Chichi Yakubu
Food entrepreneur, Chichi Yakubu, has credited social media as the driving force behind her business growth, saying “everybody can make it” if they use digital platforms strategically.
Speaking at the MTN SME Webinar, Chichi Yakubu said one photo shared on Facebook changed the trajectory of her food business. The post led to an interview with Gifty Anti, which she says opened more doors.
“Social media is such a powerful tool. No one should sleep on it. Best believe it’s never really your family and friends that bet on you first — its total strangers. And that should validate you more, because it means the product is worth it,” she said.
Chichi Yakubu urged entrepreneurs to “create more than you consume” on social media. She stressed that platforms like WhatsApp Status, Instagram, and TikTok are free marketing tools that can generate income if used well.
“You have a smartphone, what are you putting out there? Is it generating income or just doom scrolling? One picture changed everything for me. Every room you enter, make sure your product is in the conversation,” she stated.
The foodpreneur also highlighted the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and ChatGPT in leveling the playing field for small businesses. She encouraged vendors to use tools like ChatGPT to design marketing content and target specific markets.
Chichi Yakubu added that professionalism matters even for one-person businesses. “If you’re replying to customers casually with ‘Hey, hi,’ you’re losing sales. Think of your business as an empire, as a legacy. Be audacious about it,” she added.
Digital strategist, Ama Burland, says many small online vendors are struggling because they chase views and followers instead of actual sales. Burland added that poor presentation is costing vendors sales, even when the product itself has potential.
“It’s an online thing. People are drawn to what they see. Take your time and make sure your video is nice and clear.”
BY Prince Fiifi Yorke