Adaeze Ahubaraezeama, the founder of MeatLovers, has transformed the meat industry in Nigeria with her innovative approach and sheer determination.

From her humble beginnings in Onitsha to building a thriving business in Lagos, Adaeze’s journey is a testament to resilience and hard work.

In this interview, she reflects on her entrepreneurial path, the challenges she faced, and the story behind MeatLovers.

CA: Adaeze, what inspired you to start a meat business?

Adaeze: It all started when I connected with a meat vendor on Facebook.

I was intrigued by the business, and after learning more about it, I realized there was a real opportunity to provide high-quality meat and exceptional service in a market that lacked both.

CA: How did you get started in the meat-selling industry?

Adaeze: After reaching out to the vendor, I asked for mentorship. I started from scratch—learning about sourcing meat, managing deliveries, and understanding the logistics of the trade. It wasn’t easy, but I was determined to make it work.

CA: What were some of the challenges you faced in the early days of MeatLovers?

Adaeze: There were several challenges. One major obstacle was finding reliable delivery riders and companies. There were instances where our service was affected due to inefficiencies.

I also faced prejudice from some customers who doubted my capabilities as a woman in a male-dominated industry.

CA: How did you overcome these obstacles and keep the business going?

Adaeze: I stayed focused on my goals and allowed the quality of our products and services to speak for itself.

Over time, the consistency in our work helped shift perceptions. It was about proving myself through action, not just words.

CA: How did you secure funding for your business in the beginning?

Adaeze: I started small, using my personal savings to fund the initial stages.

As the business grew, I reinvested the profits to expand operations. It was a gradual process, but it paid off in the long run.

CA: What kept you motivated during tough times?

Adaeze: My passion for the business and the vision to make MeatLovers the top meat brand in Nigeria were my driving forces. Seeing the positive impact on our customers and the community kept me going even during the most challenging moments.

CA: You’ve been able to stay competitive in this industry for over seven years. What do you consider your biggest achievement?

Adaeze: Surviving in a highly competitive market for seven years is a major achievement.

Expanding our customer base, receiving positive feedback, and maintaining quality service has been incredibly rewarding.

CA: How has your background and education contributed to your success?

Adaeze: My upbringing taught me the value of hard work and responsibility.

My education in Economics has helped me make informed decisions, manage the business effectively, and navigate the complexities of running a growing company.

CA: What advice do you have for women looking to break into male-dominated industries like the meat business?

Adaeze: My advice is simple: believe in yourself. Don’t let societal expectations hold you back.

Stay focused on your goals, work hard, and always strive for improvement. Compete with yourself, and never stop learning.

CA: What is your vision for the future of MeatLovers?

Adaeze: I want MeatLovers to become the number one meat brand in Nigeria.

We’re focused on expanding our reach, improving our services, and introducing new product lines. My goal is to set new industry standards.

CA: How do you plan to continue growing your business?

Adaeze: Innovation is key. We’re always looking for ways to improve our processes and adapt to customer needs.

Exploring new markets and maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction are crucial to our continued growth.

CA: Can you share a personal motto that guides your work?

Adaeze: My motto is, “Money, like many things, can be as unpredictable and elusive as a woman.” It’s a reminder to remain adaptable and persistent, no matter the challenges.

CA: Balancing personal life with business demands can be tough. How do you manage it?

Adaeze: It’s definitely a balancing act. I make time for family and personal activities, which helps me recharge. Having a reliable team also allows me to delegate responsibilities and manage my time effectively.

CA: Looking back on your journey, what would you consider your greatest accomplishment?

Adaeze: My greatest accomplishment is maintaining and growing MeatLovers for seven years. It’s proof that with hard work, resilience, and the right team, anything is possible.

Adaeze’s journey is a powerful reminder of the impact passion, perseverance, and innovation can have in overcoming challenges and creating success.

She continues to inspire women and entrepreneurs, showing that with the right mindset, any dream is within reach.