Women Connect interviews Mary Olaleye, CEO, Molly Hats & Accessories. A passionate Milliner and patriotic Nigeria.
NOW, TELL US ABOUT WHAT INSPIRED YOUR JOURNEY INTO THE HAT MAKING BUSINESS?

My journey into hat making was inspired by Mrs Grace Chito Mark, CEO, Graces Hats.

WHAT INSPIRES YOUR CREATIVITY WHEN MAKING HATS?
Nature, the environment and our cultural diversity inspired my creativity when making hats.
YOU ARE A TRENDSETTER IN MAKING FASCINATORS IN NIGERIA, HOW DID YOU ACHIEVE THAT?
My Afrocentric infusion is achieved by creating hats and fascinators from our local fabrics, such as Aso oke, Adire, Ankara etc.
LOOKING AT OUR TRADITION IN NIGERIA, THE IDEA OF WEARING HATS OR FASCINATORS, IS THE WESTERN CULTURE, SO HOW DO YOU INFUSE THE AFRICAN STYLE?
My Afrocentric infusion is achieved by creating hats and fascinators from our local fabrics, such as Aso oke, Adire, Ankara etc.
WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED SO FAR IN RUNNING THIS BUSINESS?
It is my 15th year in the business, initially, pricing was a major challenge. It has been perfectly resolved. Another major challenge is paucity of trained and experienced staff as customers satisfaction is a priority to me.
WHAT ARE THE IMPORTANT DETAILS TO PAY ATTENTION TO, IN ORDER TO EXCEL IN THIS BUSINESS?
Attention to details as well as continuous research and improvement.
SO, HOW HAVE YOU BEEN ABLE TO CARVE A NICHE FOR YOURSELF, DESPITE THE COMPETITION OUT THERE?
Despite competition, I have a target market and I explore.
A YOUNG FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR OUT THERE IS THINKING OF FOLLOWING YOUR FOOT STEPS, WHAT WOULD YOU TELL HER?
Opportunities abound around us, young female entrepreneur should seek and seize opportunities. Don’t be complacent and never be discouraged.