Kikelomo
Managing Director, Ann Marie, a health and beauty spa, Kike Ajibade, is a graduate of Computer Science from the University of Middlesex, United Kingdom. She also holds a master’s in Housing Management. In this interview, she speaks about her interest in the manufacturing of beauty products
| Q |
: Why did you delve into health and beauty management having earned a master’s in Housing Management?
| A |
: I have always believed in beauty and it has always been part of me since I was a kid. I usually pay extra attention to my looks, especially my skin. I had my primary and secondary school education in Nigeria. I was at Yaba College of Technology before I left for England, where I did computer science before I studied Housing Management at Middlesex University, London. I also earned a master’s in the institution. I also did in short programmes on several management courses. I was taking some short beauty courses when I realised this is what I really wanted to do. As a child, I would imitate my late mother whenever she was dressing. I believe every woman must look good and no matter how good you are on the inside, the outward must actually portray what is inside. It is my passion. It is something I really desire and the satisfaction for me is when women’s skins glow.
| Q |
: Do you think beauty management is gaining ground in Nigeria?
| A |
: Yes, it is. There is no woman who is not beautiful, as long as she is ready to take care of her skin and hair. Beauty, I believe, is like a total package. It comprises your behaviour, attitude, and inner person, which then radiates to the outward. It is a total thing. I always tell women that you can not put a price on your skin. It’s just priceless and that is how I view every skin I treat. Imagine this: You have a Rolls Royce Ghost— a top notch car. The engine is fantastic, and the body is great. Put it on the road and it would do you a 130/200 per hour. But when it is not cared for, it goes bad. The same applies to your skin. We all have great skin especially in Africa—we don’t age quickly. If you don’t take care of your skin, what happens? It gets bad. When a woman visits a spa (which is affordable), her body and skin is taken care of.
| Q |
: When did the idea of manufacturing beauty products come up?
| A |
: I started with natural soap, which I always refer to as a child of necessity. Initially, it was produced for women I worked on their skins but the demand became high and we changed gear. Africa is blessed with natural products such as black soaps and shea butter. Armed with the skills I acquired abroad, I came up with quite a number of them. Manufacturing of beauty products would have been profitable in Nigeria but there are a lot of challenges.
| Q |
: What are the challenges?
| A |
: My biggest challenge is getting dedicated work force. Unlike what obtains abroad, you have a cynical labour force here, where emphasis is not placed on hardwork. Many are ready to learn but they only come, see and rush off to become their own bosses! The value on dedication to duty is dead! Moreover, the cost of generating electricity for business is very high.
| Q |
: What is your definition of style?
| A |
: I am very conservative. I don’t know if my style is contemporary or retro. But I just have my own style and wear whatever suits me. I don’t join the fashion bandwagon. I love the clothes I wear and I am cool with my phase of fashion. I hate anything that would reveal my body. Dressing is all about moderation. I am given to smart casuals, tops, lots of pants and denim. My native attire depends on the occasion and I love simple but gorgeous accessories. My wardrobe could have been larger than what it is but I give out a lot. I love accessories.
| Q |
: As a mother and wife, how do you juggle your daily activities?
| A |
: Simple. I learn to prioritise and I have the full support of my husband, Dr. Owolabi Ajibade, a London trained chemical engineer. We started a family in London and lived there for a good number of years before relocating to Nigeria. I have learnt to do certain things on my own. I also delegate tasks.
| Q |
: How does a woman age gracefully?
| A |
: I am 46 but I have learnt to practise healthy lifestyle. That means, I am conscious of what I eat, drink and exercise. Also, I don’t joke with spa treatments especially massages.
No comments:
Post a Comment