A green environment enthusiast, Oyindamola Bernard, is a strong voice on sustainability-driven lifestyle. As the Founder and Creative Director, Ewami Essentials, she is hugely impassioned by the effects of harmful chemicals in skincare products, and the dangers of inhibited melanin production, including heightened susceptibility to sun damage and skin cancer. The graduate of Zoology from the University of Ibadan and an alumnus of the Central Bank of Nigeria Enterprise Development Centre (2016), has over a decade experience in business administration, management and leadership.

Bernard is on a mission to train 1000 beauty brand creators by 2030. She also gives back to the community with focus on education and healthcare. She speaks to IJEOMA THOMAS-ODIA about the enormous wealth in the untapped natural resources in Africa as well as her drive to empower women.
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As a green environment enthusiast, what does it entail and how are you driving your passion?
The advocacy on climate change globally sounds like a cliché, but the truth is that we are experiencing it and we are going to experience more in terms of increased temperature trends described as global warming, changes in sea-level rise, ice mass loss in places like Greenland and Antarctica, shifts in flower/plant blooming and extreme weather events. This is why true green beauty or natural beauty brands must find ways to replenish the planet that so much gives us the natural ingredients for our production and formulation. Hence, we hope to grow five trees monthly through the aid of environmental organisations, we also hope to work with Global Shea Alliance in Accra, Ghana as they are heavy on tree planting advocacy. We are also very big on recycling our packaging called EwamiEarth, to reward customers who return our product bottles and jars by giving a discount on their next purchase. I also believe that in practising fair trade with the local women and farmers from whom we purchase ingredients, we will not only continue to grow the natural ingredients industry but also help to sustain it so that it seems lucrative enough to be passed onto the next generation. This is our three-pronged approach – plant sustainability, recycling and fair trade.

What informed your decision to take on organic and natural skincare? Any experiences?
Seeing the fair scalp of a dark-skinned individual at a salon, I thought of the possible use of skin-lightening creams and their potential hazardous impact. This revelation prompted an in-depth exploration of skin bleaching, its detrimental effects, and the dangers of inhibited melanin production, including heightened susceptibility to sun damage and skin cancer. Recognising that many people resort to skin bleaching due to self-esteem, societal pressure, or skin health concerns, I became impassioned to create a brand emphasising skin health and natural beauty.

I won’t say it’s been smooth all through but with dedication, hardwork and commitment to excellence, we have experienced significant growth from our early days, but there’s always room for more growth.
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Across Africa and Nigeria, it seems a large percentage of beauty brand founders are female. Does the industry not support male inclusivity?
Indeed, the beauty industry in Africa and Nigeria has seen significant representation of female as brand founders. There are several factors that contribute to this trend.

Firstly, the beauty industry has historically been associated with women, and women have played a vital role in shaping beauty norms and practices. This deep-rooted connection has naturally led to a higher representation of women in the industry.

Secondly, the beauty industry provides opportunities for female entrepreneurs to tap into their creativity, passion for self-care, and desire to empower others. Many women have leveraged their expertise, personal experiences, and entrepreneurial spirit to establish successful beauty brands. However, it is important to note that the industry supports male inclusivity as well.

There are male entrepreneurs and professionals who have made significant contributions to the growth of the beauty industry. While the representation may be lower, it is not a reflection of lack of support. The industry is evolving, and there is room for more inclusivity and diversity in terms of gender representation. Encouraging and promoting inclusivity, regardless of gender, will lead to a richer and more diverse beauty industry.

Despite everyday challenges, what helps you stay motivated?
I won’t deny that entrepreneurship comes with its fair share of challenges and obstacles. However, I guess it’s safe to say there are a few key factors that help me stay motivated. My passion for all things natural runs deep, especially my belief in the positive impact it can have on people’s lives is a driving force. Knowing that I have the opportunity to make a difference and help others feel confident and beautiful keeps me motivated even during challenging times. Also, the feedback we get from customers and the success stories keep me inspired. Knowing that our brand is making a positive impact on individuals’ lives and their skincare journeys fuels my motivation to continue striving for excellence.

Having a supportive team and network, having access to like-minded individuals is crucial in building anything that’ll be successful. I have been very fortunate with my team so far, their encouragement, collaboration, and shared vision provide a strong support system. Together, we tackle challenges, celebrate achievements, and motivate one another to keep pushing forward. Albert Einstein once said, “When you stop learning, you start dying”. The brain is like a muscle – the more it is used, the stronger it gets. Embracing this mindset and seeking opportunities for personal and professional growth keeps me motivated.

Share with us your activities in your women’s community empowerment programme.
I grew up in a small town, Oyo, where I saw women work so hard just to earn so little. The story was not very different from what I see in my hometown Ife-Odan. When we visited my grandfather, women were seen working so hard making Shea butter, black soap, palm oil and so on. If I hadn’t witnessed the process of making these very invaluable rich raw foods and ingredients, I would argue you’d need some complicated machines to get them made. I grew up seeing that these women were not adequately compensated for their hardwork and effort to contribute to the economic development. I knew I would one day be able to do my part in compensating a few of them.
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What advice do you have for women seeking to climb the ladder and own their space just as you have done?
I’d say they should carve a niche for themselves and make meaningful contributions by first looking within to identify what truly drives them. You know, when you align your work with your passion and purpose, it becomes easier to overcome challenges and stay motivated on the path to success. It is also important to cultivate confidence and trusts your guts enough to do it afraid. While on that journey, remember to build a supportive network, surround yourself with a strong support system. Seek out mentors, role models, and peers who inspire and challenge you to be the best version of yourself. The importance of a good and supportive network can’t be overstated. You are a masterpiece, smart, confident, beautiful, resilient, passionate and with nature’s gift of nurturing. You have to know you got all these.

When you are not looking over paperwork or in your laboratory, how do you relax?
I find relaxation in various activities that help me rejuvenate both physically and mentally. One of my favourite ways to unwind is by spending time in nature.

Whether it’s going for a peaceful hike or simply sitting in a garden, being surrounded by the beauty of the natural world helps me find balance and inspiration. I also enjoy watching good movies and listening to music, they provide a sense of calm and escape from the everyday hustle and bustle. Additionally, I love spending quality time with my loved ones, engaging in creative hobbies like reading to keep my brain sharp, and indulging in self-care rituals, such as taking long bath with natural skincare products. They are all important parts of my relaxation routine. These activities allow me to recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance, which ultimately benefits both myself and my passion for creating exceptional skincare products.

Do you have any ideology or life mantra that you hold dear?
One of my core beliefs is in the power of nature and its ability to provide effective and sustainable solutions for almost everything. I firmly believe in harnessing the potency of natural ingredients to solve most of, if not all, life’s problems. Another core beliefs is in the power of empowerment and inclusivity for women. I am deeply passionate about creating opportunities and platforms that uplift and support women from all walks of life. I strongly believe that when women are given the tools, resources, and encouragement they need, they can achieve remarkable things and make positive impact on society.
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