The #BNSConvos: Africa Designers’ Connect which held on Saturday the 20th of March, made one thing clear; to succeed in the African fashion industry you have to be intentional; from writing out a proper fashion business plan to excellent craftmanship. All the discussions emphasised one common fact; having a successful fashion business is possible if you find out what works for your brand and then put in the required effort.
BellaNaija Style hosted 5 African women fashion leaders from around the continent in fashion education and fashion design over a 2-hour Clubhouse session to discuss the issues, challenges and opportunities facing the fashion industry in Africa and beyond.
We’ve rounded up 5 unmissable quotes from Saturday’s event.
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Don’t be in a rush to suceed, everything takes time, have a vision, learn, focus and put in your best. -Sumaiya Dzietror Co-owner/Creative Director Pistis Ghana.
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Be intentional with your prints, focus on product designs and create pieces that transcend boundaries and try to get as much inspiration as you can while being authentic to your brand. – Lisa Folawiyo Founder Lisa Folawiyo Studios.
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If you decide to go into the fashion business and you don’t have a proper business plan, you’re basically living a dream and the bubble will most definitely burst.- Teni Sagoe Creative Director & Founder CLAN.
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You have to have some form of financial backing, you either have your personal funds or an investor putting money into your fashion business. – Didi Akinyelure Creative Director April & Alex.
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There’s no one way to fashion success, define what formula works for you and use what’s available to you to the best of your ability.- Ejiro Amos Tafiri Creative Director & Founder of Ejiro Amos Tafiri.