Meet Chimuka Okasili | Founder of AfòOnu

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chimuka Okasili and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chimuka, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My thought process behind starting my own business was… “WHY NOT ME”?!! I’ve been in the barber-business for almost 20 years, and still people don’t know the creative, fashion savvy and entrepreneur side of me. I had already created a product for my clients’ hair and skin, which received notoriety from media outlets such as The Huffington Post, and now it was time for me to focus on an industry that I’ve loved since I was a teenager…Fashion! I wanted to change how people looked at t-shirts and hoodies. I wanted to focus on the high-end market when it came to styling, designing, and creativity of t-shirts/hoodies.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My proudest moment was actually being invited to and having my brand, Afo’Onu, featured at a Christian Dior Fashion Event. My shea butter product was handed out to all guests who entered and exited the event. It was also included in the Christian Dior swagbags.

I got where I am today by 1) Never accepting the word NO, 2) Being a people person, 3) Understanding the meaning of sacrifice, 4) Investing in my brand and vision, and 5) Understanding that being an opportunist isn’t a bad thing when the opportunity aligns with your vision.

Was it easy? HELL NO!! I had to overcome challenges due to my upbringing. My father constantly reminded me that there is power in my name. I had to remember that…all I had to do was simply acknowledge that power and accept it.

Key lessons I learned? Only one… EVERYONE WHO’S ROOTING FOR YOU, AIN’T ROOTING TO SEE YOU WIN!!

I want the world to know that Afo’Onu is here. This isn’t some run of the mill gimmicky brand. The name has an origin and meaning. You see, I’m Nigerian (Igbo). I don’t say I love my culture to get notoriety, likes, or fame. I’ve been on TV (Ready To Love), recognized in national outlets like The Huffington Post and Black News Channel, worked with major brands like Chrisitian Dior, but in the end you won’t remember any of that. But you will remember Chimuka Okasili, the founder of Afo”Onu.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well, first off, we love to eat. So I’d make reservations for us at HAL’s the Steakhouse located in North Buckhead. Now seeing how this is a week-long visit for him/her, I’d honestly suggest they get a rental car, even though I live in the heart of the city. And since we’re being honest, I still have to work during the week, so they would be on their own till after 6pm..lol! Now once Thursday hits, we can now begin to enjoy Atlanta together. So Thursday we’re at Roc South Cuisine located in Brookhaven. After food and drinks, we’re headed to Embr Lounge in Midtown for eye candy, drinks and some of that Atlanta nightlife he/she came to get. Friday we’d start with a quick breakfast at The Waffle House, located everywhere in Atlanta. Next, we’d hit Atlanta’s Black History and Civil Rights Tour. After that, we’d move onto Midtown’s Atlanta Food and Cocktail Tour for lunch and drinks.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There isn’t just one individual person I’d dedicate or shoutout in my story. There are a few people who helped me along this journey. This is my starting line up… Khalilah Miggins, Tiffany Nowlin, Nikkeya Brown, Taj Anwor Ball, James Crenshaw, Erica Griffin & Will Henry. While there are others, these six people played a pivotal role in my life story.

Now in regards to a book that changed my outlook on life…I’d have to say “The Alchemist”. All I’m gonna say is just read it then get back with me. Lol!

Website: https://afoonulife.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afoonu

Twitter: https://twitter.com/afoonulife

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/afoonulife

Image Credits
Marvl West