Ayarikha’s Journey: Building Beauty and Empowering Dreams

Let me tell you about Ayarikha Isa Kano—a woman of passion, resilience, and vision. She’s an entrepreneur, a makeup artist, the CEO of Luxurious Beauty Lounge, and the founder of the Lifeline Outreach Initiative. Her story is one of determination, creativity, and a deep desire to make a difference.  

Ayarikha grew up in a Muslim household where faith and the teachings of the Quran were deeply cherished. She attended Urat Memorial Academy for her primary and secondary education and later earned an ND in Mass Communication. But her journey wasn’t just about academics; it was about finding her purpose.  

Growing up, Ayarikha didn’t see many examples of financial independence or career success around her. That lack of representation became a driving force in her life. She knew early on that she wanted to create a different path for herself—one where she could thrive on her own terms. That desire to break the mold and build something meaningful led her to entrepreneurship.  

Her journey began with makeup. She started *@Ayarikha.Glam* from a small home studio, pouring her creativity and love for beauty into every brushstroke. But Ayarikha didn’t stop there. When it was time to expand, she dreamed bigger. She combined her makeup services with a hair salon and named it *Luxurious Beauty Lounge* (LBL). The name reflects her vision: a space that embodies luxury, elegance, and top-notch service. For Ayarikha, if it’s luxurious, count her in.  

But LBL is more than just a salon. It’s a sanctuary where women feel confident, rejuvenated, and empowered. Ayarikha wanted to create a space where clients could unwind, feel beautiful, and leave with a renewed sense of self. It’s not just about beauty services; it’s about creating a safe space for women to connect and feel valued.  

Ayarikha is a lifelong learner. She believes every day is an opportunity to grow, and she’s always seeking new knowledge. Her background in Mass Communication has been a huge asset, helping her manage people, connect with diverse cultures, and communicate effectively. It’s also taught her the importance of adaptability, which has been crucial in navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.  

One of her biggest supporters has been her sister. She’s been Ayarikha’s rock, motivating and encouraging her emotionally and financially. Her sister’s belief in her has given Ayarikha the courage to stay consistent, even when things get tough. And consistency, she’s learned, is the backbone of any successful business. At LBL, Ayarikha prioritizes excellence in everything they do—from using top-tier products to training her staff to deliver exceptional service. Their hair treatments, for example, focus on hair health and length retention because Ayarikha genuinely cares about her clients’ needs. It’s not just about making money; it’s about making a difference.  

But her journey hasn’t been without challenges. One of the toughest moments was when she had to relocate her business unexpectedly. The original location wasn’t working, and she had to find a new space and move within two weeks. It was a whirlwind, but Ayarikha managed to reopen and continue operations in less than a month. That experience taught her resilience and the importance of staying adaptable in the face of adversity.  

Looking ahead, Ayarikha has big dreams. Her five-year goal is to see Luxurious Beauty Lounge become a leading name in the beauty industry, with branches across different states, Insha Allah. She’s also passionate about giving back, which is why she founded the Lifeline Outreach Initiative. Through this project, she’s trained over 100 people in makeup and salon skills, empowering them to build their own careers and create opportunities for themselves.  

Ayarikha stays connected with her customers through feedback and social media. Their input is invaluable, and it’s helped her grow and improve. Right now, she’s working on expanding the Lifeline Outreach Initiative, and she’s excited about the impact they’ll continue to make.  

To anyone thinking about starting their own business, Ayarikha’s advice is simple: start. Stay consistent, stay true to yourself, and find what motivates you. Seek out a mentor who can guide you, and never stop learning. The road won’t always be easy, but with passion, resilience, and a clear vision, you can achieve your dreams.  

At Luxurious Beauty Lounge, Ayarikha and her team are committed to going above and beyond for their clients. Their goal is to not just meet expectations but to exceed them. And as for Ayarikha, she’ll keep chasing her dreams, one step at a time, knowing that every challenge is just another opportunity to grow.  

Her story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and purpose. And this is only the beginning.

From Humble Beginnings to Big Dreams: The Inspiring Journey of Rabiatu Nuruddeen

Let me tell you the story of Rabiatu Nuruddeen, a determined and passionate young woman from Bauchi, Nigeria. She was born and raised along Gombe Road, where she grew up in a close-knit family of five. Rabiatu’s educational journey began at the Federal Government Girls’ College (FGGC) in Bauchi, where she completed her primary education. She later attended Sa’adu Zungur Secondary School and Oxford Academy for her secondary education. Education has always been important to her, and it played a significant role in shaping her dreams and ambitions.

Rabiatu has always had a passion for the food industry, though it wasn’t something she pursued right away. The idea of creating something unique and building her own business lingered in her mind for years. It wasn’t until after she graduated from secondary school that the inspiration truly struck. Without hesitation, she decided to take the leap and start her journey. She began small, experimenting with stick meat and hibiscus drinks, popularly known as zobo. It was a humble start, but it laid the foundation for what would become her passion and profession.

Life took a difficult turn when her father passed away. It was a challenging time for her and her family, but it also became a turning point in her life. His passing ignited a fire within her to work harder and create something meaningful for herself and her family. She realized she needed to be self-reliant and build a future that could sustain them. This motivation pushed her to dive deeper into the food industry, learning the ropes and honing her skills.

Running a business hasn’t been easy for Rabiatu. She’s faced numerous challenges along the way—difficult customers, market price fluctuations, and even people collecting goods without paying. But she’s learned to navigate these hurdles with resilience and determination. Despite the obstacles, she’s remained committed to her vision. Her goal is to one day own a large restaurant that not only serves delicious food but also employs and inspires many people. She wants to create opportunities for others and empower them to achieve their own dreams.

Social media has been a game-changer for Rabiatu’s business. It has allowed her to reach a wider audience, advertise her products, and build a sense of community around her brand. Through platforms like Instagram and Facebook, she’s been able to connect with customers, share her story, and showcase her offerings. One of her proudest moments was participating in a trade fair. It was an incredible experience that meant a lot to her, as it validated her hard work and dedication. She also dreams of collaborating with NGOs as a chef, using her skills to give back to the community.

Beyond the food industry, Rabiatu has a keen interest in fashion design. It’s another creative outlet she hopes to explore in the future. But for now, her focus remains on building her food business and ensuring it continues to grow. She and her team work tirelessly to satisfy their customers, always striving to introduce new and exciting products to keep them coming back.

Rabiatu’s mission is simple: to keep moving forward and to empower others along the way. She believes that hard work, passion, and consistency are the keys to success. No matter the challenges, she’s learned to never give up. For anyone looking to achieve their dreams, her advice is to stay dedicated, keep learning, and remain consistent. Every door to success requires persistence, and with the right mindset, anything is possible.

That’s Rabiatu’s story—a journey of resilience, passion, and determination. It’s a story that inspires others to chase their dreams, no matter how big or small they may seem.

The Journey of Benazir Abba Umar: From Passion to Empire

Benazir Abba Umar, popularly known by her pen name Benaxir Omar, is an inspiring figure whose story is a testament to resilience, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. An indigene of Gombe, specifically Tudun Wada, Benazir has carved a niche for herself in diverse industries, driven by a passion for excellence and a determination to break barriers.

Born into a family that deeply values education, Benazir credits her father for his unwavering support. She holds a degree in Microbiology, a Master’s in Entrepreneurship and Business Development, and has earned certificates from Harvard Business School. Additionally, she was honored with a doctorate degree from an American university. Her thirst for knowledge has been a cornerstone of her success, as she continuously invests in learning and self-improvement. Currently, she is preparing to embark on her Ph.D. journey, a testament to her lifelong commitment to education.

Benazir’s entrepreneurial journey began a decade ago, in 2015, while she was still in university. Writing novels and sharing them online under the name *Saje Novel Writings and Sales*, she quickly gained a following. The name *Saje*, derived from her family name, holds sentimental value as it reflects her deep love and respect for her grandfather. Over time, Saje evolved from a passion project into a thriving brand synonymous with quality and satisfaction. Today, Saje is recognized for its exceptional services in food, clothing, and spa treatments, becoming a household name in Bauchi and beyond.

For Benazir, the motivation to build her empire stemmed from a desire to escape poverty. She openly admits that money was her driving force, fueling her ambition to create a life of abundance. Balancing multiple industries was no easy feat, but her strategic approach—focusing on one branch for two years before expanding—proved effective. Her ventures now span diverse sectors, including a bakery, a gold store, and plans for a school in Bauchi, which she hopes will set a new standard for education in the region.

However, her journey has not been without challenges. As a woman from northern Nigeria, Benazir faced criticism and ridicule for daring to venture into business. At one point, the societal backlash left her depressed, but the unwavering support of her family and close friends helped her persevere. Today, she takes pride in seeing more women in business, breaking stereotypes and creating opportunities for themselves.

Benazir attributes her success to consistency, patience, and prayer. She emphasizes that entrepreneurship is far from easy, but with dedication and a willingness to learn, it is possible to overcome obstacles. Her commitment to proper structure and continuous training ensures that her team delivers top-notch services, setting Saje apart from competitors.

Looking ahead, Benazir’s vision is to ensure that Saje becomes a legacy, benefiting generations to come. She dreams of building a brand that every household in northern Nigeria—and eventually the entire country—will recognize and appreciate. Through her online presence and occasional in-person engagements, she remains connected to her audience, fostering a community that values quality and excellence.

One of her most challenging ventures was the bakery project, which tested her resilience. It took two years of relentless effort, financial strain, and emotional turmoil to bring it to fruition. There were moments when she considered giving up, but her determination paid off. Today, the bakery stands as a symbol of her perseverance and a reminder that success often comes after enduring the toughest trials.

Benazir’s story is one of courage, ambition, and unwavering faith. She has not only built a successful brand but also inspired countless women to pursue their dreams. With plans to expand her gold business and establish a school, she continues to push boundaries, proving that with consistency and hard work, anything is possible. As she often says, “Consistency brought me here, and insha Allah, it will take me to a better future.”

GrandRainbowZ: The Story of Dalyop Gasha Fom – A Journey of Art, Passion, and Purpose

Let me tell you the story of Dalyop Gasha Fom, a remarkable woman from Plateau State, Nigeria. She is a proud Berom woman, a passionate Multi-Media Artist, and a professional textile designer. Dalyop holds a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Estate Management Technology from the Federal Polytechnic in Bauchi, Nigeria, but her heart has always been drawn to the world of art and creativity. She dreams of achieving even greater heights, not just for herself, but for her community.

Dalyop’s journey into the world of art began in her childhood. She grew up watching her late mother, a skilled craftswoman, create beautiful patterns and designs. Her mother’s artistry fascinated her, especially the way chemicals reacted with fabrics to produce stunning results. This curiosity stayed with her into her teenage years, as she was raised in a family that valued skillfulness and production. It was this environment that inspired her to pursue tie-dye as an entrepreneurial skill.

Today, Dalyop’s designs are a reflection of her unique vision. She draws inspiration from the beauty of nature, experimenting with color combinations and abstract concepts. She also blends traditional patterns from Nigeria’s ancient Northern designers with the Adire patterns of the Southwest, creating pieces that are both modern and deeply rooted in her heritage.

But her journey hasn’t been without challenges. Starting a tie-dye textile business is a creative and rewarding venture, but it comes with its own set of obstacles. One of the biggest challenges is ensuring consistent product quality. Since every tie-dye piece is unique, maintaining uniformity in color saturation and design can be difficult. Customers might not always get the exact same result, even when ordering the same item.

Another hurdle is sourcing high-quality materials. Dalyop needs fabrics that are not only suitable for tie-dyeing but also comfortable to wear. The dyes must be vibrant and durable, which means finding reliable suppliers who offer consistent products at reasonable prices.

Marketing her business has also been a learning curve. In a saturated market, standing out requires a strong brand identity that resonates with her target audience. Building credibility and finding the right niche—especially since tie-dye fashion often appeals to specific subcultures—takes time and effort.

Scaling up production is another challenge. The hand-dyeing process is time-consuming, and balancing quality control with increased output can be overwhelming. Dalyop knows that as her business grows, she may need to hire additional help or automate parts of the process, each of which comes with its own complexities.

Despite these challenges, Dalyop remains determined. She believes that with perseverance and experience, she can overcome any obstacle. Her brand, **GrandRainbowZ**, is a testament to her vision and faith. The name combines two powerful words: *Grand*, meaning something magnificent, elegant, and impressive, and *Rainbow*, which translates to "Gasha" in her dialect, symbolizing faith and hope. Together, GrandRainbowZ represents her dream of creating a brand that is not only impactful but also recognized globally as one of Nigeria’s leading art brands. It serves as a constant reminder of the greatness she aims to achieve and the positive impact she wants to make.

Dalyop’s ultimate goal is to grow her brand and business extensively in Bauchi and extend her reach to as many local communities within and outside Nigeria. She wants to share her blessings and inspire others through her work.

To aspiring entrepreneurs, Dalyop offers this advice: never neglect your passion, no matter how the world perceives it. Every successful person started with just an idea. Take baby steps, stay focused, and avoid distractions and self-doubt. Strive to develop yourself at every opportunity, and remember that what may not make sense to others could be the very thing destined for greatness. Good thinking, prayer, and hard work—without room for doubt—are essential.

As she often reminds herself, "Every successful person started with just an idea to do something." So, she encourages others to look within themselves, take the necessary steps, and keep moving forward. Your passion and determination will pave the way for your success. And for Dalyop, that path is illuminated by the vibrant colors of her GrandRainbowZ.

Leading the Digital Charge: Hayatudeen Babamaji's Vision for Bauchi's ICT Future

Hayatudeen Babamaji, a native of Bauchi State, is a dedicated leader in the field of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). His academic journey has been a continuous pursuit of knowledge and expertise, beginning with a Bachelor's degree in Information Technology from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU). This foundation was further strengthened by two Master's degrees, one in Information Technology and the other in Management Information Systems. Demonstrating a commitment to staying at the forefront of the evolving digital landscape, he is currently pursuing a third Master's degree in Cybersecurity. This extensive educational background forms the bedrock of his approach to leadership as the Director-General (DG) of the Bureau for ICT and Digital Economy (BICTDE) in Bauchi State.

Mr. Babamaji's professional experience is equally impressive, providing him with a unique blend of academic and practical skills. He serves as a lecturer at Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic, where he imparts his knowledge and passion for ICT to aspiring professionals. This role has honed his abilities in mentorship, fostering innovation, and encouraging critical thinking among students. Furthermore, he is the driving force behind Rayware Technology Solutions, an IT agency that he owns and manages. This entrepreneurial venture allows him to apply his technical expertise to real-world challenges, developing and implementing ICT-driven solutions for diverse clients. The combination of his academic role and his experience running a successful IT agency has equipped him with the skills necessary to lead BICTDE effectively, bringing a practical, industry-informed perspective to the complex task of digital transformation. His experiences as a lecturer have provided him with valuable insights into leadership and mentorship, while managing his own IT agency has cultivated his entrepreneurial spirit, problem-solving abilities, and expertise in executing impactful ICT solutions. These experiences, coupled with his strong academic credentials, have uniquely positioned him to lead the Bureau for ICT and Digital Economy with a clear vision and a strategic roadmap for Bauchi State's digital advancement.

Mr. Babamaji's leadership at BICTDE is deeply rooted in a set of core values: innovation, inclusivity, transparency, and collaboration. He champions an environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and decision-making processes are characterized by integrity and accountability. These principles are not merely abstract concepts; they are actively woven into the fabric of BICTDE's operations, ensuring that the Bureau's mission is closely aligned with the broader objectives of digital transformation and equitable access to ICT resources for all citizens of Bauchi State.

His vision for BICTDE is ambitious and forward-looking. He aims to establish Bauchi State as a recognized leader in ICT innovation and digital literacy within Nigeria. His strategic plan involves several key initiatives, including the establishment of digital hubs across the state, significantly enhancing internet accessibility for both urban and rural communities, and empowering the next generation through comprehensive ICT training programs tailored for young people. Recognizing the importance of collaboration, he actively seeks partnerships with private technology companies and educational institutions to leverage their expertise and resources in achieving these goals. He believes that Bauchi State has the potential to become a significant force in driving ICT and digital literacy progress across Nigeria. By focusing on capacity building and infrastructure development, he hopes to create a ripple effect, inspiring other states to follow suit. He envisions Bauchi State setting a new standard for integrating ICT into critical sectors such as governance, education, and the economy, ultimately promoting digital inclusion for all.

Mr. Babamaji has faced numerous challenges in his role as DG of BICTDE, but he approaches these obstacles with a proactive and solution-oriented mindset. One significant challenge has been bridging the digital divide and fostering digital literacy in underserved communities. To address this, he has spearheaded collaborative efforts with various stakeholders to organize targeted training programs and public awareness campaigns. These initiatives have underscored the critical importance of community engagement and strategic partnerships in achieving meaningful progress towards digital inclusion. Another notable project, and one that he considers among his most memorable, has been the development and implementation of the Bauchi State Human Resources Integrated System (BASHRIS). This initiative marked a significant advancement in streamlining human resource management within the state, promoting efficiency, transparency, and accountability in public administration. He sees this project as a tangible example of how technology can be effectively leveraged to transform governance and improve service delivery to citizens.

Looking to the future, Mr. Babamaji and his team at BICTDE have several exciting projects on the horizon. One such project involves the establishment of digital learning centers throughout Bauchi State. These centers will offer training in high-demand areas like coding, cybersecurity, and digital entrepreneurship, equipping young people with the skills they need to thrive in the digital economy. This initiative is a key component of BICTDE's broader strategy to bridge the digital divide and prepare the youth of Bauchi State for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

Mr. Babamaji's advice to aspiring young professionals, regardless of their chosen field, is to embrace lifelong learning and cultivate a sense of unwavering curiosity. He emphasizes the importance of building a solid foundation of knowledge and skills, welcoming challenges as opportunities for growth, and developing strong problem-solving abilities. Above all, he stresses the importance of maintaining integrity and a deep commitment to making a positive impact on their communities.