1. Can you please tell us more about your business?
7-Fifteen is all about creating top-tier properties in the best locations, built to the highest standards. Our team is made up of real estate experts who make sure every project is unique but still carries that signature 7-Fifteen quality. On the hospitality side, we have Husk Collection—a modern luxury boutique brand bringing world-class experiences to exclusive locations across West Africa. It’s all about great design, great service, and making people feel at home in a whole new way.
2. When, how, and why did you start your business?
We formally launched the business around 2021/2022, but things really started kicking off in 2022. In the early days, a lot of time was spent pitching and proposing to potential partners, consultants, and contractors to establish the right foundation for our projects. Since we didn’t have an extensive track record at the time, we focused on building trust and demonstrating the viability of our vision.
Our first major project, 7Fifteen Lakeside Estate in Jabi, Abuja, had its commissioning ceremony in Q4 of 2023. That success paved the way for further growth, and in November of the same year, we launched Husk Collection, our boutique hotel in Maitama. Now we have additional projects set to be commissioned this year, with more developments in both Abuja and Lagos.
Ultimately, we started at 7:15 because we saw an opportunity to create high-quality, thoughtfully designed spaces, and we had the discipline, commitment, and hard work to turn that vision into reality.
3. What is your role in the business?
I’m the co-founder and deputy CEO of 7-Fifteen Capital. My role is a mix of strategy, leadership, and execution. I help shape the vision of the company, drive the development of our luxury real estate projects, and ensure that everything we build is not just high-end but also meaningful and well-designed. I oversee a range of properties, from high-end villas to boutique hospitality spaces, making sure we’re delivering both elegance and functionality. Ultimately, my job is about creating spaces that enhance people’s lives while also setting new standards in the industry.
4. Where did you study and what did you study?
I studied at Harvard and trained as a lawyer. I’m qualified to practice law in Nigeria, England, and Wales, and I started my career in corporate law and private equity at Clifford Chance LLP. That experience gave me a strong foundation in strategic thinking and deal-making, which has been invaluable in the real estate world.
5. How did you finance your business?
Initially, we invested our own funds, just putting in what we had saved up over time. Then, instead of always paying vendors and contractors upfront, we brought some of them in as partners, offering them a stake in the project. That way, they’d benefit from the returns once the project was completed. Lastly, we leveraged off-plan sales, where we sold units ahead of completion and used those funds to keep things moving. It was really about being creative with financing and making sure we had multiple streams to fund the project.
6. As a woman in the business world, what challenges have you faced and how did you overcome them?
Honestly, one of the biggest challenges has been being underestimated. There have been moments where people assume I’m just tagging along rather than recognizing the work I put in to drive the business forward. I’ve had conversations with people who were familiar with our company but had no idea I was actively involved, simply because they assumed I was more focused on home life. Overcoming that has meant being intentional about communicating what I do, making sure my contributions are visible, and not shying away from owning my role.
Beyond that, there are the usual business hurdles, navigating economic shifts, handling regulations, and making sure partnerships and contracts are solid. In a place like Nigeria, where things like currency fluctuations and legal enforcement can be unpredictable, staying on top of due diligence is crucial. But having the right support system, from my business partner who recognizes my value to a strong professional network, has made all the difference.
7. What inspired the 7Fifteen Foundation and are you fulfilling its purpose?
Giving back has always been a big part of my life—whether it was small personal contributions or, as a teenager, organizing talent shows with friends to raise money for charity. So when we launched the company, it was clear that philanthropy would be at its heart. The 7Fifteen Foundation was born out of that commitment—to use our success to uplift others, especially children, young adults, and women facing difficult circumstances.
Today, we’re deeply involved in initiatives that support childhood cancer patients, children with disabilities, survivors of gender violence, and those with autism or Down syndrome. Knowing that our efforts can make even a small difference in someone’s life is incredibly fulfilling. There’s always more to do, but seeing the impact we’ve made so far keeps us going.
6. Describe your average workday, if such a thing exists.
Honestly, I don’t think I have a typical workday—it really depends on what’s happening that week. Some days, I visit our main office or check in on project sites, especially as we expand into Lagos. My afternoons are usually packed with meetings and catching up with different teams, and if it’s a school pickup day, I step out for that before diving back into work in the evening.
I’m naturally a night owl, so my most productive hours are usually between 10 p.m. and 3 a.m. That’s when I can really focus—no calls, no interruptions, just me and my work. Since I deal with long documents and contracts, having that quiet stretch helps me think clearly and get through everything without distractions. It’s an unconventional schedule, but it works perfectly for me!
7. How do you balance your home life and your work life?
Balancing work and motherhood is all about prioritization and being honest with myself; I can’t do everything, and that’s okay. I make sure to carve out intentional time with my kids, whether it’s listening to their stories, helping with homework, or just being present. Even when work gets demanding, I stay connected through constant updates, so I always know how they’re doing and can step in when needed.
When it comes to balancing home life and work, I rely on structure and a solid support system. Organization helps me give my best to both, but I never lose sight of what truly matters, my kids always come first. At the same time, I find purpose in my work, knowing that I’m building something meaningful while setting an example for them. It’s not perfect, but it’s a balance that works for us.
9. What drives you and inspires you?
What drives me is the impact our work has beyond just building properties—it’s about uplifting communities. Seeing areas like Jabi grow, with more people living, working, and thriving there because of our developments is incredibly fulfilling. It’s a reminder that business when done right, can create lasting change, not just profits.
I’m also deeply inspired by the people we work with, especially the women in our business. Watching them grow in confidence, develop new skills, and take on bigger roles is truly rewarding. Whether they stay with us or move on, knowing that we’ve helped shape their journey and future success keeps me motivated every day.
10. Where and when do you have your best ideas?
Honestly, my best ideas come to me late at night when I’m curled up in bed with my laptop. There’s something about that quiet, uninterrupted time that helps me focus. It’s like being in my own little bubble, where I can reflect on what’s happened and dream up new possibilities.
It’s in those moments, when everything slows down, that I find the clarity to think through challenges and come up with fresh solutions. I get to be completely present with my thoughts, free from distractions, and that’s when the real magic happens.
11. Where and how do you market/advertise your business for sales leads?
We market our business in a variety of ways, from social media to direct engagement. We use platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, running sponsored posts and sharing updates on our developments. Our website has a booking feature for property tours, making it easy for potential buyers to connect with us. We also have a dedicated sales team at Jabi Lake Mall in Abuja, where they welcome and assist interested clients.
Beyond that, we’ve built a strong agent network, keeping them updated via WhatsApp and email. Referrals play a huge role too, many of our new sales come from happy clients who recommend us. For our hospitality arm, Husk Collection, we invite influencers to experience and share their stays, and we collaborate with publications to reach a wider audience. It’s all about creating connections and making sure people trust us with their investments.
12. What is next for your business?
We’re really excited about what’s next! Right now, we’re expanding to Lagos and launching our new office there, which is a big step for us. We’re also commissioning two projects in April/May, along with other exciting developments in the pipeline.
Beyond that, we’re introducing a shortlet wing under the Husk Collection this year, offering beautifully curated stays in Abuja. It’s all about growing, creating, and bringing fresh experiences to our clients—we can’t wait for what’s ahead!
13. What advice would you give to female entrepreneurs hoping to start their own business?
I’d say the first thing is to believe in yourself, imposter syndrome is real, but don’t let it hold you back. You’re more capable than you think, and the right opportunities will come when you put yourself out there. Build a strong network, because connections open doors, and don’t be afraid to collaborate. Working with the right people can take your business further than you ever imagined.
Also, always be marketing, even in casual conversations, you never know who might be interested in what you do. Surround yourself with people who will give you honest feedback and push you to be better. At the end of the day, passion, work ethic, and the willingness to learn will take you further than just skills alone.
Short bio
Adesuwa Belo-Osagie is a distinguished lawyer and entrepreneur, recognized for her influence in Africa’s luxury real estate and hospitality sectors. As Co-Founder and Deputy CEO of 7-Fifteen Capital Limited, she has been instrumental in developing high-end, purpose-driven properties in key cities like Abuja and Lagos, redefining urban living with sophisticated, functional spaces. Under her leadership, 7-Fifteen Capital has emerged as a premier real estate firm, known for delivering thoughtfully designed developments, including its flagship 7-Fifteen Lakeside Estate.
Beyond real estate, Belo-Osagie oversees a diverse portfolio through 7-Fifteen Rentals and Husk Collection & Projects Limited, curating upscale hospitality and residential experiences. A Harvard graduate and a qualified lawyer in Nigeria, England, and Wales, she honed her expertise at Clifford Chance LLP before transitioning into business. In addition to her entrepreneurial ventures, she plays a pivotal role in investment and social impact, serving on the board of Pensions Alliance Limited and leading the 7-Fifteen Philanthropic Foundation, which champions healthcare, education, and inclusion.
Social Media Platforms | Instagram and LinkedIn
Business platforms: 7Fifteen Capital, Husk Collection, and 7Fifteen Foundation
