I treat cars like fragile babies

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Bunmi Afuye Solabi is the uncommon lady who is making waves in a male-dominated field. Solabi, the brain behind Ladymek Stores is an automobile engineer often referred to as Mechanic. An ex banker who resigned from her banking job to follow her passion for cars. ANTHONIA DURU was in her workshop last week and this inspiring lady who has since created a niche for herself opens on her journey into the field, her passion for fixing cars, her challenges and also shares her success nuggets.

What was your attraction to this venture dominated by men?

I have always loved cars but while growing up being a female mechanic is almost out of place. Probably if I were in a developed country someone may have discovered my passion for automobiles and encourage me at that tender age. Long before I ventured into this profession, I am always eager to help fix a broken car even without having any prior knowledge of fixing a car. After I bagged my first degree, I secured a job in a bank but I wasn’t fulfilled. I knew within me then that, I wasn’t meant to do that. I wasn’t satisfied with working in a bank. After a while, I finally resigned from the bank not minding what the future, holds all I wanted was to follow my passion. I enrolled for courses on mechanism of cars and I also had some courses on car diagnosis.

Don’t you sometimes get bothered or irritiated when you get your palms and probably other parts of your body get greased while fixing cars?
My passion for cars overwhelms me such that I have great sense of fulfillment anytime I fix a car. For me the experience is worthwhile. In grease, I work. I treat cars like human, I handle them like fragile babies.
What brand of vehicles do you specialize in?
I can work on any car.
How long did it take you to learn this?
I learnt all these in two years don’t forget I have always had passion for fixing of cars. You have to be innovative in ventures like this and you can’t stop learning so you won’t be outdated. I am still learning and I also intend to travel to Germany to learn more on fixing of cars. I want to learn about latest technology in fixing cars. Technology is evolving so you shouldn’t be static.
What was your husband’s immediate reaction when you informed him of going into this venture?
I didn’t tell him of my plan to go into fixing of automobiles before resigned. I discussed with him before I went for the training and he laughed because he felt I couldn’t be serious with such. We spoke extensively thereafter, he gave me his consent and today he is my number one fan. I didn’t disclose my plans to lots of people; I only told my mother and my husband. I didn’t tell many people because I was sure there will be lots of discouragement and I wasn’t ready for any negative ambiance around me then.
As a woman, do people really trust you to fix their cars perfectly just like they will trust your male colleagues?
With the array of cars you see here you should know that people trust me to fix their cars perfectly well. I have built a client’s base over the years and they know my ability.
Will you say your educational background and exposure gives you an edge over your colleagues?
Firstly, I pay huge attention to details. When you come to my workshop to fix a fault, you don’t come back with same fault. This singular feat has endeared me to many clients. Car wellness is my passion and I also train people but I train ladies free. Some ladies have graduated here and they are all doing well in this field. The digital space has also helped me. My exposure is also an added advantage to me. Don’t forget that the kind of exposure you have may also determine your client base. I also ensure that our integrity is intact, we don’t compromise on values. Our client base keeps expanding because of integrity.
What are some of the challenges you have encountered in this business?
Sometimes challenges look so great and you think it will consume you but you will come out taller. My passion keeps me going. The fact that I pass my knowledge to others who are also doing well is enough inspiration for me. I love it when my customers are satisfied.
Majority of your colleagues are men. How do you relate with them?
There is mutual respect and understanding. They are my brothers.
Has there been any occasion any of your colleagues looked down on you?
There can’t be room for that. They know I am capable and they know my worth. I have helped some of them in fixing cars in the past and I still do that whenever the need arises.
What are your plans for the future?
Ladymek is a global brand and we will surely take our rightful place.
How is your immediate family?
I am married with two children and mine is a blessed family.
Do you have time to tend to your family considering the nature of your work?
Yes I do. I spend quality time with my family.
In the cause of this venture, what are some of the lessons you have learnt?
I have learnt a lot and one of such is that every woman has a lion in her. Many people who knew me while growing as a pampered girl are usually dazed when they see me doing this. Now I know I can do anything once my mind is made up. Secondly, don’t be too money conscious rather strive to make a name thereafter money will flow in.
This profession must have robbed you of some feminine routine.
Yes ,you are right. I am now perpetually on low cut, I can’t fix nails, I rarely wear skirts. I am enjoying myself because I love what I am doing.

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