Chinelo Duprim Ikegbune
Hello! I am Chinelo Duprim Ikegbune, Founder of Lucy Daves Creations.
I studied law at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, and attended the Nigerian Law School Lagos as well.
To any woman starting out in the fashion industry or starting her own company, I would say, focus on your journey, keep going. Procrastination will kill your zeal, do not water it. Just do it, it may seem like your little efforts do not add up, one day you will be shocked to see how far you have come.
Company Name: Lucy Daves Creations
Location: Lagos, Nigeria
Operating since: 2017
Instagram: @lucy.daves
What products do you offer?
At Lucy Daves, we make leather footwear for women, men and children. Our footwears are handcrafted to perfection and we offer a wide range of sizes for women. Women who wear from a size 44-46 have found a home with us.
How did you get the idea or concept for your organization/company?
During my final year at the university, for some reason, I kept telling my sister I wanted to start making footwear. I didn’t get the concept from anywhere, it was just laid in my heart somehow. The inspiration came from wanting to be more than just another existing human being on earth. I wanted to be more and do more. In 2016, during my NYSC days, I went for shoemaking classes in camp, and once we got out, I threw every little penny I had into making my dream a reality.
Growing up, did you always intend to start your own company?
Growing up I thought I would be a psychologist, I never thought I would run my own company. Life has a way of turning out how we least expect it to.
How have your past personal & professional experiences helped you to run your company?
A year after I launched my business, I got a job in the banking sector. The experience is something that built my people’s skills. I learnt how to deal with customers one on one. I learnt to be patient and emphatic while resolving issues. Every single thing I learnt came in handy in my business after I quit my job.
What's your definition of success? Do you consider yourself a success? If not, when will you?
Success is finding your purpose and doing it with all the strength you’ve got. Success is being happy and remembering to pull someone else up as you climb. I consider myself successful but a work in progress as well.
Describe yourself in ONE word. “I am…” strong-willed
Complete this sentence: "To be a girl or woman today is..." To be strong and amazing