What began as a way of staying productive quickly became a passion. Today, Sophia is not just building furniture, she is breaking barriers and encouraging women to consider male-dominated industries if that is where their passion lies. SONIA OKERE writes
When the world came to a halt during the COVID-19 pandemic, many searched for ways to cope, grow, or simply pass the time. For Sophia Omirhobo, it was the perfect moment to pick up a hammer, grab some nails, and step boldly into the field of carpentry.
Let’s start from the beginning. Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
I’m a graduate of Delta State University, and I am currently undergoing the NYSC program.
How did you become a carpenter?
My journey into carpentry started during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020. I was still in school when the lockdown began, so academic activities were put on hold. One day, my mom called and told me to come back to Lagos to learn a skill. She felt I should not be idle while waiting for school to resume.
After I returned, we had a proper conversation. I remember asking her, “Why are you sending me to learn carpentry when I am not a man?” I even wondered why she did not send my brothers instead. She laughed and said she believed I could do it perfectly because I am a smart and creative young woman. It has been five years now, and I am very grateful I did not miss that opportunity.
What was the training period like?
Honestly, it was embarrassing at first. The training center was in my neighborhood, so I used to feel very shy whenever I saw familiar faces. I would actually hide from them. Some of my secondary school friends laughed at me when they found out I was learning carpentry. I almost got discouraged.
Thankfully, my boss was very kind and supportive. He told me that once I started earning from this skill, those who laughed at me would come back to congratulate me. He was right, because, today, everyone I know is proud of the work of my hands. He was also thoughtful enough to bring his daughter to learn, too. So, we had two female apprentices among the men, and that made a big difference.
You mentioned that you were not proud of the niche initially. At what point did that change?
After two years of training, I got my first job. When I completed it and got paid, I was so excited. That moment changed everything. I finally understood what my boss had been saying. From then on, I stopped hiding. I even made a complimentary card and started marketing myself confidently. That was how I began getting orders.
Social media seems to have played a big role in your journey too. How did that start?
Yes, TikTok has been very helpful. Once I became confident, I opened a TikTok page and started posting videos of my work. God being so kind, some of my videos went viral. I received lots of kind comments and encouragement. People were genuinely impressed and proud of me, and that really boosted my confidence. Before I knew it, customers began reaching out, even from far away. They trusted me and gave me jobs. When I delivered, they were pleasantly surprised. I always ensure quality and aim to deliver before the deadline. That was how I built trust.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced?
Carpentry is very physically demanding, especially for a woman. Some days, I work from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and by the time I get home, I am completely exhausted. In the beginning, I had a lot of injuries such as cuts from saws, hammering my fingers, nails piercing my leg, and waist pain from long hours of standing. However, I have learned to manage it. Thankfully, technology is helping. There are now modern tools that make the work easier and safer.
Another challenge is the rising cost of materials. Prices keep going up, and some customers do not understand that. I would rather charge more and deliver something that lasts than use substandard materials. Unfortunately, I have lost some jobs because of that.
Are there other things you have had to deal with?
Yes. Sometimes, men come to my DM pretending they want furniture, but their real intention is to flirt. They waste my time chatting, only to start asking personal questions or invite me over. It is very annoying and unprofessional.
Also, being a carpenter means I cannot fix my nails or style my hair the way I would love to. I spend most of my time working, and the job requires a lot of manual effort. Sometimes, I miss doing girly things, but I have accepted it. I am still in the hustling and building phase.
Running a business can be very challenging. What keeps you motivated?
It is not money, because money does not always come. There was a time I wasn’t getting any jobs at all, and I felt really bad. However, my dad told me something that stayed with me. He said, “You are just 22 and you already have a degree, skill and a company. You are growing. Take it one step at a time. You will get to where you want to be.” That gave me peace of mind.
Another thing that motivates me is the messages I receive. Many women tell me I inspire them. In my DM, some open up about wanting to enter male-dominated fields, and I encourage them to pursue their passion. I hope to open a proper training center someday, where I can teach this skill to women who are interested. That is something I am really passionate about.
You mentioned gaining more respect from people because of your work. Can you share more about that?
Yes. When I give people my complimentary card, some of them say, “It is a lie. You do not look like a carpenter. You look so soft.” However, when I show them my videos and designs, they get really excited and happy for me. Some of them have given me jobs, and others have offered to support my business.
One of my dreams is to own a huge, classy showroom—something truly inspiring. A place where people walk in and say, “Wow, a woman owns this.” I want it to be a symbol of how far I have come and how much is possible with hard work, faith, and belief in yourself.
What advice would you give to other women who are contemplating a career path?
Do not let fear or society’s expectations stop you. If you are passionate about something, even if it is a male-dominated field, go for it. Stay focused, be consistent, and surround yourself with people who believe in you. It may not be easy at first, but it will definitely be worth it in the end.
