Ibigotemieari Alapuba Adebiyi’s journey to becoming a dynamic entrepreneur and a beacon of empowerment is as inspiring as it is transformative. From her earliest days as a young girl hawking goods for her mother to leading a thriving branding and communications agency, Adebiyi’s story is a vivid tapestry of resilience, determination, and vision. Her infectious energy and unwavering commitment to uplifting others make her a standout figure in the entrepreneurial landscape. With each step of her journey, she has turned challenges into stepping stones, painting a picture of what is possible when passion meets purpose.
“My journey began when I was much younger, perhaps eight or nine years old, when after school, I helped my mom as a sales rep in her petty business,” she shared, her voice brimming with nostalgia. “Basically, I sold for her when there was a customer to sell to, and other times, I hawked. I loved the feeling I got when I made sales, especially when the money touched my hand.” That early exposure to entrepreneurship ignited a spark that would shape her future. By the age of eleven, she was running her own mini-business, making and selling mango juice and hibiscus drinks to her schoolmates. “These early experiences taught me the value of hard work, resilience, and creativity,” she said. “They planted the seed for what would later become my passion for entrepreneurship and communications.”
This passion found its ultimate expression in 2023, when she founded ICON Brand Solutions, a branding, digital marketing, and communications agency headquartered in Nigeria. The agency was born out of a vision to bridge the gap for small businesses and entrepreneurs struggling to establish a cohesive digital presence. “ICON Brand Solutions was inspired by a gap I observed,” she explained. “Small businesses often lacked the expertise or resources to create impactful branding and social media strategies. I saw an opportunity to fill that gap.”
ICON Brand Solutions offers a comprehensive suite of services, including branding, social media management, digital marketing, training, and consulting. The agency prides itself on tailoring its strategies to meet the unique needs of its clients, ensuring that each brand has an authentic voice and a meaningful presence that resonates with its audience. With a team of dedicated professionals, ICON provides innovative solutions that help businesses amplify their impact and navigate the complexities of the digital landscape. Whether it’s a start-up looking to establish its identity or an established business aiming to rejuvenate its brand, ICON Brand Solutions is committed to delivering excellence.
Her journey to founding ICON was far from linear. It included formative experiences in radio and digital communications. “During my radio days, I learned to communicate effectively without ever being seen,” she recalled. This ability to craft compelling narratives translated seamlessly into her role as a Digital Communications Officer for a non-profit organization, where she managed social media accounts with precision and creativity. During a career break, she volunteered with the Richard George Foundation, amplifying their online presence and crafting narratives that caught the attention of the foundation’s founder. “They opened my eyes to the idea of monetizing my skills and channeling my passion into something greater,” she said, describing the transition that led to ICON’s inception.
ICON Brand Solutions has since become a catalyst for transformation. A standout success story involves Dr. Kadijatu Grace Ahene Kamara, the Deputy Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs in Sierra Leone. “Within six months, we increased her Facebook followers from 4,900 to 6,300 and her LinkedIn audience from 613 to over 2,500,” Adebiyi recounted. “She also received a lifetime achievement award from the U.S. President during this time. It was a project that demonstrated the transformative power of strategic branding and communications.”
ICON’s ability to deliver such impressive results stems from its emphasis on storytelling, data-driven strategies, and a deep understanding of client goals. By focusing on authenticity and engagement, ICON helps clients build not just visibility but also credibility and trust in their respective markets. The agency’s success lies in its collaborative approach, working closely with clients to bring their visions to life while ensuring alignment with their values and objectives.
Despite ICON’s growing impact, Adebiyi’s entrepreneurial journey hasn’t been without challenges. Starting the agency with limited resources was particularly daunting. “It required immense creativity to make the most out of what was available,” she said. Building credibility as a new agency also tested her resilience. Yet, these challenges became lessons in persistence and authenticity. “Even with limited resources, excellence and consistency can open doors,” she reflected. “Networking and building genuine connections have been invaluable.”
Staying ahead in the ever-evolving digital landscape demands continuous learning, a principle Adebiyi embraces wholeheartedly. “The business landscape has evolved tremendously with the rise of AI tools, data-driven marketing, and interactive platforms like TikTok,” she observed. To remain competitive, she prioritizes storytelling as a timeless strategy and leverages emerging technologies to enhance authenticity and engagement.
Beyond ICON Brand Solutions, Adebiyi’s commitment to empowerment shines through her mentorship and community initiatives. As a mentor for the Richard George Foundation, she facilitated a one-month digital marketing training program for secondary school students in collaboration with the Edo State Board for Technical, Vocational Education, and Training. She has also coordinated the Children and Teens Ministry at Eternal Life Gospel Assembly for eight years. Her forthcoming project, “Your Dreams Are Valid,” aims to inspire individuals to overcome challenges and pursue their goals.
Reflecting on her journey, Adebiyi highlights the importance of leadership as service. “The most significant lesson I’ve learned is that leadership is about service and empowerment,” she said. This philosophy underpins her approach to both business and life. “It’s not just about delivering services but creating meaningful, lasting value. Empathy, clear communication, and continuous growth are at the heart of what I do.”
For aspiring entrepreneurs, her advice is both practical and inspiring. “Start small, but start smart,” she urged. “Focus on building a strong brand identity, leverage free or affordable tools, and invest in continuous learning. Most importantly, set SMART goals, embrace authenticity, and be consistent.”
As Adebiyi looks to the future, she’s excited about the possibilities offered by AI and emerging technologies in communications. ICON Brand Solutions has several projects in the pipeline, and she’s considering elevating her insights on media and branding to a podcast. With her unyielding commitment to purpose and impact, the future undoubtedly holds even greater achievements for Ibigotemieari Alapuba Adebiyi and ICON Brand Solutions.