LIONESS WEEKENDER COVER STORY
Yetroselane Fashion Hub, a multi-faceted fashion business creating jobs, and empowering fashion entrepreneurs of the future
Yetunde Akande is an award-winning CEO and founder of Yetroselane Fashion Hub in Nigeria, a mission-driven company founded in 2008, transforming the fashion industry through sustainability and empowerment, and employing 45 people. The hub's contemporary womenswear fosters inclusivity and empowerment, complemented by their Fashion Academy preparing women for successful fashion businesses. Operating with a zero-waste policy in their garment factory, Yetunde collaborates globally for amplified impact. Recognized with prestigious awards, her designs grace global runways, including New York Fashion Week and Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in Ghana. Committed to mentorship, Yetunde engages with organizations like WIMBIZ, AWE, and GAIN, shaping the future of aspiring entrepreneurs. She envisions a future of employment and thriving fashion ventures.
Lioness Weekender met with inspirational founder Yetunde Akande to learn more about her business building journey and her vision for the future.
What does your company do?
At Yetroselane Fashion Hub, our dedication lies in promoting inclusivity, empowerment, and collaboration within the fashion industry. Firstly, we have our own women's ready-to-wear clothing brand. Our aim is to instil confidence in women of all skin tones and body shapes by designing and manufacturing clothing that flatters and empowers them.
Secondly, we operate a fashion academy that empowers women and young individuals, providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue careers in the fashion industry. Whether they aspire to be employed in the field or start their own fashion businesses, our academy equips them with the necessary tools for success. Additionally, we have established a supportive mentorship community for fashion entrepreneurs. Through this community, we provide guidance and training on the business aspects of the fashion industry, enabling entrepreneurs to run thriving clothing lines.
Lastly, we offer our garment factory services to other fashion brands that may be facing challenges in manufacturing their designs. By partnering with these brands, we assist in bringing their creative visions to life, ensuring high-quality production.
What inspired you to start your company?
Yetroselane Fashion Hub was established with a visionary purpose – to be a catalyst for positive change, fostering confidence in women through our designs while simultaneously creating meaningful job opportunities. More than a business, Yetroselane embarked on a transformative journey that unites fashion, sustainability, and empowerment. Our endeavors, spanning design, education, and manufacturing, contribute to a broader narrative of reforming the fashion industry into one that is conscious, inclusive, and purposeful.
Why should anyone use your service or product?
Yetroselane's uniqueness lies in its multifaceted commitment to sustainability, empowerment, and inclusive design. Beyond being a fashion brand, Yetroselane is a movement that actively reshapes the industry's narrative. With a zero-waste policy in manufacturing, the brand takes a bold stand for environmental responsibility. The contemporary womenswear line goes beyond aesthetics, aiming to instill confidence and empower women of all shapes and shades. The Fashion Academy adds another layer by not just educating but empowering aspiring entrepreneurs. Global collaborations and founder Yetunde Akande's mentorship efforts further amplify the brand's impact, creating a holistic and purpose-driven identity that sets Yetroselane apart in the world of fashion.
Tell us a little about your team:
At Yetroselane, our team is the heartbeat of our brand, an assembly of diverse talents and passionate individuals dedicated to our mission. To our skilled hands that brings creativity to life in our contemporary womenswear line implementing sustainable practices, each team member contributes to our holistic approach. The Fashion Academy is led by experienced and trained facilitators, nurturing the next generation of fashion leaders. Our collaborative ethos extends beyond our workspace, forging partnerships with local and international organizations for a global impact making us more than a fashion brand—it makes us a movement.
Share a little about your entrepreneurial journey. And do you come from an entrepreneurial background?
My journey as an entrepreneur began in 2007 during my undergraduate years when I delved into the world of fashion during a summer break. Armed with newfound knowledge, I started creating beautiful designs initially for myself, but the positive reception from friends and family led to requests and, surprisingly, payments for my designs. Recognizing the passion and potential, I decided to formalize the venture after graduation in 2009. In 2014, I further honed my design skills at the London College of Fashion. Since then, it's been an incredible journey of growth and creativity, transforming a passion into a thriving business.
What are your future plans and aspirations for your company?
Yetroselane Fashion Hub envisions a path of continuous evolution and expansion, guided by our unwavering commitment to sustainability, empowerment, and innovative design. Our primary focus remains on consolidating our position as a leader in sustainable fashion, introducing even more eco-friendly practices into our manufacturing processes. We plan to extend our reach globally, forging new collaborations with organizations that share our vision for positive change. The Fashion Academy is set to grow, providing more aspiring designers with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the competitive world of fashion. Additionally, we aspire to launch new lines that not only reflect our values but also cater to diverse fashion preferences. Yetroselane aims to be a catalyst for transformative change within the industry, inspiring others to adopt sustainable practices and fostering a community of empowered individuals. Our future is not just about fashion; it's about shaping a more conscious and inclusive world through every stitch and every endeavour."
What gives you the most satisfaction being an entrepreneur?
The most satisfying aspect of being an entrepreneur is witnessing the positive impact of our endeavors. Seeing our designs empower individuals, fostering confidence and self-expression, brings immense joy. Moreover, contributing to sustainability by adhering to eco-friendly practices and creating a platform through the Fashion Academy to nurture aspiring designers adds a profound layer of fulfillment. Beyond financial success, the satisfaction stems from knowing that Yetroselane Fashion Hub is not just a brand; it's a force for positive change, influencing the industry towards consciousness, inclusivity, and empowerment.
What's the biggest piece of advice you can give to other women looking to start-up?
The most crucial advice I can offer to aspiring women entrepreneurs is to embrace your uniqueness and find strength in your voice.
Believe in your vision and the value you bring to the table. Don't be afraid to take risks and learn from failures—they are steppingstones to success.
Surround yourself with a supportive network of mentors, peers, and allies who can provide guidance and encouragement.
Continuous learning is key; stay curious and adapt to changes in your industry.
Don't underestimate the power of collaboration and community. Together, we can break barriers, defy stereotypes, and build a future where women entrepreneurs thrive.
To find out more, send an email to yetroselanecouture@yahoo.com or visit the website and social media platforms:
Website: http://www.yetroselane.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/yetroselane
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/yetroselane
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/yetroselane
YouTube: www.youtube.com/yetroselane
