Oluwajide Adetoso Osoniyi is a fashion designer. He is from a family of four in Ibadan, Oyo State, graduating from Yabatech with HND in Graphics in 2014.
In this interview with Bunmi Bailey, he speaks on the industry and what motivated him to set up the business.
Tell us about your fashion business and how long you have been running it.
My fashion business grew from my school life. While in school, I had great zeal for modelling, which I did for my school and outside the school. I had been customising with painting brush and acrylic on shirts, graduating into splashing of colours on native tops and t-shirts. One of my mentors Yemi Opanuga advised and guided me on how to take my business to the next level with regarding to registration at the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). My business is all about looking good. My mother and my grandma were tailors. My mother gave me her mother’s sewing machine, which was a show of support from my family. I have been in fashion business for six to seven years, but officially for two years.
How did you come into the business?
Well, I will say that it is not by chance. It is about passion to create beautiful outfits (creation).
When I was in Yabatech, I was inspired to move forward. I had my insight, visions and dreams. They all kept me pushing and hoping for the promised future.
How much capital did you start with?
Well, I can’t say this is the particular amount I started with, but I can say from the aspect of business registration that it was about N20,000.
How is the fashion industry performing?
The fashion industry has really grown bigger and faster than it was then and there is a greater future for the industry.
Who are your clients?
My clients are fashionable people who love creativity in style and dynamics, including the youth and adults, both male and female.
What challenges are you are facing in your business?
Well, it is the resources for expansion into a premium standard brand that is sometimes the problem. We have not even done 10 percent of our potential and we can do more if we find the capital.
What are the skills and tools needed to set up your kind of business?
The skills are marketing/advertising, graphics, and then the tools are different types of machines: sowing, weaving and presser, among others.
How can the challenges be addressed?
Create more avenues for youths or people that have the passion to do create things. Get equipment for them to use or give grants or loans to individuals to boost or support their passions and dreams.
Why do most start-ups businesses fail?
I will say that it is probably lack of focused management and location. It could also be lack of funds. It is important to start small. Every small business wants to be big at once, which is not possible. They don’t want to take their time to grow. It is important to allow our businesses to grow naturally.
How would you say your business has grown since starting?
My clients range has really increased and also doing business with customers again and again brings referrals. My customers has been the best in my life and in my business, most of them patiently grew with me, knowingly and unknowingly.
What would you tell your younger self?
Work and walk smarter; be patient and wise. Enjoy the growth, be on the alert, move swiftly, be committed and follow your mind.
