On Side Hustle Diaries today, we’ll be chatting with Temi Thomas. She’s a writer, and also manages her own hair business.
Hello Temi, please introduce yourself
“My name is Temilola Brianna Thomas, a 21-year-old graduate of Political Science from the University of Ibadan. I’m currently working as a writer with an online platform. I’m considered a jack of many trades as I’m a fashion designer and the C.E.O of Bria’s Touch, a hair extension service providing hair services ranging from hair coloring, styling, wig making, hair care/treatment, and pretty much anything hair related.”
| (Photo: Instagram/ Briastouch) |
Do you enjoy your full-time job?
“Yes, I do, because it’s not the standard white-collar job that puts restrictions on self-expression. Being a writer serves as an avenue to educate and raise awareness on a lot of subjects particularly focused on women.”
How did you start your side hustle?
“From a young age, my amazing grandmother who raised me always stressed the need to learn a skill and become an entrepreneur. She set me on the path of fashion designing by enrolling me in a fashion school before I got into university. By the time I graduated, I realized that I was very passionate about hair care. Everyone around me noticed and advised to make a profession of it. I had the idea for a long time but didn’t do anything till I got my current job. To tell you the truth it was actually a member of staff that pushed me to make something of this passion and I’m forever grateful to her. My first official client was actually another member of the team.”
Did you get discouragement from the people around you?
“Everyone around me was very supportive. My grandma helped out financially, my sister was my confidant and advisor, and my aunty advertised me to all her friends. My first set of clients were all friends who I appreciate very much.”
(Photo: Temi Thomas)
How has your entrepreneurship experience been?
“The experience has been very encouraging, the ability to satisfy my clients always puts a smile
on my face. The one lesson I’ve learned is to never be afraid to push myself and be confident in my abilities.”
How do you cope with balancing work, your side hustle, and everything else?
“Balancing work with my business was quite challenging at first but it taught me the importance of time management and increased my level of determination. I find myself constantly working overnight but I’m doing what I love, so I don’t feel the effect. My social life also became quieter, but I’m not bothered by that either.”
| (Photo: Temi Thomas) |
Do you have any advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?
“My advice is to never get comfortable with where you are because your current situation is not your final destination. Take the step and pursue your passion, and even if you fall, there’s no other way to move than upwards. I’m not close to where I want to be but I’m definitely still in the race.”
You can connect with Temi’s hair business on Instagram here
0 Comments