A young Niger Delta entrepreneur, of Kome Joy, has urged the federal, state and local government governments to provide needed financial supports to young entrepreneurs devoid of political affiliations
Miss Kome, who spoke exclusively to journalists online from her Ughelli, Delta State base, said with needed funds she has the capacity of training more in her unique business of crocheting, just as she recalled how she has made a living from her passion since her secondary school days, with the little upkeep from her parents.
Kome, who is a nurse by profession, while explaining her challenges, also said her business is thriving on average despite the harsh downturn of the economy.
Her words: I started crocheting from way back in secondary school. But it was just for myself, as I was so passionate about it. I was motivated by the beauty of knitted and crocheted wear and I told myself I would make something like this, create my own patterns and explore the world with it.
“Then I started making crochet outfits out of passion, but later it became a business too, because friends started patronizing me. Then I realized that there is money to be made in crocheting. It takes a lot of time and effort to make one outfit, but it is definitely worth it,” she added.
It was not all roses for the young entrepreneur as she added, “My challenges, which I later discovered as demands increased, is that crochet wears take time to make, it is really stressful, takes a lot of time and effort, because it is one hundred percent handmade.
“And sometimes one just gets choked up with orders that need to be delivered in a short period. Another main challenge is that a lot of people think crochet outfits are too expensive so they underprice them.
“Most people may want a particular crochet outfit, but are discouraged by the price as they compare it with knitted wears and already-made clothes, not considering the uniqueness of crochet wears in designs and quality.
“As of today, I sell wholesale too. I have people who buy from me in bulk and resell. Just place the order, and I’ll deliver within a particular time frame.
“I need more funds to expand the business. We only hear about government support for young entrepreneurs, but most often these things are politicized.
“I plead with the government at all levels to come help us with grants so I can employ more hands and have time to teach so many young people who are interested in learning the unique business” she said
She also said she is able to combine her nursing career with the business as she finds both complementary
“for her: “My ability to combine both time-demanding jobs is because I am passionate about them. That is why I advise people to make money from passion that makes it easier to blend..
