IbieneEver wondered what it takes to be a successful multi-talented individual? This month’s creator gives us a glimpse into his mind. He smoothly merges his passion for leatherworking with a thriving career in the energy sector. Discover his life philosophy, the “aha moments” that shaped him. Plus, get a sneak peek into his future plans and aspirations.
Meet Martin Agbasonu who nicely turned this interview into a masterclass.
IBIENE: What is your perspective on life?
Martin: I see life as an incredible journey of learning, connection, and growth. Every experience, whether joyful or challenging adds depth to who we are and teaches us something valuable. Life is about discovering what fulfills us, nurturing relationships, and making a meaningful impact, even in small ways.
Each moment offers an opportunity to be curious, to adapt, to show kindness, and to find purpose. We might not control everything, but we can always choose how we respond. In that way, life is both a gift and a canvas: a place where we can keep exploring and creating until the very end.
IBIENE: Tell us about three aha moments you have had in your journey in life that has shaped who you are today.
Martin: The Power of Small Choices: I once realized how much the smallest decisions can change the course of life. One small habit or choice can create a ripple effect, building toward larger outcomes over time. This insight taught me to focus on the everyday choices I make whether it’s choosing to listen more, prioritize self-care, or invest in learning. It’s a reminder that even small steps forward make a difference in the long run.
Empathy is Everything: At one point, I fully grasped the impact of putting myself in others’ shoes, especially in difficult situations. Seeing things from someone else’s perspective has a way of breaking down barriers, bridging divides, and creating genuine connections. This moment transformed how I approach conflicts, conversations, and relationships. I learned that understanding often leads to kindness, and kindness can be profoundly healing.
Failures are Seeds of Growth: Failure used to feel like an end, but an “aha” moment helped me see it as just a beginning. Failures show us where we need to grow and what we need to adjust, making them invaluable. Realizing this made me less afraid to take risks and more willing to embrace setbacks, knowing they’re often just steppingstones toward improvement.
IBIENE: Tell us about your love for leather?
Martin: My love for leather stem from its unique mix of durability, elegance, and versatility. Leather has a timeless quality and only gets better with age like fine wine and tells a story of its use and care over time. It’s used in everything from fashion to home decor, where it adds warmth and texture, whether it’s a well-made leather jacket, a sturdy pair of boots, or a finely crafted leather-bound journal or bag. Each piece feels individual and lasting, embodying both ruggedness and refinement.
For many, leather represents a connection to craftsmanship and tradition. Each item, especially when it’s hand-made reflects a lot of skill, from tanning to stitching, and there’s something deeply satisfying in owning items that feel personalized and built to last. So, for leather lovers, it’s not just the material but the sense of history, artistry, and character it brings.
IBIENE: What is the secret to preserving leather materials, especially in a hot climate?
Martin: Preserving leather in a hot climate requires some special care, as heat, humidity, and direct sunlight can damage leather over time. Here are some key steps to keep leather items in great shape:
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause leather to dry out and fade. Keep leather items stored in shaded areas, away from windows, and avoid leaving them in hot cars.
Condition Regularly: Leather dries out easily in hot climates, so it’s important to apply a leather conditioner every few months to keep it hydrated. Use a good-quality conditioner (usually a natural or specialized product), as this helps prevent cracking and keeps the leather supple.
Keep It Clean and Dust-Free: Dust and dirt can settle into leather’s pores, making it brittle. Gently wipe down leather items with a damp cloth every so often, or use a mild leather cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can strip leather of its natural oils.
Control Humidity: Excess humidity can lead to mold and mildew on leather. Try storing items in a climate-controlled area, using a dehumidifier if necessary. If you’re storing leather long-term, consider adding silica gel packets to absorb any excess moisture.
Proper Storage: When storing leather items, avoid tightly packing or folding them. Use dust bags or cotton pillowcases (which are breathable) to cover items like bags and shoes. For jackets, use padded hangers to help them keep their shape.
Air it Out: Leather needs to breathe, so allow items to air out every now and then to prevent odor buildup, especially in humid environments.
With a little extra attention, leather can thrive even in warmer climates and stay looking its best for years!
IBIENE: How do you merge your passion and your day job in the energy sector?
Martin: Blending a hands-on passion like leather making with a career in the energy sector can be quite fulfilling. Here are some ways these interests might align and complement each other:
Attention to Detail and Precision: Leather making requires meticulous craftsmanship, which parallels the precision needed in safety engineering. The focus on quality and care when crafting leather goods translates well to the thoroughness required in risk assessment and safety protocols. Applying that same dedication to detail in both areas can improve my work in the energy sector.
Creating Custom Safety Gear: There’s room for creativity in designing or modifying leather safety accessories—like durable gloves, protective sleeves, or tool holders. Combining leather making skills with safety needs could lead to custom, high-quality gear for colleagues, enhancing both functionality and comfort.
Balancing Hands-On Work with Technical Skills: Leather making is a tactile, creative outlet, balancing the technical and analytical demands of a role in safety engineering. Working with leather can serve as a refreshing reset, giving new energy and perspective that I can bring back to work. It keeps the creative side engaged while fueling a sense of accomplishment.
Developing Patience and Problem-Solving Skills: Crafting leather items takes time and patience, as does troubleshooting safety issues in complex environments. Leather making reinforces patience and an ability to handle setbacks—traits that are invaluable in a sector where solutions can be highly detailed and often iterative.
Combining these skills from both fields brings balance, creativity, and renewed focus to the work I do in each area.
IBIENE: What are your top five tips for climbing the ladder in one’s career/industry?
Martin: Climbing the career ladder requires both strategy and adaptability. Here are five key tips for advancing in any field:
Master Your Craft: Start by developing a solid foundation of skills in your role. Aim to become the go-to expert in your area, whether that’s through formal training, hands-on experience, or self-learning. People notice when someone consistently delivers quality work, and expertise often opens doors to greater responsibility and leadership.
Seek Mentorship and Build Relationships: Find mentors who can provide guidance and share insights about their own career paths. Building strong relationships with colleagues and leaders helps you gain perspective on what it takes to succeed. Networking within and outside your organization also broadens your influence and keeps you connected to new opportunities.
Take Initiative and Show Ownership: Go beyond just meeting your job requirements. Look for ways to add value, solve problems proactively, and take ownership of projects. Being the person who volunteers for challenging tasks, or suggests improvements, showcases your leadership potential and your willingness to contribute.
Adapt and Stay Curious: Industries change, and those who stay curious and adaptable often rise faster. Take the initiative to learn new skills, stay updated on industry trends, and be open to feedback. Flexibility makes you resilient in the face of change, and people who embrace learning are often seen as assets in times of transition.
Communicate and Advocate for Yourself: Clear communication is vital in any role, but advocating for your own growth is key to advancement. Regularly share your goals and achievements with your manager, and don’t be afraid to express your interest in new roles or responsibilities. Consistent, effective communication helps others see your ambition and potential, paving the way for promotions.
With these principles, you can build a career path that feels both purposeful and progressive.
IBIENE: What are some of the seemingly little things of life that you enjoy that you see others take for granted?
Martin: Good question, a few of life’s little treasures that often go unnoticed but bring a lot of joy:
Early Morning Calm: There’s something magical about being awake before the world starts buzzing. The quiet, the soft light, and that fresh morning air are refreshing, setting a calm, grounded tone for the day. It’s easy to take it for granted in the rush, but mornings can be an incredible gift.
Genuine Conversations: When you have a heartfelt conversation that just flows, it’s like an unspoken connection is made. These moments are incredibly fulfilling and grounding, but it’s easy to overlook their value in our busy lives.
The Feel of Natural Materials: Whether it’s the texture of leather, the grain of wood, or the weight of a good-quality fabric, natural materials have a grounding, tactile quality. Many people may miss this appreciation in a world dominated by synthetic items, but it adds a little joy to the day.
Sounds of Nature: Simple things like birds chirping, leaves rustling, or rain tapping against the window bring a sense of peace and perspective. It’s a comforting reminder of the larger world around us, but they’re often drowned out by city noise and busyness.
Savoring Food and Drink Slowly: Taking time to enjoy a warm cup of coffee or a meal can be easy to overlook when we’re busy. Slowing down to actually taste and enjoy each bite or sip can be surprisingly fulfilling.
These little moments are subtle but can truly add richness and grounding to everyday life. Do you have any little joys that you cherish?
IBIENE: What next should the world expect from Martin?
Martin: The world might expect a journey that’s both intentional and impactful. Perhaps, gearing up for projects that merge my professional skills in safety engineering with his passion for craftsmanship in leather making which is continuously improving. This could look like creating custom, functional leather bags, safety gear or mentoring others in hands-on skills that bridge safety and artistry.
I am currently exploring leadership roles I have honed within the industry, focusing on sustainability, innovation, and building safer, more resilient teams. As I deepen my expertise, I may influence new safety standards, combining my technical skills with my appreciation for quality and attention to detail. Whatever I do, it’s likely to reflect a blend of creativity, practicality, and a commitment to making things better—both in the industry and in my personal pursuits.
Do you have any question or comment for Martin? Share with him in the comment section below.
Ibiene
