Isimeme Owobu: Resilience in human form

In a recent interview, Isimeme Owobu, the calm and analytical mind behind Happyfeet, shares his remarkable journey—a narrative of perseverance, vision, and the transformative power of entrepreneurship.

Born into an average Christian family in Ibadan, Oyo state, Isimeme’s upbringing was deeply influenced by his father, a hardworking mechanical engineer. “My father is a major character in who I have become today. He is very big on discipline, I *learnt* the need *to stay disciplined in business*,” Isimeme reflects.

Facing financial challenges during his second year of industrial chemistry at Covenant University in 2008, Isimeme navigated a tough period. Inspired by the need to sustain himself through school, he delved into entrepreneurship, birthing Happyfeet. The initial years were fraught with uncertainties, but his determination was unwavering. *”Starting Happyfeet was more trying to drive local production of footwear’s while sustaining myself in school,” he* shares.

*Isimeme excelled academically, graduating with good grades and commenced his career in banking sector in 2015*. *This* *marked the beginning of a dual existence, as he was a banker by day and his passion for Happyfeet kept him up at night*. “*I was able to raise capital from banking job, created a formidable team of reliable craftsmen and an online presence for happyfeet*” Isimeme recounts, underscoring his commitment to his entrepreneurial venture.

In 2020, Happyfeet underwent a comprehensive rebranding, signaling a pivotal moment in its evolution. “2008 to 2019 was full of different learning curves, challenges, experiences, mistakes, lesson and closing down our factory etc. Isimeme reflects on the brand’s transformative journey.

Despite being born into a family with no entrepreneurial background, Isimeme’s initiation into business was swift. He saw a need to grow indigenous products and serve humanity.

“The need to serve humanity and have a direct impact on lives,” he states, defines his entrepreneurial journey. The impact extends to the economy, employment of youths, and bringing smiles to people’s faces through our products.

Happyfeet’s distinctiveness lies in its simplicity, class, and focus on indigenous production for global competitiveness. At happyfeet, customers are assured a 5-year warranty, symbolizing their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

While the brand is yet to receive industry awards, Isimeme remains unfazed. “At happyfeet, we are purpose driven, customercentric and we love to make positive impact.

he asserts, emphasizing the brand’s focus on making a substantial impact before gaining widespread recognition.

Looking ahead, Isimeme envisions taking over their niche and leaving an indelible mark on the industry. “Happyfeet is not just a business but a legacy that will be sustained for centuries and serve millions of people” he confidently declares.

Isimeme’s journey, marked by resilience and an unwavering commitment to his vision, is not merely a success story but an inspiration.