Oluwatobi Emmanuel Oyinloye, fondly known as “Tinney Trimz,” exemplifies resilience, determination, and a harmonious balance of academic and entrepreneurial excellence. A native of Osun State and raised in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Oluwatobi successfully built a thriving barbing business while achieving First-Class Honours in Quantity Surveying at the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA). In this exclusive interview with Akeem Alao, he shares insights into his inspiring journey and the principles that guided his remarkable success.
Could you please introduce yourself?
My name is Oyinloye Emmanuel Oluwatobi. I am a proud native of Osun State but was born and raised in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. As the second of four boys, I hold strong values of hard work and commitment, which have been central to my journey.
What inspired you to combine barbing with pursuing a degree in Quantity Surveying, and how did you manage to excel in both?
My motivation stemmed from necessity. Growing up, life wasn’t always easy, and I had to find ways to support myself. I learnt to cut hair before gaining admission to the university, so I was already accustomed to working. Once I got into FUTA, it was about finding a balance between my academics and my hustle.
Balancing academics with a business is no small feat. How did you structure your daily routine to ensure neither aspect suffered?
Initially, it was challenging to figure out, but I eventually developed a system. I focused intensively on my barbing business outside of test and exam periods. When exams approached, I significantly reduced my workload, prioritizing my studies.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced while juggling your barbing business and studies, and how did you overcome them?
One major challenge was managing customer expectations during test and exam periods. To address this, I communicated openly with my clients, explaining my schedule, and ensured I attended to them immediately after completing my academic commitments.
What drove you to aim for and eventually achieve a First-Class degree? Were there moments when you felt like giving up, and what kept you going?
I believe in the principle that ‘what is worth doing is worth doing well.’ When I started university, I didn’t have a phone or many distractions, which allowed me to focus entirely on my academics. My first year was my best academically, and that early success inspired me to strive for excellence throughout. There were moments of doubt, but I always found the motivation to push forward, knowing what I was capable of achieving.
Your brand, Tinney Trimz, became very popular at Akindeko Hall. What strategies did you use to build and sustain such a strong reputation among students?
My goal was always to provide excellent haircuts. By maintaining a high standard, my clients began referring me to others. Additionally, I actively promoted my services to reach a wider audience.
Did you have any mentors, friends, or family members who played a crucial role in your academic and entrepreneurial success?
Yes, I was fortunate to have a strong support system in what we called the ‘School 2 Geng.’ This group comprised my coursemates who became friends, brothers, and sisters. We supported each other in both academics and personal endeavors, ensuring we all succeeded together.
Now that you’ve graduated, what are your immediate and long-term career goals in Quantity Surveying? How do you plan to integrate this with your barbing business?
I am still exploring my options. Currently, my focus is on the entrepreneurial side of my life, as that is where my passion lies. I’m dedicating myself to expanding Tinney Trimz for now.
You mentioned plans to expand Tinney Trimz. What vision do you have for the brand’s growth, and how do you intend to achieve it?
My immediate plan includes incorporating home service and walk-ins. In fact, I’ll be launching a new salon in a week’s time. I aim to seize every opportunity to promote and grow the brand.
What advice would you give to students who are trying to balance academics with a side hustle or passion?
My advice is simple: stay consistent. Success comes from sustained effort and a clear vision.
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