Words by Chanelle Goddard
For some, lockdown was a chance to ignore the world and get some much-needed rest. For others, it was a golden opportunity to work on their ideas.
During the global pandemic, there was a spike in the number of businesses created. From books to clothing companies, new ideas were given the time and isolation they needed to develop. With lectures halted and workers sent home, young entrepreneurs sprang into action and new success stories began to emerge. For inspiration and motivation to start your next big idea, look no further than these young entrepreneurs:
Faridah Abike-lyimide
Faridah Abike-lyimide, who’s of Nigerian descent, but was raised in Croydon, has made massive waves in the writing industry with her latest thriller novel ‘Ace Of Spades’. It was a hit with readers worldwide and led to a million-dollar book deal with a US publisher. She’s just 21. With multiple publishers approaching her, she was spoilt for choice; but she chose Macmillan because they had a Nigerian editor who Faridah believed understood her writing on a deeper level. Ace of Spades follows 2 black students, and through their experiences, Faridah explores the issue of institutional racism. Through her writing, she demonstrates an ability to explore social and racial issues engagingly and honestly. For black writers around the world, Faridah’s story will serve as a source of motivation and inspiration. With her talent, her work and her global recognition, she’s part of a generation of writers redefining what it means to be a successful writer.
Ace of Spades is released in the UK on 10 June 2021 and 1 June 2021 in the United States.
Mariam Musa
As a YouTube content creator, she’s gained huge audiences and a dedicated fanbase. With that, Mariam Musa set her eyes on the fashion industry, and she’s taken it by storm. Her new fashion range ‘ The Mariam Musa Collection’, in collaboration with the popular online fashion brand I Saw It First, has been a huge success. On her social media pages, she’s known for sharing trendy outfit videos, personal life stories and great makeup tutorials. Mariam is the first Black UK content creator to have her own major collaboration with a fashion brand – she’s setting the bar high for good quality, trendy and affordable fashion.
Mariam Musa’s collection is available on the I Saw It First website and app.
Paris McKenzie
This 16-year-old driven entrepreneur has inspired thousands of young aspiring business owners, by opening her own beauty supply store ‘Paris Beauty Supplyz’ in Brooklyn, New York. McKenzie took social media by storm when she announced the opening of her store at the age of 16. McKenzie credits her mother (who also is a business owner) for inspiring her to start her own business – it was the example of her mother, that gave her the motivation to turn her ideas into a business; and by the looks of it, it’s a promising start to a successful career as an entrepreneur.
At such a young age, she’s setting an example to others old and young.
Ray BLK
27-year-old British singer Ray BLK (real name Rita Ekwere), was born in Nigeria but grew up in Catford, London. Ray started her music journey at just 13 years old when she formed a music group with her school friend MNEK, who’s also a popular UK music artist. Her first solo EP was released in 2015 whilst she was studying English Literature at Brunel University, and since then, this powerhouse hasn’t stopped grinding. In 2016, she collaborated with Stormzy, Wretch 32 and SG Lewis on her mini-album ‘Durt’ which saw great success. Ray’s talents haven’t gone unnoticed: in 2019, she performed as an opening act for Nicki Minaj. Her smooth R&B voice and great songwriting talents have taken the UK R&B and soul industry by storm.
Maya Penn
Maya Penn is a young woman of many talents. From writing books to animated filmmaking, Maya is a young entrepreneur to look out for. She started her business at just 8 years old and has continued to develop her brand. At 13 and 14, she could brag about something most people dream of: she featured in two Ted Talks about her journey as an entrepreneur. In 2008, she launched her ‘Maya Ideas’ business, which is a fashion-friendly brand with a focus on sustainable and eco-friendly products. Also, she published her ‘You’ve Got This!’ book which details her journey and issues advice to others. At 20, she continues to demonstrate drive, philanthropic desire and is one of the UK’s most promising young entrepreneurs.
For some more business inspiration, here’s how Gymshark became the king of fitness wear