BEVERLY HILLS, March 15, (THEWILL) – Last year, your daughter unveiled her ready-to-wear line which officially launched her as a fashion designer. How did that make you feel as a mother, especially because you are also in the same line of business?
It’s fulfilling to not only see my daughter follow in my footsteps but be a success at it. It gives me true joy to see her do something with her hands although she is skilled as a professional in her industry as a nutrition scientist, she is also doing well in this. I have always been an advocate of having other skills besides your area of study. I’m fulfilled to know that from generation to generation, this skill has been successfully transferred through the family.
Did you attempt to discourage her in any way when she told you she wanted to tow your path?
On the contrary, I was thrilled to see that she was interested in fashion. I even felt it came later than it should have.
What is the most significant thing you have done to support her in her business?
I’m the kind of mother who does whatever it takes to support my children to the best of my abilities and this wasn’t any different. Being that I had been able to lay her a solid foundation in the industry, I also provided initial funding. I encourage and constantly support her. My factory is always available for her to manufacture her designs and I’m happy she is able to turn it around and put a modern spin to how we operate, she has put the millennial strength into it
Your daughter is very much like your younger self. If you were to give her one important advice that you should have taken as a younger person, what would that be?
I have several, not just one. Whatever she pursues, whether it is her calling, her passion or her general interest, she needs to ensure she does it with diligence and she’ll see that the sky is her limit. She should never limit herself, everything and anything is possible if she believes and works towards it. Also, the fear of God is also important, she must put that into consideration in whatever she does.
What will you say is the most amazing thing about being a mother?
That is being able to tutor and mentor a child in the way of life and in the things of God. It’s amasing to be given the opportunity to watch a child grow right, be a part of the process and see them be the best versions of themselves. It is truly satisfying to see your child take a decision to follow in your foot-steps and be a success.
How have you been able to balance your role as a mother, a wife, an entrepreneur, and a socialite?
My children are all grown up now, so they don’t require my attention as much as they used to. I attach importance to everything I need to do but I also consciously prioritize. I like to approach responsibilities as if I will not get another chance to do so as this helps me ensure I do them well. I also always make time to decongest and relax, I don’t like complications or anything that causes confusion so I am quite skilled at removing myself from those types of situations.
What do you think is the best approach to motherhood in the 21st century?
Be a good example. You are going to be the first mentor your child is going to be, that is your opportunity to build them. Ensure you are actually showing them how to behave and do things rather than just telling them. I’ve come to understand that children imitate what they say and not what you tell them to do.
What is your special wish for yourself on Mother’s Day?
For God to fulfil all my dreams and prayers as a mother.
Ivory Ukonu is a versatile journalist with many years of experience, with entertainment and society reporting as her area of core competence.
