“Starting a business requires significant time and effort. Identify a business idea that aligns with your passions/interests and start.” – Temitayo Salami – {Founder of Zuzu Delights)
Did you go to university? If so, where did you go and what did you study?
1) B.A History and Strategic Studies, University of Lagos, Nigeria.
2) PGD Business Administration, University of Lagos, Nigeria.
In what countries are you based?
Nigeria
What do you do to earn a living and when did you start?
I am the Founder and Creative Director of Zuzu’s Delights, an online cakes, fresh flowers, and gifts shop. I started the business in September 2020, but I went all-in in 2022 when I resigned from my 9-to-5 job to focus on the business full-time.
What did you use to do before you did this?
I worked as a team lead for an online e-commerce store. I was responsible for managing a team of customer service representatives, as well as overseeing the day-to-day operations of the store(s). I also had a hand in developing and implementing new operations strategies. Before that, I was a general operations officer at Faajihub Limited.
What inspired you to start your business?
My love for baking and desire to be my own boss was the greatest inspiration to start my own business. I have always been fascinated by cake art and saw an opportunity to turn my passion into a successful venture.
Why should anyone use your service/product?
We offer the fastest same-day cake delivery service in Lagos, with a dispatch time of 30-120 minutes.
With our flexible ordering system, you have the freedom to create custom orders even at the last minute, allowing you to choose from a wide selection of flavours and styles. We take pride in using only the freshest ingredients to bake our cakes to perfection, ensuring that you find the ideal cake for your special occasion.
Also, we prioritize the convenience of our customers by offering easy payment methods. Whether you’re a Nigerian resident or an international client, our streamlined payment process ensures a smooth and hassle-free ordering experience.
Tell us about your team.
We’re a close-knit, carefully assembled team that shares a common love for baking and a commitment to delivering exceptional service.
What is something you wish you knew before starting your business?
Building a strong support network: In the early days of starting my business, I often underestimated the value of seeking guidance from experienced mentors, connecting with fellow entrepreneurs, and surrounding myself with advisors who could provide valuable insights.
Would you advise other people to start businesses or invest in Africa? Please also share the drawbacks.
Africa offers immense potential for entrepreneurs and investors. The continent is experiencing rapid urbanization, and increasing consumer demand. However, African countries, Nigeria to be precise currently have a volatile socio-economy which is due to unstable government policies and regulations.
What’s the biggest piece of advice you can give to other Africans looking to start-up?
Starting a business requires significant time and effort. Identify a business idea that aligns with your passions/interests and start. Your enthusiasm will drive you through the inevitable challenges and setbacks.
What’s the biggest piece of advice you can give to other Africans in the diaspora?
Stay Connected to home and explore ways to help Africa unleash its full potential.
Thanks for reading! Visit Zuzu Delight’s Instagram here and website here. If you are born and bred in Africa and have a business and story you want to share, we would love to hear from you. Please fill out the form here!
Salewa Isaac, CFA
Salewa Isaac, CFA built an impressive career in London's financial district, specializing in equity research and quantitative analysis at prominent hedge funds. Embracing her roots, Joy relocated to Lagos, Nigeria in 2020, documenting her journey to assist others in the diaspora seeking similar paths, driven by her belief in Africa as the next frontier of opportunity.
AfriTreasure has evolved into a thriving global business network, serving as a dynamic hub for individuals of African descent to connect, collaborate, and foster deals that enhance wealth within the African and diaspora communities.
Joy is also the CEO of Excel Master, where she leverages her extensive financial expertise to offer tailored business plans, CFO-As-A-Service, and Business Automation solutions to global enterprises and SMEs, focusing on local strategies and also strategies for successful transitions to African markets.
Her work is a testament to her commitment to bridging the gap between international business landscapes and the rich potential of Africa, guiding businesses and individuals through their journey of growth and discovery in this dynamic continent.
Salewa Isaac, CFA built an impressive career in London's financial district, specializing in equity research and quantitative analysis at prominent hedge funds. Embracing her roots, Joy relocated to Lagos, Nigeria in 2020, documenting her journey to assist others in the diaspora seeking similar paths, driven by her belief in Africa as the next frontier of opportunity.
AfriTreasure has evolved into a thriving global business network, serving as a dynamic hub for individuals of African descent to connect, collaborate, and foster deals that enhance wealth within the African and diaspora communities.
Joy is also the CEO of Excel Master, where she leverages her extensive financial expertise to offer tailored business plans, CFO-As-A-Service, and Business Automation solutions to global enterprises and SMEs, focusing on local strategies and also strategies for successful transitions to African markets.
Her work is a testament to her commitment to bridging the gap between international business landscapes and the rich potential of Africa, guiding businesses and individuals through their journey of growth and discovery in this dynamic continent.