By Ifesinachi
Ibukun Odurinde, Executive Assistant to the CEO of TEF has an intriguing story you would never guess. We caught up with her to learn
How did you begin the journey to be a professional makeup artist?
I have always been a lover of everything beauty and Fashion, from makeup to hair weaves, clothes, shoes, jewellery, perfume, the list is endless. I started tying gele for friends and Family at the age of 14. Whilst in University I did make up for my friends and classmates whenever we had any school event. It wasn’t as professional as what we have today.
However, I decided to go to a makeup school right after Youth Service in 2011 to improve my skills and follow my passion. At that time makeup wasn’t as advanced as what we have now. This marked the beginning of my journey, but I stopped in 2014 because I couldn’t balance work and satisfy my clients at the same time at some point.
What were your greatest achievements during the period?
My greatest achievement was getting the opportunity to work with one of the Top Makeup Artist in London Called GEEBALO who relocated to Nigeria at that time.
She has diversified into making classy and unique bead pieces now. GEEBALO is one of the top bead makers in Nigeria today. I worked with her for a year before getting a job with Globacom Limited and had to stop my makeup business. I went with her for all her makeup jobs and she trusted me with her top clients.
What did you love the most about the job?
There was nothing more exciting and fulfilling than making people look beautiful on their special day and having to play with colours, try out new looks. It was amazing.
What did you hate the most about it?
I really did not hate anything about makeup asides from having to stand all day doing what you really love. It was a mixture of sweet and pain…LOL
How have things changed from the former industry you started with and now?
It is very evident that a lot has changed.
I learnt makeup in 2011, which was 8 years ago and at that we would apply the eyeshadow, eyeliner, concealer(when necessary), foundation, powder and blush and you are good to go but right now there is a lot you can do from contouring your face and nose to look slimmer to applying your bronzer, then shimmering and setting powder.
None of this existed back then, it’s been a huge transition from 2011 to 2018.
What are the top 3 products you would recommend for every woman?
- Becca face primer, my favourite.
- Fenty body lava, for that night party body glow
- BMpro eyeshadows and lipsticks, colourpop lipsticks, and loose powder…amazing.
- Laura Mercier Translucent loose setting Powder.
3 tips every woman should know when applying makeup?
- Always use a moisturizer before applying your primer
- Make sure to apply your eyeshadow before your foundation
- Always moisturize your lips before applying a matte lipstick.
