Meet Bukola Betiku | Entrepreneur/Strategist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Bukola Betiku and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Bukola, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The process was a little difficult at first since I didn’t know how to start a business or where to begin, so trying to put that up first appeared to be really challenging. At the time, I was in the living room with a friend when we started talking about African goddesses and how I felt like superheroes on television appropriated their imagery without giving them credit. I also mentioned that I wanted to take action to change this.
I became quite upset about it, and I immediately set out to develop a strategy for how to spread the word to everyone, especially those of African origin, because far too many items have been appropriated from the continent without proper attribution.
Additionally, I had the best support system (FAMILY & BEST FRIENDS) by my side at all times because it would not have been possible without them.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
When I was in high school or secondary school more than 16 years ago, my mother brought some makeup products home, and I just started playing around with them. It was love at first sight; I absolutely loved the way the colors blended and how it was interpreted artistically. I had to learn techniques on my own because I am self-taught.
You never stop learning about makeup, which keeps you interested and driven.
It was not easy for me to get here today because I had a lot of difficulties launching the business, creating the advertising materials, and enlisting influencers to help. You often find that people will always be people, but you must not let that stop you.
Regarding the difficulties I encountered when starting the business, a friend named Sincere Edwards guided me along the way. My closest friends helped me set everything up and helped me overcome any obstacles that came up.
No man is an island, and it really does take a village, are the lessons I’ve already learnt. Keep your original sense of excitement about beginning your business alive by surrounding yourself with individuals who are sincere and want to progress with you.
My company is in the cosmetics industry, and as of now, a large portion of its content will be centered on inclusion. OJUBEAUTY just released two eyeshadow palettes featuring the African goddesses YEMOJA and OSUN.
This year, we plan to introduce new products.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Dinner at Kessaku or Monarch, as I love to eat and take in the city, would be my choice. Six Flags will make your inner child happy, lol.
A good meal at The French Room for brunch or lunch. A fun evening at Zodiac and Xsheeha. The reunion tower for some classes in painting and sip.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First and foremost, I would like to dedicate this shoutout to my parents, Christiana Bennett and Oluwole Betiku, because without their support, I would not be where I am today. I would also like to thank my brothers, Oluwole and Juwon Betiku, for being my rock throughout this entire process. My big cousin Dr. Paul Igbide, who has supported me greatly along the way. Finally, I’d like to thank my closest sisters and friends for supporting me through all of it, through both laughter and sorrow. Ayo Fagbemi, Uche Umerah, Alexandra Dews, and Carla Currie! Without your unwavering support, this would not exist.
I adore you all.

Website: Ojubeauty.com

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