How 21-Year-Old Onogoro Built a Thriving Interior Design Empire

At just 21, Ejiroghene Onogoro, CEO of Diamond Deluxe Interiors, has established a successful career in the competitive world of interior design. Speaking with newsmen, she shares her inspiring journey and the rewards of self-employment at a young age.

Ejiroghene officially launched her business in 2018, driven by a passion for beautiful spaces and vibrant designs. “My venture into furniture making came out of necessity when impatient clients couldn’t wait for imported pieces,” she explains. “My journey began officially in 2018, driven by a passion for interior design, beautiful spaces, and colors.”

By 2020, she had crafted over 10,000 pieces of furniture, supplying schools, hospitals, residential estates, and personal clients. By 2022, this number had grown to over 21,000 pieces, leading to the creation of more job opportunities.

In 2021, Ejiroghene secured contracts with development companies. “Working with developers is a joy for me as they are always open to new ideas. Home staging, though not very common among property developers, is something I advocate for,” she says.

She noted that in 2022, she attended INDEX Dubai, which allowed her to network and secure more contacts for future projects.

Ejiroghene’s company has grown beyond her imagination, and she is deeply grateful to God for this. Despite being busy with projects, she aims to join a few organizations. “Looking forward, I plan to author a book on design tips, collaborate more with companies, and create one of Africa’s largest furniture production spaces. Additionally, I aim to start a YouTube channel,” she shares.

Ejiroghene has undertaken various residential projects, including designing smart homes in Lagos and Abuja, Nigeria. “Climate change is a recent interest, and I now focus on sustainable and eco-friendly design, believing it promotes mental well-being,” she adds.

She also has a love for artworks. ” I completed my first degree & certifications in the IT field. Though I paint for some projects, I have yet to exhibit my work, which may happen in the future. I learn a lot from YouTube and Alison, believing that experience is the best teacher,” she says.

Despite facing financial hardships following her father’s death at 17, Ejiroghene transformed her initial interest in interior design into a thriving business. She balanced her work with education, recently completing a degree in computer science from Les Cours University in the Republic of Benin.

Ejiroghene collaborates with developers, focusing on sustainable design and eco-friendly spaces, which she believes promote mental well-being. Her future plans include writing a design book, launching a YouTube channel, and establishing one of Africa’s largest furniture production spaces.

Her journey, marked by resilience and innovation, is a testament to the potential of young entrepreneurs in Nigeria. Despite her mother’s initial fears for her safety and her young age, Ejiroghene’s determination and the support of her siblings have driven her success.

Ejiroghene Onogoro’s significant achievements highlighted her recognition and entrepreneurial spirit. Balancing interior design with selling clothes, her story continues to inspire others, turning passion into a profitable enterprise.