Anambra-based carpenter, Nelson Emmanuel Okafor, has highlighted the vast opportunities in learning crafts, particularly carpentry. As the CEO of Carpenterway, he also addressed the “Japa syndrome,” encouraging young people to look beyond white-collar jobs as the sole path to success.
Nelson urged Nigerian youths to embrace humility and take up any profession, no matter how unattractive it might seem. He suggested that they channel the same ingenuity used in scams to develop skills and earn an honest living. Speaking exclusively to our reporter, Nelson emphasized the dignity of labor, especially in an era where fraud is alarmingly common.
“If there’s one thing young people should learn from me,” he stated, “it is the fact that there is dignity in labor, particularly now when fraud seems to be the most sought-after job for many young people.” He continued, “Instead of resorting to fraud, use your intelligence to learn skills, improve them, and earn an honest living.”
Nelson shared insights from his carpentry journey, noting that regardless of how unattractive a job might seem, substantial financial rewards can be reaped if one masters their craft. He explained, “No matter what you do, the amount of time and dedication you invest can lead to earning as much or even more than those in seemingly cleaner jobs.”
Having undertaken interior projects worth over 200 million Naira, Nelson attributes his success to a unique combination of education and artisan skills. “I am not just an interior designer; I am a trained carpenter. This dual expertise gives me an edge over regular interior designers who mostly supervise projects,” he said. His hands-on approach ensures high standards, as he is quick to step in and correct any subpar work, which accelerates the entire process.
Innovation and global inspiration are key to Nelson’s work. “My work is world-class because I incorporate ideas from industry veterans,” he noted. By recruiting young people, he ensures projects are executed smoothly, quickly, and with a fresh perspective.
When asked if he ever considered quitting, Nelson admitted that the early stages of his career were fraught with doubts and discouragement. “Now, we are too far into the profession to quit. We’ve built a structure that keeps the company running even when I take breaks,” he explained. Despite feeling overwhelmed at times, Nelson remains passionate and committed to his work.
Nelson draws strength from his faith, attributing his resilience to a strong relationship with God. “God gives us the power to make wealth. There are always challenges, but my only source of strength is God,” he shared. Taking breaks to recuperate mentally helps him avoid burnout, ensuring he returns stronger and more determined.
In conclusion, Nelson Emmanuel Okafor’s journey underscores the importance of dignity in labor, the value of skill development, and the strength found in faith and passion. His story is a powerful reminder that success is achievable in any field with dedication, hard work, and the right mindset.
Source: anambrapeople.com.ng
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