LASU Graduate and Founder of Kitchen Services Reveals How She Took Bold Step to Start Food Business

University of Lagos (LASU) Graduate and Founder of Kitchen Services Reveals How She Took a Bold Step to Start Food Business, Oyindamola is a caterer and the Chief Executive Officer of Kitchen Contact Services, Getting positive feedback priceless — Animashaun.

Tell us about your background?

I come from a family of five— three daughters and my parents. We are from Lagos State. I schooled, work and live in Lagos.

I attended the University of Lagos. After my first degree, I studied Human Resources for my post-graduate studies. After that, I attended short-term cooking classes to enhance my cooking skills. I then took the bold step to start a food business.

How did you start your catering business?

Right from my teenage years, I had always had a passion for cooking. I started cooking from a young age, and my mother always invited me to the kitchen, whenever she was cooking. I have always been very sensitive and intentional about what I eat, or whatever is dished out to me and the people around me.

I started my business in 2018. My mother’s friend was having an intimate gathering, and she told my mum about it. My mum then mentioned to her friend that I could handle the food for that day. That same weekend, a friend asked if I knew any caterer that could deliver food for a beach party, and I told her that I could do it. We had a discussion, and she eventually paid. That was how the business started receiving orders.

What is the biggest contract you’ve handled?

That would be when we catered in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, for the popular Ojude Oba Festival. A friend’s mum referred me for the job, and I am thankful it went well.

How much did you make from the job?

 I don’t remember, because it was years ago. However, the profit was decent.

How do you advertise your business?

Social media has become a really powerful tool for businesses. We run adverts on Instagram and Facebook. We also print flyers and distribute them at different places.

What are the challenges you face in your line of business?

The increase in the cost of foodstuff has become really scary, and it is getting worse by the day. Inflation has always been a big challenge for both customers and suppliers.

Inadequate power supply is another issue, as that hinders proper preservation of food.

Did you start your business as a means of survival, or it was the fulfillment of a dream?

The establishment of my business was never about survival. I always knew I would venture into either the food or fashion business. I am glad I made the right choice.

Why do you think more people seem to be embracing entrepreneurship these days, unlike what obtained in the past?

The need to have multiple streams of income is very important if one wants to live a comfortable life, considering the present state of the economy. Depending on a salary won’t give one the lifestyle that one really desires, except one is paid millions of naira, or one is comfortable with earning little.

I am really proud of the way Nigerian youths are embracing their entrepreneurial skills, and using it to improve their lives.

Have you ever felt like quitting the business?

Oh yes, that feeling usually comes when after an event, catering materials get missing or broken. Imagine after saving and spending so much money to buy such items, and one does not see them again or they are damaged.

Also, I don’t feel good when jobs don’t come in as much as I expect or hope for. Things like that can be depressing; and that is when I start to feel like I am not doing things right, or the work is not meant for me. However, immediately I get an order, all that feeling goes into the trash, and I get to do what I love.

What are the most memorable moments as a business owner?

Whenever I get positive and satisfactory feedback, those moments are priceless. Irrespective of the mood I was in before the feedback, I would automatically feel good.

Other moments that remain indelible in my memory are when party guests specifically ask to see the caterer or know who it is, because of the quality of service rendered.

Lastly, I feel good whenever an event is a success and goes according to plan.