Engineering Graduate Turns NYSC Allowance into Thriving Shoemaking Business

Johnpaul Kelechi, a mechanical engineering graduate, transformed his NYSC allowance into a thriving shoemaking business, Kelz Wear, overcoming challenges to establish a globally recognized brand and inspire Nigerian youth toward entrepreneurship.

Johnpaul Kelechi, a 30-year-old mechanical engineering graduate from Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University in Anambra State, has successfully established himself in the shoemaking industry with his brand, Kelz Wear. Based in Ekiti State, Kelechi began his entrepreneurial journey using savings from his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) allowance.

Driven by a lifelong passion for craftsmanship, Kelechi ventured into shoemaking after completing his NYSC program in 2018. He initially started creating slippers and later expanded his expertise into a variety of footwear designs. Reflecting on his journey, he credits the business for not only providing financial stability but also proving the potential for entrepreneurship in Nigeria.

Kelechi revealed that his startup capital came entirely from his NYSC allowance, then pegged at ₦19,800 per month. Despite financial challenges, he saved enough to purchase basic materials and tools, launching Kelz Wear. Over five years, the brand has grown significantly, reaching customers across Nigeria and even in countries like Canada and the United Kingdom.

Kelechi faced several obstacles, including limited capital, poor power supply, and the rising cost of raw materials. He spends up to ₦30,000 weekly on fuel due to Nigeria’s unreliable electricity supply. Additionally, he struggles to find willing trainees, as many young people perceive shoemaking as a less desirable career. Despite these hurdles, Kelechi has trained over 20 individuals since 2018 and frequently handles large orders, producing up to 80 pairs of footwear for a single request.

While Kelechi has not secured external loans for his business—despite applying multiple times—he reinvests profits to expand his operations. His products, ranging from ₦7,000 for women’s footwear to ₦30,000 for men’s shoes, maintain high quality despite the fluctuating economy.

Kelechi envisions Kelz Wear becoming a leading local and international footwear brand. He remains committed to delivering quality products and expanding his market reach globally. His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple: start small, think big, and remain consistent. He encourages young Nigerians to embrace entrepreneurship, emphasizing its potential to foster financial independence without resorting to illegal activities.

Rejecting the stereotype of low-quality Nigerian products, Kelechi proudly asserts that his durable and stylish footwear rivals international standards. For him, “Good shoes speak louder than words,” a principle he has built his brand upon.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, PREMIUM TIMES