Baskadia

By ETTAH EMMANUEL O. Endurance Ogri, a young woman with a deep passion for interior design, reflects on her journey from a humble rural upbringing in Bewo, a village in Nigeria’s Cross River State, to becoming a trailblazing figure in a traditionally male-dominated industry Growing up, Ogri faced an abundance of responsibilities, from assisting with her family’s agricultural endeavors to tending to her younger siblings while balancing household chores.

These early experiences instilled in her a strong work ethic and a resilient mindset. After graduating from Ogar Science Academy Otukpuru Afaa in 2014, Ogri pursued a computer operations program at Marymat Computer School, where she honed her skills and eventually secured a secretary position at a business center. Despite facing financial hurdles and struggling to adapt to campus life,

she persevered in pursuing her dream of higher education, ultimately earning admission to the University of Calabar to study agricultural education. Amidst the trials of academic challenges and university strikes, Ogri emerged with a strengthened vision to effect positive change in her community. Her determination to create an enabling environment for the younger generation propelled her forward, even in the face of adversity.

In March 2023, Ogri's aspiration to become an interior designer took a significant turn when she met Oku Charles, a seasoned interior decorator in Calabar. Despite prevailing perceptions of interior design as a male-dominated domain, Ogri tenaciously pursued her interest. Under Charles' mentorship, she immersed herself in every aspect of the craft, from mastering painting techniques to overcoming challenges in wood cutting and measurements.

Ogri’s foray into interior design was met with skepticism and dismissive remarks from some who believed she should pursue more traditional female-centric fields. However, motivated by her passion and dedication, she has consistently proven her capabilities through the delivery of exceptional work. While her father supported her endeavors, her mother initially harbored concerns about her safety working with tools and equipment.

Yet, through persistence and a strong conviction, Ogri assuaged her mother’s worries and continued to pave her own path in the industry. Today, at only 24 years old, Ogri's talents have propelled her to earn substantial income while challenging social norms and breaking gender barriers in the realm of interior design. Her ambition extends beyond personal success, as she harbors aspirations of establishing an interior design academy to empower and mentor other young women in the field. For you