Meet Wunmi Omodayo #eBayAlumni

Meet Wunmi Omodayo, Founder of Thrift Hanger. We sat down to learn more about her business and her experience being a part of our eBay Seller Academy programme.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself, your business and your inspirations behind creating your business?

Founded in 2019, Thrift Hanger is a global online sustainable clothing and footwear platform that provides pre-loved (both used and unused) & vintage fashion to individuals of all ages.

Why did you feel it was important to create your business?

Recycling and upcycling is a paramount movement in the fashion industry as more and more fashion is getting thrown out as quicking as it is coming in. As someone who loves fashion and is passionate about our Earth, choosing to operate in the pre-love section of the fashion industry felt like the right and only move for me.

“By joining in with something that is still quite nuanced, Thrift Hanger is playing a major role in advocating sustainability by promoting preloved fashion.”

What made you apply for the BGF x eBay Seller Academy?

In 2019, I came across BGF and was immediately drawn to the movement. I attended one of the events and was blown away by the scale of it, and moreover, that it was the work of young black women. In addition to this, the structure of the event and caliber of businesses hosted was astounding. I had never come across black women who were able to create such a movement with such impact. I truly admire the founders of BGF as it gave me permission to also let my light shine and be courageous enough to start my own entrepreneurial journey.  

Prior to signing up to the BGF x eBay Seller Academy, I had already been operating on the eBay platform.

“The Seller Academy seemed like the perfect opportunity for me to learn more about how to optimise my business on the eBay platform as well as meet like-minded entrepreneurs who are a reflection of me.”

The stars had really aligned for me when I came across this collaboration hence I jumped at the opportunity immediately.

As an alumni of the BGF x eBay Seller Academy 2022, how did the programme support your business?

The programme had multiple opportunities for my business from saving on selling fees to finding out all the top tips on how to maximise sales from eBay experts. Going through the programme provided both financial and structural support which has allowed my business to optimise on listings as well as maximise on profit.

“The programme provided my business with access to the tools top sellers use to promote growth and the blueprint on how to use them.”

Not only was I able to develop my business holistically, I was able to develop myself as a well rounded entrepreneur. This was achieved by holding presentations, networking and developing my business and personal branding.

Do you think you will continue to sell on eBay now that the programme has finished?

I am currently still selling on eBay, and plan to continue to do so in future. eBay is a great platform for retail eCommerce businesses to thrive and is an extra avenue to promote sales.

What’s next for you and your business?

Next in line for my business is to secure funding in order to upscale, develop a website in order to build a clientele and focus on marketing in order to promote sales - amongst other developments. My next steps consist of networking with other business owners, investors and mentors. In addition to this, I plan to develop my understanding of how business works by taking other courses and surrounding myself with those who are where I want to be.

Any words of advice for those looking to start their own business and join our Seller Academy?

Remember that business isn’t always glamorous hence how you turn up each day will differ. Once you pick one business idea, stick to it and build upon it - this will, in future, allow you to leverage your business in order to explore other ideas. 

“Don’t forget to look up at the sky regularly to remind yourself that you are part of something greater than what’s just in front of you so find balance between running your business and experiencing life.”

Thanks so much to Wunmi for taking the time to share her experience with us! Check out Thrift Hanger.

IG: @thrifthangerstore & Depop