Build Businesses That Outlive You, Tara Fela-Durotoye Urges Students

Entrepreneur and founder of House of Tara International, Tara Fela-Durotoye, has challenged Nigerian students to build businesses that transcend personal success and create lasting impact, urging them to embrace consistency, mentorship and resilience in their entrepreneurial journey.

Speaking at the inaugural edition of the Wigwe University Fearless Leadership Series, hosted by The HOW Foundation at Wigwe University, Fela-Durotoye said young entrepreneurs must cultivate the courage to take the first step, even when the future appears uncertain.

Addressing over 320 students drawn from Wigwe University, the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State University and Abia State University, alongside youth leaders from the host community of Isiokpo, she shared practical lessons from her journey of building House of Tara International into one of Nigeria’s foremost beauty and lifestyle brands, saying “you may not have the full picture, but you must have the courage to take a step.”

She encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to build credibility through consistency, deliberately seek experienced mentors and expose themselves to environments that reflect the future they desire to create.

Fela-Durotoye also urged students not to be discouraged by humble beginnings, stressing that enduring businesses are built through patience and persistence rather than overnight success.

Participants described the engagement as impactful, with many saying it had strengthened their resolve to pursue entrepreneurial ventures. A student, Adika Tamarabrakemi said the session reinforced the importance of starting with available resources. “You don’t have to start big. You can start small and build a legacy,” she said.

Another student, Akpana Lolia noted that the discussion underscored the need for perseverance in business. “No business blows overnight. You have to keep trying and believe in yourself and what you do,” Lolia said.