Meet Africa's Most Successful Events Planner– Funke Bucknor Obruthe (Echo Podcast Episode 1)

Meet Africa's successful event planner, Funke Bucknor-Obruthe. From studying law to founding Zapphaire Events, she has spent over 20 years redefining the art of celebration across Nigeria and beyond. Her journey hasn’t always been easy. She faced challenges, took risks, and had to trust her instincts to turn her passion into one of Africa’s most successful event planning companies. In this maiden episode of Echo, she shares her transformation journey, the lessons she learned along the way, and how she continues to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs and creatives. Listen as she opens up about her incredible journey and ensure you take notes! Listen on Spotify @olusholaolaleye: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3I1KCC4SAgQyweYrWsTZiK?si=LrzpzmtaSee6bRtwGu-ndw Follow @theechopod on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theechopod?igsh=MWpneWVycDgyenZnMQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr Timestamps 03:52 – How being born into a famous family shaped me 06:02 – The Influence of Mom’s Ambidexterity and Determination 08:06 – Balancing Discipline and Sociability 11:42 – The Discipline Pillars That Shaped Me 16:07 – From Practising Law for Two Weeks to Planning Events 19:31 – The Story Behind The Name Zapphaire Events 21:35 – How Zapphaire Became a Success Within Three Years 26:38 – Building Lasting Client Relationships From The Beginning 29:08 – Handling Critical Moments in Business 34:15 – Planning for Dangote’s Daughter 36:38 – Building Trust Through Quality, Authenticity, and Teamwork 38:45 – The Secret to retaining market share 43:00 – The Art of Relentless Marketing