Meet Our Iris, Nifemi.

"I'm definitely an Iris because, for the past few years, I've been able to understand my core values to be hope and courage."

Meet Oluwanifemi Akindeji-Oladeji. She was born in 2005 and attended Ibadan International School in Ibadan, Nigeria.

Who were you in secondary school?

I was a social and very adventurous person. I found myself with a range of people who gave me different perspectives and insights into the world. I also had a lot of drive, I loved pushing limits and some would say I was a noisemaker :)

Who are you now?

As much as I will still consider myself a social butterfly, I'm learning the value of conserving my energy for my vision and passion. I have become very determined and committed to following my dreams.

What dreams did you have when you were younger?

The only dream I remember having was to be a fashion designer.

Have they changed over time?

Not at all, I think the only thing that has changed is that I see this dream being an instrument of hope and encouragement for other creatives.

Talk to us about your other interests. What do you do for fun?

Asides from crocheting, I love dancing, taking pictures and recently discovered an interest in African literature. I also love working with kids so I've been teaching kids how to crochet.

Did any of these interests influence your passion?

Yes, my love for crochet correlated with my dream of being a fashion designer.

When did you realize you were interested in Fashion Design?

For as long as I can remember, I have always been interested in arts and creativity. I remember making my mum pay for make-up lessons during the 2018 summer and spending subsequent summers doing internships with fashion-related businesses so I've more or less always known I was interested in fashion but I think the vision became very clear in 2021 just before I graduated secondary school.

What/Who inspired/helped you take your passion to the next level?

My family. They have been my biggest inspiration and supporters. I also craved some sense of independence.

Were there any discouraging factors in your process?

Restarting a brand from the ground up.

Did your secondary school play any role in elevating/deterring this passion?

The advice from specific teachers was very elevating but deterring? They couldn't even if they tried.

Do you think secondary schools encourage students’ entrepreneurial minds?

From my experience, there was no significant encouragement.

What are the most difficult & most rewarding aspects of Viridia?

The most challenging aspect is the work, time and effort I have to put into the business. The most rewarding aspect is seeing people wear my pieces and eating them up every time! Also, seeing kids enjoy crocheting.

Have you ever wanted to give up? Why?

No. I've never wanted to give up, every challenge has pushed me further.

Where do you see your business in 3 years?

I see Viridia as a community inspiring young minds.

Where do you see yourself in 3 years?

I'm not sure actually. I'm just living in the present and trusting Gods divine plan for me.

Whether you know it or not, we think you’re inspirational. With how you’ve gone about life so far, any words of advice to someone reading this?

My advice to anyone reading this is to follow your passion and never be afraid to start over. In starting over, also learn to be very patient because nothing good comes from rushing. I will also say you should be very open-minded and try to learn something from everything that happens in your life be it good or bad.

Do you have any advice for IgeLead & what we’re trying to do?

No, I don't have any advice right now. I love what IgeLead is doing and I think this is very essential in today's Nigeria.

Thank you for growing with us.