Motivational! Meet The Young Nigerian Female Graduate Turned Shoemaker

The story of the pretty young lady pictured above Michelle Ekure, who was born into the family of Mr. Ekure in Eku, Delta State, will amaze you.

According to reports, Michelle, graduated from the department of International Studies and Diplomacy from the University of Benin, UNIBEN. After she graduated from school, she began to search for job but to no avail.

In an interview with Lukmon of Wazobia Global Times, USA, Michelle narrated how the journey into shoe making started for her.

• So Why shoe making?

Michelle : My inspiration is from God, I never knew I would be a shoemaker. I graduated from the University six years ago, after which I looked for for job, but to know avail. At sometimes I got employed by a company in Lagos, but the boss was owing too much so I left.

On how it started, there is this other company I buy sandals in Lagos and resell. They sell nice shoes, so one day I thought to myself that I can tell this people to make sandals for me with my label,  so I approached them and they said yes. That was how I got my first set of shoes. Then a friend introduced me to a guy that makes shoes. I watch him make shoes one day and I was amazed then I asked him to teach me and he did.

• So how do you drive sales and who are your target customers?

Michele : My target audience are Men of honors, people like the famous Nigerians comedian Alibaba…lol . I  make direct sales, but I drive more sales on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook and twitter. Michele leather sales per week is over 50 pairs.

• Wow! That’s a great number. You must be a workaholic. Do you have partners?

Michelle : No, maybe someday. But I have people that are learning under me.

• How many are your apprentice?

Michelle : There are about 6 of them and more are still coming.

• Talking about the Nigerian famous comedian Alibaba. We’ve seen pictures of you with him. Are you in anyway related?

Michelle : No we’re not related, but he is like a father to me. He always want to see me succeed.

• So, if not shoe making, what would you have ventured into?

Michelle : Maybe work at foreign affairs of British council or UN  embassy. I love to be a diplomat .

• So,  what’s your advice to young ladies that are yet to find there ways out there?

Michelle : I always tell people I come in contact with that are looking for job to start something, anything you are good at can bring money to you or just learn a trade.

Photo credit: Wazobia Global Times