We are working with the Journalist, Socrates Mbamalu to share stories from people that have been directly and indirectly affected by this pandemic.
#CovidStories is a new MANI series where we interview people whose lives have been impacted by this pandemic. This entrepreneur that has had all her plans scattered by the pandemic is taking each day as it comes with positivity and hope, as she is determined to enjoy every little moment that comes her way.
The subject for today’s story is an entrepreneur. She walks us through life in Covid and how she’s adjusting to the new reality.
What’s the first business you ever did?
Does writing count? I started writing in 2014. But I was writing mostly novels and poetry. Then in 2018, I started making beads and coconut oil. In addition, I also make foot wear. Lastly, I train people as a gym instructor.
Wow. That’s a lot.
Well, even with everything, Covid has still been affecting my businesses. I’ve been locked inside the house.
I can’t sell my products the way I do. I make coconut oil and sell to people that order for it. But ever since the pandemic started, I haven’t had customers. I also train people on how to make coconut oil and beads and I can’t do that either. For the writing aspect, I am still waiting for that big break; nothing yet. So, my business is stagnant and I am not moving forward. To make matters worse, I have no support.
So sorry. Do you live alone? Do you have some type of support (emotional/financial) during this time?
No, I’m staying with my family for now. Even though I live with my family, there’s still no support from them. I do everything myself. It’s a long story and I’ll rather not get into why. I just hope that it all makes sense one day.
Me too. Do you have any staff for your business?
No, I don’t have any staff. It’s a really small business.
That’s scary. How optimistic are you for your business if this pandemic doesn’t end soon?
I am positive that I’ll go far. I have the passion for this business and I know it’ll take me far. All I need is financial support if only I can get one. But if I can’t, then I’ll keep striving till I get there by his grace.
My business is going to be life changing physically and spiritually. I can feel it.
Amen! How has this whole covid experience affected your mental/emotional wellbeing? And what have you adopted to cope at this time? has been your coping mechanism?
This experience really affected me mentally and emotionally. It scattered a lot of my plans.
I’d have achieved so much if covid hadn’t obstructed my way. I haven’t been myself, I think a lot, even when ideas and plans come to mind, I only write it down because there’s no motivation to execute.
I feel really sad.
I just know that no matter what situation you find yourself in, you should never give up.
Never give is the biggest lesson for me. I won’t give up on my plans and opportunities. I’ll keep striving until I get to where I want. This belief is what has been helping me get through.
Would you like to add anything?
Yes. Always remember that life is about enjoying the little moments while struggling to achieve our aim. It’s important to not let it pass us by.
If you have a story to share with us about your experiences during this pandemic, please click here.
Interview carried out by our awesome Covid Interview team-(Halima, Asma, Tosin and Jeniffer.)