Startup Story
Matilda Akinsuyi is the founder and creative director of Myra Woman in Nigeria. She is a visionary entrepreneur, and a trailblazer in the world of fashion. With a background as a successful lawyer, her journey towards building a fashion business was driven by an unwavering passion for elegance and sophistication. As a young girl, she was captivated by the transformative power of fashion, and with an unyielding desire to follow her dreams, finally took a leap of faith and founded her fashion business in 2017. With a focus on providing classy and elegant corporate and occasion wear for sophisticated women, Matilda was keen to redefine the concept of professional attire. The pieces she creates exude timeless sophistication, empowering women to feel confident and radiant in any setting. Attention to detail and commitment to quality set the creations apart, making them the go-to choice for women who crave understated elegance.
LoA spoke to the passion driven Matilda Akinsuyi about her entrepreneurial journey, her desire to succeed, and her ambitions for the future.
What does your company do?
Myra Woman is a company dedicated to transforming the style, self-image, and wardrobe of women by providing elegant and timeless clothing. Our mission is to empower women to feel confident, sophisticated, and beautiful in what they wear, regardless of their age, body shape, or personal style. Through personalized styling, body positivity, and a commitment to quality, we empower women to embrace their uniqueness and radiate elegance in every aspect of their lives.
“Our mission is to empower women to feel confident, sophisticated, and beautiful in what they wear, regardless of their age, body shape, or personal style.”
What inspired you to start your company?
I always had this never-ending dream to own a fashion business, my mum had one and I fell in love with every aspect of fashion and business growing up. While in university, I struggled to find unique corporate wear, most were basic, and I always had to go to different stores just to build a wardrobe. I wanted to create timeless and elegant clothing that would make women feel confident and bold.
Why should anyone use your service or product?
Commitment to Quality: We take pride in delivering clothing of the highest quality. From the selection of premium fabrics to meticulous craftsmanship, we ensure that our products stand the test of time, allowing women to enjoy their elegant wardrobe for years to come.
Timeless Fashion Education: Myra goes beyond just selling clothing; we provide valuable resources and education on timeless fashion and style. Through our blog, style guides, and fashion tips, we empower our customers to build versatile and sophisticated wardrobes that reflect their individuality.
Empowerment Through Fashion: Beyond offering clothing, we are committed to empowering women through fashion. We believe that the right outfit has the power to boost confidence and positively impact self-image. Our clothing is designed to make women feel self-assured, powerful, and beautiful in every aspect of their lives.
“We take pride in delivering clothing of the highest quality. From the selection of premium fabrics to meticulous craftsmanship, we ensure that our products stand the test of time, allowing women to enjoy their elegant wardrobe for years to come.”
Tell us a little about your team:
Currently we have 6 people on the team. The brand manager, head of production and quality assurance, 3 in-house garment makers and a social media manager. The team has grown to be resilient and passionate about delivering quality products and service to clients. Everyone on the team is trained to pay attention to detail and the needs of every client.
Share a little about your entrepreneurial journey. And do you come from an entrepreneurial background?
I always wanted to be an entrepreneur but being born to Nigerian parents, getting a degree was a priority. My parents were entrepreneurs alongside their professional jobs. I started 2 businesses while at university which did fairly okay, but I didn't take a full chance on entrepreneurship until after law school.
I started Myrawoman in 2017 because I had wanted to do something in fashion since I was a child. I started with savings from my previous business and converted my study into a mini studio with just 2 sewing machines. I could only afford 1 tailor then so started very small. We made wrap dresses for friends and family and gradually added corporate and occasion wear.
Throughout the years I have had to deal with the internal struggles of being an entrepreneur (self-doubt, imposter syndrome) and external struggles- the constant change in consumer desires, COVID 19, and production issues. I also just co-founded a branding company which would be launching late 2023.
What are your future plans and aspirations for your company?
When I started this company, my aspirations were to become a retail giant, but it changed. For the future we are focused on building and growing a community of women who aren't afraid to follow their dreams and are unapologetic about their choice, fashion inclusive. In terms of products, we would love to add a shoe line to our brand and create a new strategy for our retail outlets/experience stores.
“As my fashion business soared, my designs caught the attention of popular TV shows like "The Real" and "The Jennifer Hudson Show." Seeing my creations grace the screens of these renowned shows was a validation of my talent and dedication.”
What gives you the most satisfaction being an entrepreneur?
To be honest, it is as simple as living my dreams and the freedom that comes with it. The freedom to create and express my work. I also love that I am forever learning, I always have to grow, push myself out of comfort zones and improve myself. The whole journey gives me satisfaction.
What's the biggest piece of advice you can give to other women looking to start-up?
My advice would be to be unapologetic about your dreams and passions. Your gift and uniqueness are needed in this world and there is space for you.
You don't need all the answers, just start with the basics. Do not be in a rush to grow or overwhelm yourself. Take it one day at a time and believe that you are a success. Stay away from negative thoughts and comments.
Contact or follow Myra Woman
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | PINTEREST | EMAIL abisolaofficial@gmail.com
Why LoA loves it…
It is always life affirming to see women entrepreneurs building brands that have the capacity to empower others, and Matilda Akinsuyi is doing just that with her fashion brand. Her mission to empower women to feel confident and beautiful in what they wear, regardless of their age, body shape, or personal style, reflects the need to promote body positivity through fashion. Her designs are both beautiful and empowering, making women look and feel good in every sphere of their lives. This is a growing brand to watch over the coming years. — Melanie Hawken, founder & ceo, Lionesses of Africa