Black Entrepreneurs interview Nomu, founder of Vinomu.

This past weekend we had the pleasure of meeting an inspiring man with a unique new business model that had us hanging on every word. His presence fills the room as we sit down for our interview at the Hilton Hotel on a sunny Saturday in London.

With his unique and flamboyant style you are not surprised that he naturally commands his space. He talks eloquently, with his Italian accent about his humble beginnings and journey into entrepreneurship.  

Meet Nomu, a six foot five Italian born entrepreneur of Nigerian descent. Nomu starts by painting the riveting story of an Italian Nigerian relocating to the UK in 2011 at the tender age of 18 to study, and years later setting up his very own wine business, Vimonu.

What is Vimonu?

The idea of Vimonu was born out of the growing popularity in the UK for brunches commonly an activity found amongst social butterflies looking to make new memories through group experiences. Nomu also found that there was an increased popularity for those in pursuit to educate themselves in understanding wine, its origins, and the pairing of wine with all types of dishes.  

Nomu explains that in Italy wine is part of the culture, it’s the norm, and through conversations particularly with Black females the interest in wine is there, “women like wine” he explains, and many women and men are keen to gain the knowledge and science of pairing wine and food.

“Imagine having all these bottles of wine but not knowing what to do with it” we want to help people with that”, said Nomu.

What inspired you to embark on entrepreneurship?

He explains that his father never worked for anyone and he grew up with those values instilled in him. In addition to this, Vineyards were Nomu’s playground growing up in Verona, wine is part of the culture. The region where he was born is the largest producer of wine in Italy. Nomu decided that now is the time to bring this experience to Black people in the UK.

Vimonu does not end with individuals in pursuit of a new hobby, the opportunity is also available to restaurateurs, chefs and events to invest in the best quality wines from across Italy with a bespoke service from Nomu himself. 

Nomu tailors his business from groups in a premium restaurant setting direct to those seeking an adventure by visiting the most exquisite vineyards in Verona, Italy.

Whilst in its first year, the business has captured the hearts and minds of wine enthusiasts and potential wine connoisseurs keen to gain knowledge and understanding on a basic level which wine to pair with Caribbean and African cuisine.

What are the challenges?

“This is not an easy industry to enter and is dominated by the typical elite groups,” said Nomu. He compares this to Lewis Hamilton in Formula 1 and racing. “Lewis represented the culture and killed it, similar to Venus and Serena in Tennis and this is inspiring to me” Nomu reminds himself “Never give up and be hard headed.”

How would you describe your early years growing up in Verona?

Nomu’s father left their home in Nigeria with his sights set on Italy. He went on to  make the difficult decision to leave and seek a different life where he can raise his family. His father relocated from Benin-City to Italy in the late 80s and his mother followed a few years later in 1991 and soon after they had Nomu.

Growing up in Italy in the early 90s, Nomu was one of very few black Nigerian born people from Verona in Italy. At the time it was mainly Senegalese families who began settling in the region in the late 70s. Followed by Nigerian families in the mid 90s. His family was resourceful and adventurous, leaving Nigeria for Europe not knowing quite what to expect, but swiftly made Verona their home. It was largely smooth sailing, however, there were challenges that came with being different; there was also an abundance of benefits for Nomu. As a child he recalls fond memories and was resilient when faced with racism from other children. 

At the age of 18 Nomu decided that he wanted to move to the UK from Italy and further his education at Northampton University where he studied and became a graduate in Construction Management.

What advice would you give to anyone embarking on their entrepreneurship journey?

Nomu states: “Just be yourself and be natural but also be disciplined. Discipline is different to motivation, you still need to be focused no matter what”.

What’s next for Vinomu?

The brand has recently showcased at a business show in the UK and Nomu is keen to have Vinomu on everyone’s lips. He will also be embarking on becoming accredited in the industry and also expanding into the area of wine production with his own brand. 

How important is networking to you?

He explains the importance of networking and  “keeping it natural and connecting with people who match your energy.”  Nomu explains, “how you approach people needs to remain authentic and connecting should be genuine which also includes the follow up conversation shortly after.”

The passion in his voice when speaking about Vinomu is evident and with that Nomu wants to understand more about the UK market, what people understand about wine and consumer lifestyle. It's for this reason that he has launched a survey to gather views to support his business in the future. 

You can connect with Vinomu Connect, on Instagram here.

In the meantime, please take the time to complete the survey please using the link below. 

Take me to survey