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“A UNITED ASSOCIATION WILL SET RIGHT STANDARDS FOR MAKEUP ARTISTS’- ENI BALOGUN

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Eni Balogun needs little or no introduction. She is one of the top makeup artists in the country. And with Lise Makeover and Lise Beauty range, she has risen to become a household name. She has also been consistent with her brand over the years, always coming out with new ideas, which has her business to another level.
Three years ago, she pioneered Professional & Certified Makeup Artist of Nigeria (PCMAN), an association of new and established makeup artist to ensure that there is sanity in the industry. Recently, BOLA AKINBOADE met with this talented mother of 3, and she opens up on her business empire, her latest innovation plus what to expect from her in the nearest future

Bola Akinboade(B.A): You have been consistent over the years in the makeup artistry business, what will you say is your staying power?
Eni Balogun(E.B): I’ll say my staying power is my passion for makeup. It’s something that comes from within. Honestly, running a business is not an easy task but my passion keeps me going and it hasn’t failed me yet.

B.A: What is the latest addition to the Lise Beauty Empire?
E.B: Our newest addition is our 3rd addition of the 88 colour eye shadow palette in neutral tones. They are mostly shimmer but has about 20% matte colours and four shades of eyebrow powders.

B.A: Couple of times, your work has been stolen by upcoming makeup artists, who uses it to boost their portfolio. What have you done to curb this act?
E.B: Yes thanks for asking me that now funny question. The first time it happened i didn’t find it funny one bit. Its happened four times now and the fourth is very recent and we are investigating it currently. But not to bore you much, the issue has been taken up legally and the parties involved have been served by the courts. I guess you know what proceeds after that too.

B.A: You started P.C.M.A.N (Professional & Certified Makeup Artist of Nigeria) in 2008. What led to the idea?
E.A: It wasn’t an idea really; it was just something I’m also a part of in America. I’m part of an association called the ‘TPG’ where makeup artist professionals come together, network, makeup and beauty brand events and major exhibition and fairs for individuals and groups in the industry. Then I decided to replicate a similar thing here in Nigeria for those that are qualified, certified and pro’s in the industry all over Nigeria .I personally just know a united association brings about the real pros that will set the right standards in Nigeria. So far we have over 50 members and we are doing great. Watch out! We are bringing an exclusive international makeup event soon.

B.A:Have you been able to resolve some of those problems that led to the formation of the association?
E.A: Yes, we have and it wasn’t much trouble once we did things legally-no short cuts needed.

B.A:What are the challenges the association have faced so far?
E.B: Challenges really are that MUA’s just think they are all better than each other and can’t stand sitting together with one another. It’s something here in Nigeria. I’m yet to understand. But it’s really been a great start, getting to know other makeup artists and sharing ideas on how to keep things going positively.

B.A: I noticed that the top makeup artists in Nigeria are not part of the association. Is that a deliberate action?
E.B: Never deliberate in anyway, we did contact all makeup persons and actually requested personal letters, text messages and colleagues delivered messages. Those interested came on board and those who felt they were not ready didn’t. P.C.M.A.N is a very liberal organisation open to all professionals, that meet up to the requirements. But really you can’t force anyone to join, if it will make them feel belittled to mingle with others.

B.A:There are lots of half-baked makeup artists in town now, what is the association doing about that?
E.B: Every profession has half baked cookies…..If they don’t fit our requirements they can’t be part of us. We only accept MUA’s that are professionally certified, and yes we do our own background checks too.

B.A: What does it take to be a professional makeup artist; because these days, once people can paint faces, they think they are pro?
E.B: Well, to be a pro artist, firstly you have to be a creative person at heart and artistic with your hands; have burning passion for it, in good times and the bad, because in Nigeria, it’s still a seasonal career. And lastly lots of patience to survive the challenges ahead.

B.A:What other things should we be expecting from Lise?
E.B: Watch this space -BOLA AKINBOADE’S BLOG-For what’s NEXT @ LISE!

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