THROUGH MY PLATFORMS I CREATE OPPORTUNITIES TO ASPIRING ARTISTS
What inspired you to venture into entrepreneurship, particularly in the fashion industry?
My journey into entrepreneurship, particularly within the fashion industry, stems from a deep-seated passion for creativity, community empowerment, and a desire to make a positive impact. From a young age, I harboured a keen interest in fashion, recognising it not only as a means of self-expression but also as a powerful tool for cultural preservation and social change.
As the founder of African Fashion Week, Toronto, what motivated you to create this platform, and what impact do you hope it has on the fashion industry?
My motivation to create African Fashion Week Toronto (AFWT) comes from a commitment to celebrating and promoting the rich diversity of African fashion, culture, and talent while providing a platform for Afro designers, models, artisans and creatives to showcase their work on an international stage. One of the primary motivations behind the creation of AFWT is my recognition of the underrepresentation of Afro fashion, models, and design within the mainstream fashion industry.
Tell us about your role as the executive director of the Afro Centre for the Arts and how it aligns with your broader vision for community engagement and cultural preservation
My priority as the executive director of Afro Centre for the Arts is to ensure that the organisation remains deeply rooted in the community and responsive to its needs. As an organisation, we work tirelessly to develop and implement programmes, initiatives, and events that reflect the interests, aspirations, and aspirations of the local community while celebrating the diversity of Afro heritage and traditions. Whether through exhibitions, performances, workshops, or community outreach activities, ACA strives to engage and empower individuals of all ages and backgrounds, nurturing talent, creativity, and cultural pride.
How do you anticipate the intersection of business, fashion and culture evolving in the years ahead, and what role do you see yourself playing in that evolution?
With the continued growth of digital technology and online shopping, I can anticipate a shift towards digital and e-commerce platforms as key drivers of business within the fashion and creative industry. I will leverage digital channels to reach wider audiences, expand market reach, and innovate new ways of engaging with consumers through virtual experiences, live streaming, and augmented reality. I further anticipate a greater celebration of diversity and representation within the fashion and cultural landscape, therefore playing a role in championing diversity through my platforms and initiatives, showcasing a wide range of perspectives, identities, and voices within the fashion industry and cultural industries.
In what ways do you believe your cultural background has influenced your approach to business and creativity?
I come from an African culture that values community, collaboration, and collective effort. This communal mindset likely informs my approach to business, emphasizing the importance of building relationships, fostering partnerships, and working together towards shared goals. African culture is known for its spirit of resilience and resourcefulness in the face of challenges and my upbringing in this cultural context has instilled in me a strong work ethic, adaptability, and ability to find innovative solutions to overcome obstacles in business.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those interested in merging their passion with a higher purpose in their businesses?
I will advise aspiring entrepreneurs to take time to reflect on their passions, values, and the impact they want to make in the world. Define a clear purpose for their business that aligns with their values and resonates with their target audience. Their purpose will serve as a guiding light, motivating them through challenges and inspiring others to support their mission.
Lastly, reflecting on your journey so far, what are some key lessons you have learned, and what do you hope your legacy will be in the creative and cultural landscape?
I have learnt the importance of pursuing my passions relentlessly and persevering in the face of challenges. My diverse portfolio of ventures reflects my unwavering commitment to following my interests and making a positive impact in the world. As for my legacy in the creative and cultural landscape, it is likely to be one of innovation, inspiration, and empowerment. Through my various ventures, I have not only created platforms for showcasing talent and creativity but has also provided opportunities for aspiring artists, designers, and entrepreneurs to thrive and succeed. My commitment to celebrating diversity, promoting inclusion, and fostering cultural exchange has left a lasting impact on the creative and cultural landscape, especially in Canada.
