Chinedu Ahanonu is a satire-loving, DIY sewing enthusiast based in Lagos, Nigeria who believes in the power of grace and self-validation. Chinedu works as an Investment Analyst by day, a blogger by night and a DIY sewist at the weekend. She enjoys reading and writing particularly because words can take one on a journey of diverse experiences and emotions.
O Lord, bless the works of my hands
I have an MSc. degree in Finance and Economics and I work as an Investment Analyst by day, a blogger by night and DIY sewist at the weekend. I am also the convener of the Nedoux Sewing Club, a monthly workshop designed to equip people with basic DIY sewing skills within a social atmosphere.
What was your most embarrassing moment?
During my post graduate studies, I was to give a class presentation and had stayed up for most of the night preparing my material and practicing my speech. For some reason, perhaps fatigue, I got tongue-tied half way, the words were dancing inside my head but they wouldn’t come out of my mouth for about 3 minutes.
The lecturing professor and my course mates were quite confused. Then, I snapped out of it and carried on with my presentation. It was very embarrassing.
4. What was the inspiration behind Nedoux Sews?
The inspiration came from the desire to promote the DIY ethic, especially because it encourages self-sufficiency and an entrepreneurial spirit.
I’ve always been good with my hands and thoroughly enjoy processes that gradually come together to produce something useful. So, three years ago I enrolled in a dressmaking and pattern-drafting course.
Nedoux Sews actually started as a blog- www.nedoux.com, where I’d showcase my personal sewing projects and write about both my musings and the construction process in a witty and engaging manner that made sewing appear both fun and doable.
So, following numerous emails from my readers requesting for sewing related advice, I decided to move from simply writing about it to also convening a live class, and launched the Nedoux Sewing Club in July 2016. I hope to also make the transition to commercial dressmaking some day.
What is your greatest fear?
The fear of not achieving relevance and leaving before I’ve made my mark, with all of my dreams still trapped inside my head.
What drives you to jump out of bed every morning?
The opportunity to take one step closer towards my dreams and the desire to always make my mother proud of me, she’s been so supportive.
What advice have you been given that has helped you during the course of your career?
“Who says you cannot be more than one thing?”. It’s encouraged me to have a multi-potentialite mindset by seamlessly utilizing all of my talents, and making a conscious effort to improve my skills as I go along.
What is the most important lesson life has taught you so far?
That a supposed disappointment might just be a blessing in disguise that eventually transforms into beautiful beginnings.
What Nigerian and International Designer inspires you?
Deola Sagoe and Ralph & Russo, both designers add the “haute” to haute couture, their ateliers reflect impeccable craftsmanship and a true dedication to excellence.
What is your favourite Quote?
It’s actually a bible verse – “O Lord, bless the works of my hands”.
Time travel or teleportation?
Definitely time travel, I’m one of those people who insist that they were born in the wrong decade. I’d absolutely to love to go back and experience the Roaring Twenties, Fabulous Fifties and Swinging Sixties.
What would you like to be remembered for?
I’d love to be remembered as someone who inspired people to fully embrace and nurture all of their God-given talents, because with a sprinkle of passion and a drop of determination, a crafty hobby could blossom into a lucrative business venture.
Website: www.nedoux.com
Instagram – Nedoux_Sews
2 thoughts on “Q & A: Chinedu Ahanonu ”With a sprinkle of passion and a drop of determination, a crafty hobby could blossom into a lucrative business venture.”.”
Very inspirational and beautiful interview; questions, answers and pictures!
She is indeed a very creative lady and I love her writing (blog posts)
Very inspirational and beautiful interview; questions, answers and pictures!
She is indeed a very creative lady and I love her writing (blog posts)