Awo Amobeng’s journey into entrepreneurship began nine years ago upon her return to Ghana from Canada. Arriving during the harsh harmattan season, she encountered a persistent sore on her lip, which conventional creams failed to heal. It was her friend’s suggestion of shea butter that not only cured her ailment but sparked Awo’s fascination with its potential.
Delving into research, Awo unearthed a remarkable truth: Africans essentially “eat” their skincare. This realization birthed the concept of Skin Gourmet—a blend of high-palette skincare and the notion that skincare should be as indulgent and beneficial as fine cuisine.
Despite challenges, Awo’s biggest obstacle wasn’t financial but internal. She emphasizes the power of self-belief, noting that one’s mindset can either hinder or propel them toward success. With a meager $45 investment in 2008, Skin Gourmet has since flourished, generating over $700k in revenue and boasting a product line of 50+ shea butter-based items exported globally.
Reflecting on her journey as a young female entrepreneur in Ghana, Awo acknowledges the weight of responsibility. Entrepreneurs must shoulder the burden alone, without room for excuses or blame. Yet, amidst the hardships, she finds strength in knowing that the company’s growth and culture depend on her leadership.
Awo admits to moments of doubt, particularly when aligning her vision with others’. However, she emphasizes the danger of self-pity, urging entrepreneurs to rise above personal struggles and focus on long-term goals.
Discussing the future of Skin Gourmet, Awo emphasizes the importance of systems over individual dependence.
“It’s all about systems. If entrepreneurs can create systems that adapt themselves, it means they don’t need you anymore. These systems can recognize internal problems and automatically fix them. One of the challenges entrepreneurs face is thinking the company relies on them. You’re there to set the vision, identity, mission, and culture.”
“It’s like raising a child. For the first seven years, you lay down the foundation. By the time the child is eight, you’re setting up systems so they can operate without you. Entrepreneurs need to find a way to phase themselves out, make themselves irrelevant, so the company no longer needs them. That’s how you survive.”
As a female entrepreneur in Ghana, Awo sees this era as opportune. With changing times, women are increasingly empowered to pursue entrepreneurial ventures, contributing to the nation’s economic growth and societal progress.
