Mayowa Akinbinu is a fashion enthusiast and creative director of May_handss, a Lagos and Akure-based fashion and bridal outfit. In this interview with RUKIYAT OGUNWADE, she shares her thoughts on the need for infrastructural improvement and support for emerging designers in the Nigerian fashion industry among several issues.
WHAT policies would you like the government to put in place to enable young fashion entrepreneurs to thrive?
I believe several policies could significantly support businesses like mine, making it easier for us to thrive and contribute to economic growth. Ensuring at least 10 hours of daily electricity, with clear schedules for power availability and outages would greatly enhance productivity and planning for businesses across the country. This reliable electricity supply is not just about convenience but about boosting productivity and reducing operational costs. To make this initiative effective, it is crucial to broadcast these schedules widely so that everyone is informed and can prepare accordingly. This not only aids in planning but also provides a sense of reliability and predictability in power supply, crucial for businesses.
What improvements would you like to see in the Nigerian fashion industry?
I would like to see an improvement in infrastructure, access to quality material, and support for emerging designers. Additionally, I will say sustainability and ethical practices will become even more critical in the fashion industry as consumers demand greater transparency and responsible production.
Many youths are confused in deciding what to do with their lives and when to take that big step. How would you advise youths in this kind of situation?
This is a challenge I deeply resonate with, having once stood at the crossroads of life, uncertain about the path ahead. It’s something many youths encounter, and I believe the journey to self-discovery and purpose is a profoundly personal one. Here are a few pieces of advice that I hope can illuminate the way for those in a similar situation; embrace exploration and skill’s development, don’t rush the process, seek inspiration, be open to change, pursue learning, take calculated risks and patience with perseverance.
What are your views on how entrepreneurs are regarded when compared to persons working in the corporate world?
Entrepreneurs are seen as rich but it’s not always like that. Truly, I can make someone’s one year salary in a month, but it doesn’t happen like that every month. It is just a seasonal thing. Sometimes, it is all wet and sometimes it is dry, you have to have a very supportive partner or family and a saving habit to be able to navigate the stormy waters in the world of entrepreneurship.
What initially inspired you to go into fashion design?
I have always been a fashion lover right from age 13. My love for fashion designing grew awesomely when I made a dress for myself using hand stitches (needle and thread). Over the years, I have drawn my inspiration from Alonuko Bridals, Prudent Gabriel, and Valdrin Sahiti. The satisfaction I get when I see people put on my designs also inspires me to want to do more.
How would you describe your style, and how does it influence your work?
I am a fashion enthusiast. Anything related to fashion, just plug me in. So basically, this positively influences my fashion brand because I always look forward to making outstanding designs for my clients.
What are your educational qualifications?
I hold a National Diploma in Accounting from The Polytechnic Ibadan, followed by further studies to earn my Higher National Diploma in Accounting from The Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti. Alongside my accounting background, I pursued my passion for fashion by completing a fashion upgrade course at the esteemed Prudential Fashion Academy, one of the leading fashion schools in Africa.
Can you walk us through your creative process when designing?
When designing, I start by gathering inspiration from various sources such as nature, art, and culture. Then I sketch my ideas and put them to life. Picking the right fabrics and paying attention to little details is super mandatory.
What sets you apart from your colleagues in the fashion industry?
I will say the signature for every design I make. I always make sure my signatures are seen, and even though sometimes when my client sends a particular design for me to recreate, I try as much as possible to make some changes, not copy and paste.
There are so many entrepreneurs, how have you handled competition in the fashion and crafts world?
Well, despite the many people, there is room for everyone, hence, I am not scared of passing down my knowledge to people who intend to learn. I make my own designs, I carved a niche for myself and I’m more focused on getting better in my own craft than wondering if there are competitors. The sky is big enough for everyone to soar.
What challenges have you faced in your years of being a designer in the industry, and how are you able to overcome them?
I think the greatest challenge I faced in my early career years was choosing a special name for my brand. Initially, my brand name used to be ‘Mayflower,’ though it wasn’t officially registered. Then, after my upgrade course from fashion school, I later settled for ‘May Hands,’ which originated from the first three letters of my name, Mayowa.
Can you share any memorable achievements in your line of work so far?
One of the proudest moments was being recognised for our unique wedding gown designs, which often leave customers in awe. Our craftsmanship and attention to detail were acknowledged at a prestigious fashion show and awards ceremony, which was a significant achievement for us.
What do you hope people feel when they wear your clothes or designs?
I want my amazing clients to feel confident, elegant, beautiful, and most of all, very comfortable wearing my designs.
What advice would you give to people aspiring to be like you or work in your industry?
Make sure you love it because things can get frustrating at some point in time. It should be a path you love wholeheartedly for you to go the extra length to pursue because if not, you might fall out along the line.
How do you like to unwind when you’re not designing?
I love to read books and surf the internet. I just like to relax my mind. I like to watch educational movies and sometimes go out with friends because I am more introverted.
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