Building Olokoi: The Journey of a Female-Owned Small Business

Five years ago, I took a leap of faith and started Olokoi. It wasn’t just about launching a brand; it was about stepping into an industry I had to navigate from the ground up—manufacturing and distribution. As a female entrepreneur, the journey has been anything but easy, but every challenge has shaped both me and my business into what we are today.  

Starting from Scratch
When I first started Olokoi, I had a vision but little knowledge about the complexities of manufacturing and distribution. I had to figure out sourcing materials, finding reliable manufacturers, and ensuring quality control—all while staying true to the values that inspired me to launch this business in the first place. There were times when I felt completely out of my depth, but I learned to ask the right questions, seek mentorship, and lean into trial and error.  

Learning the Ins and Outs of Manufacturing
Manufacturing was one of my biggest learning curves. Understanding lead times, negotiating minimum order quantities, and ensuring ethical production were all challenges I had to navigate. I quickly realized that finding the right manufacturing partner was crucial. I spent countless hours researching, networking, and vetting suppliers to ensure they aligned with my brand’s mission. Missteps happened—orders arrived late, quality wasn’t always consistent, and there were moments when I wondered if I had made the right choices. But I kept pushing forward, refining the process with each experience.  

Mastering Distribution
If manufacturing was tough, distribution was an entirely different beast. I had to figure out inventory management, shipping logistics, and retail partnerships—all while making sure my products actually reached my customers efficiently. There were moments of frustration when shipments got delayed, costs fluctuated, or retailers didn’t meet expectations. I had to become flexible, adapt quickly, and always have a backup plan.  

Five Years In—And Still Learning
Now, five years later, I realize the learning never stops. Industries evolve, challenges shift, and new opportunities emerge. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that persistence is everything. Every mistake became a lesson, and every success reinforced why I started Olokoi in the first place.  

For anyone thinking about starting their own business—especially in an industry that feels overwhelming—know that you don’t have to have all the answers in the beginning. The key is to start, stay adaptable, and never stop learning. If I can do it, so can you.