Barakat Mohammed is a versatile and skilled individual, with a background that seamlessly blends creativity and entrepreneurship. Holding a degree in Mass Communication and Media Technology from Lead City University, she furthered her expertise with a certification in Cosmetology and Skin Care Formulation, reflecting her innate talent for art.
Barakat’s entrepreneurial journey began with the establishment of an art studio, Gifted Hands, and Aishla’s Beauty Store, evolving into BMVillage, a successful skin care line. Her dedication to making a positive impact led her to active involvement with Paged Initiative, where she utilised media for advocacy. Beyond her artistic pursuits, Barakat garnered valuable experience in the hospitality industry, working for prestigious establishments like Hilton Abudhabi Corniche and Nisa Wellness Retreat. With nearly a decade of professional experience, her skills span critical thinking, effective communication, entrepreneurship and more, making her a dynamic force in her pursuit of impactful goals.
In this interview with ESTHER IJEWERE, she shares her inspiring journey.
Childhood influence
My childhood influenced me and my lifestyle. I had a beautiful childhood where my parents allowed me to play, use my imagination and be a part of any organisation that promotes creativity. An example of that is the junior achievement programme, where my coach and mentor, Mr. Mohammed Ibn Saheeb, coached me into becoming the first female president of Supreme Achievers, our then-student company.
Honestly, I had an interesting childhood. I did a lot of fine arts and performing arts projects in primary and secondary schools. I was also in the dance and drama CDS group during my NYSC, where I was vice president of the CDS group. I can say I have always loved art, and it has loved me back. Even at home with family, I had support to work on my little projects, and my maternal uncle, Emmanuel Oguche, was a strong support.
He would buy me art supplies and always ask for my work. The best part was the fact that he took me seriously at that age. From the age of nine, I was already aware of my support system, making me able to pursue my passion for art, knowing my parents, siblings and a few relatives believed in me. Looking back, my childhood helped in shaping my passion for art and creativity beautifully.
Journey at Hilton Abudhabi Corniche and Nisa Wellness Retreat
Hilton is a result of my love for the brand and also destiny. My first studio with my business partner, Facile Stanly, was in Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, Nigeria. I also had a lot of childhood memories in Hilton, thanks to my dad, Alhaji Mohammed Lawal. He would often take the entire family to Hilton, and my siblings and I would play around and order croissants. I’ve always had warm fun memories about the Hilton Hotel so it was a no-brainer when my business partner suggested Hilton for our studio. I would say I was able to get an internship opportunity with Hilton because of my art. I applied and got the opportunity to intern with Hilton Abudhabi for six months after that. I got retained as a front office staff member. This created a new form of exposure and learning experience that made me fall in love with hospitality. Also, working with a diverse team of people from different nationalities and backgrounds was another learning curve.
I learned to understand other cultures and belief systems, which helped me develop a more in-depth sense of creativity. Another major thing I learned from Hilton is how to create solutions to existing problems. When I decided to return to Nigeria, I quickly seized the opportunity to work with the Nisa Wellness Retreat. The vision of Nisa Wellness Retreat as a brand is the combination of everything I do and all I aspire to do. At Nisa wellness retreat, I was able to learn more about how your environment can influence your mental health and the importance of holistic wellness.
Navigating art and entrepreneurship with BMVillage
Honestly, I won’t say I am doing a great job at managing this dynamic, because my art has suffered from my intense focus on my skincare line and hospitality. I can say art is still in my life, although in the background, because all I do has an artistic touch and mind behind it.
The impact of volunteering with Paged Initiative
This is an interesting question. My involvement with Paged Initiative broadened my knowledge of issues of rape, abuse, gender-based violence and issues affecting women and children. These are very sensitive topics. The media needs to handle and focus on all the guidelines for an effective report. Some of the guidelines I learned gave me a better insight into my approach to advocacy. I was born an advocate for women and children. I just needed the proper guidance to make sure I am effective enough to actualise my goals for positive change in my community.
Impact of media communication skills on BMVillage and Art Studio
My background in Mass Communication has contributed immensely to my ventures by helping me navigate each industry. I can identify the best medium to use at specific times; I can gather the information I need for my work. Photography, design, branding, and critical thinking are just a few of the skills I acquired while gaining a degree. So, I apply some of what I learned from school in the real world.
Elevating BMVillage with cosmetology certification
Skincare product development and formulation certification allow for a deep understanding of skincare ingredients, their benefits and their compatibility with different skin types. This knowledge can be utilised to create effective and safe skincare products that meet the needs of my client and, with good results, come loyal customers,
For me, the entire process is an art, from the pre-production, production and post-production stages. From the way the botanical plants and ingredients come together, to the branding and then marketing, all the different stages need a lot of innovation and creativity. So, I will say my artistic abilities complement all my work.
Celebrating three women who shape her journey
This has to be my favourite question, thank you. I am proud to say that I have a lot of women who inspire me. I love winning women, and you can be a winner in my eyes at every stage or level. So, top on my list is my beloved mother, Mrs. Aisha Ojone Umar. She’s the one I look to when I need encouragement; her soft, beautiful words never fail me.
Queen Amina of Zauzau: Her story as a northern warrior queen inspires me to be strong and focused. Her ability to rule with so much wisdom without fear reassures me that women have done it before and we will keep getting better at being leaders in our different spheres of life.
Mrs. Roslin Ora Oguche (my beloved grandma): Her charitable lifestyle and her open-door policy lived after her, creating a legacy that would never be countered. She was selfless and humble. I hope to make a positive enough impact someday to have a legacy like hers, solely created by my good work.
Qualities that shape her as a Woman of Rubies
My journey, personal growth and ability to keep pushing and thriving against all odds. I will say these are the major factors that stand out for me as a Woman of Rubies.
