Designing a Greener Future: The Vision of Eco-Conscious Entrepreneurs in Design

In an ever-evolving world where sustainability is increasing at the forefront of global discussions, Favour Oluma, a 25-year-old Nigerian entrepreneur, stands as a beacon of innovation. Amid the devastation brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, Favour found opportunity in the most unlikely place—old car tires. Today, she is a leading figure in the upcycling movement, turning these discarded materials into chic, eco-friendly home décor that speaks not just to aesthetics, but to the future of sustainable design.

Favour Oluma sitting on her crafted Chairs

A Movement Rooted in Resourcefulness

While sustainability has long been a buzzword, practical solutions often lag behind intent. Favour is changing that, blending art with environmental consciousness in ways that challenge traditional design norms. From handcrafted tables to statement mirrors, her creations demonstrate that sustainability doesn’t just mean utility—it can also embody beauty and sophistication.

“For me, repurposing what others see as waste is about more than just recycling. When I first saw piles of old tires in my city, I realized they weren’t just an environmental issue—they were a chance to think differently. They were an opportunity to create something new, something meaningful,” Favour explains.

This insight spurred her to explore the potential of upcycling, focusing on materials that are often overlooked by mainstream recycling efforts. Through her work, she has redefined the concept of “waste,” showing that discarded items can serve as the foundation for new, valuable creations.

The Role of Upcycling in Community Engagement

But Favour’s impact goes beyond environmental sustainability. Through her designs, she has sparked a broader conversation about how individuals and communities can take ownership of their waste and transform it into something beneficial.

“When people see these pieces in their homes, they’re not just looking at furniture; they’re witnessing the potential of what our communities can create from what’s considered waste,” Favour shares.

By sourcing tires locally and repurposing them into functional art, she not only addresses environmental issues but also strengthens local economies. Her approach proves that sustainable design can and should be rooted in cultural relevance, creating a sense of ownership and pride in the process.

Favour Making a chair from the tire

Empowerment Through Innovation

Favour’s success reflects a broader global movement of “eco-preneurs” who are redefining entrepreneurship by merging environmental responsibility with economic opportunity. In developing nations, where resource scarcity often drives innovation, this model presents a powerful solution to both environmental degradation and economic stagnation.

“We have a responsibility to think outside the box and embrace innovation if we truly want to create lasting change,” Favour asserts. “Sustainability is about more than protecting the environment—it’s about creating solutions that empower people and foster economic growth.”

Her work exemplifies a new vision of sustainable development—one that champions economic empowerment alongside ecological stewardship.

Favour’s Interior decors produced out of tires

Education Meets Creativity

What sets Favour apart from many in the design world is her background in Soil Science. This scientific foundation gives her a unique perspective on waste management, environmental impact, and ecological health—insights that inform every piece she creates.

“My background in Soil Science taught me to think critically about how waste impacts our environment. It gave me the tools to connect ecological health with creative design, something that many designers may not have considered,” she reflects.

Her ability to merge science and art underscores the power of interdisciplinary thinking in solving real-world problems, highlighting the importance of education in shaping innovative solutions.

Bridging Artistry and Advocacy

Favour’s designs are not just functional; they carry an important message. Through her work, she seeks to challenge the notion that waste is inherently ugly or useless. By transforming discarded materials into works of art, she redefines what is possible, proving that sustainability can be beautiful, purposeful, and transformative.

Her growing popularity reflects a cultural shift—one where sustainability is seen not as a chore, but as a creative opportunity. Favour has become a spokesperson for the idea that waste can be reimagined, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in both design and environmentalism.

A shelf made out of deposed tire

A Vision Beyond Business

Favour’s ambition doesn’t stop with her own business. She envisions a future where upcycling is not just a niche market, but a mainstream cultural practice.

“I want people to see that waste doesn’t have to end up in landfills. It can have a new life. I want upcycling to be something that everyone considers in their everyday lives,” she shares.

Her vision reflects a shift towards an eco-economy—one in which resources are repurposed, communities thrive, and both environmental and economic health are prioritized.

Interior designs made out of tires

Inspiring a New Generation

For aspiring eco-preneurs, Favour’s journey offers a blueprint for success. Her story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of purposeful work. Her advice to those looking to follow in her footsteps is clear: “Think big, start small, and remain grounded in your community.”

Favour’s story is more than just an entrepreneurial success—it is a call to action. By turning waste into wonder, she challenges us to reimagine our relationship with the world around us and consider how we, too, can contribute to building a more sustainable future.

Through her work, Favour Oluma is not just designing beautiful furniture; she is designing a greener, more hopeful future for us all.