Mrs. Kehinde Ibiyemi Abiola, popularly known as Queenkenny Alagaiyawo, is one of the vibrant traditional marriage compere and an event planners who work with today’s innovation, ensuring that her clients get value for their money. Behind the glamour of lots of parties and events, especially Yoruba weddings held daily across the globe, are brands like Queenkenny Alagaiyawo working hard to ensure that occasions hold perfectly. One of the newest vibrant brands that pose for traditional wedding compere is Queenkenny Alagaiyawo, who recently graduated from Bisbam Communication Alaga Academy. No dull moment before and after her graduation party; it has been job back to back because she has proven herself as a leader with unique attributes.
Queenkenny Alaga Iyawo specializes in the delivery of hitch-free events, placing the satisfaction of her clients as a priority. She talked to the Elitist media team on why she embraces the Alaga profession among other available opportunities.
We wish to know you better?
I am Mrs. Kehinde Ibiyemi Abiola, popularly known as Queenkenny Alagaiyawo, a native of Ijebu-Ode in Ijebu-Ode local government area of Ogun State. I am married to an Egba man and blessed with brilliant children.
Tell us about your educational background
I commenced my academic pursuit at Morocco Comprehensive High School, Somolu Yaba, Lagos State. Afterward, I proceeded to Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, Ogun State, where I earned my Ordinary National Diploma (OND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) respectively in Business Administration.
Tell us what your company is all about
Queenkenny Alagaiyawo’s brand specializes in everything Traditional Wedding Compere and the packaging of bridal gift items brought by the groom’s family, also returned gifts by the bride’s family. For instance, for clients abroad, we take the stress of sourcing the bridal gift off from them and help in purchasing the items, designing, and setting up at the venue where the event takes place at a reasonable price. We are affordable and mostly work within our clients’ budget, depending on what they desire.
What inspired you to venture into the Alaga industry?
Actually, I went into the industry to learn about bridal gift packaging, but when I got there, I decided to also give Alaga Compere a try because I have always had a flair for tradition, which has helped in making my learning process less tedious and more fun. I will not forget to mention the impact my boss, Mrs. Bisola Bamidele Alagaiyawo, has made in my growth in the industry. I am lucky to have learned the ethics of professional ALAGA under the tutelage of Mrs. Abisola Bamidele, the CEO of Bisbam Events & Communication Academy and Arewa Brazilian Jewelry, for her encouragement and giving me the platform to flourish. Learning from her has been of great advantage to my career.*
What distinguishes your brand from others?
It’s my originality. I don’t try to copy anyone or follow trends; I just find myself happy with the simple things I do, so I don’t try to imitate anyone. In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different and unique from everyone else.*
Who are your clients?
I really cannot say these are my clients because, at a time, it was couples’ parents who engaged me more, until the brides started coming to book for their dates. My services are for all, as I try my best to balance with the aged and youth. With Queenkenny, everyone has their moments to shine; the spotlight is mainly for the couple, but we celebrate their parents also, and everyone is happy.
Recently, you graduated from Bisbam Alagaiyawo Academy.
What can you say about the Academy and its management?
Bisbam Alagaiyawo’s Academy is a place for any upcoming Alaga to learn. Don’t mind the amount you are asked to pay; you will surely get value for your money if you’re serious and ready to learn! One great thing about the Academy is that you will be taught by different gurus in the industry, from different tribes and religions! You will have both theories and practical training. All you have to do is be focused, be determined, be humble to take corrections, and respect your senior colleagues.
You are a member of the Shining Star group.
Tell us about the noble body.
Shining Stars Mentoring Group is a place of learning and advancement! It is a tribe where professional Alagas dwell together in love and unity, without minding our age differences or positions. The only thing that matters is growing together and becoming better than we were and learning to appreciate each other. I wish it becomes a bigger association one day, for it has helped accommodate young and upcoming Alagas such as myself to find our feet in the industry.
What are your future projections for your brand?
To be the most sought-after brand in the industry, to work harder in giving my clients the best unique services they can’t find anywhere else. To be the brand that best understands and satisfies her clients’ dreams and needs. Also, mentorship and grooming of young and upcoming Alagas to maximize their potentials.
What government policies can be implemented for companies to thrive in Nigeria?
First and foremost, by creating a conducive environment for SMEs to thrive and grow, also making loans with very low interest that can be paid over a long period of time accessible for entrepreneurs, as well as grants reducing the regulatory fees on businesses, for example, reducing the number of licenses and permits required. And lastly, investment in skills training should be focused on. This will help to create a workforce that is skilled and productive.
As one of the most vibrant traditional compere, which book inspires you the most?
I am not the type that reads books like that or gets engrossed with reading like that! But I have once read a book that inspired me – ‘The Art of Happiness.’ I can’t remember the author because it’s been long. It’s a book that talks about Art & Entertainment; it was at the time I was contemplating venturing into the movie industry.
Who is your business role model?
My business role model is none other than my Mentor, my Boss, Lady Bisbam Alagaiyawo.
What do you think it takes to succeed in the Alaga business?
Mrs. Kehinde Ibiyemi Abiola: Firstly, to acquire the right knowledge and keep improving on your skills. Don’t limit your knowledge; attend seminars and trainings for networking. Learning from different platforms is an added advantage one should not ignore. Be consistent, keep fueling your passion, and pushing your brand; with God, it will pay off one day. Prayer – whatever you do, don’t leave the presence of God; take your relationship with God very seriously; without God, we are nothing.
What are your words of advice to those young Nigerians who wish to step into your shoes?
Mrs. Kehinde Ibiyemi Abiola: Pass through the process, register under a reliable Alaga institution to learn the Art and principles involved. If you’re the shy type, this job is not for you, but there are other areas like Bridal-gift packaging you can do. Remember, the beautiful city of Rome does not build in a day. Be humble. Thanks so much for having me on ELITIST MEDIA.COM.
