Ruby Mudey is a hardworking Ghanaian entrepreneur who runs a mini cake empire steadily on its way to becoming a household cake brand.
She happens to be one of the many who lost their jobs during the pandemic in 2019. However, she found an opportunity in baking that changed her entire career focus.
Currently, she is the Chief Executive Officer of Mudey’s Catering Services, a baking firm that capitalizes on training and skills development to create job opportunities for unemployed youth.
What inspired you to start your business?
I have always had a passion for cooking and creating new recipes. I was a chef at Servair Ghana, unfortunately, I was one of the many people who were sacked from my job due to Covid-19. It was a challenging time, but it also provided me with an opportunity to pursue something that I truly enjoyed doing.
I started my catering journey in my mum’s kitchen. It was a small space, but it was perfect for experimenting with new recipes and catering to small events. I took on any opportunity that came my way, from catering for family and friends to small social events.
With time, my reputation grew, and I started receiving more catering requests. I decided to take the plunge and start my own catering business. It was not an easy decision, but I was determined to pursue something that I was passionate about. Starting a catering business required a lot of hard work and dedication. There were times when I doubted myself and wondered if I had made the right decision.
In the next 5 years, to what extent do you envisage your business growth?
As a baker, I see significant growth for my business in the next 5 years. Expanding my services, increasing my customer base, generating higher revenue, and training the youth in cake baking.
What challenge is your business solving?
As an entrepreneur baker, my business is making a difference in the lives of others by providing high-quality baked goods that bring joy and happiness to my customers. I also pride myself in using locally-sourced and sustainable ingredients, which supports the local community and reduces the environmental impact of my business.
In addition to providing delicious treats, my business is also helping to solve the challenge of limited access to high-quality and locally-sourced baked goods in my community. By offering a wide range of products, from classic cakes to vegan cakes.
Overall, my business is committed to training the young and women while also making a positive impact on community.
What do you wish you knew before starting your business?
As a baker, one lesson I learned the hard way is the importance of setting clear boundaries and managing my time effectively. When I first started my business, I was eager to please everyone and would often take on too many orders at once, working long hours and sacrificing my personal time.
I also learned that it’s important to set clear expectations with clients regarding timelines, pricing, and what is included in the order.
Additionally, I wish I had known more about the financial aspects of running a business before I started. I had to learn on the job about pricing, profit margins, and cash flow management, which was challenging and stressful at times.
Looking back, I would have benefited from seeking out resources and mentorship from other experienced bakers and business owners. I learned the hard way that running a successful baking business requires more than just baking skills; it also requires a solid understanding of financial management, marketing, and customer service.
What cautionary nuggets would you give to other emerging female entrepreneurs?
As an entrepreneur baker, I would give the following cautionary nuggets to other emerging female entrepreneurs:
- Don’t be afraid to take risks, but make sure to do your research and have a solid plan in place.
- Surround yourself with a supportive network of mentors, advisors, and fellow entrepreneurs who can provide guidance and encouragement.
- Stay focused on your vision and goals, and don’t let setbacks or challenges discourage you.
- Be prepared to work hard and make sacrifices in order to achieve success.
- Stay adaptable and open to change, as the business landscape is constantly evolving.
- Always prioritize your own well-being and self-care, as this is crucial to your overall success and happiness.
What does the WestlionCo Female Entrepreneurs Community mean to you?
As a baker, the WestlionCo Female Entrepreneurs Community means a supportive network of like-minded women who understand the challenges and opportunities of running a business. It provides a platform for sharing experiences, learning from one another, and gaining valuable insights and resources to grow my business.
Being a part of this community has allowed me to connect with other female entrepreneurs in my industry and beyond, which has been both inspiring and empowering. It has also given me access to mentorship and guidance from experienced business owners, which has been instrumental in my growth and success. Overall, the WestlionCo Female Entrepreneurs Community has been an invaluable resource and source of support for me as a baker and business owner.
