Ojulari Olasunkanmi aka ‘Sunky O’ as he is popularly known is a lifestyle connoisseur, and founder/ceo at “The SunkyO Lifestyle Company” one of the leading entertainment & lifestyle premium brand based in Lagos, Nigeria.
Before his entry into the world of entertainment and lifestyle, Sunky O had previously worked in the banking and finance industry with Union Bank of Nigeria Plc, and Alpha Morgan Capital as a corporate communications professional. Olasunkanmi, graduated from the University of Lagos with a degree in accounting and also holds a diploma in advertising. His diversity and experiences in both fields combined with his interpersonal and coordination skills prepared him for the corporate and lifestyle space.
Our reporter recently interviewed Sunky on the birth of his new lifestyle company, his vision for entertainment, day parties and the Lagos nightlife, and what he aims to achieve in the already saturated industry. Below are the details of the conversation.
1. What’s your full name?
OJULARI OLASUNKANMI although most people know me as SUNKY O
2. Where were you born, where are you from?
I am a Lagosian, I was born in Lagos state, Ebute Metta to be precise
3. Why did you put your career as a banker and accountant on hold to push your lifestyle and entertainment brand?
I was done gaining the corporate knowledge of brand execution I needed so I moved on to starting out my lifestyle company. I have always wanted to start my own thing so now I am doing just that.
4. How did the love for entertainment and lifestyle start?
It started all the way back in secondary school. I have always loved to organize parties or “BASH” (as we called it then) for me and my friends. Then it was just for fun and because I had the passion for it. But in University I realized it could be a means of livelihood so upon graduation and after a brief stint in the corporate world, I decided to invest in myself and start my own lifestyle brand.
5. So what has it been like trying to launch The SUNKY O lifestyle brand?
It’s been great so far. It hasn’t been an easy journey, well nothing good comes easy but God, family and friends have been supportive. So it has been worthwhile.
6. Tell us about your brand?
The Sunky O lifestyle company is here to help companies, individuals and corporate entities create, develop, maintain and improve brands. We support brands by developing an understanding of their business, clarifying goals and objectives and communicating this in the right way to the right audience. It’s all about seeing branding as a lifestyle by creating unique experiences for clients and brands.
7. You come from a background of accounting and banking, why the switch to entertainment and lifestyle?
My Dad was an accountant , so Accounting was for my dad (he smiles). You know back in the day parents didn’t believe any responsible person could earn a living or build a career off music, organizing parties, lifestyle or entertainment. So after I graduated I put my certificate up on the wall and now I’m doing my own thing and following my passion.
8. What do you love to do, besides lifestyle, fashion and branding?
I love to travel, meet new people and make new connections. I am adventurous so I also love exploring new places, trying out good food and networking.
9. As an entrepreneur how did you cope with the covid lockdown and restrictions seeing that most events both indoors and outdoors were banned?
They say necessity is the mother of innovation. It was an overwhelming season, but God came through and we birthed the first ever post covid event “the auto Club drive thru” event . Where everyone had to party from their car. And it was a huge success.
10. What has been your biggest lesson since you founded your lifestyle brand and became an entrepreneur?
I learnt that “your greatest supporter is definitely a stranger” and to lower your expectation from people so you won’t be disappointed.
11. You are also a fashion enthusiast and lover, do you intend to venture into fashion designing in future?
Yes I definitely will, it’s in the works, but one step at a time.
12. December is just around the corner, what should we expect from the SUNKY O lifestyle brand? Got anything cooking, any partnerships, collaborations or events you want to share with your fans and everyone reading this
We have a lot of events and activities planned out for the season especially for those coming in from the diaspora. IJGB season 7 and so on. expect exhibitions, fashion projects and brand activation campaigns.
13. What is your greatest fear in life?
My greatest fear is having one of my events flop.
14. What advice do you have for lifestyle enthusiasts and people who want to start a business in branding and lifestyle?
Following your passion and making a career of it is a beautiful journey. All you need to do is FOCUS irrespective of the noise in the background (ie people that will discourage you or try to make you lose focus). Once you know what you want, go for it.
Thank you for your time Sunky.