HD INTERVIEW SESSION: BUILDING UP BRANDS AS A YOUTH

Today ON THE BLOG, we interview Dasaolu Ayodeji on what building up brands as a youth in Nigeria means.

Dasaolu Ayodeji is the founder and creative director of Startouch Concepts, a growing and formidable startup in Nigeria. A brand that aims to create fashion accessories and statement pieces for men and women.

He takes us through his journey of starting a business in his university days and the business now, especially during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

HoneyDrops: So, tell us about yourself?

Deji: Hmm… Well, my name is Dasaolu Iyinoluwa Ayodeji. I am the Founder and Creative Director, Startouch concept. A graduate of English from the University of Ilorin. I love to create, sing and watch movies.

HoneyDrops: Tell us more about Startouch Concept? What is it all about? How did you start, and why did you see the need to?

Deji: Okay… My journey of entrepreneurship started in my University days. In 200l, I wanted to learn a trade. I was enrolled under someone who taught me how to make roses and decorative flower designs. Then, I saw a lapel pin for the first time and I fell in love with it. Rather than wanting to buy it, I wanted to make it. Then I started applying the knowledge of the trade I had learnt into making lapel pins. The same is the story for all of our products too. I saw them, loved them, became curious about making them and learnt how to.

However, the brand, Startouch concept, came as a result of the fact that I wanted to show people that Nigerian products could compete with international standards, making quality affordable. I couldn’t do everything, so I chose to focus on accessories. This brand got its name in 2018, and it’s been quite a ride since then.

We started with lapel pins, then went to pocket squares, neckties, bowties, etc.

HoneyDrops: Nice. Are your products for men only or are there some ladies can add to their closets?

Deji: Well, we started with men’s accessories. I noticed that men’s accessories are more expensive compared to those of the ladies and wanted to do something about this. However, we are working towards something special for the ladies.
Also, lapel pins are used by ladies too. I smile when I’m told that it’s for only men. I have pictures that say it’s not. Okay, I will send only a few though. Check out the rest on our Instagram page.

HoneyDrops: That’s lovely… We hope to see more for ladies

Deji: Certainly… I can’t wait too.

HoneyDrops: So, what has business been like, especially during the COVID-19 Pandemic and can I say post-lockdown (as the gradual easing up occurs)?

Deji: Hmm… At the start of the lockdown, it was terrible. There was nothing! I am grateful for it, though. I got to do a lot of thinking, strategizing, rebranding, and learning and came up with ideas that I know will change everything once the country is fully reopened. The lockdown allowed me to come up with some crazy ideas and solve foundational problems I had with the business.

Currently, there’s been a positive change in business flow since the ease of the lockdown. I hope that things continue to get better and trust God for an increase in the coming days.

HoneyDrops: Wow, that’s cool
You started your brand in your university days. Do you have any advice for young entrepreneurs who are interested in building up brands as a youth and tips for how to manage time and balance business with other life activities (like in your case schooling)?

Deji: The truth is that doing business while in school means you have to put in more effort than the rest. So, get people who will work with you to lighten your load. Secondly, capital is first people before it becomes money. When you do business, let it meet a need. That’s the easiest way to people’s pockets. However, focus more on the need than the profit, so you’ll notice when their needs change and can easily adjust. Doing business in school is mostly dependent on the relationships you make. Make good relationships within and outside the business. It helps.

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HoneyDrops: Alright, If you could say 1 thing to entrepreneurs what would it be?

Deji: Never stop learning. Wait, listen and learn.

HoneyDrops: Thanks Deji

Deji: My utmost pleasure. Thanks for having me.

HoneyDrops: On a final note, how can we contact you or find your business.

Deji: Follow us on Instagram via @startouch_concepts and call/SMS/WhatsApp 08160077755

Please feel free to ask any questions in the comment section. Deji will be available to give an answer. Also, don’t forget to reach out to him.