A 26-year-old graduate, Felicity Igbo, has explained the inspiration behind her decision to pursue a career in furniture making, despite holding a university degree.
The furniture designer said that she always had the passion for it even while she was studying Philosophy at the Imo State University, IMSU.
According to Felicity, she did not inform her parents of her desire to go into furniture making because she knew they would not approve of it, as they value education more than any other endeavour.
However, she said that getting a white collar job in the present day Nigeria is a far fetched dream for many graduates and she did not want to be like other girls, so she ventured into carpentry.
Felicity said; “Currently, I am involved in furniture making. My passion for interiors and a strong desire to uncover the unknown drove me into this field. Despite suggestions that I should have pursued interior decoration instead, I chose furniture making because I am curious about the entire process: how furniture is made, the materials used, and the craftsmanship involved. This, however, isn’t the first skill I’ve learnt. I previously studied sewing while in my second year at university.
“However, sewing didn’t provide the satisfaction I sought. I realised my true passion was for interiors when I found myself examining the furnishings of every house I entered. This realisation led me to explore the world of furniture making, and I eagerly sought out information and training in this craft. Moreover, my decision to venture into furniture making was driven by a desire for uniqueness. I wanted to pursue a path different from what other women were following. From the moment I began working in this field, I felt a sense of joy and fulfilment.
“Despite being in school when I started learning this skill, I chose not to inform my parents about my new venture. I personally funded my apprenticeship because I knew my father would not approve of such a decision. He strongly believes in the value of education, and while his assertion holds truth, considering the current state of the country, waiting for white-collar jobs is not always feasible.
“So, they became aware of my venture through my social media accounts, yet they never inquired about it. They thought it was mere play. It was only a year later that I disclosed my pursuit to them. At that point, they had no choice but to support me, seeing the dedication and effort I was putting into it.”