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. The subject for today’s story is an entrepreneur and a student that has been hit badly by the pandemic and is just trying to stay afloat.
“I have been self-isolating due to exposure to the virus. I am an entrepreneur whose business has been affected heavily and negatively due to the viral outbreak. I am Unemployed because of the pandemic”
Good afternoon. I’m from MANI and I’ll be interviewing you. I have a few questions and I’d like to know if you’re ready and comfortable. In the course of this interview, if you’re uncomfortable with any question, let me know and we’ll skip that.
Good afternoon and thank you. Yes, I am ready and comfortable.
Thank you. Do you live alone or with family?
With family, for now.
Were you living alone before the COVID outbreak?
Yes.
If you don’t mind me asking, did the COVID outbreak cause this change? If it did, how?
I was having rent problems as I was unable to pay and had no job at the time. It was the most logical option.
I’m so sorry about that. How has it been for you?
It’s been really depressing. It was like being between the devil and the deep blue sea. I had no job at the time and couldn’t really afford my basic needs.
Have things gotten any better since you’ve been with family?
Well, at least I have a place to stay and food to eat. It’s basically just surviving.
How did the outbreak affect your business?
My business is an online store. Well, people were underpricing. Then, the cost of ordering and shipping had almost doubled the capital I had left. Cost of delivery to clients who ordered was really expensive. In essence, people weren’t really focused on luxury especially during a lock down. I wouldn’t be exaggerating if I said I didn’t make any sale this year. I also do not have capital to restock.
With all that has happened and is still happening, what do you think about the survival of your business if this outbreak doesn’t end?
It has just been static. I am hoping for change. I intend to give it my best regardless.
That’s great! I’ll be praying and rooting for you.
Thank you.
Considering everything that has happened, how has your mental/emotional health been affected and what have you done to cope?
It wasn’t easy, but I found myself getting a new hobby and inculcating some new habits and routines. I started to read more books and novels, and collecting hardcover of the books if I can afford it. I added working out to my routine with a little bit of yoga.
Sometimes, I wake up sad or crying but I keep reminding myself that it is not permanent and things will change for the better.
Has your relationship with your family and friends been affected? How?
With friends, I’m still keeping up. There’s social media to keep in touch with them. For family, school is at a standstill for the younger ones and even for some friends who were furthering their studies. Still, they are all okay.
Have you gotten closer to them during this time than before?
Can’t say for all of my friends. A couple of them maybe. Some want to be in their space. However, I am closer to family.
That’s great! What plans did you have before the outbreak?
Wanted to get a job and further my studies.
How have your plans changed since the outbreak?
Schools are closed till further notice. There can be no furthering in that till things change.
How are you handling expenses given the state of your business?
Basically, I’m in a hand to mouth situation. I only spend when I need to. A couple of friends have been wonderful.
Ok! we’ve come to the end of the interview. Thank you for participating. I hope things get better for you.
Thank you again and have a good day.
Thank you very much. I hope to hear from you soon.
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.)