From Rebrand to Radiance: The Timeless Elegance of Moelle Essentials
How Doyinsola Ogbeifun is redefining occasion wear with a focus on fit, femininity, and confidence
When you meet Doyinsola Ogbeifun, founder of Moelle Essentials, there’s an instant calm that draws you in, the kind that comes from someone who understands grace, structure, and the quiet power of confidence.
Her journey into fashion wasn’t a loud or impulsive one. It was built over time, shaped by observation, curiosity, and an ever-present desire to create clothes that make women feel as good as they look.
A Pause, A Rebirth
Moelle Essentials first came to life in 2018, born from Doyinsola’s vision to design elegant, well-fitted pieces for women of all shapes and sizes. But as with most creative journeys, there was a moment of pause — a three-year break that became a period of reflection and rediscovery.
In 2022, Moelle Essentials returned rebranded, refocused, and ready to redefine occasion wear.
The brand found its rhythm again, this time with a clearer purpose: to celebrate diverse body types through elegant, accessible designs that don’t compromise on quality or comfort.
Fashion That Fits Every Woman
Walk into Moelle Essentials’ world, and you’ll find pieces that speak of balance, classic yet modern, bold yet feminine. From flowing dresses that move like poetry to structured fits that celebrate the body’s natural silhouette, every design is made to make women stand tall.
Whether you’re petite, curvy, or tall, Moelle offers both ready-to-wear (RTW) and made-to-measure pieces. The goal? To eliminate the struggle of finding occasionwear that truly fits.
As Doyinsola puts it,
“Elegance should never be a privilege. It should be accessible — and it should fit.”
The Moelle Woman
The Moelle woman knows her worth. She loves sophistication without shouting it. She values quality but also seeks versatility. And above all, she wears her confidence like her favourite dress effortlessly.
Every piece by Moelle Essentials is designed with that woman in mind. From the first sketch to the final stitch, Doyinsola ensures that comfort, style, and precision go hand-in-hand.
Redefining Occasionwear
Moelle Essentials has carved a niche in occasionwear, reimagining what it means to dress up. It’s not just about sequins or silhouettes; it’s about emotion. The feeling of slipping into a dress that fits perfectly. The quiet excitement of looking in the mirror and saying, Yes, this is me.
With elegant fabrics, timeless cuts, and detail-oriented craftsmanship, Moelle’s creations are meant to stay in your wardrobe, and your memory for years to come.
The Future of Moelle
As Moelle Essentials continues to grow, one thing remains clear: the brand isn’t chasing trends — it’s setting a standard.
It’s about creating clothes that tell stories of women who rise, reinvent, and walk into every room like it was designed for them.
And in that story, Moelle Essentials isn’t just making dresses. It’s making statements — one confident woman at a time.
Are you a lover of exotic perfume diffusers and room sprays? Have you ever walked into a place where the atmosphere reminded you of something you once had? Well, fragrances do a lot to bring back memories. Just as the saying, “Scents is its own story, you only choose how it’s been told”.
Also having a wide range of fragrances to choose from could be tricky, but not to worry, I bring to you good tidings as I carefully and thoroughly take you through my top 6 well-researched perfume diffusers and perfume oil by Abela World you need to spark and ignite the exotic and elegant fragrance around your vicinity.
These fragrances spur great memories as well as reminds us of our African roots. Black history has found a way of coming back to us through the power of earthy, scintillating, and delightful jars of scents.
Without any more suspense, here are the top 6 African-inspired perfume diffuser/oil brands I have discovered for you to add to your next shopping list.
IGI OPE
An uplifting scent of the Igi Òpe is a rich blend of cool green floral heart notes laced with citrus top notes and woody undertones.“Igi Ope” (meaning the Palm Tree of Conviviality) burst forth the laughter of noble men playing the game of “ayò” (pronounced ay-oh). A symbol of sustainability, Igi Òpe imparts her fruitful & charming essence upon the lands from which she hails.
This fragrance is curated not just to give your space a scent ambiance but to create a long-lasting impression around your space, as well as give you an aroma uplift. No one who walks into your space will want to leave in a hurry, Abela scents by Africa, the curator of our delightful perfumed fragrance Igi Ope, had your guest in mind when producing it as it was produced with the intent to warm the heart, find joy and lift the spirit.
2. ILARI
Not just did Abela by scents of Africa create a cool and impeccable memory around this product, but it also infused a tender and soothing ingredient to help relax the mind and calm anxiety. Ìlàrí (meaning 3-pronged African Wood Comb) is a semblance of the woody core of the material. It’s inspired by the story of African women adorning, ready for a traditional and cultural displays. This fragrance is combined with a spicy & invigorating air, Ìlàrí is reminiscent of the homely ladies who effortlessly wielded this ethnic tool of adornment.
Reminiscent of the cooling essence of earth’s dew, Ilé Amò (meaning the African Mud Hut) combines the grounding scent of violet leaf laced with overtones of sweet flowers & woody musky undertones. Abela by scents of Africa enriches their unique range of handmade home fragrances, inspired by the sights and sounds of Africa. Just as history never dies, ile amo scents share the deep sense of African identity. Embracing our uniqueness and creativity through these precious jars of the conceptual scent of arts.
This scent is here to help you journey through your senses, sharing stories and encouraging conversations from places you may not have expected. Ilé Amò (meaning the African Mud Hut) is an edifice comparable to nothing in modernity; bearing the sweat of brawn men. Built not only for housing but also as a symbol of abundance and wealth, Ilé Amò fills up your space with the bustling laughter of warm hearts and the soul of knit communities. Do you want to tell African stories using emotions, then Ilé Amò is a must-buy.
4. INA IFE
If unity and bond sharing were a thing, then it would definitely be the fierce scent of Iná Ìfé (meaning the Flame of Passion). Abela by scents of Africa can capture the heart with its passionate redolence from this alien and exotic blend, intimately embraced by notes of citrus, amber, musk & woods. Imposing its sensuality upon our innermost desires and Impressing its passion & innate gift with a flaring sense of urgency upon life in the most meaningful way. Iná Ìfé incites each one to keep the flame burning, fighting against the odds, catching feelings, and sharing vibes.
5. ILARI ROOM SPRAYS
Unlike the diffusers, room sprays are faster and more far-reaching. It can penetrate even the hidden corners of your rooms, offices, or environment as a whole. Abela by scents of Africa have found a more efficient way of distilling good and healthy air into the atmosphere. Imagine having to spray a few drops and having the whole atmosphere engulfed in these overpowering fragrances. Enjoy the rich, joyful, even homely, and hygienic aroma of Ilari room spray. Perfect for use in public environments like hotels, fast food, offices, religious centers, conference rooms, etc. Ilari room sprays calm and relaxes any tensed-up mood. it’s a good aromatherapy for anxiety and worries.
6. OMI IYE ROOM SPRAY
Nothing brings to life a forgotten memory as a fragrance. Omi iye fragrance is that which speaks to your heart and hopefully someone else’s. The magical scent of Omi Iyè (meaning the River of Life) is a semblance of fresh violet & ozone notes rounded off with soothing herbal notes. Africa is truly blessed with its richness and Abela by scents of Africa has fully embellished these blessed resources by creating good scents from the Niger to the highlands of East Africa. Imparting the newness of life, the very heart of creation, Beckoning calmness, bursting vibrantly & dancing to the symphony of her rustic beat is the Omi Iyè. This fragrance inspires pureness, richness, and sweet memories.
According to Maurice Roucel,” Your fragrance is your message, your scented slogan”. Always be a fragrance, not an odour. Just as good fragrance speaks for itself, Abela by scent of Africa, an Afrocentric brand made in Nigeria tells African stories using scents. Talk about the perfect exotic perfume diffusers and room sprays, a rich way of preserving African cultural heritage. Allow fragrances to communicate to you by remaining open-minded.
She was not a pap lover until she had the one her aunt made many years ago which was a combination of grains. She enjoyed it and thought to herself “what if this turns into a business and packaged properly for the sake of people like her who wouldn’t be caught taking the regular pap”… the rest as they say is history or shall I say led to the birth of Ogicentric. I bet you can’t wait to meet Adejumoke Solomon, the founder of Ogicentric in this exclusive interview.
With no further ado, let’s meet the Founder of Ogicentric for an exclusive interview.
Please Introduce yourself and your background.
Hi! I’m Adejumoke Solomon, a beautiful mum of three, graduate of Lagos State University, a freelance real estate consultant and an entrepreneur.
Tell us about your work. How did your company start?
I produce, package and sell our locally made pudding called pap/ogi/koko/akamu. I was not a pap lover until I had the one my aunt made many years ago which was a combination of grains. I enjoyed it and thought to myself ” what if I turn this into business for the sake of people like me who wouldn’t be caught taking the regular pap”..since then we have been able to create more variants to suit everyone.
How did you come about the name and what does it mean?
Well, it’s our desire to meet everyone halfway, a central point where both the young,old and even the aged on special diet can benefit from our range of products hence the name Ogicentric. “Ogi” is pap.
What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?
The desire to see people eat healthy meals that are natural and affordable, also, we do our best to disabuse minds of the nation that pap is for the poor and sickly.
Where do you get inspiration for your products?
I get my inspiration from the needs of people God opens my eyes to, especially adults and the aging on special diet.
Can you remember one of the first products you made?
Ogicentric Big4. The fact that it was warmly accepted.
What are some of the challenges you face in your business?
Access to funds. We produce in batches and/as ordered due to poor power supply, because we are not 100% tech savvy, we appear inconsistent on our social media platforms as we are also unable to outsource social media personnel due to lack of funds.
Do you have any regrets about venturing into this business?
None whatsoever
What is your most popular product?
Ogicentric Big4
To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian heritage for your work?
100% as all raw materials are locally sourced for
What are some of your short term and long term goals, both in your business and life in general?
Short term goal is to distribute consistently to major stores in Nigeria so our products can reach as many homes as possible and i would like to speak someday at the White House as ogicentric compliments the moimoi that made this milestone.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
That I’m shy
What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this industry?
Media, most likely
If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?
A lot of people make pap now, different variants and quite interesting ones but something singles you out and that is your target audience. Why are you venturing into this industry? Know your WHY, it keeps you going.
To connect with Ogicentric, you can follow and contact her via:
In 2020, the moment parties and events were banned during the COVID lockdown in my home town Lagos, Nigeria and I trade in party fabrics (popularly called asoebi), the yearn to make income led to the birth of Kisah Lagos. From selling fabrics to making premium quality shoes with asooke (a Nigerian woven fabric), I bet you can’t wait to meet Akinola Saheed, the founder of Kisah Lagos in this exclusive interview.
With no further ado, let’s meet the Founder of Kisah Lagos for an exclusive interview.
Please Introduce yourself and your background.
My name is akinola saheed. Newly married businessman.
Tell us about your work. How did your company start?
I make shoes from premium quality asooke. The lockdown birthed kisahlagos. Parties and events were banned and I’m into asoebi, man must chop o (meaning money must be made).
How did you come about the name and what does it mean?
Originally it was akisah(First 3 letters of my first and last name) but God forbid I use “akisah” as a Yoruba boy that I am. Akisah means rag in Yoruba so that’s a No No… so the A was moved up to be the logo, leaving me with kisah. So we have kisah lagos as a born and bred lagosian 😉
What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?
There are a lot of shoe brands in Nigeria as a whole, but asooke shoes? Not very saturated, we are not many hence why I’m excited to build the brand. I have designed different unique shoes for the young and old, even children. The fact that I use asooke is already a selling point. Not everyone believes it can be done.
Where do you get inspiration for your products?
Asides my asooke background, I have people around me that mentor me. I also did a leatherwork training. I didn’t just start stitching asooke together. So seeing what can be done with leather, I’m like why not asooke. Just like that the mixing started (asooke fabric and leather).
Can you remember one of the first products you made?
My very first product was a shoe made by Gandyfootwears (mentor). It was just a trial, I supplied the material and she went to work. She delivered, I rocked it and the acceptance was wow! That was the ginger I needed to get started. Just like that I found myself in Mushin, Nigeria learning shoemaking.
What are some of the challenges you face in your business?
Asooke weavers disappointing, scarcity of thread to weave colours being requested. Of course dispatch trouble, we are still outsourcing that.
Do you have any regrets about venturing into this business?
No regrets so far alhamdulilah.
What is your most popular product?
I call it the krisskross, bestseller any time any day
To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian heritage for your work?
100% as Asooke originates from Nigeria
What are some of your short term and long term goals, both in your business and life in general?
Well we are still online(Instagram/WhatsApp) at the moment, so no walk in store yet. It’s coming in the near future by the grace of God.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I actually sell gele and asooke for asoebi
What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this industry?
Most likely a tech guy, I know my way around computers. Studied computer information systems at Babcock university.
If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?
Just start, it’s as simple as that.
To connect with Kisah Lagos, you can follow and contact her via:
Have you ever met a female string artist? Yes you heard that right, one who uses strings and nails to make an artwork! I am excited to introduce you to the Founder of Artini (string art), Omisakin Temitope in this exclusive interview.
With no further ado, let’s meet the Founder of Artini for an exclusive interview.
Please Introduce yourself and your background
My Name is Omisakin Temitope, I’m from Osun state in Nigeria. A graduate of economics.
Tell us about your work. How did your company start?
I found out about string art when I was surfing the internet for church stage decor ideas, we needed to come up with something creative and I was a member of the decoration team. And that is how my love for string art started.
How did you come about the name and what does it mean?
Coming up with a brand name wasn’t an easy task but at the end of the day we came up with ARTINI which means: A creative piece (craft, literature, filmmaking, etc.) that causes emotion or a new awareness.
What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?
ART and HOME DECOR is our niche and it was pretty easy for us to know our market due to the nature of our products
Where do you get inspiration for your products?
I’m a strong believer of JESUS and I believe my creativity comes from him. So I pray for creativity and inspiration. I also believe he lead me to string art in the first place for the church stage decor. Apart from this I watch tons of YouTube videos and also check out art pages, art blogs and Pinterest.
Can you remember one of the first products you made?
As the JESUS girl that I am, the first string art I made was “GOD” I just felt like it should be the first Art I make even before we did the stage design.
What are some of the challenges you face in your business?
For challenges I’d say string art is not taught in this part of the world so I was only left with Russian YouTube videos that where often times not translated, calculating geometric patterns and designs where hard at the beginning. Another challenge was sourcing materials, I did a lot of improvisation when I first started out, especially with nails since they weren’t available in Nigeria
Do you have any regrets about venturing into this business?
I have faced a number of challenges but no regrets at all.
What is your most popular product?
I have two actually. “The African woman” and “Red hat lady”
To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian heritage for your work?
To some extent actually, I’ve realised African inspired work are easily accepted and look unique. Like the “African woman for example “
What are some of your short term and long term goals, both in your business and life in general?
For my business I’d say getting a work station that would also serve as a training centre for students and also double as a mini gallery for walk-in clients And to also be a leading and learning art centre in Nigeria. In life generally would be to teach, impact and empower people.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I’m not sure it would be a surprised but for what it’s worth I’m “Left handed “.
What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this industry?
I would probably have a business consulting firm.
If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?
Whatever mistakes you make, learn to move on from it, you’re only human. Just work on improving yourself and your business so it doesn’t happen again
To connect with Artini, you can follow and contact her via:
I am honoured and thrilled to introduce you to the Founder of Scents Pro, Boluwatife Adeife in this exclusive interview.
With no further ado, let’s meet the Founder of Scents Pro Luxury for an exclusive interview.
Please Introduce yourself and your background.
My name is Boluwatife Adeife. A Nigerian and the creative director and chandler of Scents Pro, an indigenous fragrance company where we create premium quality, hand crafted home and space fragrances in diffusers, scented candles, et al.
Tell us about your work. How did your company start?
Scents Pro was birthed from the love for scents generally and how particular I’ve always been about my space and it’s general appearance. I was (still am) a fragrance lover, but when I did my research on home scents I realized at that time, there wasn’t a lot of indigenous brands, accessibility to international brands was a challenge and the quality of these international brands, as regards raw materials for production, was not 100% in most cases.
So Scents Pro Luxury came in, to bridge the gap by providing eco friendly, toxic free and luxurious home scents that’s would bring some level of comfort into homes and spaces.
How did you come about the name and what does it mean?
An expert in any field is called a PRO. An expert with Scents, is a Scents Pro.
What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?
Indigenous and Toxic free(eco friendly). These were what seemed to be missing at the time we were going to start. These days, people are more open to buying locally made products and the fact that they are vegan and eco friendly makes it even better as people have become more conscious.
Where do you get inspiration for your products?
I get inspiration from everywhere, from different people and brands.
Can you remember one of the first products you made?
A scented candle. I was over the moon excited even though it was obviously not perfect.
What are some of the challenges you face in your business?
Running the business in general. It can be overwhelming
Do you have any regrets about venturing into this business?
Not at all.
What is your most popular product?
To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian heritage for your work?
Scents Pro is an indigenous brand. Our products are all 100% locally hand made
What are some of your short term and long term goals, both in your business and life in general?
Short term goal is to evolve and improve generally in every area of the business. Long term goal is to be the leading and most preferred home fragrance brand in the Nigeria and West Africa.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I speak French
What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this industry?
Sales and Marketing
If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?
Build your brand at your own pace and not compare with existing brands.
To connect with Scents Pro, you can follow and contact her via:
It is no doubt that scent is the first thing people notice when they enter your home. Scented candles may seem invisible yet it is a very unforgettable and ultimate accessory everyone should have. There is nothing as good as inhaling good and healthy air with great comfort and scented candles help you achieve that goal. The beauty of scented candles is how well put together and nicely packaged it is. It doesn’t only brighten up the atmosphere of a place, but also serves as an accent piece to every space.
Just as the saying, “you can’t buy happiness but you can buy scented candles”. This may sound ridiculous but somehow truthful. Fragrances and a well-scented environment have a whole lot to do with our moods and feelings. Psychology further explains that the smell of scented candles stimulates our limbic system, that part of the brain responsible for emotions and memories. When a space lacks a good scent, it could lead to discomfort and inconvenience.
Here are the top 5 examples of scented candles with reasons why you need them in your space;
FLAMES AND PATCHOULI-SCENTED CANDLES CREATE A DESIRABLE AMBIENCE AND ATMOSPHERE
Scented candles create a relaxing and inviting ambiance. Have you ever just sat and stared at a candle that was flickering nearby? You’ve probably noticed that it generates a pleasant, soothing, and cozy ambiance. A few strategically positioned candles can help you instantly create a pleasant and intimate ambiance in your house.
Adding a candle here and there softens the environment and makes it feel instantly warmer and more pleasant. Candles are well-known for their calming and healing effects, and therapists, such as massage. Therapists commonly use them to create a peaceful environment in their treatment rooms. With its gorgeous flicker and mellow glow, the simple act of lighting a candle helps to relax and soothe the mind. Give it a shot.
Flames and patchouli candles, a signature of Abela world scents, contain a rich blend of juicy-floral notes, laced with musky-woody notes of rosewood, cashmere, ambergris, patchouli, and tobacco for seductive complexity. Flame & Patchouli is a signature scent that is richly sexual. Surrender to your inner passion and nature’s alluring power, conveying the abstract essence of searing fury.
FLAMES AND PATCHOULI CANDLES
2. FOOTPRINT AND LEATHER CANDLES ARE HEALTHY FOR YOUR ENVIRONMENT.
Self-care and mental health are important aspects of a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, burning candles can aid in the creation of the ideal environment for promoting serenity and well-being. Consider burning a candle if you’re ever gripped by fear or worrying thoughts. Aromatherapy candles have already been shown to have stress-relieving properties in several studies. Keep in mind, however, that not all candles are made equal, and some could be hazardous to your health.
As a result, you must know what’s in your candle’s compounds. Footprint and leather candle is an embodiment of the warmth of the African soil, it encapsulates subtle gourmand notes with the warm and luxurious aroma of clean earth in its heart of tarragon, sweet grass, violet leaf, fine leather, amber, and sandalwood. This right combination of ingredients might help with anxiety if one ever is engulfed with fear and anxious thought. it is also a rich and sensual fragrance manufactured by Abela by scents of Africa, a fragrance brand inspired by African stories. This brand not only has a wide variety of well-scented candles, but it also produces exotic fragrances that are therapeutic, sweet, and have sultry experiences, this signature scent should be top of your list as this scintillating scent will whisk you away.
FOOTPRINT AND LEATHER CANDLES
3) MUDHUT AND GINGER LEAF FACILITATE COMFORT
According to science, ginger is loaded with antioxidants and compounds that prevent stress and damage to your body’s DNA. they also help the body fight off chronic diseases like high blood pressure, heart disease, and disease of the lungs, and it promotes healthy aging too.
As a result of the great benefits of ginger Abela by scents of Africa made these Aromatherapy candles that can help you relax, feel calm, energized, and put your mind in a more productive mode. Mudhut and ginger leaf candles can help you relax and relieve stress.
These candles are energizing and help with Abela by scents of Africa concentration. Lemon candles are also energizing, and they can help with anxiety and depression. it is intricately sweet and leathery combining the delightful and refined aroma of osmanthus blossoms with a sensuous heart of patchouli and the suspenseful note of savory leaves.
MUDHUT AND GINGER
(4) PASSION AND YLANG CANDLES ADD A SPARK OF CELEBRATION AND ROMANCE.
As the name implies “passion’’, this candle is capable of igniting a special bond, it is intricately sweet and leathery combining the delightful and refined aroma of osmanthus blossoms with a sensuous heart of patchouli and the suspenseful note of savory leaves.
Passion & Ylang Perfume Candle has an exotic soul, with a seductive core of parma violets and tuberose, as well as a hint of pimenta and ylang ylang essential oils. The heart notes, which have a slightly heady, sweet, exotic, and complex floral smell, claim origin and cultivation in North and South Africa. This Abela by Scents of Africa Signature perfume has a cheerful and elegant fragrance.
PASSION AND YLANG CANDLE
(5) RUSTIC WOOD AND CINNAMON CANDLES ADD LIFE TO YOUR DECOR AND SPACE.
Candles add a sophisticated touch to every room in your house. Abela by scents of Africa offers very wide options of scented candles to choose from: you may use delicate colors to bring a gentle touch to any space, or you can go for bright, strong colors to create a large statement. Candles are incredibly adaptable; they come in a variety of forms and look excellent in any setting.
Candles in the bathroom provide a spa-like ambiance, while candles strategically arranged throughout your living area create a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere (very hygge). Meanwhile, candles as the centerpiece of your dining room table create a beautiful candlelit dinner environment, while kitchen candles provide a welcoming atmosphere while also killing odors.
Experience the transposing aroma of exotic “wood” tar in conjunction with the riotous energy of Moroccan spice in this brilliant signature perfume. Abélà by Scents of Africa Rustic Wood & Cinnamon inspires and awakens the most resilient heart, combining notes of dry musk, sandalwood, vanilla, amber, and tobacco to expand the mind into a panorama of richness. These signature candles can also be utilized to create a beautiful and whimsical atmosphere on the table.
Asooke throwStyling African wears could demand lots of detail and attention, this is because for it to fit into the contemporary world one needs to pay close attention to detail and be aesthetic about it.
Lots of fashion designers have come up with flexible wear designs that could be styled for different occasions.
Here is a list of ways and places to style up your African wear,
AFRICAN CORPORATE FASHION
Do you want to infuse your African wear into the corporate world? Do you often attend business fairs, meetings, and conferences and you need the best styling ways to fit into these places and not look too traditional. The idea behind slaying an African outfit successfully is to keep it classy and simple at the same time.
O’Eclat Designs, an ethical Nigerian brand, makes use of premium leather, to craft beautiful handmade bags, with some having beautiful African design prints, these bags can be combined with nice suits/ jackets or beautiful gowns. You will just stun in this fabulous look and have eye-rolling. These bags are made of African fabrics and could be used to fit into the contemporary style of dressing. These beautifully made African bags will suit perfectly with corporate dresses or corporate trousers and suits.
Morin O has also put together collections of African-inspired bags, wallets, belts, and slippers. Morin O’s handcrafted bags will always do well in your corporate world, Men’s bags are not left out, quality men’s bags for the corporate world. No matter the occasion, you can’t go wrong with a well-sewn colorful fabric made with rich leather sourced from Nigeria.
2. AFRICAN SOCIAL FASHION
There is a funny saying ‘’Eni o wo Ankara o je semo’’ meaning; that the guest who does not wear uniform fabric popularly called ‘’aso ebi’’ will not eat at the social gathering. The fabric is worn particularly and uniformly for celebration. On a lighter note, it may serve as a gate pass to several social events. African print is usually worn to social events such as weddings, burials, religious gatherings, and a lot more.
Ethnik Africais a global brand inspired by ancient asooke craftsmanship of western Nigerian and African culture. This brand is known for making beautiful loafers, travel bags, asooke inspired sneakers, that can comfortably be worn to formal gatherings. It can be worn in jeans, jumpsuits, gowns, skirts, or even shorts, traveling bags, sneakers, etc.
Adorning yourself with African wear to socials could be very versatile and flexible. It is popularly known to be worn mainly in African countries though it is slowly being adopted by the western world. Several celebrities have been seen to embrace this trend, a couple of western celebrities such as Rihanna, Beyonce, Sia, and others have been seen rocking African fashion dresses and bags for several outings. This is a big win for the African fashion industry, though slowly but surely, the aim is for the whole world to finally embrace this trend into their culture and social lives.
3. AFRICAN HANGOUT FASHION
There are times you simply need an easy-going style to wear for hangouts, small parties, dinners, or dates. Ankara shorts, crop tops, skirts, and gowns could be your best guess. Ankara/ Adire pullovers and tops are flexible in their utilization and styling and ought to be a staple in each woman’s closet. Ankara coordinate sets are easy to wear as you can rock them with trousers or gowns and skirts. If free wear for fashion lazy or work-free day. The African hangout is a series of ready-to-wear items that one just picks up from the wardrobe.
Small and Medium sized Entrepreneurs across the country are putting in a lot of efforts to survive, scale the hurdles and compete favourably in different sectors.
To carve a niche for themselves they need support, encouragement and a business friendly environment.
The immediate past Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mr Olusegun Awolowo has been a pillar of support to many. He recently supported Bellafricana members with a 60 Million Naira Grant.
This opportunity is meant to support their businesses through the Export Development Fund (EDF) via the Expansion Facility Programme [EEFP] which issued a 60 million Naira grant to the 15 awardees of the 3rd ACE Awards as well as a few other Bellafricana members that have shown export potential.
The opportunity unveiled during the 3rd edition of the African Creative Exhibition and Awards, held on the 29th of October 2021, at the BWC Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos will help to transform this businesses to the next phase with ease.
There Mr. Awolowo made clear the commitment of the NEPC to support and grow non-oil exports in the country.
Crude oil forms the major commodity that is being exported in Nigeria currently. In 2020, Crude petroleum topped Nigeria’s commodity export for the year according to COMMODITY.COM. Nigeria presently ranks as the tenth most petroleum-rich nation and by far the most affluent in Africa which makes the reason for being such an exporter of crude oil not far-fetched. This has in some ways made other industries take the back seat because, in recent years, there has been more focus on the country’s exportation of crude oil.
The Export Expansion facility programme, founded as a part of Mr. Awolowo’s legacy to grow Nigeria’s export industry has therefore provided a catalyst that supports the country’s active export businesses and export-ready businesses.
Speaking on this development, the CEO of Bellafricana, Bukky Asehinde could not contain her excitement as she spoke about how Mr. Awolowo through the Nigerian Export Promotion Council has been supportive of the growth and expansion of not just Bellafricana but her members.
“Mr Awolowo has time and time again proven to be a huge supporter not just to me or the over 5000 creatives he has supported through Bellafricana but to many creative entrepreneurs all over Nigeria.
Since the over 5 years that Bellafricana was founded, Mr. Awolowo has been a strong pillar of support to this community, endorsing us fully and boosting our brand credibility”.
She added: “This 60 Million Naira grant by the Export Expansion facility programme will go a long way in pushing many businesses forward. I celebrate Mr. Awolowo for showing us who a true leader is and I know that his legacy will always be known for generations to come”.
Asehinde went on to express her gratitude to Mr. Awolowo for standing by Bellafricana over the years and thanking him for building a legacy through his leadership as the former Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council. “We are proud of his legacy and his support by helping and enabling MSMEs to get to the export level.”
Mr. Awolowo has always supported Bellafricana and her vision to give more visibility to African-owned creative businesses.
He has shown this through his continuous support at every edition of the ACE Awards held since 2017 to laud and encourage the work of highly skilled individuals who are making significant contributions to their respective industries and putting Africa on the world map with their creations.
He has through the Nigerian Export Promotion Council [NEPC] sponsored and supported over 5000 creatives and is now wrapping up with this grant so creative entrepreneurs can scale up their businesses while growing the country’s export industry.
He has also used his encouraging words to push not just entrepreneurs but everyone around him beyond their limits so they can achieve their goals and even surpass them.
It is no wonder Bukky Asehinde describes him as “The father of non-oil exporters.”
One of the awardees and a beneficiary of the grant also appreciated Mr. Awolowo for believing in Nigerian creative entrepreneurs and supporting them in scaling their businesses beyond the shores of the country.
“If we had more people like Mr. Awolowo in this country who have demonstrated true leadership, I have no doubts that we will see more Nigerian entrepreneurs succeeding and getting the visibility they deserve in the global space.”
The Export Expansion Facility Programme [EEFP], a flagship project of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council [NEPC] founded under the leadership of the now former Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council.
The Export Expansion Facility Programme seeks to democratize the discovery of exporters and their access to relevant government incentives to grow. The initiative supports businesses in Nigeria, with at least one customer abroad, or working on acquiring customers abroad.
It also supports businesses in Nigeria that provide services that an export business might need and it offers these businesses a series of incentives to expand their reach and become an exporter.
Bellafricana is a tech-enabled community that provides a platform for Nigerian and African Creative entrepreneurs in the Fashion, Arts & Crafts, Home & Living, Beauty, and Food produce & Snacks Industry to gain visibility, increase sales, and have the right business support and structure that gives them the capacity to grow their business.
Bellafricana’s vision is to become the biggest e-commerce company that promotes African products to the world and is on the verge of accomplishing this as it recently launched a Marketplace [www.bellafricanashop.com].
I had the utmost pleasure of meeting this beautiful soul during the ACE Awards 2021, where she won the category for the best home & lifestyle brand. I was beyond awed at her graciousness, humility and positivity that she radiated at every point. Hence why I am honoured and thrilled to meet the Founder of Yasmin Crafts in this exclusive interview.
Hamsatu Aliyu-Afegbua – Founder of Yasmin Crafts
*To know more about the products, simply click on the images*
With no further ado, let’s meet the Founder of Yasmin Crafts for an exclusive interview.
Please Introduce yourself and your background.
My name is Hamsatu Aliyu-Afegbua and I’m an architect and hand-crafter. By the grace of God, I juggle 2 businesses: Eden Signature Limited, an Architectural and Interior design firm as well as Yasmin Crafts Limited which is my handicrafts business. Both of them are situated in Abuja, Nigeria. I am a graduate of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria with an M.Sc in Architecture. I also hold a certificate in Entrepreneurship Management under the EDC, from Lagos Business School.
Tell us about your work. How did your company start?
We produce handcrafted products in the form of furniture, home decor and multi-purpose baskets. We use locally available raw materials to create these products. The brand Yasmin Crafts was born to satisfy the need for a custom crafts provider that could give better quality handcrafted products in Abuja.
How did you come about the name and what does it mean?
“Yasmin” is my proposed first daughter’s name. The “crafts” I derived from the general term “handicrafts” which is the term used to describe our niche.
What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?
My niche is Handicrafts. Known by some as Arts and Crafts. Living in Abuja for over 2 decades, I came to realise there was no craft maker who could skillfully add on accessories like real leather, fabric, logos, and art on products to enhance them. Most of the attempts to customise crafts, that I saw by the roadside or in the local markets did not turn out looking too good. One day, I decided to buy the basket from the market and then, customise it to my taste. It turned out great and everybody asked me where I bought the customised basket from.
The rest is history. 3 years down the line, here we are 😊. I started out with baskets and decor and within a year into the business, we had begun furniture production.
*The Lidded Laundry hamper with removable liner is available in 5 different colors including natural, you can tuck this hamper away in a corner of your bed or bath room and keep those clothes off the floor.*
*These stunning natural wicker planters are a nice way to add interior plants into your home. They come with bottoms designed to drain water away from the plant pot you intend to place inside the basket. Great for both real and faux plants.*
Where do you get inspiration for your products?
From my imagination and from observing the needs in the market. I sketch ideas down and develop them. I also draw inspiration from nature.
Another source of inspiration is listening to feedback from our customers, especially negative feedback. We take the feedback and examine our way of doing things as a business. We change what we can and fix what we can’t.
I tell my entire team that here at Yasmin Crafts, customer service is not just one department, it is all of us. Working as a team and sharing feedback has helped us grow as a business.
Natural Lani trunk
*Giving gifts are an essential part of life and relationships. The packaging container is what will be seen first, so make it a memorable time for the person who is receiving it. This trunk is a classy woven gift box that you can be proud of placing your luxury gifts in.*
*With the high quality interior lining be ready to wow your recipients and make a great impression. You can’t go wrong with this as your choice of container when it comes to gifting. The best part is, the gift recipient can use the trunk as an extra storage, extra seating to give another gift or even as a decorative piece afterwards!*
Can you remember one of the first products you made?
Yes. It is a 2 tone coiled raffia basket that I made to store my small jewellery pieces in. I was just learning how to weave at the time, and I had to push myself to try and finish it. I’m very proud of that basket.
What are some of the challenges you face in your business?
Lack of funds to expand our production. Buying large scale woodworking equipment and conducting more research on product development.
Do you have any regrets about venturing into this business?
Not at all.
What is your most popular product?
Our Aisha set of 3 multi-purpose baskets is one of our best sellers. This is because they can serve a multitude of purposes like storage, home organisation, home decor and gifting purposes.
Aisha baskets are available in 2 designs: a Plain basket with no fabric lining and our fabric lined baskets.
*Customised Aisha storage baskets. These gorgeously lined baskets can serve a wide variety of purposes. They come in 3 different fabric lining as pictures unless you say otherwise. There is a touch of Ankara to symbolise Africa.*
Top uses among our customers for these baskets include:
Making a set of gift hampers with each basket.
Decluttering table tops.
Storing small items.
Displaying products for sale at a store.
Using them as a tray for serving snacks.
Hanging them as a wall decor basket.
Styling a shelf or console.
These baskets are dry use only, please note.
To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian heritage for your work?
We spice things up with touches of popular Nigerian cultural items like sewing beadwork on the handles of our baskets. We also make use of African fabrics to customise our baskets, decor and furniture.
What are some of your short term and long term goals, both in your business and life in general?
Short term, we hope to be able to invest in large scale woodworking machinery and power tools that will help scale up production and cater for the time demands of our customers. Handcrafting is a slow process, having the right machinery speeds things up.
In the long run, we hope to expand our sales and grow the naira through large scale exports. Promoting quality African crafts all over the world is another long term goal we hope to achieve through expanding our locations.
For my goal in life, I’ll say I hope to be recorded in the history books as the founder of a premium Nigerian lifestyle brand that created employment for millions of women We currently employ a majority of women in our workforce and we intend to keep it that way.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I do some of the metal and carpentry work at Yasmin Crafts.
*This handy piece of furniture helps you save space. With varying sizes of storage baskets, you can organise and display products or decor items on these ladder shelf. Ladder shelves makes for an eye catching display and are great for small spaces where you need a tall storage option. Available in 3 colors: Dark brown, Black and White.*
What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this industry?
I would be in the building profession, which I am already privileged to have been doing long before I founded Yasmin Crafts.
If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?
Learn the skill of crafting if you can. Knowing how to make your own products or some of them, is definitely an added advantage.
Take your failures as a part of the success to come. It may take a lot of time, and you will have to be committed and disciplined to be able to launch and sustain a business in hand-crafting.
It has been an absolute pleasure having this exclusive interview and getting to meet the Founder of Yasmin Crafts.
To connect with Yasmin Crafts, you can follow and contact her via:
Bellafricana is pleased to announce that BONA EXPO 22, sets to change the Course of Green Beauty in Africa! Go, Register!
BONA EXPO with her maiden edition themed “ Mother Nature Africa” is the Pioneer Exposition for Green Beauty Manufacturers In Africa, Africans-In-the-diaspora & a select few Internationals looking to gain entrance into the Continent.
Lorraine Dallmeier of Award-winning, accredited formulation school FormulaBotanica in The United Kingdom in her June 8, 2021, Podcast title excerpt says “ Today, for the most part, the rest of the world has little exchange with the African beauty industry apart from its commodities. But we hope this will change, and soon.”
The Botanical, Organic & Natural Africa Expo has spotlighted its vendor interests from countries like Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Namibia, Uganda, Uk, Canada & USA.
BONA EXPO 22 2-day exposition will hold on the 10 & 11 February 2022 at The Landmark Centre, 3&4 Water Corporation, Oniru, Victoria Island Lagos, Nigeria with activities from Welcome Night Dinner, Exhibitions & Unique Experiences, Masterclasses by International Speakers, Panel Discussions, to Wrap-Up-Party.
*To know more about the event, simply click on the images*
Presenting our Country correspondents:
NIGERIA CORRESPONDENT- JOYCEE AWOSIKA OF ORIKI GROUP
GHANA CORRESPONDENT- VIOLET AWO AMOABENG OF SKIN GOURMET
SOUTH AFRICA CORRESPONDENT- RUBEN OKPOKO OF RUUTOS
KENYA CORRESPONDENT – ZAHRA HASSAN & FADUMA ABDI OF QASIL BEAUTY
AFRICAN-IN-THE-DIASPORA UK CORRESPONDENT – ALEXANDRIA AGGREY OF MADAM ORI SKINCARE
AFRICAN-IN-THE-DIASPORA CANADA CORRESPONDENT- OYETA KOKOROKO OF OKOKO COSMETIQUES
AFRICAN-IN-THE-DIASPORA USA CORRESPONDENT- CHRISTINA FUNKE TEGBE OF 54 Thrones
BONA EXPO 22 PROJECTION:
4000 on-site attendees
6000 online attendees
60 brands
9 Countries
2 International Speaker
8 Masterclasses
8 Panel Discussions
48 Panellists
1 Wrap Up Party
Target Audience:
Local Manufacturers
African Manufacturers
Africans-In-The- Diaspora Manufacturers
International Manufacturers
Retailers, Distributors, Importers & Exporters
Regulatory Bodies
Agricultural Sector- Farmers & Middlemen
Cosmetics Dermatologists
Financial Sector- Agro-Support Banks
Objectives:
Actively Engage and immerse the Green Beauty Industry & its Stakeholders in a quality, value-adding, and indelible brand experience.
Sensitize the public on the choice & importance of clean and safe living driving ultimately our sustainability program.
Re-establish our Natural Ingredients as a part of tangible African heritage, therefore, driving & creating policies to its effect.
Lead Generation: Increase the number of qualified sales leads across sectors.
Promote thought-leadership agenda and positioning for the Green Beauty Industry in Africa and her African Manufacturers as well as increase opportunities for more entrants into the Industry and Continent.
Drive sustainable conversations around the African organic & natural Beauty Industry in the hope that it sensitizes the discontinued use of chemical-based products.
BONA EXPO 22 sets to change the Course of Green Beauty in Africa! Go, Register!
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