Why I ditches degree for carpentry – Imo varsity graduate

Meet Felicity Igbo, a 26-year-old furniture designer who defied convention by choosing a career in furniture making over a traditional path. She shares with Abdullteef Fowewe the driving force behind her unconventional decision, despite having a university degree.

She shares her inspiring story of pursuing a non-traditional career path, despite having a university degree.

What inspired your decision to pursue a career in the furniture-making industry, a traditionally male-dominated field, especially considering your academic background and gender?

My name is Felicity C. Igbo. I am 26 years old and from Mbaitoli Local Government Area in Imo State. I come from a family of four, where I am the second child and daughter. 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.

What was your parent’s reaction when you shared your plans to embark on a career in furniture making?

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.

What were some of the challenges you faced while learning the skill?

There were several challenges, but to name a few: first, the physical demands of carrying boards to be cut on the sawing machine; second, the social dynamics of working predominantly with male peers, some of whom mocked my involvement due to my educational background and choice of field. Additionally, the challenge of working with individuals whose perspectives differed significantly from mine. This often led to arguments that I sometimes had to concede, despite knowing the correctness of my stance, simply to avoid prolonged dispute.

Have you faced any mistreatment from your boss or higher-ranking colleagues?

Not at all. They show me great respect; some even refer to me as madam or sister.

Can you share information about your educational background?

I graduated from the Imo State University with a degree in philosophy. Although law was my preferred choice, I couldn’t secure law admission. However, I am currently pursuing a second degree in law.

How did your classmates react when they saw you at the furniture shop?

Some mocked me, calling me a carpenter, while others praised and encouraged me for taking such a bold step. Some even brought work for me to do.

Given your dedication to your job, how do you manage to balance it with your education?

At one point, I had to reduce my stays at the workshop, sometimes going only once or twice a week in the evenings. However, now that I no longer have lectures to attend, I have been able to fully commit to my work.

Where is your current base of operations?

Currently, I am still working under my boss here in Owerri, Imo State. I am, however, praying and planning to raise the funds needed to establish my own business.

Have you ever felt like giving up on your job due to the ridicule and challenges you have faced?

Not once have I thought of giving up on this trade. I am determined and clear about what I want and what the future holds for me.

Could you share insights into a particularly rewarding project you’ve undertaken?

My favourite projects are TV panels and designed beds. I find immense joy in working on them, from sourcing designs online to drawing, cutting, and assembling the pieces. It’s incredibly satisfying to see the final product match the vision I had on my phone.

In what ways do you believe your university education distinguishes your approach to furniture making from that of your peers?

My unique and trending sales are largely due to the strong educational foundation upon which I built my business. Education has taught me how to communicate and relate to my customers ethically and professionally, allowing me to deliver my work effectively. Additionally, my education has opened up more business opportunities. I can publicise my work both within and outside the state using social media and other platforms, which many others cannot. Education has also equipped me with the skills to keep precise accounts of my business activities, ensuring I manage finances responsibly and avoid debts. Moreover, as a philosopher, education has shaped my thoughts and perspectives, allowing me to stand out due to the knowledge I’ve gained. Lastly, my education gave me the confidence to choose this unique career path. I understand that furniture making is a rare field for a woman, and excelling in it opens up even greater opportunities.

How do you balance creativity with technical precision in your work?

As a furniture maker, I must present my ideas in a way that showcases both my vision and creativity. Before starting a project for a client, I ensure I understand exactly what they want, including details like material, colour, height, width, and budget. This helps me meet their expectations without wasting resources. When making quotations for clients, I sketch out the design to provide a clear illustration of the final product. Additionally, I sometimes solicit feedback from others to ensure my choice of colours and designs fits the intended space perfectly.

How do you stay current with industry trends and new technologies in furniture making?

Education has profoundly shaped my approach to staying updated with industry trends. I follow several furniture-related social media handles to keep abreast of the latest developments in the field. I make it a point to update myself daily by researching and sometimes practising new techniques. Although access to certain materials is limited in Owerri, I often order what I need from Lagos to stay on top of the latest trends.

What does it take for someone to become a furniture maker?

To become a furniture maker, one must possess a strong sense of calculation, dedication, and physical fitness. Health issues may hinder some individuals from working with wood dust and heavy boards. Additionally, financial stability is necessary to purchase the required equipment.

Where do you envision your business and craftsmanship heading in the coming years, and how do you plan to continue growing and learning as a furniture maker?

I see my business expanding and providing new opportunities. I hope to connect with esteemed individuals in the industry. I have set goals to attend advanced classes in Lagos or Abuja once I have the necessary funds to learn about current trends and further enhance my skills.

Would you recommend that other women consider entering the furniture-making trade?

To be honest, my journey in this field has been challenging. As a woman, I’ve faced unique difficulties, such as experiencing body pains from the physical nature of the work. However, I believe that if you have a genuine passion for furniture making, it will serve as a driving force that helps you overcome any obstacles. Passion is a powerful motivator, capable of pushing you to achieve your dreams despite the challenges. Speaking from my own experience, there was a time when I had no customers and received no support from my family. I started from scratch, but through perseverance, I have gradually built up my business. I never let the mocking and challenges deter me.

Have you collaborated with other furniture makers, designers, or artists on projects? If so, what did you learn from these experiences?

Working in a furniture company, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with various individuals from different backgrounds. These collaborations have exposed me to different approaches and techniques used by others in the field. It has been a valuable learning experience, allowing me to broaden my skills and knowledge.

How do you manage the physical demands of furniture making, and what self-care practices do you prioritise?

To manage the physical demands of my work, I maintain a detailed recording book where I document all my projects. This includes the date of delivery and any specific requirements to ensure that I execute the work accurately and efficiently. I also emphasise to my clients the importance of giving me ample time to complete their projects to perfection, without rushing. In terms of self-care, I prioritise my name health by always wearing a nose mask and gloves. This is essential because the dust generated from working with wood can be harmful to my health.

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