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In the ever-evolving world of business, it's not often that one finds themselves transitioning from managing billion-pound infrastructure projects in Europe to leading an International award- winning interior design and luxury furniture brand in Africa. Yet, this has been my path—a journey marked by passion, resilience, and a profound desire to create spaces that evoke peace, joy, and contentment.
The Beginning: Building Foundations in Europe
My professional journey began over two decades ago in the heart of Europe, where I honed my skills in business finance and project management. Working with Capita Symonds Architecture now Capita and Network Rail as an Project Accountant Manager and later as a Commercial Project Accountant Manager, I was responsible for managing multi-million-pound portfolios, optimizing resources, and ensuring financial integrity across a range of sectors. My role was pivotal in driving project success, from the early stages of procurement to the final financial reporting.
These years were formative, providing me with a deep understanding of financial management, stakeholder engagement, and the importance of rigorous planning. However, as rewarding as these roles were, there was always a part of me yearning for something more—a desire to create, to innovate, and to build something that was not just functional, but also beautiful and meaningful.
A New Chapter: Discovering a Passion for Interior Design
My journey into furniture production and interior design was born out of a personal need—a desire to create a nurturing and aesthetically pleasing environment for my family after getting married. Moving from the UK to Nigeria brought with it a unique set of challenges. I quickly realized that the furniture and interior decor options available did not align with my tastes or the quality standards I had come to expect. This frustration sparked an interest in furniture customization—a concept that was relatively new to me and, as I discovered, not widely available in the Nigerian market.
This personal challenge soon evolved into a professional opportunity. My background in managing complex projects, coupled with my newly discovered passion for design, led me to co-found Gemona West, an interior architecture and furniture lifestyle studio. The transition was not without its hurdles, but my experience in project management proved invaluable. The skills I had developed over years of working on large-scale infrastructure projects were directly applicable to running a design studio—albeit with a creative twist.
Bridging Two Worlds: Europe and Africa
One of the most significant aspects of my journey has been bridging the gap between my European professional experience and the unique demands of the African market. In Europe, my focus was on ensuring compliance with financial and commercial policies, managing budgets, and optimizing project outcomes. These skills were crucial when I took on the role of Lead Project Manager at Gemona West.
In Nigeria, I had to adapt these skills to a new context—one where local contracts, tax treatments, and stakeholder relationships required a different approach. Yet, the core principles remained the same: building trust, ensuring financial accuracy, and driving projects to success. Over the past decade, I have successfully led project-related initiatives within our Nigerian operation, always with an eye on maintaining the high standards I set during my years in Europe.
Lessons Learned: The Power of Adaptability and Innovation
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the power of adaptability. Transitioning from managing infrastructure projects to running an interior design studio required a significant shift in mindset. Yet, the ability to adapt, to see challenges as opportunities, and to continually innovate has been key to my success.
At Gemona West, we’ve been able to blend the best of both worlds—European precision and African creativity. This approach has not only set us apart in the market but also earned us the International Property Africa Awards for four consecutive years, a testament to our commitment to excellence in commercial and retail design.
Looking Forward: Creating Spaces That Inspire
As I reflect on my journey, I’m filled with gratitude for the experiences that have shaped me, both professionally and personally. My background in finance and project management has provided a solid foundation, but it’s my passion for design and creating meaningful spaces that continues to drive me forward.
In the years to come, I’m excited to expand my reach, not just in the world of interior design, but also in wellness, sustainable living, and community building. I believe that the spaces we inhabit have a profound impact on our well-being, and it’s my mission to help others create environments that inspire peace, joy, and contentment.
Whether you’re an aspiring designer, a fellow entrepreneur, or simply someone passionate about creating a beautiful home, I invite you to join me on this journey. Together, we can explore the endless possibilities of design, wellness, and personal