In the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurship, few stories captivate as profoundly as that of Odette Shirley, affectionately known as Lady O. Her journey from humble beginnings to the CEO of two thriving companies is a testament to resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to her vision.
Hailing from Côte d’Ivoire, West Africa, Lady O’s fascination with the aviation industry began in her childhood. Inspired by her beautiful aunt, a flight attendant who traveled the globe in the glamorous era of the 80s, Odette was captivated by the airport and the allure of the jet-setting lifestyle. Determined to follow in her aunt’s footsteps, she pursued her education in Aviation Business Management & Logistics.
Through dedication and perseverance, Lady O climbed the ranks within the airline industry, proving herself to be a capable leader. However, it was during the tumultuous times of the pandemic that she found herself at a crossroads. The loss of her best friend to cancer served as a poignant reminder of the importance of holistic living and self-care.
Fueled by this experience, in 2020, Lady O founded Maison Jouvence, a fragrance and wellness company dedicated to providing organic, healing products for the mind, body, and soul. Drawing inspiration from her aunt’s glamorous travels and her own journey in the aviation industry, she sought to create a brand that not only nourished the body but also uplifted the spirit.
In 2024, driven by a desire to continue making a positive impact, Lady O ventured into new territory, launching VipSocio in Côte d’Ivoire. As the managing director of this global Tech startup, offering a platform with a large marketplace, event and ticketing management and influencer booking, Lady O aimed to make e-commerce accessible to all in Ivory Coast and subsequently in West Africa. Recognizing the potential of the burgeoning tech industry in the region, she saw an opportunity to bridge the gap between traditional commerce and the digital sphere.
Launching VipSocio in Côte d’Ivoire is not without its challenges…logistical hurdles and cultural nuances are a little challenging. However, her strategic approach, coupled with her deep understanding of the local landscape, enabled her to navigate these obstacles with finesse.
By leveraging her network and forging strategic partnerships, Lady O is successfully positioning VipSocio as a pioneering force in the Ivorian tech scene. The platform’s goal is to quickly gain traction, attracting users from diverse backgrounds and industries. With its user-friendly interface and innovative features, VipSocio will revolutionize the way people in Côte d’Ivoire engage with e-commerce, paving the way for a more inclusive and dynamic digital economy.
Balancing the roles of CEO of Maison Jouvence and managing director of VipSocio Côte d’Ivoire is no small feat. Yet, Lady O’s strategic mindset, effective time management, and unwavering dedication to her vision enable her to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship with grace and determination.
In addition to her business ventures, Lady O dedicates herself to coaching women in their entrepreneurial journey, empowering them to overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams. As a passionate speaker on women’s mindset and wellness, she shares her insights and experiences to inspire others to prioritize self-care and personal growth.
For Lady O, success is not merely measured by financial achievements but by the positive impact she makes in the lives of others. It’s about empowering individuals to prioritize their well-being, fostering economic growth in underserved communities, and inspiring others to pursue their dreams relentlessly.
As Lady O continues to carve her path as a visionary entrepreneur and advocate for women’s empowerment, her journey serves as an inspiration to women worldwide. Through resilience, determination, and a commitment to making a difference, she exemplifies the transformative power of entrepreneurship in shaping a brighter, more inclusive future.
Published by: Khy Talara
