‘Why being a female shoe designer is a plus’

Weekend Magazine: What inspired you into making shoes?Laura Ahman: Looking at the new generation in the fashion industry, there are a lot of designers that make clothes, jewellery and even shoes. But we hardly have designers that make slippers, especially high-end ones. What spurred me was that I took a look at our African attires […]

Weekend Magazine: What inspired you into making shoes?
Laura Ahman: Looking at the new generation in the fashion industry, there are a lot of designers that make clothes, jewellery and even shoes. But we hardly have designers that make slippers, especially high-end ones. What spurred me was that I took a look at our African attires and found we were lacking somewhere. A complete African attire requires a good pair of slippers to go with it, many of which we match with western shoes. So I thought it would be a good market to tap into. Also my father likes slippers and I’ve always liked his collection, so I developed an interest. Growing up, my dream was always to become a lawyer. Raised amongst lawyers, it was almost a family tradition and I was determined to chase that dream. However, last year I developed a sudden interest in shoes, especially slippers so I established my business in February, 2014.
When the brand started, it was very small. I funded it by saving my monthly pocket money and I had just one craftsman and a few pairs to test the market with. Gradually, the business raised capital for itself. The Laura Ahman line has come a long way and we now offer worldwide delivery as we’re now international. I’m glad I followed my instinct to go into this business.
WM: How supportive were your parents or friends when you began?
Ahman: My family and friends were very supportive, from those that helped in marketing my products to those that gave me valuable advice. My aunt, Aisha Mohammed, is very enthusiastic about young entrepreneurs and she bought everyone of my designs and made sure her friends patronized me. It was a boost both in terms of marketing and raising capital.  
WM: Who patronize you more, male or female customers?
Ahman: The males patronize the brand more. When we started we were only making female slippers. But as soon as we started making the male ones it took over in terms of demand. Having the right pair of slippers is a must for most men these days.
WM: How do you get concepts?
Ahman: I feel like I’m a natural when it comes to design. Each time I make a new collection, the ideas just drop. I’m not bragging but I think I’m gifted in that aspect.
All my collections are made from leather. My raw materials are 100 per cent sourced from Nigeria. We have a variety of local leather mostly cowhide and others. This is the interesting part of this business. Everything is gotten in Nigeria, which says we can actually compete with the western countries when it comes to fashion products.
We have the best of raw materials than any country, what we need it the machineries to put the country in the world of fashion production. I don’t source for anything from outside the country, everything is proudly Nigerian.  
WM: How long would it take to do a consultation and sizing?
Ahman: Consultation is very easy and quick. We just get the design, the colour and the shoe size. For those who order online, it is instant like any other international website. Just log on to ShopThreeSixFive.com and voila! However for customized slippers, it may require a few more questions on preferred design usually via email.  
WM: You are planning to start making bags as well?
Ahman: Bags are my favourite accessories and my fashionable mum has quite a collection of fancy bags. I feel inspired to create sophisticated, eye-catching designs at affordable rates for the modern Nigerian woman. That is my next project.
WM: As a female entrepreneur, what challenges have you faced?
Ahman: Surprisingly, there are very little challenges I am experiencing as a female. I was raised to believe I could do anything I venture into irrespective of my gender. Being a female shoe designer/maker is a plus because I feel like I am more attentive to detail, as feminine nature gives that edge.