As we mark the International Women’s Day (IWD) all over the world today, women from diverse fields and backgrounds are being celebrated.
Most media discussions and reviews are centred on women and the significant roles they play to making the world a better place.Women in academia, sports and public spaces are not left behind in this celebration. However, I’m yet to see a piece about women fashion entrepreneurs in Ghana.
By now, you are well aware of the steep journey of entrepreneurship even if you’re not an entrepreneur. These women I’m are going to talk about have defied the odds to set up businesses in the fashion industry, cornering an enviable client list both local and internationally.
Adu Amaning Vera (Adu Amani)
Adu Amaning Vera is a fashion entrepreneur behind the Adu Amani brand which locally produces authentic African fabric inspired shoes, bags and fashion accessories locally and internationally. Starting her company without capital, she has risen as one of the most inspiring personalities for young girls in Ghana. Vera hopes hopes to cross the international fashion brand line with a manufacturing centre in Africa.
Maajoa Asabea (Asabea Ayisi)
Starting his fashion business with zero capital, Maajoa Asabea took a leap of faith together with her passion to launch the Asabea Ayisi brand in 2013. Apart from producing handbags, capes, slippers and earrings, she organises workshops for young designers. Although she sells her products locally, she has gotten herself some clients internationally who order her products online. She hopes to establish a skill training centre and own two retail stores across the country
Mabel Simpson (mSimps)
Mabel Simpson started mSimps with as little as Ghc200 and a sewing machine from his grandmother. Today, she stands tall as one of the best fashion entrepreneurs in Ghana with her range of handmade accessories including bags, slippers, loafers and home décor. Aside providing a lifeline for people, Mabel trains young people in the field. The brand has won many accolades.
Sandra Kyeremaa (Saint Ozwald)
Sandra Kyeremaa is carving a nitch for herself in the men’s shoe industry in Ghana. She is probably the only woman in Ghana who has ventured fully into the sector. She started the men’s shoe business after she was inspired by an African print shoe worn by a groom at a wedding she attended and has since not looked back. Together with his team, they keep on churning bespoke shoe designs attracting a lot of celebrities and media engagements across the country. Sandra has high hopes for his brand: to compete with Zara in the near future.
By Pamela Ofori- Boateng