AFAS SPOTLIGHT: ADEKUNLE MARIAM

Afas Press: May we know you?

Mariam: My name is Adekunle Mariam. I am a 200L student in the department of Classics, University of Ibadan.

Afas Press: What business are you into?

Mariam: I am into cakes and snacks making and planning events.

Afas Press: So we can say you’re a caterer and an event planner?

Mariam: Yes, exactly.

Afas Press: When did you start your business?

Mariam: I started officially in 2018.

Afas Press: How’s been the journey for you?

Mariam: So far, God has been grateful. I will say it’s more challenging at the begining, just the way it is for most start-ups. Getting people to believe in you isn’t easy. I always try to put my best into everything I do to gain my clients trust. So, being at my best is still something I want to keep doing to keep sustaining the trust. There are competition everywhere. We all have to be at the top of our game.

Afas Press: I agree with you, no business person should ever lose sight of the game.

You started in 2018, was that before or after to got to UI?

Mariam: I started officially few months before I gained admission. I have been practicing before that time though.

Afas Press: Nice.

Now as a student, do you have enough time for your business?

Mariam: Putting the two together isn’t easy. Imagining having to deliver to a client very early in the morning. Let’s say 7am. At the same time, I have a class scheduled for 7am. Just imagine how crazy that is! Well, I have been able to manage this situation and similar ones in a way or the other. It’s stressful. Education is important; business is important. This is where I find myself and God has been making the two bearable.

Afas Press: Well done.

Would you give us some details about event planning?

Mariam: Basically, an event planner is one who works on client’s event. You put their budget, taste, and everything that will make their events beautiful, comfortable and fulfilling into consideration. So, the goal is to make the event a success.

Afas Press: As an event planner how do you plan an event successfully? What are the things you work with and who are the people you work with?

Mariam: Understanding what a client wants is the key. It’s important to see through a client’s desire. When you know what a client wants, you will know how to deliver, what to deliver and the kind of suggestions you can place on the table for the client. Talking about the things and people I work with: I have my team under my brand and if situation warrants, I work with other professional colleagues.

Afas Press: Nice.

What are the challenges you face as a caterer and event planner?

Mariam: Every business no doubt has its challenges. In my case I will say I am still going through the challenge of getting some equipment needed for expansion. That’s the major challenge.

Afas Press: Does working with your team pose a challenge to you at all?

Mariam: Not at all.

Afas Press: How do you handle stress (work stress)?

Mariam: I take some time off to enjoy music, watch movies or go online to catch some fun.

Afas Press: Good.

How has been a student of Classics, in the University of Ibadan?

Mariam: Good. University of Ibadan on its own is a nice institution to be. Classics on the other hand is phenomenal…Lol. I am enjoying the ride Sha. Interesting.

Afas Press: Interesting!

If I’m to ask you for a ‘perspire to aspire’ motivation for other business persons (event planners) what would it be?

Mariam: Be yourself; don’t be like anybody. You’re at your best when you are yourself. Slow and steady will get you there.

Afas Press: Do you advertise your business and what is the best model you use?

Mariam: I advertise on social media by posting some of the works.

Afas Press: Nice.

What’s your brand name, and on social media platforms?

Mariam: Maricaspicy Cakes and Events.

Facebook: Maricaspicy Cakes and Events.

Instagram: @Maricas_spicy

Afas Press: Thank you so much for granting us your audience.

This would bring us to the end of this interview.