The Secret - Funmi Hair by Jake Riley LTD

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The SECRET FUNMI HAIR 40 Years of Hairdressing The Story of Princess Deborah Funmilayo Namabiri

This book is published on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the hairdressing career of Princess Deborah Funmilayo Namabiri. Whilst every care has been taken in the compilation of this publication, and attempts made to present up-to-date and accurate information, we cannot guarantee that inaccuracies will not occur. The publisher will not be held responsible for any loss, damage or inconvenience caused as a result of any inaccuracy or error within these pages. All material presented are used in good faith and whenever possible permissions have been applied for. All text, images and artwork in this publication is assumed to be copyright material of their respective owners. Commercial use and permission to copy or otherwise use such material must be obtained from the respective originators. The publisher accepts no liability for unauthorised use. Funmi Hair is a registered brand of Helenaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hair Care Limited in the UK and in Nigeria Copyright ÂŠ Funmi Hair 2014 www.funmihair.com info@funmihair.com Published by Ancorapoint www.ancorapoint.com info@ancorapoint.com

The SECRET FUNMI HAIR 40 Years of Hairdressing The Story of Princess Deborah Funmilayo Namabiri

This book is dedicated to God Almighty with this psalm of thanksgiving.

Psalm 111 Praise the Lord! I will give thanks to the Lord with all my heart, In the company of the upright and in the assembly. Great are the works of the Lord; They are studied by all who delight in them. Splendid and majestic is His work; And His righteousness endures forever. He has made His wonders to be remembered; The Lord is gracious and compassionate. He has given food to those who fear Him; He will remember His covenant forever. He has made known to His people the power of His works, In giving them the heritage of the nations. The works of His hands are truth and justice; All His precepts are sure. They are upheld forever and ever; They are performed in truth and uprightness. He has sent redemption to His people; He has ordained His covenant forever; Holy and awesome is His name. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; A good understanding have all those who do His commandments; His praise endures forever. Amen

t is my personal conviction that there is little one can accomplish in life without God. All that is written in these pages is just the testimony of God using a simple village girl from a remote part of Africa for great exploits, as the Word of God always reminds me in Deuteronomy 8:18 –

But you shall remember the Lord thy God: for it is He that gives thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he swore unto thy fathers, as it is this day. First my gratitude goes with all humility to God Almighty, who enables me use this book as a medium of thanksgiving and of encouragement to others that, with God on your side, nothing is impossible. I also wish to thank my husband, Prince Isaac Namabiri. He is a man of great humility and deep faith in God who works with all passion discreetly behind the scenes as an ever-strong support over many years – as you all know, behind every successful woman there is a man. Thank you to all my darling children, Helena, Grayson (son-in-law), John, Spyro and Angela, as well as my grandchildren Sydney and Grayson, for their support and love in the family. Apart from God, my family has been my rock of joy and success. My gratitude also goes to the wonderful team who published this book – Ancorapoint, namely Funmi Ogbue and Obebe Ojeifo – for making this project a reality. My final and warm gratitude goes to all our customers of many years who have been there for us and those who have sacrificed time and effort in submitting testimonies. God will bless you all for your kind words of encouragement and appreciation, as this in its turn will be used as a challenge to do more for this business and for humanity. God Bless

Princess Funmi Namabiri 7

Preface My dear wife, Princess Funmi Namabiri,

Quality and excellence is never accidental. It is the product of high intention, delivered with sincerity of effort, intelligence of direction and with skilful execution. Quality and excellence is always the wisest choice amongst many competing alternatives! My friend Charles Khiran

First, congratulations, my darling wife, on this milestone of 40 years in the hair industry. 10 years ago we both celebrated the 30th year of the business at The New Connaught Rooms, London. See how time flies â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but all to the glory of God. Funmi is an awesome woman of unimaginable strength and character. She is first a faithful, passionate, charismatic, loving, sexy, charitable, honest, hard-working and outspoken wife, mother, grandmother, businesswoman and entrepreneur. She is true Royalty by birth and character, with the gift of leadership to influence people, family and friends. My first encounter with her, many years ago, was as a young banker in the International Merchant Bank, Awolowo Road, Lagos in the late 1970s and early 1980s. She normally sent her staff to cater for the bank where I worked and the neighbouring Union Bank, and we had our lunch in the ever-busy popular restaurant at Manuwa Street, Ikoyi. From the outset I knew with all conviction that we were made for each other in unity as husband and wife, till death do

us part. She is an unshakeable pillar of support in my life and that of my whole family and siblings in Nigeria – namely my late grandmother, Stephen, Blessing, Roseline, Victoria, the late Tubokeye and Joshua, and others. On behalf of all my siblings and family, I say congratulations and thank you. One of my wife’s key characteristics is her gift for charity, or giving by her free will. I can say with all conviction that she has a supernatural gift of charity from God. My wife gives to all people in her life indiscriminately – the rich, the poor, the old, the young, black, white, Asian, the church, the mosque, family, friends, foes, employees in both the UK and Nigeria – in fact her spirit of giving knows no bounds. She has empowered lots of people economically, both in the family and outside, who now own and run successful businesses. There is no money or anything too big or too small for her to give away. I am yet to witness any person who has met my wife and not encountered some form of charitable act. I sometimes marvel at her charitable nature. May our well of love never run dry, this is just the beginning of best things ahead. God will continue to bless and prosper you in the name of Jesus.

Isaac

“ She is an unshakeable pillar of support in my life and that of my whole family and siblings in Nigeria ... On behalf of all my siblings and family, I say congratulations and thank you.” 11

Contents The Business ............................................... 14

Aftercare.......................................................... 55

How it all Began....................................... 18

Glamour

Inspiration Early Days..................................................... 20

Dedication The birth of Funmi Hair....................... 22

Commitment A family affair............................................. 28 Tributes from the children.................30

Excellence Helenaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of Hampstead hair salon....................................................... 42

Perfectionism

Star Quality.................................................. 56

Devotion The Story Continues/Charity...........64

Beautiful A tribute from HRM Oba Gabriel Oyekanmi Adeniyi, Alase of Ase-Ijesa........................................ 68

Tributes Family, friends and customers......... 70

Much ado about Funmi Hair Anecdote....................................................... 91

The business of Funmi Hair............... 48

Funmiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s advice to entrepreneurs..................................... 92

Tributes from staff and distributors..........................................51

40 Years of Funmi Hair.................... 94 13

Business 14

the

Business

Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before men. Proverbs 22:29

Funmi Hair is a product manufactured and processed by Helena’s Hair Care Centre Ltd. The business began as a sole trader in 1989 and was incorporated two years later as a Private Limited Company. Helena’s started as a full hair care salon providing all services to both male and female clients at its first location in 78 Fortune Green Road, West Hampstead. We had barbering services for men and an exclusive private room for female clients. The male section was later closed as our female clients grew in number and demanded more privacy and specialist services. The business relocated in 2013 to 190 West End Lane, West Hampstead – a bigger, more spacious ultra-modern premises to meet current challenges and allow for capacity building. Funmi Hair Extensions and Bespoke wigs use the finest selection of 100% human hair available in the world today. After many years of research and transformation, the product is now a registered trademark both in the UK and in Nigeria, and is symbolised by the logo of a Golden Eagle with the name Funmi Hair. The image of the eagle was a matter of Divine revelation to my wife some years ago. Why the Golden Eagle? For many years man has regarded the eagle as a symbol of beauty, bravery, courage, leadership, honour, pride, determination and grace. These characteristics are what make this bird so important and symbolic to humanity. What else makes this awesome bird so special? Eagles have excellent vision; they are fearless; they are tenacious; they are high flyers; they possess vitality; they nurture their young. These are just some of the ‘secret’ qualities of the brand ‘Funmi Hair’.

The leadership style of the Directors of Helena’s Hair Care Ltd is that true leaders are not bosses. They grow with their people. They strive to make individuals in the organisation or society grow to their full ability. They teach and guide, just like the mother eagle. They never stop offering challenges, but neither do they stop empowering and directing. These are some of the secrets of this family business. That is why all our staff over time have become members of Helena’s family. It is because we build people not business. These are some of the ‘secret’ qualities of the brand Funmi Hair. On behalf of all the staff, both in the UK and in Nigeria, we express our congratulations to Princess Funmi Namabiri on her 40th anniversary. The story continues … With lots of love to my darling wife – God will continue to bless you indeed.

Isaac

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How it all began The phenomenon that is Funmi Hair began with one woman, 40 years ago in Nigeria. Now popularly known by many as “Aunty” Funmi, Princess Deborah Funmilayo Namabiri was born in Osun State, Nigeria. She spent the early part of her life in Ibadan, now the capital of Oyo State, amongst traders in the popular Gbagi market – hence her interest in business at a tender age. Now beautiful women sporting Funmi Hair can be seen all over the world, from London and Paris to Nigeria, Ghana and the United States. But Funmi honed her skills in her native Nigeria and worked tirelessly to perfect them before launching the celebrated genuine human hair weave known as “Funmi Hair” which is now a registered trademark and internationally acclaimed brand.

Nigeria Ibadan X

Osun State

Lagos

Inspiration 20

Early Days Although she says her background was humble, her late father, HRH Adegoke Adeniyi was a successful trader and no doubt passed on some of his business acumen to his daughter. Funmi’s work is driven by a commitment to the value of hard work and by the strength of her faith. She can remember clearly the first time she did someone’s hair. While she was pregnant a friend helped her to plait her hair. She realised that she could do the same for her friend, and within days was creating cane rows for local people in her own home with a sign by the roadside to lure her early customers in. She progressed to styling wigs and relaxing hair. “There was some knowledge and wisdom in me naturally,” she says, “that gave me the gift for hairdressing”.

Awarding certificates to apprentices trained by Funmi at her salon.

Funmi’s talent was soon spotted by a salon owner, who trained her for three months in Lagos. Funmi opened her first salon in 1975 at Igbosere Road, Lagos. There were not many salons in those days, and she started with very little. It is difficult to believe that from those small beginnings – when, she says, she could not even afford the basic tools of her trade – grew an international business that is one of the top in the world. “To God be the Glory,” says Funmi, modestly looking back over four decades of work and dedication.

D 22

Dedication The birth of Funmi Hair

Funmi’s first hair weave, back in 1976, was the result of an act of kindness for a lady who suffered from alopecia. Funmi took hair from her mannequin and worked with it painstakingly to create an effect that no one would believe was not the woman’s own hair. This simple act was the birth of what are now called “weave on” extensions. She is acclaimed as the pioneer of these extensions in Nigeria, catapulting her many years later into a global phenomenon. In hindsight, coming to the UK over 27 years ago was a matter of Divine direction, born out of various life-threatening situations in Nigeria. This was a dark period and a low time in Funmi’s life. But, arriving in the UK, she had a clear vision of her mission and purpose in life.

She recalls using her first car as a mobile workshop, fully equipped with the tools of her trade. 23

Examples of wigs and weaves made using Funmi Hair

She says that her inspiration is from God Almighty, as well as a simple but inspiring book called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Arethaâ&#x20AC;? that she read as a youngster, extolling the virtues of hard work. 24

She went on to perfect her technique, working at various top salons in London as an employee. Her route to entrepreneurship began as a freelance hairdresser making home visits all over the UK, before deciding to set up her own distinctive premises at Helena’s in West Hampstead, North London. She became popular amongst the Nigerian elites who queued up to demand her services. She recalls using her first car as a mobile workshop, fully equipped with the tools of her trade. Sometimes she worked 15 to 20 hours a day, doing home visits late into the night. This period was demanding on the whole family. She recalls being accommodated at a university by some students who gathered to get their hair done. This made her very popular amongst Nigerian female students, some of whom have since graduated to become high-class women of substance in Nigeria. It is the weave she uses that sets Funmi’s apart. At first the material used for the weave was imported at very high prices not affordable to many clients, although with low margins, and this challenge led Funmi to explore the production and manufacture of her own hair. Originally known as “Helena 1”, Funmi was surprised to learn that people had decided to christen the weave “Funmi Hair”, the name now synonymous with quality all over the world is a product of persistent and continuous research and transformation, with over 40 distributors in West Africa and thousands of devoted followers. “People can’t get hair like this anywhere else,” she says. It has been copied, but experts can easily detect cheaper versions on the market that are not the genuine article.

From beginning to end, everything is hand-made, with no machinery involved. Funmi physically examines every strand of hair by hand for quality control before distribution Examples of wigs and weaves made 26 using Funmi Hair

The business continues to grow and her commitment shows no sign of waning. All of her family – four children and her husband – are closely involved in the business, as are friends, and it is this strong foundation that makes it a continuing success. In the early days Funmi Hair was exclusively sold in the UK shop to selected customers who could visit to buy the hair and have it fixed. However, over the last five years the company opened up the brand to a wider market and also launched an internet sales arm, managed by her husband, which continues to enjoy global growth. This strategic move has empowered some Nigerians who took the opportunity to invest in the product and are now success stories. She says that her inspiration is from God Almighty, as well as a simple but inspiring book called “Aretha” that she read as a youngster, extolling the virtues of hard work. No one could accuse her of shirking work – she still regularly works until 2am. “There is nothing about this business that I would change,” she says. “I would do this job again and again.” Funmi Hair is a 24-hour, 7-day-a-week production business, from start to packaging and distribution. From beginning to end, everything is hand-made, with no machinery involved. Funmi physically examines every strand of hair by hand for quality control before distribution.

A family affair The business that has made Funmi Hair such a worldwide success is built firmly on the family and their commitment to her vision. Her four children, her son-inlaw and her husband, who is an accountant and retired chartered banker of many years’ standing, continue to play their part in creating the Funmi Hair brand.

attitude motivates her children and staff alike, all of whom are equally inspired by her example.

Her daughter Miss Helena McCrae, after whom the salon is named, is herself the owner of a salon in Croydon, south London, as well as being a qualified lawyer. She recalls her early life when the business was just beginning to take off. Her mother was dedicated to sourcing quality hair and worked constantly from their home while a young Helena helped out with the domestic chores. “Mum always travelled to buy and sell, whether it was gold or other commodities,” she says, “so sourcing and trading hair was a natural progression”.

Funmi’s desire always to please the customer does not stop with their hair, say her children. Her commitment involves cooking for customers’ parties and other functions, and food and hospitality play a great part in her attitude.

“The black Margaret Thatcher” is how her son Spyro describes Funmi’s tough attitude and high standards. “She really is the iron lady,” he says, adding that her

The family atmosphere pervades the business. “She brings people into the fold and even if they are not related by blood they feel at home, be they customers or staff,” says Spyro, who has worked in the salon for 13 years.

“It’s Christmas every Sunday,” says her youngest daughter Angela, describing the huge dinners that grace Funmi’s table each week. She recalls being given plates groaning with food to take to school events and goody bags bursting with treats for special occasions. Certainly the welfare of her children didn’t suffer as a result of Funmi being an entrepreneurial woman building a successful business while her family was growing up.

Commitment 29

“

My mother is a phenomenal woman. She has been an inspiration to me in everything that she has done. She has shown me that perseverance always results in success. I believe my mother’s inner strength comes from her unwavering religious beliefs. No matter what happens in life, my mother always believes in God, knowing he will guide her in the right direction. My mother is fiercely loyal towards her family and those she loves and is generous to a fault. My mother has touched the lives of so many different people in so many different ways, it’s hard to describe how much she has done for everyone. My mother means the world to me. She makes my life a much much better place and I hope she is as proud of me as I am of her.

”

Helena

“

To describe my mother is to describe faith. From my earliest memories my mother preached faith. Faith in Jesus, faith in God, faith in family, faith in friends, faith in business.

As a man I understand better the extent of my mother’s faith and her absolute commitment to it. This faith brought her from a village in Nigeria to one of the more affluent locations in London.

To chronicle my mother’s journey would be a challenge for any biographer, but I will speak from my memories. My mother brought her family from Nigeria to the UK with faith that the UK would provide a better life. Imagine, if you will, a Nigerian mother and three young children in the UK, with nothing more than faith. That’s more than even my privileged mind can comprehend.

With the help of my father, my mother set about finding us a home and work in a foreign land, with no understanding of the system and no financial resources. But with faith, I can say all things are possible. I thank you, God.

My mother found us a home in Rotherhithe, and work on Edgware Road. The seeds of my faith were planted in London. In time my mother was able to start a business on Fortune Green Road, West Hampstead, and Helena Hair Care was born through faith. I thank you, God.

I could talk about the many struggles, the many long hours and all the effort that has gone into making my mother and this business. But words would fail me. So let us talk instead about my mother’s faith, which has given help to others at the very steps of Helena Hair Care.

My mother would extend a helping hand to a mother in hardship walking past the shop. Faith.

She would give work to this person, teach her a trade, help find a home for her and her family. Faith.

I have seen this many times, and I thank God for the blessing.

As a child I saw the pain and the hardships of my mother. As a man I see a testimony to faith. And now as I take steps towards starting my own family I pray for the blessings of my mother and the faith to meet the challenges and joys of life.

I will love my mother always and each day I learn more and more how valuable my mother is, and the value of faith.

I will leave you with one final thought. As a child my mother would say to me, “You will not understand now, you will understand later”. I can say now I am starting to understand the value of life, and I commit myself to the faith of my mother.

Some words to my father Isaac, the quiet man who has been my father through so much. I can say thank you dearly – I respect and look to you for direction in life. A son to a father, truly blessed.

As my parents have, I give myself to God and faith.

”

John

“

Mum was very caring, if rather over-protective, when we were growing up. She would go out of her way to provide the very best for us, often working until three or four in the morning. She worked as a freelance hairdresser, attending to customers in her own home or at theirs.

I recall her determination to make her own way as a newcomer to the UK, and her refusal to take any handouts from the welfare state.

Mum was sent benefits cheques from Social Security to which, as a single parent, she was entitled for her children. But she went down to the office and told them that there must have been a mistake, and tried to return them. The people in the office were shocked – no one had ever refused to take benefits before! Mum’s hard-working attitude certainly influenced us all to be independent, and she taught us how to look after ourselves.

I started working in the hair business myself some 15 years ago, after deciding that I wanted to work with my hands instead of pursuing further education.

After a week in the salon I was convinced. I certainly learnt from the best. I went to college to study hairdressing, but quickly realised that they were not teaching the right way to do weaves. I knew straight away that the way it was done in the salon was the right way. Mum never cut corners; a minimum of three hours is needed to get it right so that it will last.

”

Spyro

“

There are not enough words to describe my mother, but it is simple to say she always aims to help those around her to achieve their best in whatever aspect possible. I can say without a second thought that my mother has never let me down, or allowed to me to aim for anything lower than the very best.

I am truly lucky and grateful to have Funmi Namabiri as my mother. Not many children nowadays can say their mothers have the full package of what a mother should be, whereas I have much, much more – a leader, comforter, adviser, motivator, protector, provider and friend. The fact that I and so many others can find these factors within one being is evidence that my mother was a blessing sent to us.

My mother has touched the lives of many people stretching all over the globe – she has also built a business empire over forty years and raised four children. And yet there has never been a single moment when I have felt as if her attention was elsewhere, or that I took second place.

With all the various things my mother has to juggle daily, she is always present in my life. My mother has attended every school play and sports game, taken me to every interview – and is even there when I need her to get rid of the smallest spider.

When I look at my mother’s accomplishments I feel a strong desire to follow in her footsteps and make myself a success. She is living proof that anything is possible once I put my mind and heart into it. With my mother by my side I am forever blessed.

I thank God for her life and pray to make her proud in the near future. There is no possible way for me ever to repay her

for all the efforts she has made – there is no repayment that I could even offer her, other than becoming the respectable woman she has always wanted me to become.

My mother did not have an easy early life and the successes she has made are all accomplished by her own hard work – from a small village in Nigeria to one of the most luxurious locations in London, taking her four children with her.

My three siblings are another blessing in my life – they are always there when I need them the most. I pray for them to continue having a blessed life for many years to come.

I thank you with all my heart for all you have done and all you continue to do, and promise to grow into the virtuous woman you want me to be.

”

Angie

“

From the first time I met Funmi, who I always refer to as Mum, I have had to stand back and be inspired by everything she does. We have a real mother and son relationship and I am truly thankful for it. I call upon her wisdom frequently and her advice is always appreciated.

When it comes to generosity I can honestly say that Mum comes second to nobody. She supports us without bounds and looks after our family in its entirety, both here and in Nigeria.

The thing that stays in my mind when it comes to Mum is where all her strength, will, wisdom, advice, inspiration and generosity come from. If you ask her she’ll tell you it’s all through God, and when you look at all the good she does, it’s obvious.

When it comes to business I always watch and learn. Over the years I have seen Mum’s projects go from strength to strength – Funmi Hair has gone from a personal boutique service to an international one with clients from all corners of the earth. The banquet hall in the village was completed in true Funmi style, with splendour fit for a queen, and the hotel complex continues to grow on a daily basis.

Thank you, Mum, for looking after us, teaching us and loving us the way only you could. We love you and thank God for having you in our lives.

”

Grayson

37 Celebration of moments in Funmiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life with her husband, parents and children

38 Celebration of moments in Funmiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life with her husband, parents and children

Funmiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (late) father HRH Adegoke Adeniyi

40 Celebration of moments in Funmiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life with her husband, parents and children

Helena’s of Hampstead hair salon – where Aunty Funmi weaves her magic When fashionable African ladies come to London in search of the perfect coiffure, the elegant and image-conscious go to a quiet, leafy corner of north London, where Helena’s of Hampstead is situated on West End Lane. The smart new salon is Funmi’s second in the area – the first looks out over the trees and playgrounds of Fortune Green. And fortune has smiled on Helena’s in more ways than one, as within the shop is a magical element that has transformed the hair of hundreds of women.

Excellence The salon is always busy, with ladies sitting under driers or with stylists’ hands working on their hair, surrounded by photographs of beautiful African women sporting fabulous hairstyles in various colours and lengths. Polystyrene model heads are dotted around, sporting the genuine human hair weave known internationally as “Funmi Hair”.

It is the weave that sets Helena’s apart from other salons, but Aunty Funmi will not part with the secret behind it. “People can’t get hair like this anywhere else,” she says, holding up a sample of the locks. Now it is known simply as “Funmi Hair” and is famous throughout the world. As well as being fitted and styled in the salon, Funmi Hair is sold wholesale and has become an accepted term for great weaves, with a number of cheap, poor-quality imitations on the market. The highly-trained stylists who work in Helena’s hair salon spend up to six hours on each client. “The time spent depends on what they want,” explains Funmi. “The hair can be made straight, curly, coloured or highlighted, and adapted to the individual’s shape of face or request. We never make their choice for them, but give them a variety of options.” Funmi’s son Spyro has grown up in the business and adds that a number of stylists attend to different aspects of a client’s styling, according to their area of expertise, so a customer can have several people working on their hair during a visit.

Spyro himself trained under his mother when he discovered that London colleges did not fully understand how to deal with AfroCaribbean hair. “Mum’s way is not to cut corners,” he says. “No one can walk out of a salon after 90 minutes with good hair. Mum’s four decades of experience goes into training her staff to spend time with each customer.” Spyro says that as much care goes into explaining to clients what not to do to their hair as telling them what they should do. Keeping healthy and well cared-for hair is paramount, and customers are warned if they are doing something that is bad for their hair. Not putting strain on an area, and careful washing and brushing, ensures the wonderful effect created by Funmi Hair is maintained for several months after leaving the salon. Funmi is coy when asked if he she has had any famous customers. “Everybody is famous,” she says, adding that every woman wants to devote as much attention to her hair as she can, wherever she is from. “Once your hair is looking good, then the rest of you looks good, too.”

Awards 44 and recognitions

International Female Entrepreneur Award

46 A day in the life... Business as usual at Helenaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hair Care Salon

47 Funmi and her son Sypro, Manager of Helenaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hair Care Salon

Perfectionism 48

The business of Funmi Hair Funmi Hair is not created by magic, but by weeks of hard work, care and attention. The story starts when the hair is sourced, from a variety of changing suppliers around the world, and brought to the salon. Funmi’s husband Isaac takes care of this vital side of the business, travelling the globe to ensure the best-quality hair is found. It’s a 24-hour job. From that point, an army of workers comes into the picture. The next crucial step is to prepare the hair painstakingly, strand by strand. This is carried out by wefters, many of whom work from their own homes, spending hours on this intricate but key part of the Funmi Hair process. “It’s good work and I am so happy to work for Funmi,” says Zia, who has been doing it for six years. Others such as Luma, Leti, Sabe, Siba, Laza, Dia, Meli, Sofka, Danke, Zahe, Emma, Shpresa, Shaha, Nije, Sheru, Antigone and Victoria echo her sentiments. Dani, who is involved in delivering the hair and whose wife Remzie works as a wefter, adds that working for Funmi is a happy job, and that she commands “100% respect” from her workforce. “She is a lovely woman with a good heart,” he adds. “And very funny too! Quite brilliant.” Dani sees Funmi’s life as an “immigrant success story”. Many of the workers like Dani and his wife are immigrants to the UK

from other nations, and so are encouraged and empowered by finding their niche in the Funmi Hair business. The notion of the business as a family pervades the operation. “Staff welfare is of key importance,” says Isaac. “People are treated as part of the family. We feel that if people are looked after, then they will promote the product for us. This is not an employer/employee relationship, it is a family relationship. Everyone is professional.” In addition to its obvious success in making women feel beautiful, Funmi Hair has a ripple effect in making a big social and economic difference. The business contributes to the economy, and benefits the workers who are brought into the fold, given employment and cared for. Funmi Hair customers are also made to feel involved in the bigger picture. In the salon itself, the hair is treated, curled, and dyed or styled into weaves and wigs before being finally ready to adorn a customer. The whole process, from sourcing and ordering the hair to becoming someone’s crowning glory in the Helena’s Hair salon, takes six weeks, and fitting the hair to the head takes a minimum of two hours. The results speak for themselves. The stylists who work in the salon are enthusiastic, and keen ambassadors of the product. Working under the eagle eye of Funmi, they have learnt their trade through her and continue to perfect their craft, all commenting on what a warm and enjoyable place it is to work. Hani, who has worked at the salon for 20 years, says she learnt everything from Funmi, and “nothing from college”.

Funmi with her full staff

Funmi with her Helenaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hair Care core team - the hairstylists 50

These are some of the emotional tributes from those who work for Aunty Funmi in the salon, as home workers and as distributors. Many of them refer to her by her other name of Debra. Working with Aunty Debra is my best work. I’m pleased to be one of her staff. I wish her all the best for her life and business.

To Debra. I’m happy with you and family. I am working with you because you are amazing.

Love Siba xx

I love you Debra.

Victoria

f To Debra. It has been a pleasure knowing you and working with you. I wish you all the best to you and your family.

I am happy with Debra. She’s the best. And her family too.

Love from Zahe

Antigone xx

I am so happy to work with Debra. I’ve worked for her a long time and she is like my family. She is so nice and friendly. I love Debra.

Luma

g To Aunty Debra, I’m happy I’m working with you because you are an amazing person and very understanding.

Respect from Shpresa xxxx

Thank you for everything. I wish you all the best.

Nije xxx

h I’ve been working with Funmi about nine years and I’m still working here. It has been a pleasure knowing her and working with her. I wish her all the best for her family and wish her long life.

Feben

h To Debra: I’m happy with you and your family. I am working for you because you are amazing.

From Laza xxx

I keep coming back because I’ve not used or seen any other hair that I can compare with Funmi Hair in regard to quality. In a word, Aunty Funmi is fabulous! She does not compromise on the quality of the hair she provides. I like the versatility of Funmi Hair with respect to its styling and durability. The curls remain the same, not affected by heat or water. The texture of the hair is soft and easy to manage, and once styled, the curls last for several

I saw Funmi Hair for the first time on my elder

weeks. Funmi Hair is fantastic.

sister Mrs Ebele Nwachukwu. It looked so

I get compliments all the way whenever I have

pretty and different. Shortly after I got mine

my hair done – everybody likes it.

and fixed it, I knew there was no turning

I keep coming back because I’ve not used or

back. That’s how my journey has been with

seen any other hair that I can compare with

Funmi Hair for more than eight years now. I

Funmi Hair in regard to quality.

started selling Funmi Hair in December 2011

I highly recommend Funmi Hair to my friends and customers. I tell them that although it is expensive, they will not need to buy another hair extension for three or four years. Now that’s value for money!

Mrs Ngozi Janet Anuakpado MD/CEO Jannys International Limited

which was also when I met Aunty Funmi for the first time. So far I have sold about 2,000 packs. Funmi Hair is in very high demand for the simple reason that it is classy and has a bounce that is different from any other type of hair, adding an extra touch of glamour to any woman who wears it well. It is also very durable if well brushed and maintained. In doing business with Aunty Funmi, I have come to appreciate her person so much

Yours is a story of doggedness, persistence and courage and we younger women can learn from this to persist and never give up. more. In the early stages of dealing with her, I

unto many, always ready to empower. The lifeblood of any business is cash-flow, its amazing how Aunty Funmi has managed to maintain a consistent cash-flow, manages her inventory,plans her supplies in order to accomodate her numerous customers demand, No wonder she stood out as the best UK Afro/Beauty Successful entrepreneur. I salute you ma while I pray Almighty God will continue to grant you wisdom, knowledge and understanding in all areas of your life. (Amen)

thought she was a bit too harsh and haba with me, her customer – but her anger never lasts! She might seem angry for one moment but by the next minute she’s saying a prayer for me.

Mrs Oludayo Adeyinka

She is someone who sees the good in others,

CEO. DDva Hair & Accessories

is kind-hearted and quite motherly.

Aunty Funmi, I congratulate you on this landmark achievement. You have done very well. Yours is a story of doggedness, persistence and courage and we younger women can learn from this to persist and

Mrs Funmi Namabiri, the CEO of Funmi

never give up. More than anything else, I

Hair is a successful business entrepreneur

thank God for blessing you in a manner that

who has thrived many years in the beauty

only He as God can. Sometimes people work

industry. She is 360 degree leader by

hard all their life and never reap any good fruit,

standard, a woman worthy of emulation,

but the Lord has blessed you so immensely

someone I can categorically refer to as a

and favoured you. You have every reason to

sister and mentor.

celebrate and I join Helena, Spyro and the rest

You cannot expect to be effective and

of the family in celebrating you. May the hand

successful in business unless you truly

of the Lord always be upon you to bless your

believe in your business and in the goods

efforts both now and in the future. Congratulations!

Uzorchukwu Valerie Bakwunye

and services that you sell. Aunty Funmi remains motivated and constantly keeps her nose to the grindstone.She’s a blessing

I first discovered Funmi Hair about ten years ago and immediately noticed its superior quality compared to other hair

which I had been using. Although out of my reach at the time, I started using it some three years ago and was inundated with questions from my friends and colleagues as to where I had got it. Although more expensive than other hair, it became clear over time that, because it could be used over and over without losing its shine and style, it was a better investment than buying the cheaper hair which could only be used once or twice. Having complete confidence in the product, I added it to the portfolio of my own company, TopNotch Fashion and Event Planning. It was at that time that I contacted Aunty Funmi. Although I have never had the opportunity to meet her, I was impressed by her friendliness over the phone and appreciative of the help that she gave me in ordering hair and delivering it to me in Nigeria. Sometimes these orders were placed at short notice due to the volume of requests from my customers, but I usually received them ahead of schedule and without any delivery problems, which is important. Apart from the uniqueness of the product, the service delivery I receive is a major reason for my returning to Funmi Hair, for whom I am now an approved agent in Nigeria. Funmi Hair does not in fact need much recommendation. I model it myself and, wherever I go – at work, at the salon or at

social events – my hair attracts interest. It is not too difficult to sell once people understand that it is a better investment than buying cheaper hair – and I can vouch for that from my own experience. I congratulate Aunty Funmi and wish her many more years of providing the world with her beautiful hair.

Uzoamaka Onwu TopNotch Fashion and Event Planning

I come to Funmi Hair for several reasons. Her hair is unique, durable, and gives the same feeling as your natural hair. It responds very well to styling, colouring, fixing, etc. It’s full and bouncy, and very beautiful. Her style is focused on giving the African woman a natural but elegant and outstanding look. She is very professional and appreciates her faithful and loyal customers.

It is good hair and has a different style of

When I have had my hair done it always turns heads because it’s beautiful and classy, yet has a natural look. Remember, hair is a woman’s glory and Funmi Hair makes me feel beautiful all the time. I keep coming back because Funmi Hair meets my needs and there’s a sustained demand for it from my customers. When I recommend Funmi Hair to my friends I say to them “Are you looking for that hair that you’ll never go wrong with? That hair that’s beautiful, classy, and durable?

bounce.

Then, Funmi Hair is the hair to get.”

I come to Funmi because her hair is nice. I don’t know much about her lifestyle, I just sell her hair. My customers request it, that’s why I come back.

Celina Osagiede

Mrs Danielle Ubani

Bellahairz Beauty Supply Limited

MD/CEO, Dee Gorgeous Hair Merchants, Abuja

Tips for keeping your hair manageable Aftercare • Brush hair daily and frequently using a good quality detangling brush; start from the bottom and work your way up gradually to the top. • Wash hair using detangling shampoo and conditioner. • Do not use any grease, oil or oil spray/sheen on the hair. • To maintain hair shine or lustre, use a serum (thius protects hair from the environment and any hair loss and does not weigh the hair down). • When weaving, do not sew on the weft – always sew under it. • When removing the weave do NOT cut the weft of the hair. • The hair can be coloured. • You must have hair set by a professional stylist. • You can straighten hair with a blow dryer and flat iron. • Brush hair properly before swimming (always use a cap to protect hair from chlorine). 55

Glamour 56

Star Quality Aunty Funmi has created hair for many famous people, from celebrities in the worlds of show business, music and modelling to dignitaries and diplomats. She created the tumbling tresses worn by singer Sade in her Mermaids video and stunning locks sported by international models. A look at some of the photographs of familiar faces on the wall of her old salon gives an idea of the extent of her influence on the world of hair – although most celebrity customers, including actresses, TV presenters and models, do not like being mentioned by name. But she values her regular clientele as much as the rich and famous, and the hair which is the common thread between them is as head-turning on the High Street as it is on the red carpet. Everyone comes out of the salon feeling like a star. One of her most loyal devotees, Dele, was determined to acquire the famous Beyoncé hairstyle when she went

to the singer’s concert. Reaching right down her back in a cascade of waves and curls, the hair created by Aunty Funmi’s son Spyro was so eye-catching that other concertgoers were distracted from Beyoncé’s music and came to enquire where she had got it done. Dele has been coming to the salon for about ten years after meeting a minister’s wife at a party and being fascinated by her wavy, full grey hair. “I had to corner her and tell her ‘Your hair is amazing!’” she recalls. The lady in question went to fetch Funmi’s business card and even let Dele touch her hair. “I dreamt about that hair,” admits Dele, who was told by Funmi on her first visit that she could be transformed. “Funmi takes it as a personal challenge to make you look your best. She asked me why I was making myself look older than I was, and now I have a special savings account just for the hair. It’s an addiction,” she says – but a good one. “Beautiful” is how Pastorlola describes her style as she sits in the chair having her Funmi Hair replaced. “I aim for a glamorous look and Funmi Hair epitomises glamour,” she says, adding that she travels from Buckinghamshire to visit the salon and needs to allocate an entire day for the process. It looks painful as the stylist picks away at

“ I know myself what they need when I look at them,” she says, and no one disagrees. Forty years ago the ladies in Helena’s Hair Care would not have had the luxury of such life-changing hairstyles. Over the years different products have come onto the market and have changed attitudes.

her head with a sharp needle-like instrument, and although she admits that it can hurt “sometimes” she adds there is “no pain, no gain” in her pursuit of glamour and beauty.

Aunty Funmi remembers when weave-ons first appeared on the scene in Nigeria. “Like all fashions,” she says, “they came from the USA”. Their arrival gave Funmi the idea and the opportunity to turn her talent to something which is still creating different looks – from bouncy curls to straight lengths, brightly-coloured flashes to custom-made wigs for every occasion.

Bisola has travelled even further, coming from Nigeria for her regular Aunty Funmi fix. Her London visits, which happen every six weeks or so, always include a trip to the salon. “I had heard so much about this place, and seen people with his hair. I’ve had weave-ons in the past, but Funmi Hair is totally different. It’s expensive, but you pay for the quality. You can always tell when someone has Funmi Hair.”

Her own distinctive blonde mane is tended by her staff in the salon. She claims she is “still learning” her trade, and is always on hand to advise customers about the best look for them.

Jennie is a keen golfer, and tells how the Funmi Hair she has had attended to every six weeks for the last seven years stays in place even when she is playing in all weathers, which can play havoc with alternative hair. A simple brush and a serum is all that is needed to maintain the hair, so aftercare is minimal.

At least 50% of Aunty Funmi’s clients cover several generations of the same family, with mothers, daughters and granddaughters all customers. These include the Animashaun family and the Ojora family, both of whom have been clients for more than 30 years.

When she sees a new client she knows instinctively what to do. Her customers affirm that Funmi is not afraid to be blunt if she does not agree with what they ask for. “I know myself what they need when I look at them,” she says, and no one disagrees.

Funmi with Slingshot musician from Guayana

Mrs Ephraim Ngare, Wife of Kenyan High Commissioner (left) with Mrs Beatrice Kolade, Wife of the Nigerian High Commissioner (right)

Funmi and Isaac with (Chief) Mr and Mrs Animashawun

Chief Mr and Mrs Erelu Ojora

60 Funmi and guests celebrate her â&#x20AC;&#x153;30 Years of Hairdressingâ&#x20AC;? event at The Connaught Rooms, London, UK

Funmi and (Chief) Mrs Animashawun

Gina West

The cutting of the cake

Funmi and Issac having fun with fellow glamorous guests 61

62 Models walk the runway at the “30 Years of Hairdressing” event, The Connaught Rooms, London, UK

300-person state of art event hall in Nigeria

Devotion 64

The story continues Today Funmi Hair is as well known around the world as it is in Nigeria and the UK, and Princess Deborah Funmilayo herself is a role model and icon for young women everywhere – not just for the hair but also because of the way she has built up her business and remained true to her vision while raising a loving and successful family. Funmi has travelled extensively around the world and her trips have included religious pilgrimages to places such as the Holy Land, as well as business and family visits. She has also given back to others on a grand scale and her charity extends far and wide. One of Nigeria’s treasures, in the village of Ase-Ijesa she is a legend, a local woman who has become an international success. She has homes there, and has built a hotel, banqueting hall and studio, and installed many other facilities and improvements which touch the lives of people all around. She

has assisted in the construction of a Methodist church and the provision of a new borehole and water supply to the church. Her visits to Ase-Ijesa involve lavish parties and celebrations, and she never forgets to care for the less fortunate, always providing gifts for local children and creating a warm environment for those around her, extending her immediate circle of family and friends to embrace many more people who cross her path. As well as creating a unique global brand of hair that has transformed looks and lives, she continues to extend her influence, helping to set people up in business, and giving them work and the confidence to go forth and make their own mark on the world, as she has done herself. The Funmi Hair business and her network of distributors are still growing as word spreads about her perfectionism, commitment to excellence and dedication.

Charity The full impact of Funmi’s charitable acts is explained in an interview between the Alase of Ase-Ijesa and Funmi’s husband Isaac.

of the people there. Speaking from his palace, he describes the transformation of the village over the last 30 years and his gratitude to Princess Funmi Namabiri for the work she has put in place.

Here he thanks Funmi for her outstanding contributions to the community which have greatly improved the area and the lives

Courtyard of the event hall in Nigeria

Obaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Palace

66 Ase-Ijesa where Funmi has helped complete a number of important developments for the community

Public water taps

Borehoes

Water tanks

Street lighting

Beautiful Princess Funmilayo Namabiri was born over fifty years ago to the Royal Family of Oba Alase of Ase-Ijesa in Obokun Local Government Area of Osun State. Her father, Prince David Adegoke Adeniyi, is my elder brother. She grew up in a rural community which was mainly agrarian in those days. The major activities were farming and petty trading. Growing up in such an environment can be very challenging but little Funmilayo did not allow her background to deter her. Rather, she converted every little opportunity her background could offer to an advantage in growing up. She received primary education and proceeded to secondary school. She struggled and worked hard, and her quest for education led her to travel abroad, where God has blessed her. Princess Funmilayo Namabiri is an embodiment of generosity, kindness, love and compassion. She has done the family proud. She is very enterprising and extremely accommodating. She has contributed a lot to the Adeniyi family, and made it greater than other families. We are very proud of her achievements. Her contributions to the development of Ase-Ijesa are innumerable. To God be the glory, she completed the following developmental projects in Ase-Ijesa:

4. Provision of street lights, powered by a heavy-duty generator

5. Annual support of Ase-Ijesa for the Agemo festival celebrations

6. Regular grading of township roads

7. Construction of the Praise Banquet Hotel, Surulere Agemo Street, with over 70 guest rooms. The modern hall can accommodate over 1,000 guests, and is one of the best in Osun State.

She lifted those who had fallen, fed those who were hungry and gave water to those who were thirsty. She has been a river and then the sea. Thank God, the sea never runs dry. May she continue to flourish for ever, Amen. She has done us proud. She is quite worthy of emulation. She is a mother in a million. I salute her courage, patience, hard work, humility, generosity and contentment. I appreciate her constant advice on honesty and thoroughness. I appreciate the support of her good husband, Prince Namabiri, always being there for his wife. God bless. I appreciate her love and kindness to all and sundry.

1. Renovation of the family house, befitting the status of a Royal Family

I sincerely thank her for the embodiment of unity she represents in the family and her total commitment to the home front.

2. Provision of a borehole for the benefit of Ase-Ijesa and Ipetu-Ile communities

God bless Princess Funmilayo Namabiri, â&#x20AC;&#x153;A Heart of Godâ&#x20AC;?.

3. Construction of a Methodist Church and the supply of furniture for it

HRM Oba Gabriel Oyekanmi Adeniyi Alase of Ase-Ijesa

It’s been a wonderful experience getting to

lead from the front by standing on your feet

the numerous clients and well-wishers,

know Aunty Funmi and her team. The level of

all day in the salon making us look beautiful

who patronise your salon (Helena’s), to

professionalism is extremely high and you’ve

and entertaining us with your stories of life.

congratulate you on 40 successful years in the

always made to feel so welcome. I love my

You feed us and meet all our needs during the

business. Your care and love for both young

hair and the way it makes me look and feel.

time that we spend with you.

and old, with such humility, has endeared you

Congratulations and more grease to your

I always look forward to my days in the salon

to many. It’s no wonder that God has blessed

elbows! To many more years!!

with you, always coming prepared to spend the

Mrs Olufolake Abdulrazaq

you tremendously.

entire day with you – not something I get to do

I pray God continues to bless you and your

often, but I totally appreciate it when I can.

family. Helena’s Hair Salon will continue to

For those that cannot get to your salon in London, in Lagos you have a distribution

grow from strength to strength and remain at the top, in Jesus’ name! Congrats!

Dame Rebecca Aikhomu

network and other retailers that now stock Funmi Hair and it is easily recognisable by its

packaging and quality. Funmi Hair has now become a necessary accessory for every chic woman that I know. I celebrate you, Aunty, and salute you for the audacity to think it and do it.

e determination and your vision. You are living testimony to “If you can think it, you can do it”. You have created a brand of the finest hair

In all my hair life, I have never seen any hair like Funmi Hair. It is simply the best – there is none like it!

Oyinade Ademola

stemming from your vision to give women confidence and to look beautiful. You never

“Aunty Funmi”, as you are popularly known

seem to get tired of working so hard! You

and called by both young and old. I join

celebrate 40 years in the industry – here’s to blessings. You are a mother to all and I pray

Mo Abudu

I celebrate your courage, your boldness, your

This is to wish you the very best as you 40 more years of success and insurmountable

Much love,

Aunty Funmi

Dear Aunty Funmi,

that God continues to bless you and your family, bless the work of your hands and all that you set out to do. Cheers to a great entrepreneur and an incredible woman!!! Lots of love,

Benita Ainabe

Merchant Bank of Chicago Staff (which later

her coast as she celebrates forty years in the

became FinBank, now bought over by FCMB)

hair and beauty industry world wide.

patronized her catering outfit regularly for

May 2014 be the best year yet for her and her

lunch. One of such regulars is her banker

entire family in Jesus’ Name. Amen

husband of today Isaac Namabiri. Together, they have come a long way, from the back doors of Awolowo Road to the United Kingdom where she has spread her tentacles. She has always been very friendly, displayed deep commitment to customer service and

Mama Helena – The Queen of Weave-ons My mother taught me that it is laziness that kills; that hard work does not. The Bible says in Proverbs 22:29. Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before unknown men.

Mrs. Folorunso Alakija

e The Extension of Grace

kept most clients as personal friends over

I am so excited to be part of this historic

the years and I can say that I have valued

moment for Funmi Hair. I was introduced to

her friendship ever since because she has

Aunty Funmi as a client by my very good Aunty

a very good and loving heart. In fact I have

Mosun. She was organising an 80th birthday

never known her to be jealous of anybody’s

celebration for her mum in Ase-Ijesa in Oshun

progress but would rather rejoice with them

State. Funmi Hair has been a great blessing to

and she is generous to a fault.

women and has been a great experience since

In a nutshell, she is a loving wife, mother,

I came across it. It has this wonderful grace,

grandmother, and a very focused business

that when you wear one, your confidence

woman per excellence; a christian star who

increases and you are at peace with yourself

has not despised the days of her humble

from the bottom of your heart. It should be

beginnings. I am sure her life story will inspire

called “Princess Funmi Hair” – not just Funmi

a lot of younger ones.

Hair – because she is actually a princess.

I wish her all the very best for the future and

Thank you, Princess Funmi Namabiri.

that the Lord Himself will continue to enlarge

Adebanke Alayaki

Such is the case with Funmi of the popular Funmi Hair conglomerate! I have known her for over 35 years having started from humble beginnings but she had always believed in working extremely hard to earn a living. I remember she combined hairdressing with catering and many of the International

Funmi Hair has been a great blessing to women and has been a great experience since I came across it. 71

Congratulations to a Woman of Substance on 40 Years as a Hairdresser

She gradually advanced to hair straightening

other parts of the world. I am sure that all

and in 1974 was able to get a job at Sinclair’s

those beautiful ladies who wear Funmi’s hair

hairdressing salon near Marble Arch in

will attest to this. She is blessed with her

I write about a woman who is an icon, a role

London for a brief period.

devoted husband and four lovely children.

model and a “lady” to young and old alike –

Funmi

none other than Mrs Funmi Namabiri, the

hairdressing salon in September 1989 and

“Hair Dressing Legend”.

has never looked back. She is a very religious

I first met Funmi in 1982 through my daughter,

person who fears God and worships the

who used to go and have her hair done at her

truth. She is exceptionally respectful to

house in London. My daughter was so full

young and old alike and knows how to make

of praise for this fantastic woman that she

one feel special to her. She is generous to a

wanted me to meet her.

fault and there is nothing she cannot give

When I phoned Funmi to ask if she could come to my flat to do my hair, her response was “Ejika Ni Shop Mi,” meaning that she travels round carrying her shop to people’s houses to do her work. When Funmi arrived, she went on her knees to greet me. I was quite impressed by her gesture and when

eventually

opened

her

own

Congratulations – God bless you.

Chief (Mrs) Yetunde Animashawun

away. I remember years ago the husband of one of Funmi’s clients deserted her in pregnancy. When she had her baby she was lost and had no one to turn to. Funmi took it upon herself to look after the young woman. She went out shopping for her and filled the boot of a minicab with everything the lady

she called me “Mummy” I knew that I had

would need for the newborn baby, from food

just gained another daughter. She soon

to clothing. I have known her to do this on

became the hairdresser of my children, both

numerous occasions.

girls and boys, and she was always very gentle

Funmi is not only a hairdresser, but also a

with them.

wonderful cook and you can never be hungry

I have used various types of Auntie Funmi’s

Funmi’s hairdressing career is God’s gift to

if you go to her salon as there is always hot

weave for years and they’re simply the best!

her as she never went to any hairdressing

Jollof rice with assorted meat and chicken

She has built a business out of a passion

school and everything she knows today she

stew. Funmi has been a wonderful daughter

and I admire her greatly for that! I wish you

taught herself. She started from a young age

to me as she looks after me as if I were her

many more years of success. Keep making

plaiting hair for people around her and when

biological mother.

women beautiful.

in the 1960s and 70s people started wearing

God has definitely blessed Funmi for her

wigs, she would ask them for their wigs, which

generosity by making her hair and hair

she washed and styled for them without pay.

products the best not only in Nigeria but in

Esosa Anenih

we drove to Helena’s place, purchased the

Funmi is special because she is interested in every single customer, and ensures that their experience at her salon is a happy one. I keep coming back because my hair looks lovely

weave on and fixed it. The service at the salon

after it has been done here.

never bothered because I am not a weave on person. I got married to someone who only appreciates me in weave ons a lot, so

Dr (Mrs) Mina Bajomo

was lovely. She monitored the weaving and fixing very professionally. I walked out feeling

finer than Cinderella and telling everyone that asked it was Funmi Hair. Celebrating 40 years I can only pray that God continues to enlarge your coast and establish the works of I first met Mrs Funmi Namabiri at a pilgrimage

your hand and business – may you continue

I went to with a group called “A Day With

to move from glory to glory in Jesus’ name.

Mary” to a Marian Shrine at Fatima in Portugal.

May your name be heard across the globe

Mrs Namabiri and her husband were seated

as always.

at the same dining table as me. I so enjoyed her company and we became friends. We exchanged contact details and met again

I came into your salon looking like a market woman, but afterwards it was something else. I went through wash, conditioning, rolling and drying, and the result was great. Thank you Aunty Funmi.

Allochipe Bebelola

Pamela Ben-Anyiwe

when we got back to London. We also went

I come to Funmi Hair because I want hair that looks real, bouncy and complements my style. Basically I want to look and feel beautiful while wearing any length of hair. People generally think it is my own hair because it is what it states – real human hair.

to the Holy Land, Israel, with the same group.

The Lord has given Funmi the talent to

Mrs Namabiri is a beautiful lady who has a

transform a woman’s external appearance by

joyful and friendly character. She is easy to

adorning her hair with amazing styles. Funmi

get on with and loves life. I will always be her

has gone on to invest this talent and this has

friend, and I wish her the very best of luck on

resulted in the international, multi-million

her 40th anniversary of business and wish

business that she has and in addition has

If you want bouncy real human hair that is pretty versatile, then Funmi Hair it is.

her many more successful years ahead.

raised up so many young hairdressers.

Kind regards

Eloise H. Ayanru

e Wow! 40? What an achievement and height you have attained. Where do I start? I admired the hair on every lady I met but

We give God all the glory.

Bisola

I want to look and feel beautiful while wearing any length of hair. 73

I can’t stop thanking God for Aunty Funmi and

London is a treat – because I’m sure to have

her family. God is so kind to her and family,

her savoury, peppery Jollof rice for lunch –

and his grace is sufficient for her. My prayer is

but don’t expect to get a massive discount on

for God to give her good health and continue

her hair! The compliments I get every time

to fight all her enemies and give her victory in

I walk out of Helena’s in London keep me

Jesus’ name. Amen and Amen.

coming back. I wish to congratulate you on

Frances Brownson (Margaret’s Mum)

behalf of myself and my family and to say that yes – we are in this for the long haul! Keep

making us beautiful!

Barrister (Chief) Grace Egbagbe, Orufoneye of Okpekpe and Ogwenopa of Weppa Wanno

I’ve been a customer at Helena’s for over ten years now. I always have a Funmi Hair weave. Whenever I step out, people admire my hair and always ask me where my hair was done.

I enjoy my hair – it’s silky and tangle-free. Funmi is a hard-working lady. She is hands on and always makes sure you step out with quality hair. I recommend Helena’s Hair

It’s easy to become addicted to Funmi and

I have been coming to do my hair at Aunty

her fabulous Funmi Hair!

Funmi for 17 years now. She is one of the best hairdressers in the whole of London. Her

Care to all my friends and lots of them now

Since I got introduced to Funmi Hair many

wear Funmi Hair. The staff are friendly and

years ago (so many I can’t remember!) I have

courteous, and here the customer is always

used nothing else. At the time I thought it was

right. Once you have had a Funmi weave

overpriced but it didn’t take me long to realise

you can’t go back to another, you keep

it was the best investment in looking good

coming back.

ever made! Funmi Hair lasts forever!

I wish her all the best in her 40th anniversary.

my hair done, my image and my confidence

As for Aunty Funmi herself, she’s one of the

More kudos.

improve and people are always amazed at

nicest, warmest, most welcoming business

my hair. I will keep coming to Aunty Funmi

people I know! For me, going to her salon in

as I have never been disappointed. I always

Dr Sylvia Cole

hair is exceptional and she is a woman of hard work and does things with perfection. She treats people with a lot of love and respect – she is a mother to me. God has blessed her with excellence and discipline. When I have

Thank you very much for making my hair fabulous and thus making me even more fabulous! 74

recommend Aunty Funmi to my friends who

from Funmi Hair. All you need is an £8 hair

want the best quality hair and the exceptional

brush and a dab of serum, recommended by

service at the shop.

Aunty Funmi herself.

Melissa Fashanu

I have travelled round the world with Funmi Hair and it’s drawn attention all the time, from

people of different races. White people want to start wearing hair extensions, and black people want to replace their weaves with Funmi Hair. Why do I keep going back? It’s the salon itself. The staff are experts in their own right, but most important, they have all become a family. It’s amazing and customers old and new are invited to become part of this family. They are there to make you look good. They respect the fact that you have spent quite some money and aim to make sure you agree it is money well spent. Aunty Funmi took one look at me and knew I was a broken woman. She asked me to sit next to her and, without any questions, told me that I would be a transformed woman once

Aunty Funmi is one amazing woman who transforms not just your looks but your life. I was a broken woman, with a heart torn apart and in so much pain. I doubted everything about myself, both within and on the outside.

she yanked off the “disabled hair” I had on my head and replaced it with a hair experience I had never had before. I was transformed from a “Whoopi” look to an amazing “Beyoncé”. Funmi Hair brought my confidence back with a sophisticated look that I am now addicted

You don’t throw it away, and keep on reusing it. Spyro - Aunty Funmi’s son – has the most amazing hairdressing skills and has so much passion about making sure your selection of Funmi Hair is appropriate for you, your personality and satisfaction that he is a ‘gem’ for the business. I have a passion for Funmi Hair and I love seeing lots of beautiful people wearing it

My heart, my life was transformed the day I

to. The hair transformation is amazing –

stepped into Funmi Hair.

whatever the length or volume of Funmi

Aunty Funmi has always said that her best

weave you have on, it’s light and easy to wear

Well done Aunty Funmi, well done Funmi Hair

advert was word of mouth and, true to her

and if you need the bounce, Funmi Hair will

for marking 40 years in business. Another

word, it was word of mouth that brought me

give you the ultimate. If you want the bone

great 40 years ahead.

to Funmi Hair’s salon.

straight, you get the best sleek and silky look

with style.

Dele (Beyoncé)

I’ve known Aunty Funmi Namabiri for a very

the way Aunty Funmi clearly takes pride in

I like going to style my hair at Helena’s because,

long time, from the mid-70s, when she used

her work and each customer is treated to

apart from the exceptional service, like

to style my mum’s hair in her salon at South

an individual experience customised to their

every good stylist, Aunty Funmi is a natural

West Ikoyi in Lagos. Our paths crossed again

specific requirements.

“psychotherapist” and has become a big sister

in the 80s in London when like many of us,

Getting your hair done at Helena’s is not

to many of us. Being remarkably kind and

just a grooming experience, it’s like joining

extremely generous, she embraces everyone

a community – you meet people, you make

and genuinely cares. Personally, Aunty Funmi

new friends, you are offered food and drink,

has been very kind and supportive to me over

you catch up with old friends you haven’t

the years.

she styled my hair for my wedding in 1989 and since then I have not found any salon that provides a comparable service. The high standards then are maintained today. Without a doubt, Funmi Hair is simply unmatched for quality and durability. Back in the day, before wearing weaves was the norm, Funmi Hair was a remarkable product and I’m proud to testify that it has remained so over the years. It is immediately recognisable anywhere you see it, and no

seen in a while and by the time you leave, your “fabulousity” (to borrow Kimora Lee Simmons’ word) is restored once more and you walk out proudly with Aunty Funmi’s signature curls bouncing behind you. Aunty Funmi sincerely believes in her

other brand has been able to come even close

product, and time and time again I’ve seen her

to it in terms of beauty and elegance. On a

go the extra mile when disgruntled customers

recent visit to Dubai, I was amused to discover

challenge or dispute the quality of her

that even the vendors in the souk recognised

product. In spite of her naturally mercurial

Funmi Hair!

nature, she patiently resolves the issue and

To be honest, Aunty Funmi is Helena’s and

the customer invariably always leaves totally

Helena’s is Aunty Funmi because her “larger

satisfied, rather apologetic and very grateful.

I’m proud and honoured to be able to write this and from the bottom of my heart, I wish Aunty Funmi and her family all God’s very best. I pray that God Almighty will continue to take her from strength to strength and prosper in all that she does. I pray that every seed she has sown in the lives of her family, friends and service will yield much good fruit in the name of Jesus, and I pray that He rewards her and her loved ones with continued good health, joy and peace. Amen.

Zion Ekundare (Sola Duro-Emanuel)

than life” persona is stamped on her products and services. Her desire for excellence and her refusal to compromise and lower standards to make a “quick buck” is evident, and all her staff know it. Her hospitable nature, her motherly concern, her openness and generosity permeate the general atmosphere at Helena’s. You get quality service and your hair is styled and maintained the good oldfashioned way with no shortcuts. I admire

Her desire for excellence and her refusal to compromise and lower standards to make a “quick buck” is evident, and all her staff know it.

for beauty and grooming solutions for men

for being a trailblazer in the beauty industry.

and women. Of course, Funmi Hair is a major

I congratulate you as you celebrate 40 years

force in CasaBella. In fact, it is our no. 1 selling

of Excellence, 40 years of Making Women

product in all ten stores nationwide. Funmi

Beautiful.

Hair can be counted as one of the factors in

All of us at CasaBella Beauty wish you many

CasaBella’s success.

more decades of continued success, long life,

In my dealings with Aunty Funmi, I find her

great health and joy perpetual.

to be forthright, consistent, committed to quality and fair in her pricing. She also has an eye for detail. I once Googled her name and her products and found not one complaint,

Mrs Bukky George MD/CEO HealthPlus Pharmacy and CasaBella Beauty

A Woman of Excellence and Highest Integrity

unlike some other hair extension companies.

Mrs Deborah Funmi Namabiri (aka Aunty

with Aunty Funmi, on the telephone, as we

Funmi) came into my life about six years ago.

planned the opening of CasaBella. We discussed

She enters into the lives of tens of thousands

many topics beyond hair extensions. She advised

of discerning women worldwide through her

me on family life, on the need for successful

unique and unparalleled hair extension –

women to honour their husbands always and to

Funmi Hair.

pay close attention to the raising of their children.

I remember the day I fixed my Funmi Hair

We talked about business in general. She said

extension for the first time. I was immediately

“oke orun to eye fo” – The sky is big enough for

transformed into a super elegant, sophisticated

all the birds to fly. This means, competition or

lady. I looked exceptionally beeeaaauuutiful. I

not, there is more than enough for all of us. She

got compliments from everyone.

is wise, motherly and very respectful.

mother to all her staff, guiding them on how

With Funmi Hair, your hair extension is 100%

Aunty Funmi – the Pioneer, the Visionary

to be the best in their chosen field. A very kind

human hair, natural looking, lightweight,

Entrepreneur par excellence – I salute you

and generous person. Keep up the good work.

I still remember like yesterday my first encounter

I have been coming to Helena’s Hair Care for 20 years and always find it pleasant and comfortable. Everyone greets me as Aunty, which is lovely as I am an only child. The service is next to none and I feel great and satisfied when I leave, with a lovely hairstyle. All my friends know when I go to Aunty Funmi. She is a very strong woman, often taking our problems with comforting words and making me feel like the Lord is taking care of all my needs. It’s very comforting. She is a good

luxurious, tangle-free, bouncy, looooong lasting and simply unique. I had Funmi Hair in all lengths and I rocked them all. Three years ago, we opened CasaBella – The Art of Beauty, at The Palms Shopping Centre in Lekki, Lagos. CasaBella is a one-stop shop

I had Funmi Hair in all lengths and I rocked them all. 77

May God’s blessing be with you and staff in all that you do.

C J Garrett

business has grown and thrived for forty years, in such a competitive industry, is testament to her entrepreneurial excellence. I

for

one

admire

and

respect

her

tremendously. She has always remained

Helena’s Hair Care is a beautiful salon with lovely people. What I like about them is the care for your own natural hair. The atmosphere is warm and relaxing. You leave the salon looking really glamorous. Kind regards

Zainab Hisilar

humble and generous of spirit. Every day she praises and gives thanks to the Lord for her accomplishments. Aunty Funmi is to be venerated. She is personally an inspiration for me and the next generation of African businesswomen in all industries and sectors. Aunty Funmi, I give you wholehearted congratulations from myself and my family. We look forward to another forty years and more! Love,

Mina (Amina Ibrahim)

e Helena’s has been located at Fortune Green Road for a good 24 years. As you move to the new bigger premises, may The Lord go with you.

Mr and Mrs Mobolaji Idris

Aunty Funmi has been doing my hair since I was a little girl – so she spoilt me from a young age! Her dexterity and prowess in hairdressing is unquestionable. We should also remember that she is an astute, valiant and innovative businesswoman. The fact that her hairdressing

I have known “Aunty” Funmi longer than I care to reveal, for I am told I look far too young to have known this woman for over two decades. I met Aunty Funmi with my other Sierra Leonean friends who went to school together in the UK. Funmi had just graduated from hairdressing at Sinclair’s in central London. In typical fashion she got on to what she was destined to do, setting up her own salon. She had three young kids, and I watched her juggling her kids and putting in those long hours into her work – the same long hours I still see her putting in all these years later. It

She is personally an inspiration for me and the next generation of African businesswomen in all industries and sectors.

was there that I was to meet artists like Sade, and for years I copied her ponytail hairstyle. Aunty Funmi does not just provide a service. She is a mother – and what a sister she can be. Like me, she does not suffer fools gladly, but she has a soft spot for hard-working people, and above all has supreme respect

my veil, and celebrate the happiest day of my

Funmi Hair is now a brand with a following.

for achievers.

life next to the birth of my son.

You know you have become a “woman of

We have laughed and cried together over

Just a few weeks ago, Aunty Funmi

substance” when you carry Funmi Hair on

the years. She has seen and given me advice

demonstrated what in my opinion makes

your head.

on some unhappy and turbulent times in

her a woman in a million and a legendary

my life. She has watched me almost shrivel,

Funmi Hair is not just about blind vanity. It is

sister of our time. In church, in the depth of

and she has watched me blossom.

my grief after losing my sister in a sudden

She celebrated with me over the birth of my

and shocking death, there was Aunty Funmi

only child, and in an unforgettable moment,

from church to graveside, to the reception.

flew over to Sierra Leone with her husband to

What a woman and what a sister.

testimony to African women who work hard and subscribe to the bigger picture in life. May God bless and keep her for us all.

Isha Johansen

celebrate my marriage to my soulmate Arne Birger Johansen. She made her grand debut and everyone in Sierra Leone, the Gambia and Ghana had heard of Funmi. She was there in person to fix my luxurious mane of hair, almost longer than

May God’s blessing be with you and staff in all that you do. 79

Congratulations Aunty Funmi as you reach yet another landmark in your remarkable achievements. I recall vividly the very early days back in Nigeria at Manuwa Street in Ikoyi (Keffi) when we were neighbours. I recall Helena’s Beauty Salon and Helena’s Restaurant. Aunty Funmi, you are wonderful and definitely a success for our community and the neighbourhood at large. I recall when you came round to Biaduo Street in the early days doing the rounds, probably styling hair for the little young girls in our neighbourhood, including my own sisters. You would take time to ensure the results were perfect; my sisters would be looking gorgeous when you finished. I am really very proud of you maa. As you would call me Omo Mama post from the early days, you truly have inspired and motivated the Biaduo community. I really am proud of you and thank God Almighty for your wonderful life. God bless you continuously always.

Iqbal Mobolaji Idris

e Hi Aunty Funmi, Just want to thank you for doing such beautiful hair; it brings out the

beauty in me. Can’t stop using, can’t stop fixing, and can’t stop patronizing Funmi Hair.

Olivia Iwuoha

Rita Adachukur James PS Thank you for all the very delicious Jollof rice

I am full of admiration for Aunty Funmi, being able to successfully run a home and a great business at the same time – a brand known all over the world. She is very humble, very kind to those that work with her. She is also very generous, though a shrewd businesswoman. She’s indeed a role model. Aunty Funmi personally did my hair in 2010. She made me laugh all through. She can be

Lovely woman, hardworking Aunty Funmi, you deserve life’s best. Enjoy… 80

very shrewd and very blunt, but because I see her as a mother I don’t take it to heart. You’d better not place an order and not pay for it, as she will tell you off. She also gave me great advice on marriage and business, which I followed. Today I am happily married, and have a son from God. Her advice to me goes a very long way. Lovely woman, hardworking Aunty Funmi, you deserve life’s best. Enjoy…

Aunty Funmi is my real Aunt – she trained me well – really well – and made me who I am today after the great God (Jesus our Lord). Well, I am short of speech because she is so special in many things and she always told me “Sydney, you will be greater than me one day,” and I feel like it is coming true.

tell it is her hair because it stands out. What

such a professional and yet informal way. I

I like most is her professionalism and the way

remember I used to have a nice plate of Jollof

she treats her staff and customers. It is no

rice and a drink of my choice on the house,

wonder she has done so well in her business

which again in the UK was a novelty!

in the UK, a country where our black business

Over the years I have become one of her loyal

entrepreneurs hardly last due to their lack of

clients. I had difficulty finding any other salon

customer service and professionalism. I wish

that made me feel welcome and did my hair

you all the best in the future and may you

as beautifully. When I moved from the UK to

keep up the fantastic job you are doing.

France I came every few weeks to London –

Linda Here I am, as the MD/CEO of Sydney Hair

Clinic & Spa in Abuja and Sydney’s Motors, a Nissan representative in Nigeria.

to Aunty Funmi’s salon just to do my hair and returned to Paris the same day. That is the kind of attachment I have to the legendary Funmi Hair. People always commented on

Congratulations as you celebrate a great

I love her. I feel only God can truly comment

how good, natural and beautiful my hair

achievement. Funmi Hair stands out amongst

on how great she is.

looked wherever I travelled to. I know several

many. Aunty Funmi is a pleasant and very

ladies also came from other countries to do

hard-working woman who has distinguished

their hair. I remember one lady I met abroad

herself. Well done.

who happened to be a client of Helena’s saw

Sydney Kamdem

e The care and love given to me by Aunty Funmi for my hair and my family is a treasure. God bless you and your family that what you have given continues to come back in all its goodness. Every success and health for the future.

Given Kirkwood, Jon, William and James

Mrs Eli Igbinedion

me in a shopping mall, walked up to me and paid a remarkable compliment. She said, “Your hair is so outstanding, I bet it is Funmi Hair – it is instantly recognisable!”

I moved to West Hampstead in 1993 and soon found a salon nearby called Helena’s Hair Care Centre. What struck me was that it was a very warm and homely, family-run business. It was the first salon I discovered in the UK that was not strictly by appointment and I could walk in at my convenience to have my hair done – just like in Nigeria!

That sums up the quality and the following Funmi Hair commands. It is certainly different from a lot of hair out there and to me it is simply THE BEST! Well done and best wishes for more decades and years to come!

Shirley MacNaughton

It got better as I soon got to know the owner, I first heard about Aunty Funmi Hair from a

Aunty Funmi, who was always so welcoming,

friend about 10 years ago. You can always

kind and generous and she did my hair in

I remember the first time I walked into

and make you look beautiful!” as my mother

As you celebrate 40 years in this profession,

Helena’s on Fortune Green Road. I had been

left the salon.

my prayer is that the Lord Almighty in his

hearing for years about Funmi Hair and finally

11 years later and the truth remains the

mercy will continue to uphold you and make

had saved enough pennies to afford it. Aunty

same. It is still Aunty Funmi who looks after

you grow from strength to strength.

Funmi herself was there, and did my weave.

me and makes me look more beautiful than I

Congratulations, dear Aunty Funmi. More

Needless to say I have never looked back. The

was when I first entered her hair salon.

grease to your elbow.

quality of the hair speaks for itself as well as

Aunty Funmi to me is more than a hairstylist

the longevity. That we are celebrating Aunty

or businesswoman. She cares and looks after

Funmi and her business at 40 years is no

me like a second mother, always advising

small thing. I wish her and her team continued

me about life, work, school (and boys!). I am

success and blessings. And I also thank her

her “Ada-baby” who she has seen through

for being so warm and making every visit an

everything and her family are my family and

enjoyable occasion. Congratulations!

my family are hers. That pretty much sums it

Dara Makanjuola

Kuhinde Ogunba

up for me - Aunty Funmi = Family.

Adora Mba

The first time I met Aunty Funmi, I was a 16-year-old teenager home from school

One of the first things that struck me about

during half-term, sitting in what then seemed

your salon is the warmth, respect and

a huge chair with my little legs dangling. I

hospitality of all your staff. These were the

remember my mother pleading with Aunty

people I met the first few times I came to

Funmi to “just do something” with my thick,

your shop. The day I met you I was so pleased

untamed, natural hair. I remember seeing

because of all the humility and niceness you

this statuesque, blonde, smiling woman

showed. You have always been consistently

looking down at me and softly promising

professional and fair in all your dealings and

My Dearest Aunty Funmi,

“don’t worry, darling, we will look after you

that’s a testament to your success.

It is such an honour to be part of putting your book together and I certainly hope you enjoy reading it. I also hope the readers enjoy

“ Don’t worry, darling, we will look after you and make you look beautiful!” 82

learning about the secret of Funmi Hair and the amazing personality who created the brand, learning about your journey, the years of hard work and diligence and determination,

and reading the tributes from the many people you have made more beautiful over the years. Moving to London was the best thing that happened to my hair. Why? Because I finally got to meet you, Aunty Funmi, and got you to make my hair to your exacting standards. I have never spent a pound in your salon that

I have not felt was extremely well spent – which is quite interesting, considering how difficult it normally is for me to part with pounds sterling.

want to thank you from the bottom of my

Going to Helena’s became a monthly routine for me and Obebe – my ejire, as you call us – who, prior to meeting you had never put a weave in her hair. I thoroughly enjoyed not only the beautiful hair we came out with, but also the community that we always met at the salon, the jisting sessions and the delicious jollof rice or fish and chips.

anytime I walk into Helena’s.

heart for Funmi Hair, the brush, stop-it, the tea tree scalp treatment, the jollof rice, the love and the very special treatment I receive God bless you and your lovely family and God bless the wonderful team you have built at Helena’s. I wish you another 40 years. Congratulations, my wonderful Aunty Funmi.

Funmi Ogbue

Aunty Funmi, you inspire me, because you take your family and your work very seriously. I admire the way you research your trade and provide the best items to care for hair. I know how many times I have been on holiday in America having forgotten my stop-it at home, and went from one beauty supply store to another looking for stop-it or anything else that would lubricate my scalp as well. Those times I would just say a prayer for you and thank God for your life and pray for the holiday to finish quickly so I could be reconnected with the life saving stop-it. I Aunty Funmi is a wonderful lady who strives for perfection in everything she does. This

I thoroughly enjoyed not only the beautiful hair we came out with, but also the community that we always met at the salon.

has been clearly demonstrated in the growth of the brand that she has created. From humble beginnings, she has given birth to a masterpiece that has conquered the world – in other words, a global brand. She is a Nigerian who we are all proud of. She

is truly a proud Nigerian and often speaks passionately about her royal heritage. I remember walking into the salon for the first time with a dear friend, also called Funmi, after I had heard about the magic that takes place there. We spent hours trying to figure out whether to go for a short or long hairstyle. In the end, I settled for something that changed my life and my “look”. What I found amazing was that, despite the fact I had never met her before, she treated me as if she had always known me, like a daughter. I had the best service and she made me feel like the most important person in the world. Her attention to detail is legendary; she is always quick to give you tips on grooming, and to instruct her staff on the best practices; she could be talking to you and focused on weaving your hair but meanwhile her eagle eye is always ready to spot any mistakes her staff may be about to make. Funmi Hair salon is still something of a “Mecca” for me and my friend today. Why do I love Aunty Funmi? Because she’s bold, she stands up for what she believes in, she’s single-minded when it comes to perfection, she’s beautiful, she’s loving – but

what I love the most is the perfectly-cooked jollof rice that she is always quick to dish out. She always makes everyone that walks through the doors of the salon feel welcome; Funmi Hair salon is home away from home. Many businesses struggle to grow after five years but Aunty Funmi is a maverick who has managed to sustain a practice and created a multi-generation business that has lasted 40 years! And her legacy will definitely live on for another 40 years and beyond. Congratulations! God’s blessings and guidance, always.

and client. You are one of the most forthright people I have seen. You speak your mind and tell the truth, no matter what. You did not know me, but you trusted me with so much on your behalf and I hope that I never let you down. Here’s to 40 more years and many more, as the Lord grants you good health, strength and wealth. As The Lord has presented you with this beautiful 21st-century new shop, so he will renew everything concerning you. In Jesus’ name. Amen! Fondest thoughts and wishes.

Chingere Okawcha (aka lawyer)

Love you loads,

Obebe Ojeifo

e Wow – 40 years! Dear Aunty Funmi, you are certainly blessed of The Lord. I use this opportunity to wish you God’s continued blessings, protection and favour in all your future endeavours and in all areas of your life. You are very special and a gem, and I am honoured to have met you. I met you just a few years ago but the manner in which you related to me goes over and above that of customer I have always been a lover of good quality

I had the best service and she made me feel like the most important person in the world. 84

products so it was only natural that when I started looking for hair extensions, I was going to search till I found the best. I noticed that most weaves in the market were stiff,

never bounced or flowed and just didn’t look

When I recommend Funmi Hair to my friends

know that all I have to do is brush it and go.

natural; but at the same time I always knew

I really do not have to say much – I just wear

Hair that inspires confidence. A look inspired

that once in a while I would come across a lady

the hair and let them feel it. That alone does

by Funmi. We all love you Aunty Funmi, keep

with this gorgeous classy look. I got curious

all the talking that needs to be done – the hair

up the good work!

when I observed that these gorgeous looks

speaks for itself.

Anthonia Okoye

were similar, so I thought “this must be the same product”. That was when I was told the brand belonged to a Nigerian who was based

Chika Okoli

in the UK and it was called Funmi Hair.

I was so delighted to walk up my street

I tried it on and that was it for me – my search

the other day and see that Aunty Funmi

was over. Beyond that, I had the urge to tell

was opening up a brand-new ultramodern

as many weave lovers about it, so I contacted

hairdressing salon. With the standard culture

the company and discovered that I could be

of Nigerian businesses where maintenance

a distributor; the rest is history.

is not our strong point, here was a brand not resting on its laurels but taking things to the

Her style is unique – wherever you spot the

next level.

hair, you just know it is Funmi Hair. It is a style that combines the silky feel of the natural

It was only a few years back that I was in Aunty

human hair with the look of permed African

Funmi’s salon and started talking to her about

hair, which makes it perfect for the woman

branding. She will proudly tell you that it was

of colour.

I who advised her to “brand” her hair product

Aunty Funmi is such a special person because she never puts on the “diva” attitude when dealing with her customers and distributors. She’s quite friendly and always ready to proffer solutions to challenges.

and come up with a specific packaging to When Aunty Funmi does hair, the result

avoid imitation and fake products using

exudes elegance and grace. She brings her

her name. We sat down and discussed hair

joy and vitality to every customer, creating

care instructions and what to put on the

looks beyond compare. With Funmi Hair, I

label. Now, all Funmi Hair comes in specific

There is only one response or reaction I get when I have my hair done and it is “Wow! You look amazing.” I keep coming back because, for me, unless you find a product which tops what you already have you stick with that product which gives you your money’s worth.

May god continue to prosper you Aunty Funmi, and may you spin your magic for ages to come. 85

packaging, sealed with her logo guaranteeing

Aunty Funmi is a one in a lifetime woman,

the customer the highest-quality human hair.

an inspiration to a generation, an icon to

I told her that she can now retire in peace.

be admired and possessing of a talent that

She laughed. But her business has truly been

is envied by many. She is to be celebrated.

testimony to hard work over the years and

From the human angle, she is a loving

building a brand – a brand that has stood the

mother and always interested in her clients’

test of time and will continue to be the leader

welfare. Coming to the salon to see her is

in human hair, making every woman who wears her hair feel totally beautiful.

Toyin Olakanpo

e I met Aunty Funmi about 16 years ago just to wash and set my hair. I was not the least interested in “weaves”. Aunty Funmi persuaded me even to the point of fixing the hair free of charge. The transformation look-wise was amazing and I have not stopped since then. Funmi Hair is an investment worth every penny. You never come to the salon without being

like coming home over and over again. Apart

Demola Oluwayemi

from making us look great, she’s someone

Beautiful Fabrics

I cherish. May god continue to prosper you

Aunty Funmi, and may you spin your magic for ages to come.

Dr (Mrs) Adenike Oluwo

e I met Aunty Funmi about 20 years ago, when I was introduced to her by Aunty Ola Onyekweli to sell her some fabric. However

Congratulations Funmi!! A most generous and kind person, Funmi is so generous she would give out her eyes if it were possible. God bless you, my dear – may you celebrate another 40 years and enjoy continued success and good health to enjoy the fruits of your labour, in Jesus’ mighty name.

the years have flown by and she has become

With best wishes,

a sister to me. During the years of trying

Your sister and friend,

times in my life, Aunty Funmi allowed me to

fed with Aunty Funmi’s delightful Jollof rice.

use her shop as my shop, where I would sell

This makes you come back for more.

my fabrics and she introduced me to her

Dupe Oluwayemi

was always supporting and encouraging, not to mention her generosity and support in all areas to my family and me. Congratulations, Aunty Funmi, I am so glad to see how the business has grown over the last 20 years and I wish you many more years of great business. More grease to your elbow.

Sumbo Oniwinde

customers and friends. Apart from that she

Funmi is a warm, friendly professional lady who always oversees with a knowing eye and instinctively knows what is best for her customers. 86

What is evident when you first meet Funmi

complimented on my beautiful hair, its good

I have known Funmi since 1986, when she first

is her humility through and through, to this

condition and perfect styling. I keep coming

did my hair after introductions by a mutual

day. Combined with her kindness, generosity,

back because I feel that I am in professional

friend. Her all-embracing warmth and down-

loyalty and of course her sheer grit and hard

hands with staff who are well trained.

to-earth ways won me over and we have

work, this has made her a success story as a

Whenever I recommend Funmi Hair to my

remained bonded ever since, to the extent that

bona fide businesswoman.

friends they are always grateful and pleased

we call each other “my sister” or my pet name

Congratulations as you celebrate 40 years

it the transformation of their hairstyle.

for her of “maami” – hardly surprising since my

Monica Purcell

in business, and may the Almighty God grant you another 40 successful years in all ways. Well done!!!

Patricia Otaru

PS I am an artiste and I always have my hair done before each audition, commercial and acting work, also whenever I update my portfolio.

family and I have become very much a part of hers and vice-versa. This, quintessentially, is who Funmi is, in that once she likes you, she opens up her heart, home and more besides, unreservedly and generously to you, your family and even your friends! She will do anything and everything for those

Congratulations Aunty Funmi. Ever since I

she loves. She is fiercely protective, loyal and

have been patronising Helena Hair Care

generous to a fault. A true friend, Funmi will

over the years, I have learnt that what makes

never abandon any of her friends in time of

a business is the person. You are a mother,

trouble or need. She is neither pretentious

a blunt CEO, a shoulder to cry on and a

nor arrogant. Independent minded, Funmi

superb hairstylist. I am glad to be a Funmi

rejects the trend for ostentatious spending

Hair icon everywhere I go with our trademark

as status symbol, preferring instead to

ginger hair.

use her wealth to carry out projects that

Warm Hugs

empower and better the lives of people in

Yvonne Papoola

her community.

Very forthright, she hates cheating and

I come to Funmi Hair because of the quality of

your cause if she sees you have been unfairly

the hair, the beautiful styling and the overall

treated. Instances abound to attest to this

injustice and will stick her neck out to fight

professional atmosphere. Funmi is a warm,

A Tribute to my Friend

aspect of her character and I, for one, have

friendly professional lady who always oversees

It gives me great pleasure to write this tribute

been a beneficiary of Funmi fighting my battles!

with a knowing eye and instinctively knows

to a truly great and wonderful woman, Mrs

Despite her humble beginnings, through

what is best for her customers. I’m always

Funmi Namabiri.

sheer hard work and divine providence Funmi

has attained the pinnacle of success in the

absolutely love the look – I never feel complete

very competitive hairdressing industry and

without the hair. I have also been privileged to

to have survived and still be going strong all

have my hair done here anytime I’m in London

these 40 years, in a foreign land, is evidence

and it’s always been deeply satisfying.

Aunty Funmi is truly a special person and her

extraordinary

achievement

this

extraordinarily remarkable woman.

style is extremely eclectic. I just love having

Her iconic Funmi Hair has become de

my hair done here – to some it would seem

rigueur for any woman who wants to look

expensive but in all honesty it is value for

her best. Funmi is never happier than when

money. I can never complain because it is

each customer leaves her salon, happy

always well done. I will continue to recommend

and transformed from the ordinary to

Aunty Funmi’s hair to anyone as it is really

the glamorous! On a par with her passion for hair is her passion for cooking. Funmi loves cooking and feeding people! At home, at her salon where every visitor is offered food, at Church events, at town meetings – you name it and she will willingly cook massive amounts of food so that there will be plenty more to take home! My family and I, and even friends of mine she does not know but for my sake will graciously welcome into her home, have spent many

“Maami”, you are a special lady and very special to me. From the first time I met you, I was and I still am full of admiration for your hard work, humility, indefatigable energy and total commitment to God, your family, friends

a good investment and value for money. An extremely pleasant, loving and personable lady, this is the hairdresser of all time. I look forward to the grand opening of Helena’s Beauty Salon in Lagos. Love always.

and your trade.

Otwbo Saleh

I am so proud of you and of all that you are and have achieved in your remarkable life: in your happy and devoted marriage, in your well brought-up and successful children and delightful grandchildren and in your 40 years

e I have been coming to Funmi for over 20

Sunday afternoons after church services as

of hard work creating FumniHair to give every

years and hope to keep coming for the next

well as Christmases and New Years, feasting

woman beautiful hair to be proud of. May God

20, because her professionalism and kindness

on sumptuous food, all prepared by her. She is

continue to advance you and your loved ones

make me feel special and uplifted. Funmi is

one of the best cooks in the world – as many

and Funmi Hair for many more years, Amen.

special because she has a keen insight with each

waistlines including mine will testify! Her generosity becomes truly evident in the huge volume and variety of food and drink spread

Joy Oti

of her customers’ needs. She has a great way of doing the best for each person. She wants you to be the best you can be. She speaks her mind; she is honest and inspires confidence. After my

on the dining table. On departure, more food to take away! Too delicious and irresistible

Congratulations Aunty Funmi. I have been

hair has been done people always compliment

to decline!

using Funmi Hair for about 11 years and I

me on looking great.

I will return again and again because the

relationships and an intuitive knowledge

stood you well. So many – too many – huge

service is second to none and excellent

and sense of how to constantly reinvent her

names in your industry have faded away. How

value for money – you get the feeling that

business and product, and adapt them, in a

many people remember Splinters on Maddox

Funmi would not give you anything that she

world where her clients travel far and wide, and

Street? But from your own humble beginnings,

would not want for herself and takes pride in

are constantly bombarded with new products.

Funmi, you have worked to become the icon

making customers satisfied. Her joy at your

Despite this, because Funmi keeps herself

that you undoubtedly are today.

satisfaction is heart-warming.

knowledgeable and always reaches out to the

So, so proud of you Funmi.

You will never find a better hairdresser.

cutting edge of her industry, old clients like me

Lots of love

Gina Stephens

keep coming back and will do so for ever. Even more fascinating, a completely new generation is completely transfixed by the phenomenon

Chief (Mrs) Taiwo Taiwo

that Aunty Funmi has become. She represents the very best in an ever-changing world. The Funmi who I knew in those days would come over to my house with her work kit and work sometimes till 3 am. “How are you, Aunty? Thank you, Aunty. Pele Aunty!” I’m only a few years older than Funmi, but the younger generation would do well to learn from her humility and great customer relations. Her hair at that time was called Helena 1, after the name of her beautiful daughter, as was her salon when it opened some 28 years I was asked to write a short contribution to

ago (so no ego there!).

Aunty Funmi – my one and only Aunty Funmi!

help document the phenomenal success of

Congratulations, Funmi. May you continue to

Mother, Aunty, sister, friend, mentor – you

Funmi in marking her 40th anniversary in this

bloom and grow – your faith in the Lord has

are all these to me! Congratulations! I do

competitive industry and the secrets of her success. Having known Funmi for well over 30 years, I think I am uniquely qualified to add my comments. Her secrets? Incredible hard work, humility, instinctive

generosity,

great

customer

May you continue to bloom and grow – your faith in the Lord has stood you well. 89

not know how to put into words and express

making a spread of delicious food for anyone

No one in the hairstyling industry captures

my feelings – suffice to say that you are an

that comes to do their hair in the salon. We

the sense of style like Funmi Hair.

amazing woman, a strong, hard-working,

still miss your restaurant! Your hard work,

Funmi Hair is designed to make a statement

selfless, giving, most generous person! Your

strength, determination, dedication and love

and create impact, and the attention the

selfless love, strength and dedication are

have created a strong and loyal following that

wearer undoubtedly receives guarantees

insurmountable. You have come such a long

has led you to creating your brand, Funmi

enjoyment and fun. It is fair to say that Funmi

way and your dedication and hard work has

Hair – the best quality hair, anywhere in the

Hair is simply the best in the industry.

paid off. You are now a brand! Who would

world! We are so proud of you – 40 years and

have known so many years ago that you

still going! Well done, Aunty – you are such

would achieve so much? Going down Memory

a blessing, and an inspiration to all of us. We

Lane, I remember how as an 11-year-old just

thank God for you! Many congratulations –

starting Holy Child College, my friends and

may Helena’s live forever and ever. We love

I would come to do our hair with you in an

you! Our very best wishes,

Yinka Taiga

uncompleted building in Keffi. You would dedicate your time to do all our hair and make

us all look pretty. That was 40 years ago! Then you moved and set up Helena’s in the UK, where you have dedicated your life and worked selflessly and generously ever since. You have kept going, determined to make everyone that crossed your path beautiful and happy! Your generosity is unequalled. Every time I come to do my hair you feed me with my favourite fish and chips or insist I eat something else. As if that was not enough, you would send loads of gifts to my children and the Olorogun. Then you would send me the largest and most beautiful arrangement of flowers I have ever seen. You are always giving and giving and giving! You are a woman of many talents – an amazing cook, too, always

So congratulations on your great achievement. You got where you are today because of your humility, kindness, care, support, generosity, willingness to help other people get up the ladder and, above all, your faith. And you don’t only have faith, you live your faith. In big ways, in small ways and in every single way; you’re a living example of the virtue of Baptism as your love for others

My darling Aunty Funmi,

know no bounds.

My namesake – you are a very wonderful

Funmi, you are a blessing to many and it is

person, a friend and fantastic Aunty. I met you

people like you that make all the difference

many years ago when I was at the University

in the world. You deserve your success and

of Birmingham, and ever since you have been

thank you for all you do and thank God for

wonderful. “Funmi Hair” is very original. You

using you to bless many.

have kept the standard so it’s well known all

May the Lord who has provided you with good

over the world. I am not surprised, though, as

health and strength in your daily activities all

Funmi’s always excel.

these years of service continue to bless you,

Aunty, I pray as you celebrate 40 years in your

and your family, and grant your business

business, that God Almighty will never leave

many more successful years ahead. Amen.

you or forsake you. More grease to your elbow, Aunty. God bless.

Honorable Funmi Tejuosho (Mrs)

Mr Andrew and Mrs Frances Uchea

MUCH ADO ABOUT FUNMI HAIR Chioma J. Uwakwe

I was sitting in the office one afternoon when a tall not so pretty girl walked towards me and asked for directions to the ladies. When I did give her and she turned to walk away, I couldn’t help but notice the bouncy shiny weave on her head. Suddenly, it was as if the whole world was in slow motion as her hair moved swayed like the ocean to the cool evening breeze. I called her back immediately and asked her what weave she had on. “Oh, it’s just Funmi Hair”, she replied rolling her eyes as ran her fingers through it for emphasis. I went green with envy and I contemplated dragging her into the ladies and chopping her hair off. But then, that would be against the law, wouldn’t it? However, at that exact moment I knew that I had to get me some Funmi Hair or die trying. When I talked about my latest mission to my friends, to my greatest surprise, two out of three of them already had Funmi hair stashed in their closet. When I asked them why they hadn’t worn it yet, they said they were reserving it for a very special occasion where a huge crowd of ladies to ogle at it. They advised me to contact the Funmi Hair dealer here in Lagos to make enquiries about the product. When I called her, she seemed rather pleasant at first but when she told me the price and I asked her if I could pay installmentaly over the next six years, she hung up on me.

The next day, my boyfriend and I were chilling lazily at his apartment when I asked him the reason why next week was so special. “It’s your birthday on Monday, isn’t it?” He replied, smiling as if he had just solved an age old riddle. I smiled back and proceeded to tell him what I wanted as a birthday gift. “Is it not one of those human hair weaves I see around?” He enquired, “No, it is not, it’s Funmi Hair! You can look it up!” I retorted. I went on to give him the dealer’s number, with hopes that maybe he could get a better deal. He kissed my cheek and promised me he would do his best to make me happy. Less than 48 hours later, I got a message from him that read “Why don’t you just sell me to slavery in order to pay for your stupid Funmi Hair!” I am still undeterred, next stop is the bank... I’m sure they have some kind of “hair” soft loan I can apply for...

* We are pleased to say that Chioma did not sell her boyfriend into slavery in the end for Funmi Hair. This story has a happy ending as not only does Chioma own several Funmi Hair pieces, but her boyfriend is now her husband!

Funmi’s advice to entrepreneurs

The story of Funmi’s success is one of hard work, dedication, faith and determination. Her advice to anyone starting out in business is to “focus, be punctual and pay attention to detail. It is hard work, the journey of life, but the key is to continue. Sometimes it is good, sometimes it is not, but you have to continue. And one day you will find a surprise!”

“We share with each other,” she says. “I don’t use anyone from outside – I train everyone myself. Some people think they know more than me, but I don’t want anyone taking away my job. We do it all here, sometimes people come and they don’t have a clue, but we train them and they learn.

The most important thing, she stresses, is to believe in God.

“My job is important to me,” she says, acknowledging that there are a lot of companies trying to produce hair like hers and emulate her success. “Yes, there is a lot of competition out there. It is hard work but we keep working to keep afloat.”

She is devoted to her job, and admires in other people the resilience that she has herself always employed. “I used to take my bag and carry it round to people’s houses to do the work,” she says. “You have to put the effort in. My business grew by word of mouth because people knew I had high standards. Consistency is important, too. You know your business, or you throw your money away.” Recruiting and training the right calibre of people has also been key to the successful growth of her business.

Her son Spyro tells a story which he thinks epitomises his mother’s attitude to business. “A good person will draw a circle around themselves to include family and friends. But a great person will draw a wider circle to include all their family, friends and employees – to build an empire.”

Years of Funmi Hair

1974

Funmi starts hairdressing for friends in Nigeria

1974

Works in Claudia’s Hairdressing salon in Manuwa Street, Ikoyi, Lagos

1975

Opens her first salon, called Helena’s, in Nigeria

1975 Opens a restaurant (Helena’s Restaurant) next door.

1986

Decides to move to the UK, working initially as a freelance hairdresser

1986

Works at Sinclair’s hair salon in Bryanston Street in London’s West End

1989

Opens her first salon in the UK, Helena’s Hair Care, at Fortune Green, Hampstead

2014 2013 2013

MAY Awarded the International Funmi Hair Female expands to include Entrepreneur internet sales arm Award and global market

2011 1990

Over the next decade Funmi concentrated on developing her salon’s client base offering unisex hair services

2004

2008

“30 Years of Hairdressing” celebration at The Connaught Rooms, London, UK

Funmi Hair becomes available via a limited number of re-sellers

40 years of Funmi Hair

JUNE Her new salon at 190 West End Lane, West Hampstead, opens

I wish you another 40 years. And her legacy will definitely live on for another 40 years and beyond.

Congratulations as you celebrate 40 years in business, and may the Almighty God grant you another 40 successful years in all ways. Here’s to 40 more years of success and insurmountable blessings. Here’s to 40 more years and many more, as the Lord grants you good health, strength and wealth. 95

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