less than 100K Nigerian Naira. 100K Naira is equivalent to about 250 dollars, which is basically not a very high financial capital to start. If you are still not sure about how, what to start, I would like to invite you to start my FREE Master class here. click to read more. 

Other useful post links:

 

https://joadre.com/3-low-capital-business-ideas-for-nigeria-new-potential/

 

WHY YOU NEED TO PLAN

How to start a low capital business with social impact.

Applied knowledge is powerful.

Joadre
-
0
Applied knowledge is powerful.

Knowledge is the key to your own freedom. even at that said, what value does knowledge have if it is not applied? Applied knowledge is powerful! Every successful entrepreneur today invested in becoming a key person of influence, what we call a KPI. I would teach and write about how to become a KPI in your industry in future tutorials and blog. But one key step these entrepreneurs took was to gain as much knowledge as they could about their industry and work. The easiest way to develop this attitude is to start right from a very young age. This is where parents come in. I have met adults who were neglected by their parent. Who never received any kind of general training and boost towards attaining extra knowledge outside of school. Funny enough, what you will need out there in the practical world is the knowledge you learn outside school.

Teach children to gain but also to apply knowledge.

Therefore, as an entrepreneur parent, the willingness and hunger for knowledge is a very important gift you should try to give to your children. When I was growing up, my mom will wake me up every morning to read before going to school.  My mother was a teacher and is still a teacher, so it was impossible to say no! As a child, I was so irritated about it. You know from a child’s view, you are convinced that your parents really do crazy stuff but now I have my own two little kids. Now I can imagine how my mom must have felt when I will be like no I want to sleep, I don’t want to learn.  I am so grateful to my mother that she forced this gift into my life: the urge and happiness to want to know more. The gift of wanting to learn more.

I have worked with women who were not privileged to have a mother or father who made them love to learn. These women were majorly victims of human trafficking who found themselves in Europe. In a foreign country, having to learn a new language, a new style of living, a new way to interact and a new art of carrying themselves, while still being authentic to their origin culture. Imagine how challenging it was to introduce the idea to these young adults, that they would have to begin to embrace new ideas, new cultures, new knowledge. Especially considering that some of them had become traumatised from the experience of human trafficking.

Thrive over challenges through knowledge.

Only those young women who had somehow received that foundation from their parents or community to learn, to be ready to embrace new knowledge could survive and triumph out of their traumatised situation. Now I come to realise that the this willingness to learn, to know more, to ask questions is crucial to the development of our minds and in a long term crucial to the development of our communities in Africa. Parents, dedicate time to teach your children to ask, to learn, to want more knowledge, because that is the true key to freedom. I will be teaching you different strategies on how to give your children this gift, on how to revive this gift in your life and how you can make great use of this to earn better income in your business as an African entrepreneur  If you want to be a part of this exciting journey, join us at our free forum to learn how you too can begin to create change. Let’s take the future of the Africa continent in our hands as Africans. Follow me on Instagram @joadreapp as we travel this journey together.

Cheers, Joana

Plan to travel out? Take care!

Joadre
-
0
Plan to travel out? Take care!

I recently met people who were so keen about travelling out of the country because of one reason or the other. You might think it is unfair to watch your friends fly in, fly out, like they are boarding a bike to the junction to get barbecue. Well for some, the west is a ticket away and for others a quick visa would enable them lighten their wallets in Italy, brush up their cvs in the UK, or while away time on the beach side Miami. The hard truth is that, for many, that is not the reality and that is why they just need to be super creative.

No plan, then why travel?

Well, the funniest thing about some people I spoke with about travelling abroad, is that they are ready to compromise everything without having a clear plan of what they would actually do abroad.  Ask them where they would work, live or what they would do in their leisure time,. No clue. All they are focused on right now i sto get there first. Well then what? We may be blinded by blockbusters and romantic films, or by celebrity post or some annoying regular facebook updates of some people we know who are pretty much idle abroad,s o they spend their time posing near cars that they have never sat inside to show off on social media. These thing mislead and create a perception that Europe, America, Canada, name it, is all rosy with arms wide open welcoming us with a red carpet grand opening.

Last summer holiday, I was in Croatia and I met an educated elderly man with a doctorate degree from Ghana who worked as junior cleaner at the holiday residence.  “After my university degree, I boasted around saying, I would never work as a cleaner in Accra” He said to my gazing right into his eyes like I was searching for a mirror to see the reflection of myself. But instead, in his dark brown eyes I saw regret and gratefulness tangle to become one emotion  as we continued our deep conversation about the failing government in Africa and the enthusiastic youths embarking on a mission to paradise through the sea. It was a magical moment for me but not magical in a very romantic positive way, but magical in a way that I had the opportunity to see what I could become if I do not take action. I could become a regretful but grateful old woman in a foreign country I have made home.

Do your homework!

Anyway, I would conclude by encouraging my friends who want to travel out, to do their homework. There are thorns of issues like social security, residence permit, work permit, cold****(this is the one I dislike most), housing, culture, discrimination, lack of opportunities, name it. Yes there are upsides, but as well, down side. Share your thoughts beneath my youtube video and subscribe to my channel as I bring you lots of infotainment from around the world.

Join our free forum to join the conversation. You can subscribe to our newsletters to stay updated and get my free blog articles reminders sent to your email. If you want to transform your idea to a business, you need a strategy. In my 6 key program, you will learn just how to craft one. Don’t forget to to follow me on instagram.

Cheers, Joana

WHY YOU NEED TO PLAN

Joadre
-
0
WHY YOU NEED TO PLAN

Imagine you had a very clear idea or picture of who you want to be in 10 years, but when you look at where you are now, you are overwhelmed about the possibility that you will become that person. Being overwhelmed might come from your not being able to see a clear route that would take you to become that person in 10 years. This is exactly when you need to do a bit of planning. From my experience it is extremely more effective to work backwards from your goal to where you are now.

We live in world that is very uncertain and it is pretty scary when you can’t plan and control your way to security, the job you want, let alone to the perfect life because it is hard to picture right now what a perfect life would look like. Because we are human and are influenced by our environment,  our heart desires may change. But remember that here is no one route or plan to get to your goal , vision or dream. Be open and creative. I often use a shitty plan strategy. I call it shitty because there is no rule, just freedom.

The purpose of this type of planning is to map out strategies and discover your different routes, meaning options  to achieving a single milestone within your vision. Contrary to following a strict timetable, a shitty plan must give you that short term guide to wake up every morning with clarity of what you have accomplished the day before, what you intend to accomplish today and what you want to accomplish tomorrow.

Are you  prepared to create your own opportunities that would take you to where you want to be? In other words, you don’t search for the perfect job, you create it — either within an existing organization or on your own. It is a radical and different approach but it is a strategy based on your real desire. How do you complement your plan with strategies to discover your options and create opportunities consistent with your desire. Join our business lab  if you want to explore these strategies and learn how to build your shitty plan.

Please feel free to leave a comment. Follow me on instagram @iamjoadre.

Cheers

Joana

 

2 kind of entrepreneurs to learn from.

Joadre
-
0
2 kind of entrepreneurs to learn from.

The plan-freaks and the freestylers. 

Very often it could seem so boring to plan out strategies before you actually start your business. Is that a waste of time or do you think even a small roadside business needs to create a plan first before starting?

The plan-freaks

The plan-freaks are the ones that spend months breaking down every piece of their idea and outlining every single  process hidden in it. Even when it is over exaggerated and not necessary to plan out everything like that, but frankly, if you do not examine all the parts of your business idea, it would be sooooo (See how I stretch it) difficult to actually build a successful business. Even when you start, several challenges will surprise you. I am talking about daily things like fuel scarcity, dollar rise or simple stuff like late-comer employees. But the plan-freaks are almost never surprised or taking off guard. They have plan B if there is no fuel, they have plan C if dollar increases. Actually they are like those students that covered their answers during examinations in secondary school. 

What about the freestylers? 

Passion is burning in their soul and they have a big vision of how the business could be like! I did not say clear, I said big vision! Freestylers are great storytellers. They have brilliant ideas but 12 months will pass by, no action was taken, instead, they even have a bigger vision now.   Actually, they are the kind of entrepreneurs that have multiple business ideas at the same time, but become overwhelmed of their own ideas, that they actually end up no really launching any. Their excuse? Creativity! They will tell you “Do not lay all your eggs in one basket”, even when they misunderstand the actually meaning of that saying.

Do not get me wrong, both entrepreneurs are enthusiastic and they want to give it all into realising their  idea but the issue here is how do you spend the time? Where do you invest your time in? would you take after the plan-freaks who could spend months planning how the business would be designed? Or just flow like the freestylers who and spend the next couple of months visualisation what could yield out for the business idea? 

Nevertheless, here are two things we can learn from both entrepreneurs. 

  1. We can learn to plan like the plan-freak, but with ease. Not everything must be planned out.
  2. After starting our business, we can learn to freestyle but in line with the plan we created.

So you see, we need both skills, because the more uncertain and unpredictable our economy is, the more we need to plan out a strategy for any of our ideas no matter how tiny the idea is and the more we need to master flexibility in our daily activities. Now tell me, what kind of entrepreneur are you? 

Please feel free to leave a comment. Follow me on instagram @iamjoadre.

Cheers, Joana

7 unbelievable 21st century questions to ask!

Joadre
-
0
7 unbelievable 21st century questions to ask!

18 months march through the desert, 2 years in Lampedusa refugees camp, 4 years in spain on the streets, 3 years in italian on the streets and later 6 years in Austria working in a brothel, after which she was repatriated back to her home country. Before grace embarked on this tragic journey to Europe, she had a 3 year old daughter who could hardly recognise her when she came back after over 12 years. Throughout all these years, grace managed to gather nothing except a little box filled with clothes and an illness that cost her her life 3 years ago. During an awareness campaign some years ago in nigeria, i met grace and she shared her story with us.

Vulnerable people possess a very strong will to attain a better and secured future. They are ready to take the risk, to travel far away from home or change location in order to find a better future. Very often not only for themselves, but for younger and older family members. How can this strong desire to migrate at all cost be turned into resources to create that better life wherever they are now? How can your business and skills contribute in advancing the status of vulnerable people in your community but go beyond to reach millions around the world?

To mark the Europeans union day against human trafficking, the 18th of october, let me share 7 unbelievable questions we should ask ourselves in this 21st century.

  1. Why can’t nearly a billion persons  read a book or sign their names? Nearly a billion people entered the 21st century unable to read a book or sign their names.
  2. Why do 22,000 children die each day due to poverty? And they “die quietly in some of the poorest villages on earth, far removed from the scrutiny and the conscience of the world. UNICEF.
  3. How is it possible that almost every second child in the world is poor? There are about 2.2 billion children in the world and almost every second child is poor.
  4. How can over 660 million people afford sanitation if they live on less than $2 a day.  More than 660 million people without sanitation live on less than $2 a day, and more than 385 million on less than $1 a day.
  5. Why do developing country spend $25 on debt repayment for every $1 in aid they receive? For every $1 in aid a developing country receives, over $25 is spent on debt repayment.
  6. Why are 45 Million People Worldwide trapped in enslavement?About 45.8 million people around the world are trapped in modern versions of enslavement,making 28%  more than its last estimate two years ago.
  7. If between 2013 – 2014, 15,846 people were registered victims of human trafficking in the EU, how many were unregistered or not identified? 76% of the registered victims were women.

Excited that we have some basic understanding about the 6 areas we would explore on my platforms. My next blog will be about sharing daily practices you can easily integrate into your entrepreneurship lifestyle. I used them and am still using them till now. Not to miss out, make sure to get on my platform.  Yes, more free training and videos on this topic will be out this month on YouTube. Not to miss out,  subscribe and turn on the notification on Youtube. It would be nice if you follow me on instagram as I share daily strategies and personal fun stuff. I am on facebook as well but to get it all in one place, subscribe to my free newsletter. Drop your comments, questions, feedback beneath using the comment section and I will be happy to answer your questions in my next video or blog.

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

Cheers,

Joana

Useful links: 

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joadreofficial/
  • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/joadretv
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjoadre/
  • Joadre blog: https://joadre.com/blog/
  • Joadre Newsletter: https://joadre.com/newsletter/

 

You have the privilege to speak up, use it!

Joadre
-
0
You have the privilege to speak up, use it!

Living in the 21st century demands that we all become more reflected and aware about multiple issues even when they do not directly affect us.  If you ask why, then here is a simple answer. For the simple fact that there is discrepancy in our technological advancement, social culture,  education, identity symbols and consume culture. The background and factors fuelling social issues in Iran, Nigeria or Austria varies, just like it does everywhere. Depending on what issue has affected our lives, communities and environment as we grow, we all tend to hold tight to those issues that we belief, or better said, have been made to believe will affect us most or in the near future.

For me, its the right of vulnerable individuals from Africa. Their right to a secured life as humans. Their rights to have a basic standard of living that we “the privileged” world citizen now consider “the norm”, from where we judge the rest of the world. With the privileged, I mean those who can put on their taps and water runs out of it. Those who prepare for a pre-announced 10 minutes power blackout by lighting candles to make it memorable and romantic. Those who exploit their access to new technology in the name of activism and empowerment for a social cause they know nothing about. Those who have access to education, those who have a secured roof to sleep under,  those who have enough food to become picky about taste and diet style. I can see myself being one on the privileged.

Yes, I have my own challenges but I am not to afraid to acknowledge that I am privileged…now, after my share of vulnerabilty as well. The moment we forget this, that is the moment we begin to harbour fear in our hearts . 21st century clock overtakes our inner clock, that we forget that we are opportune and that all is well! We begin to let political and religious propaganda create fear in our mind. How do we overcome this fear? As young adults, we were told to be speak up. But often we were told by adults who themselves never spoke up. When we condole gossip at the dining table, about the neighbours who in one form or the other do not fit into “the norm”, did we forget to speak up to deconstruct the circle of gossip or was the weigh of loyal friendship heavy on our courage? The dining table talk moves over to the next local beer parlour, then to your work space, then to the school premises, then to politics, then to media. Soon enough, presumption about a certain group of people increases. An army of like minded people are built and it seems too late to admit ones ignorance. How can we deconstruct this kind of lifestyle?  At least deconstruct it before it gets into politics?

Do we need to reflect and become more aware? How can we actively consume information that reflects diversity about a single topic? We need to be able to say “sorry, I did not know or I was not aware”. Let me know what you think about this article. You can send me an email via [email protected].

Equal opportunities for all is bullshit!

Joadre
-
1
Equal opportunities for all is bullshit!

Have we been shared equal portion of skills and abilities? Can we choose where and when we are born? If you are saying “no” to these two questions, then please agree with me that soliciting for equal rights is all bullshit! We should be soliciting for more rights for some specific group of people, in other to make them equal as fast as possible.

Its 6pm and I am invited to an event where the main goal is to solicit for equal rights. I would not mention the event as I am fully aware that the organisers meant well and are good intended. But here is my thoughts on the trends of equal rights. How can the solution to issues on gender and migration be solved through creating equal rights for all? Pardon me, but I think this ignorant! If you disagree, I am happy to read your reasons beneath in the comment section, or you can send me an email via [email protected].

Let us focus on migration for a minute, because Gender is for another day. I would totally agree to share equal rights to migrants from Syria and migrants from Germany to Austria, if both migrants where born with the same opportunity, grew up with the same choices, learned the same ethical values within the same cultural space and emigrated also based on the same reason. Actually, lets go deeper. No two individual is born with the same ability, right? In the same class you have fast learners and slower learners. Now pardon me to use the word “slower” in its positive sense, or scrap it. Lets say less faster learners. Now these different students go into the world with these different abilities. So it is very hard to use the term equal when you address both with diverse abilities.

Lets adapt the word Equity rights, which simply means providing opportunities to make all equal, NOT giving them equal opportunities. There is a significant difference. Here is a rather deep example into history; descendants of people who have suffered decades of slavery should be given “much more” opportunities to become equal in the society. These opportunities would address every aspect of physical and phycological trauma imposed on them from generation to generation. These opportunities would address economic aspects such as compensations, such as giving back ownership to living descendants. When all such measures have been put in place, then we can talk about making equal right effective.

When I got to Austria, I had the opportunity to further my studies just like any young Austrian student who just completed secondary school. In this area, you could say I had equal rights.  I did not have a financial track record in Austria that would help me secure a student loan. I did not have relatives and parents who could support financially. My network was reduced to minus 2. I could not speak the language. Yes, some of these factors would be true to some Austrian born students as well. Hence no one has equal opportunities! In the first 1 2months, I was occupied with classic migration and integration problems, which I would rather now call “challenges”. I spent the first 12 months trying to master these challenges, which means that any Austrian-born student could complete their education faster than I did. They could start working and saving up to a good pension, which seems to be a very clear life mission here!

Most Syrian migrants fled the war. Many German migrants are economic or social migrants, just like many Nigerian migrants as well. But now it gets tricky! It is almost impossible to have a Nigerian economic migrant because he would not get a visa at all for the same motive like the German migrant. So you see, the basis for global interaction is on status quo “non-equality”. If we strive more for equity rights, we might finally get to equal rights. Fighting for equity would mean that some people would have to admit that they are privileged. It would mean that some groups would have to admit that their wealth is constructed based on the disadvantages of others. But lets call it a day here and check out what I picked out this week from our sustainable fashion and accessories online. Remember to share your comments and thoughts, questions and take on my article.

Oprah and Malala inspires us with their will to succeed and be heard!

Joadre
-
0
Oprah and Malala inspires us with their will to succeed and be heard!

Ladies! Does your dream seem impossible to reach? Do you seriously think you can’t change society? Then sit back tight and read how these 2 inspiring women achieved their dreams and how they single-handedly changed our society for good! Maybe these stories will inspire you like it inspired us.

Malala Yousafzai a Nobel laureate who fought to be heard!

Although the Teenage Pakistani girl faced death, the children’s right activist is still fighting for change in the world. She wrote blogs because she wanted to be heard. considering the conditions in which she lived, the fear and terror just to know that there are people out there who expects her never to be educated. But still Malala strived hard to be heard. This shows us courage because no one else dared to report from such a controversial angle – detailing her life under Taliban occupation. In 2012 some Talibans assaulted and shot her when she was only 15 years old. She suffered from serious injuries in the head and neck. But Malala fought and within 1 year, after her recovery the brave girl founded in cooperation with UNESCO the ‘Malala Fund’ to promote the right to education. She is the youngest in history to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. So ladies – let’s appreciate the freedom we have her in Austria, in Western Europe. Let our freedom not be reduced to slick instagram pictures where we claim to express our ourselves as free and independent. Freedom is the most important gift we can have.  Malala fought for hers, lets preserve ours with dignity. Wikipedia page > 

 Oprah Winfrey fought all odds to experience her dream come true.

The African American billionaire made it to one of the most influential American TV personalities, philanthropists and producers of all times. Ever heard of Americas number one talk show “The Oprah Winfrey Show”? Sure! Her fame, her humour and her serenity – that’s all we get to see. Over the last few years, she retired her famous show to reach for a higher ground, where she founded the OWN channel (Oprah Winfrey Network). Her platform is giving African American a safe space to shine. But what is Oprah’s story? After a troubled adolescence in a small farming community, where she was sexually abused by a number of male relatives, she still didn’t lose hope, nor did she let sexual abuse steal her identity. She fought for her dreams, kept on working and landed a job in the radio while still being in high school. That’s where everything starts. Oprah’s discipline to pursue her dream at a very young age, inspires us. So ladies, do not waste your precious time pursing things that at the end would not make you fulfilled. Wikipedia page >

These 2 women from different generation have little but one thing in common: the will to succeed and be heard! I would love to hear from you and know who inspires you the most. Feel free to share your comments beneath is you are reading through our app. You can send me messages directly using my email – network@joadre,com.

Cheers for Joadre world,

Joana

More than ever, 45 million Enslaved.

Joadre
-
0
More than ever, 45 million Enslaved.

You must have heard about Slavery, or read a book, watched a film  or maybe even met someone who was a slave. But when you think about the word slavery, we tend to see a chain on someone’s hands, neck, legs  because we are aware about the transatlantic slavery that happened centuries ago. Slavery used to be an economic system that was actually backed by the property law to own something. So other words, people were regarded as the property of someone else.

Humans could be owned, bought and sold accordingly, and they had no right whatsoever to withdraw from that kind of arrangement.  Whatever they earned belonged to the person who owned them. This sounds primitive to have slaves, right? But you will be shocked if i told you that it was only 9 years ago that the last country actually outlawed this classic kind of slavery.

It was in  2007, “under international pressure”, the government of Mauritania passed a law allowing slaveholders to be prosecuted. A November 2009 United Nations mission, headed by UN Special Rapporteur Gulnara Shahinian, evaluated slavery practices in the country. In an August 2010 report to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) it concluded that “despite laws, programmes and difference of opinion with regard to the existence of slavery in Mauritania, … de facto slavery continues to exist in Mauritania”.

Nevertheless, it does not mean that slave trade does not exist. But in our modern world, the current form of slave trade is known as human trafficking. People are in debt bondage, children as soldiers, forced marriages still happening, forced prostitution especially girls and women, forced labour with undocumented migrants, name it. Right now there ar more slaves than ever. Over 40 million people are enslaved around the world – New York times.

These people earn so little that they cannot take care of themselves nor their families. With limited resources, they are in no position to terminate any kind of degrading work they are compelled to do. So right now,  the physical chains you would expect to see, is invisible! These victims cannot literarily terminate their work agreement without fearing to be abused. While a person is enslaved, the owner is entitled to the productivity of the slave’s labour, without any remuneration.

For example someone who has been forced. Forced can be elaborated, I mean literarily forced, or enticed, lured, deceived or threatened to work basically around the clock, with no form of respect or appreciation for their work. At the end of the day, the person has to give away their hard earned cash, or a large part of it to someone else. But for who do they have to work for?. Who are they salves to?. Who do they produce for or render services to?. Apart from the person or network directly profiting from their work by forcefully taking the money they earn, the products they make and the services they render, finds its way into our global retail and consumer industry.

Meaning products made by people who are being exploited, may stand  in your face at your favourite discounter, flagship store, shopping mall, online store. They are everywhere. But the good news is that there are so many retailers now who are aware and strive to be more responsible and cautious about the products and services they sell to you.

They work so hard to make sure their businesses, products and services is  slavery free, exploitation free, human trafficking fee, meaning fairly produced with love for consumers around the world. I am a global citizen, you are a global citizen who consumes from all over the world, think about your coffee, your foodstuff, your clothing, your gemstones and jewelries, your shoes, your chocolate, your fuel. You see, this makes it our responsibility to promote and support responsible retailers and producers anyway we can, no matter how little it is.

Is there slavery happening in your beloved city. Slavery that we know now, human trafficking affects every country of the world. Either as a donor country, meaning where enslaved people come from or as a transit country, meaning where they are transported through or as a destination country meaning, where they get exploited. How does slavery, human trafficking  affect our lives, our values, as believers or nonbelievers, as fashionistas, as foodies, as tourists or just as humans. As entrepreneurs we have a responsibility to give those a voice that cannot be heard. Join my creators lab program using the form beneath to know when I launch and get updates. Follow me on Instagram @joadreapp.

Cheers, Joana

I Am Ashamed! Libya Slave Trade.

Joadre
-
0
I Am Ashamed! Libya Slave Trade.

I am ashamed.  It’s not the Libya trade. It’s not the over 2000 deaths this year in the Mediterranean sea. it’s not the rapes on the Sahara routes. It’s not the exploited workers in the farms or factories. They have been happening over a decade ago, before our eyes. Didn’t we see it? Did we demand political will to end them?

The Libya footage gave us no option but to react. How are we reacting? Now what more do we need to watch  to be able to react with an action that would put an end to this inhumanity? That’s what I am ashamed of!

Ok now I am wondering were we are heading to? How can African police forces and soldiers be paid from the EU to detain migrants and deport them on transit. If they arrived Europe, they are entitled to minimum protection that would not allow this kind of abuse to happen. Then why and how can the European Union finance such atrocities outside its boarders?

Who is going to seek justice and compensation for these migrants? Because all we are after now is that  they are sent back home safely. But what about the traumatic experiences they have been exposed to. It is not just the EU but also the African Union, the African governments who have allowed economic interest and capitalism to override humanity and justice.

How can I walk into a mega grocery store in Lagos Nigeria, and see that 90% of the liquid milk sold there is all imported from Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland. Now I am wondering how bored Nigerian cows would be, not to talk of the jobless farmers. We can argue that the milk does not meet minimum standard, required capacity etc..

[/vc_column_text][vc_text_separator title=”Read on…” color=”green”]

Html code here! Replace this with any non empty text and that's it.

Who sets the minimum standards? How much efforts have been made to get the local farmers milk to standard? Now, he is out of regular income and his son decides rescue the family for good. Make it once and for all in Europe. Come back and build Daddy a 4 apartment house. We all move to the city. Forget the cows and farm.

He embarks enthusiastically on a journey through Libya to Germany, because he is wise enough to know that the German embassy will never grant him audience. 6 months on the road, he has to wait in Libya. 4 months goes by fast. He is away for a year. Hi father is waiting! The EU policy of helping Libyan authorities intercept people trying to cross the Mediterranean and return them to prisons is “inhuman”, the UN has said. Source – The Guardian 

What do we tell the farmer about the death of his son? He was chained, sexually abused and shot dead by armed forces supported by the European Union? The same countries where the milk in the grocery comes from? First it was his Job, now it is his son? I am sad.

Exactly now, must we take action. Everyone! Not just the EU/AU government who have failed till now, but also you and I. We all need to work like ants and start up initiatives that would give one person, one returnee future prospect in their beloved community.  Help returnees build up their environment, so that by 2027, we can look back and be proud.

Cheers, Joana

How O’eclat, Nigerian fashion brand is out to enrich lives.

Joadre
-
0
How O’eclat, Nigerian fashion brand is out to enrich lives.

Gbemmy Johnson is the brain behind the African rising handbag brand O’eclat. When Gbemmy started her brand in 2010, she worked with two young artisans. They had skills but had no space to exercise their hand craft. Their situation reflects the situation for many young african youths who have managed to enrol and finish a hand craft training. With no workspace nor start-up capital, these enthusiastic youths end up juggling multiple professions in the search for fast money. Gbemy decided to equip a space where these young artisans could actually practice their handcraft.

Creating social value

“So basically, what I do at O’eclat is more about creating social value and impact. Being able to improve lives of people who have probably been out of jobs, people without source of regular income nor the finance to set up their own workshop for the skills they have learned. I want to impact the lives of people around me”…Gbemmy,

  • Brand name: O’eclat
  • Founder: Gbemmy Johnson
  • Founding year: 2010
  • Mission: Our mission is to continue to preserve our traditional techniques and heritage with our beautifully created artisanal and tasteful handbags and accessories that exude an elegant edge while also giving back to the community.
  • Nominations/Awards: two-time nomination as a finalist at the INDEPENDENT HANDBAG DESIGNER AWARD (Most Socially Responsible Handbag) 2015 and 2017.
Finalist at the INDEPENDENT HANDBAG DESIGNER AWARD

I personally have two O’eclat handbags which was made out of handwoven fabrics. I love the intense colors, the unique designs and of course the social value her brand creates. Do not forget to stop by browsing some of Gbemmy’s bags in our app or online in our store. We need more African enthusiastic designers with high social value alongside detailed creativity. Share Gbemmy porträit and join us promote African entrepreneurs.

Hey, thank you so much for stopping by and reading through to the end. I really appreciate it, because it takes so much to put this together. Hope you liked it. If you did, remember to share this blog on social media. Yes, more free training and videos on this topic will be out this month on YouTube. Not to miss out,  subscribe and turn on the notification on Youtube. It would be nice if you follow me on instagram as I share daily strategies and personal fun stuff. I am on facebook as well but to get it all in one place, subscribe to my free newsletter. Drop your comments, questions, feedback beneath using the comment section and I will be happy to answer your questions in my next video or blog.

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

Cheers,

Joana

Useful links:

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joadreofficial/
  • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/joadretv
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjoadre/
  • Joadre blog: https://joadre.com/blog/
  • Joadre Newsletter: https://joadre.com/newsletter

Do we need African fashion week in European capitals?

Joadre
-
0
Do we need African fashion week in European capitals?

The name “Fashion week” is a brand of its own. When you hear it, you are all excited to rock those statement fashion pieces you convinced yourself that you would wear every day but ended up creating your own antique. Again, the continent Africa  is a brand Having an African Fashion Week is like wearing 20 high-end brands all on one day. Now jokes apart, do we really need an African Fashion week for each european city? After Paris, New York and London fashion weeks, why on earth would there be a special one branded Africa? Even if you have not visited any African Fashion week, you sure would agree that it is highly a necessity to have an African Fashion week.

Now I am not talking about just the vibrant colors you would expect, but I am justifying my opinion based on the current fashion global retail politics. Who makes it to the main stream fashion runway? Does mainstream fashion week have enough incentives for emerging designers? For this simple reason, we hail the African Fashion weeks around the world, paving way and creating platform for African inspired designers and exhibitors.

We attended the African fashion week London, Founded in 2011 by Ronke Ademiluyi, last month organised at the Freemason’s hall. We joined fellow exhibitors to showcase select HubCouturiers such as Nooksignature, Jmuacouture and our in-house brand Joadre. From our experience there, we see that it is necessary to initiate African Fashion Week across European cities and beyond for these simple reasons!

  • For diversity sake: European cities, like Vienna for example is blessed with over 30T African migrants. These migrants bring along their style and fashion consciousness into these cities.
  • Globalisation: Cotton hardly grows in Europe. We move raw materials from Africa and Asia into the european fashion industry. It would just be fair to have the African fashion industry flatter its creativity alongside its raw materials.
  • No more grey and black: Who said black is elegant, was correct, but who said vibrant colors suits only dark skin people was definitely drunk! Check these color blast on these caucasian models and stay away from alcohol.
  • Fair fashion can reduce poverty: Remember the bill board or advert on TV about the starving little black kids with no sense of fashion? The flies around her lips and hair. The unwashed legs covered in dust. The image subtitle telling you to donate for a starving African child. Remember this image? Yes, people are starving but maybe some would even have more to eat and share if they had access to sell their fashion products in the mainstream global market like in Europe.

We badly need all Europe capital cities to host their own African Fashion week. Not because of all the excuses I gave but because it’s fun, lively, crazy, urban and simply the answer to your dull fashion days!

Hey, thank you so much for stopping by and reading through to the end. I really appreciate it, because it takes so much to put this together. Hope you liked it. If you did, remember to share this blog on social media. Yes, more free training and videos on this topic will be out this month on YouTube. Not to miss out,  subscribe and turn on the notification on Youtube. It would be nice if you follow me on instagram as I share daily strategies and personal fun stuff. I am on facebook as well but to get it all in one place, subscribe to my free newsletter. Drop your comments, questions, feedback beneath using the comment section and I will be happy to answer your questions in my next video or blog.

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

Cheers,

Joana

Useful links:

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joadreofficial/
  • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/joadretv
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjoadre/
  • Joadre blog: https://joadre.com/blog/
  • Joadre Newsletter: https://joadre.com/newsletter

ONLY authentic African made, please.

Joadre
-
0
ONLY authentic African made, please.
We are on the road again. This time heading to Graz, the capital city of Austria’s forested southern state – Styria, the home of Terminators superstar – Arnold Schwarzenegger. We are excited to showcase our  products. It’s a long drive, so good music is a must and nothing else was better than Wyclef Jean, Micheal Jackson and random 2009 hit mix. But wait! It rained like hell and we could only do 80km/hour. Pauline and I look forward to a nice festival, great fair guest and lots of new customers at our tent. Actually, this festival honors authentic African made products. It’s very common to go to African fairs and be shocked that 80% of what they sell to customers branded under the African flair, has no connection to Africa what so ever. Even worse when non-Africans do it. A vast majority of the products come from China, Thailand and else where but Africa. So why use the brand value “Africa” to sell your non African made products?
Does “where” matter?
Basically, I preach that it is not where but how. We live in a global world, so we would hardly have everything from our backyard, especially the things we cannot self-produce. But Africa has manpower and vibrant youths hungry to develop businesses, only if demand could sustain their ventures. How can there be true demand if Asian copycats visit fairs, snapshot ideas and replicate in cheap mass production.
But what I fight to understand is how my fellow Africans accredit this game – travelling to shop Non-African African mass products from Asia and seal the concept with skin color, dreadlocks and more stereotyped looks. Well then, who is more legitimate to economically abuse the brand Africa other than African Migrants?
Africa is so sexy, that even European and Asian companies get their all white team to design hyper colorful prints in Manchester,  Holland, in Asia and produce them there and then sell it to the world as African prints. High end designers fall for this joke. What’s African about the fabric? The cotton might not come from Africa as well. So I am freaked out, asking myself what’s so African about this?
Maybe its the colors. Since when did Africans own these colors? Fact is my traditional attire as an Edo (Southern Nigeria) is a piece of white cotton cloth.
Someone introduced (The Dutch!) this colorful prints to build a huge industry off it. Not bad! But, better if while using our exotic image to sell more, we end up profiting through more job creation – designing and producing in Africa. Last I checked, many textile mills closed down unable to compete with either high-end European African prints or cheap mass import from Asia of which non is actually African made.
Nevertheless, the few mills still operating can be rest assured to have us from Joadre platform as a loyal customer, though sometimes they make it hard for us with their old school designs. This coming season, Joadre would see new one color collections as well as vintage African made print designs from Joadre brand. OK, now we just arrived Graz. Time to set up and roll. You know I love to raise awareness about social issues fostering human trafficking, please help me do this by sharing this blog with your friends.

Hey, thank you so much for stopping by and reading through to the end. I really appreciate it, because it takes so much to put this together. Hope you liked it. If you did, remember to share this blog on social media. Yes, more free training and videos on this topic will be out this month on YouTube. Not to miss out,  subscribe and turn on the notification on Youtube. It would be nice if you follow me on instagram as I share daily strategies and personal fun stuff. I am on facebook as well but to get it all in one place, subscribe to my free newsletter. Drop your comments, questions, feedback beneath using the comment section and I will be happy to answer your questions in my next video or blog.

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

Cheers,

Joana

Useful links:

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joadreofficial/
  • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/joadretv
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjoadre/
  • Joadre blog: https://joadre.com/blog/
  • Joadre Newsletter: https://joadre.com/newsletter

African batik Crash course.

Joadre
-
0
African batik Crash course.

On our platform, there are many products that are manufactured out of African batik, making customers ask us repeatedly what Batik is. Batik is an ancient but still modern form of dying textiles. Here is a mini-crash course  to feed your curiosity. ‘Mbatik’ is Javanese and it means to write with Wax. Claimed to have been originally invented on the Indonesian island of Java, this traditional dyeing technique has conquered the globe and is now an integral part of the fashion world.

The batik technique is an old textile dyeing process, in which patterns are hand-made using special tools to draw out liquid wax on textiles. When the wax is cold, the fabric is dipped into a color vault. The wax-covered area remains unaffected by the dye and retains their original color. The process is repeated by the batik artist often as needed, and always in different color baths, making sure that the lighter color tones are dyed first. After the dye-bathing process is completed, the wax is removed, giving the textile a beautiful pattern.  This basic technique is the same all over the world, even if the names of the tools, the techniques and the way of wearing the batik materials may differs.

In the middle of the 19th century, Dutch traders who visited Nigeria

Back then, then brought along with them the batik technique from India. Arriving at the coast of Lagos, where the Yoruba  are situated, the indigene quickly adopted the technique to their own, blending the batik technique with their traditional dyeing methods. This was the birth of the African batik. Now you do not only have the classic batik wax printing techniques, you also have the Yorubas tie and dye techniques, where certain parts of the fabric is tied and deepened into dye to give random but unique patterns.

Indigo colors serve as colorants and instead of synthetic wax, manioc bushes are used, which makes the Yoruba indigo African batik process, popularised by the award winning artist Nike, an organic dying process without artificial chemicals.

Hey, thank you so much for stopping by and reading through to the end. I really appreciate it, because it takes so much to put this together. Hope you liked it. If you did, remember to share this blog on social media. Yes, more free training and videos on this topic will be out this month on YouTube. Not to miss out,  subscribe and turn on the notification on Youtube. It would be nice if you follow me on instagram as I share daily strategies and personal fun stuff. I am on facebook as well but to get it all in one place, subscribe to my free newsletter. Drop your comments, questions, feedback beneath using the comment section and I will be happy to answer your questions in my next video or blog.

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

Cheers,

Joana

Useful links:

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joadreofficial/
  • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/joadretv
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjoadre/
  • Joadre blog: https://joadre.com/blog/
  • Joadre Newsletter: https://joadre.com/newsletter

Its our right to demand equality!

Joadre
-
0
Its our right to demand equality!

Women should earn less because they are less intelligent? Weaker? Dumb? I guess Korwin-Mikke never heard of Valentina Tereshkova who visited space while he was still struggling to understand his masculine privileges or neither has he heard of  Liala Ali who could definitely rehabilitate his mind with one left-hand punch.  I must say, he bluffed me. My intellectual female brain still cannot comprehend how he was able to gather evidence to back up boycotting more than half of human population. When you hear something like this, you might say “we need a political and legal reform to create gender equality” but when you wait a decade for that reform to have effect in your domestic environment, you definitely will get bored and take to the streets again, but this time demanding  a new reordering of society where we completely eliminate male supremacy and the the concept of gender entirely. Or maybe just “Encourage feminine behaviour rather than masculine behaviour”. At one point, you simply get confused. What do we want? Lets agree on something that globally affects every woman. Financial independence! If we can eliminate financial dependence of women, probably that would bring more equality. Whats you take on this approach?

Talking about female independence and taking action, many African entrepreneurs have taking the situation into their hands. Take for example fabric weaving tradition in the Nigerian textile industry. Over decaded, the art of hand weaving fabrics on a loom has been passed down from generation to generation. Aso oke fabric, (Yoruba: Așǫ oke, pronounced ah-SHAW-okay) is a hand loomed cloth woven by the Yoruba people of western Nigeria. Aso oke means top cloth. Usually used to make men’s gowns, called Agbada, women’s wrappers, called iro, and men’s hats, called fila. From our collection, we have different urban products  made out of the same handwoven Asooske fabric.

The fabric is prestigious. Actually, people wear this original fabric to weddings and celebrations. But what I love about the Aso-Oke is that it has this pro-female vibe around it. When we visited some weavers down south Nigeria, we were amazed to see the division of labour between the females and males. The designs and styles to be woven are dictated by the women, while the actual weaving is done by the men. If translated into the urbanised fashion industry, the chief designers are females and producers carrying our the designers instructions are males. Awesome. They come in 17cm width and very long, so you can join them together for your DIYs like pillows cases. If you want to see more pictures, more aso-oke products, check them in hubcouture app.

Ok, if we had stuck to the UN 1999 women’s day theme, “World Free of Violence Against Women” , we would have definitely been in a much more better place. They have some amazing themes but some, especially the ones with “and” is hilarious. 1998  it was “Women and Human Rights”, 1997 “Women and the Peace Table”, 2001 “Women and Peace”, 2004 “Women and HIV/AIDS”, 2009 “Women and Men…”. But thank God, that was the last with the “and “ conjunction. Like I said, I am sticking to the 1999 theme “World Free of Violence Against Women“. Let simply elaborate and be clear about the term Violence. Violence against women is, collectively, violent acts that are primarily or exclusively committed against women (also future women included called girls) because they are women.  I love this UN theme because, Violence against women is something happening everywhere, to the poor, rich even if you are Rihanna, no matter your religion, age group, origin. Its the incurable virus out there that we need to fight till the end of humankind. 

Now about the gifts on International Women’s Day, I have outed my opinion. Stop it!

Hey, thank you so much for stopping by and reading through to the end. I really appreciate it, because it takes so much to put this together. Hope you liked it. If you did, remember to share this blog on social media. Yes, more free training and videos on this topic will be out this month on YouTube. Not to miss out,  subscribe and turn on the notification on Youtube. It would be nice if you follow me on instagram as I share daily strategies and personal fun stuff. I am on facebook as well but to get it all in one place, subscribe to my free newsletter. Drop your comments, questions, feedback beneath using the comment section and I will be happy to answer your questions in my next video or blog.

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

Cheers,

Joana

Useful links:

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joadreofficial/
  • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/joadretv
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjoadre/
  • Joadre blog: https://joadre.com/blog/
  • Joadre Newsletter: https://joadre.com/newsletter

More Than Ever, 45 Million People Are enslaved! Modern slavery

Joadre
-
0
More Than Ever, 45 Million People Are enslaved! Modern slavery

But for who do they have to work for?. Who are they salves to?. Who do they produce for or render services to?. Apart from the person or network directly profiting from their work by forcefully taking the money they earn, the products they make and the services they render, finds its way into our global retail and consumer industry.

Meaning products made by people who are being exploited, may stand  in your face at your favourite discounter, flagship store, shopping mall, online store. They are everywhere. But the good news is that there are so many retailers now who are aware and strive to be more responsible and cautious about the products and services they sell to you.

They work so hard to make sure their businesses, products and services is  slavery free, exploitation free, human trafficking fee, meaning fairly produced with love for consumers around the world. I am a global citizen, you are a global citizen who consumes from all over the world, think about your coffee, your foodstuff, your clothing, your gemstones and jewelries, your shoes, your chocolate, your fuel. You see, this makes it our responsibility to promote and support responsible retailers and producers anyway we can, no matter how little it is.

Is there slavery happening in your beloved city. Slavery that we know now, human trafficking affects every country of the world. Either as a donor country, meaning where enslaved people come from or as a transit country, meaning where they are transported through or as a destination country meaning, where they get exploited. How does slavery, human trafficking  affect our lives, our values, as believers or nonbelievers, as fashionistas, as foodies, as tourists or just as humans. Please share your comments and questions beneath this video.

Know that the real discussions and actions happen in the hubCouture app. You want to get more information on a slight shift of your lifestyle can create a huge positive difference, download & join us now. One video in a month, I will share our brands cause to fight human trafficking with you and give you actions that you can take today to join us prevent human trafficking. Do not miss out on any of our videos, subscribe and share this video with as many friends, colleagues, strangers you know. follow us around the world on Facebook and Instagram . Thank you and remember that doing good is the new cool!

Your clothes can prevent trafficking. My TEDx Talk

Joadre
-
0
Your clothes can prevent trafficking. My TEDx Talk

[trx_widget_video link=”https://youtu.be/fNP-ZP-EmVw”]

Such a pity that my first life TEDx experience in 2016 was when I had to host my TEDx talk, but the good thing is that I now know that every small step towards sustainable life is better than nothing at all, like Cornelia Diesenreiter from Unverschwendet said. I heard so many inspiring ideas from Music for deaf people by Raphael Silva,  then came the “Worms” from David Witzeneder who would help me reduce the time I spend disposing waste, to Symptoma by Jarna Nateqi that could save a quarter million lives using a brilliant diagnostics search engine.

Your clothes can prevent one woman from being a victim of human trafficking… Joana Adesuwa Reiterer.

And then of course there was a recall about the refugee crises by Julian Pöschl and his “Train of Hope” of how hundreds of volunteers worked tremendously to cater for over 200.000 people when the Viennese main train station become transit and home for many fellows from Syria. Unbelievable that I have know the Strawberries “bloody Women”, Betinna and Annemarie  for quite a while now but have never, until yesterday at the speakers lounge,  held the period-cup in my hands. Then I met the “Iceman and pylori, presented by Dimitrij Tureav who emphasized how a second glance could be worth the while.

All the way from San francisco came the thought of redefining what society says is beautiful. Michelle Serna challenged the audience to say “yes, I know. Thank you” after receiving a compliment. Then came the 9 year old Alma who finally had the chance to embrace her multiple identity als Bosnian and Austrian. The self-esteem of a child could be built or destroyed, depending on our approach to human diversity and identities. An extremely beautiful talk by Alma Zadic a brilliant senior associate, sharing her story as the 9 year old Alma.

Oh yes, I felt moved and empowered by the multiple feedback in black and white, in a glass with my name on it. These positive feedback affirmed my vision to restructure global cash-flow in the retail of consumer goods, to increase the income margin for people actually making our goods. A simple solution that would give people at risk to be victims of human trafficking more value for their jobs and skills, making them content in their own homes, giving them the power to ignore luring promises of human traffickers.

It was a tremendous and intensive TEDx experience created by Matthias Hass, his core team and many volunteers. But also an experience created by the audience themselves. The atmosphere, the openness of the audience to generously motivate the speakers with applauses and standing ovations. The patience of the audience to let the day go slow and relaxed as they absorb intensive ideas floating in fresh sunday air above the waters of the Danube island. It was beautiful to enjoy the lovable rhythm played by Moritz Gabriel.  To dance to the vibes by the young music band, Flowrag that crowned the day  and paved the way to a delicious multi national buffet, making you ask why such good a meal had to be the end of the day.

Thank you TEDx donauinsel team for hosting the day, for having me as a speaker, for giving us at Joadre a platform to share our vision, our mission, our message to the sexiest audience ever!

We love #make a choice.

Cheers from Joadre. Joana

If you can not share knowlegde then start with a smile!

Joadre
-
0
If you can not share knowlegde then start with a smile!

Have you ever thought of doing something extraordinary for a friend, family member or even for a stranger?  “A smile is the light in your window that tells others that there is a caring, sharing person inside” – Denis Waitley. What do you count as being caring?

Sharing does not necessarily mean you have to always give out your money, clothes, food or what have you. Sharing could start by you smiling to a stranger. Everyone needs love, care and affection. A smile is a very powerful tool, use it!

“Let my soul smile through my heart and my heart smile through my eyes, that I may scatter rich smiles in sad hearts” – Paramahansa Yogananda  (Brainy quotes). By smiling to a total stranger, friend or family member who has  had a tough day – can change a lot of things, it can even save a life.

“The real man smiles in trouble, gathers strength from distress, and grows brave by reflection” – Thomas Paine (Brainy quotes). The more we smile the better we feel. We get positive energy from smiling and being optimistic even though everything does not work out they way we want it to. Having a positive aura around you, attracts people to you, because everyone would like to be just as positive minded as you.

Sharing really is caring. If you want to be a more caring person, then you should also be willing to share your things, even knowledge. Be on the lookout for opportunities to share things, whether it’s a material object or a piece of advice or knowledge. Sharing doesn’t only mean material goods. You can also share knowledge. Take the time to talk to a high school student about the college admissions process if you’re in college. Talk to someone starting out in your career field about your experiences. Help a younger person on your tennis team master her forehand. Look for opportunities to improve a person’s life by sharing what you know. Sharing has a meditative value.

Start today by sharing at least a smile with someone, sharing is caring and caring is paving a way to making yourself a better person!

Xoxo

Joadre Editorial Team

Updated Nov. 2021

Dreams Drown In The Mediterranean – migration.

Joadre
-
0
Dreams Drown In The Mediterranean – migration.

Saturday the 18. of April 2015. A fisher boat sailing over 900 migrants 50km from Tripoli to Lampedusa. Human beings stocked by smugglers either helping them flee adversity or profiting from their adversity. Whichever way you see it, people are dying. A week before, same happened. About 400 people drowned migrating to Europe. Reckless governance push people to drown. Sealed walls of Europe let people drown. Greedy smugglers and traffickers lure people to drown. Now, there is a political grief, a theatrical parade of platonic emotions. Then the moral obligation to be silent for a minute or more, to pay homage to the dead. What about their families, their relatives, their children, their dreams, their hopes, their friends ready to embark on the same journey again and again? What about a minute or more to pay homage to sustainable solutions? It is only human to hunt a safe future, but for many it is a do or drown.

Sincerely ask yourself, would anyone intentionally choose the Mediterranean sea to die? How much doubt and confusion must have ravelled the mind? How much hope and prayers did they take as souvenirs for the journey? Is creating peace and future prospects in disadvantaged communities our biggest human challenge or is it the dreadful fear to loose the power over the poor? As much as it is a global political obligation, it is also an individual responsibility to find ways in which our daily activities can add to a safer world for all.

[/vc_column_text][vc_text_separator title=”The story of a migrant” color=”green”]

Html code here! Replace this with any non empty text and that's it.

We at Joadre have embarked on our own journey, starting with 10 women in Nigeria, we begin to redefine the way we wear clothes, the way we live our lives. Many social and business entrepreneurs are doing same and even greater. What about you? Still contemplating on what impact you could create?

Here is a story of a Nigerian man who migrated to Lybia years ago but got stuck in the war zone. “I couldn’t go back to Nigeria – the way south was blocked – so I met some people in Tripoli who said they knew how to get to Italy. They took us to a beach outside the city where there were hundreds of people camped out, all waiting to get on a boat. Some were from Syria, or Algeria, or Egypt. But most were from west or east Africa!…When I set out on the journey from Tripoli, I had no idea how dangerous it would be. I had only been on a boat once before in my life. In fact, I can’t even swim……..How is it that my life here in Berlin is worse than under Muammar Gaddafi’s dictatorship?” Read the full story on The guardian

Follow me on Instagram @iamjoadre.

Cheers, Joana

123Page 3 of 3