Ejimba Thecla, from Anambra State, is the CEO of Tekland Threads, a male fashion designing outfit in Abuja. In this interview, Ejimba talks about why it’s imperative for business owners to be professional.
What motivated you to start your business?
Growing up among five solid men, my dad and four brothers, I have always loved the simplicity and how effortlessly they dressed up and still looked great.
Most times I would end up wearing baggy clothes just to feel the comfort in an outfit, unlike the sophisticated shapely ladylike wears.
I started with learning how to knot ties, to being on low cut and till date, my day to day wears are big Polo shirts and jean trousers.
So, this grew my urge of venturing into the business.
What have been your challenges so far?
Yes of course, being a lady in the men’s business world is not an easy fit, competing with the male folk to decipher what men want.
At the beginning, it was tough to differentiate the real clients and admirers.
One blatantly told me he was done with me because I refused his advances.
Then, the challenge of customer satisfaction: some men are really hard to please, but in all of these, we thrive and keep winning.
What are your plans for expansion?
In the next three to five years, Tekland Threads would be a well-known brand all over the world, with fashion schools and branches across the major cities in Nigeria by the grace of God.
How has the business lifted other youths?
Being a youth myself, I understand the value and creativity young people bring to this industry.
Tekland Threads have so far trained a couple of young people.
We already have 10 people in our employment. Going forward through our fashion schools and other skill acquisition platforms which we hope to roll out in the near future, we plan to reach more people.
What is your advice for youths on self-employment?
Nothing good comes free, we can no longer afford the luxury of waiting for success to be handed to us on a platter.
The world is not a fairy tale, at the slightest opportunity; learn a skill of any type. And never forget that it is okay to fail and try again.
Be humble and be your own person.
