A key CSR initiative for us is our facility empowering over 200 youths in garment making – Ruff ‘n’ Tumble, Adenike Ogunlesi,
How do you envision the future of the brand, and what goals do you have for the coming years?
Looking ahead, I see the brand stepping into a future filled with excitement and growth. Our goal is pretty straightforward— we want to be a go-to choice for kids’ fashion, not just in Africa but globally. Picture more smiles, more styles, and an even bigger family.
We are eyeing new horizons, reaching out to fresh markets while keeping our roots strong. And you know what’s cool? We are taking our vibrant Nigerian culture with us. We are deploying technology to take us through this journey. We keep improving the efficiency of our online store, and making it easier for people to shop from all over the world.
We are dreaming big about spreading joy, celebrating diversity, and being a part of every child’s story. Imagine a world where we are not just a brand; it is a bit of happiness in every kid’s wardrobe. That is the future we’re painting, and we are excited to see it unfold.
As a business leader, how do you prioritise diversity and inclusion within your company, both in terms of staff and product representation?
In leading the company, my focus on diversity and inclusion is not just a checkbox; it is embedded in the very fabric of our culture. We are not just making clothes; we are creating a family where everyone belongs, regardless of their background or identity.
When it comes to our team, we prioritise diversity in hiring, ensuring that our family represents a beautiful spectrum of experiences, perspectives, and talents. We are intentional about providing equal opportunities and creating an environment where everyone feels valued and heard. Product representation is another key aspect. Our designs aim to reflect the rich tapestry of global cultures, ensuring that every child can find a piece that resonates with their identity. We celebrate diversity, not just in words but in the very designs that adorn our clothing racks.
What role does technology play in the growth and development of the company, particularly in e-commerce and digital marketing?
Technology is the engine propelling our brand forward. It drives our back and front end, providing us valuable insights on customer behaviour, product, and inventory management. In our production, technology drives design, pattern making, and very sensitive and specialised equipment. We keep pushing the boundaries, being open to the growing value of technology, and the very important business intelligence that can be mined from our data.
How do you handle competition, and what strategies do you employ to stay ahead in the market?
We stay ahead with a simple playbook— stick to our strengths and be the trendsetter, not the follower. Listening to our family keeps us connected to our customers and consumers; their feedback shapes our collections, making them not just clothes but experiences. We are eternal optimists, who are open to taking risks by trying new things.
Can you share a piece of wisdom or insight that you wish you had known when you first started the company?
The biggest would be the simple words, ‘And this too shall pass’. Remember, you have the power to create the experiences that you want to have in your life, so don’t be a victim of circumstance. Things will go wrong, and when this happens, keep it all in perspective. It is only a speed bump on the journey of a lifetime. Stay focused, curious, committed and diligent. Persevere, be disciplined, believe, and trust in yourself.
In terms of corporate social responsibility, what initiatives has the brand undertaken to give back to society?
One of our proud initiatives is the Betti-Okuboyejo Foundation— a garment-making training facility that empowers over 200 youths with skills in garment-making and entrepreneurship. It is our way of contributing to skill development and creating opportunities for the younger generation. Additionally, we established the ‘I Share Cuz I Care’ Foundation, a community that promotes sharing and caring among children.
Through campaigns such as ‘Feed a Child’ and ‘Dress a Child’, we have impacted thousands of children, providing them with new school uniforms and shoes. This isn’t just about clothing, it is about nurturing a sense of dignity and confidence in the young minds of our community. This is an extension of our belief in creating a positive impact and leaving a lasting legacy.
Balancing a successful business and personal life can be challenging. How do you prioritise self-care, and maintain a work-life balance?
I prefer to use the words ‘work-life integration’, instead of work-life balance. Trying to balance business, self-care, family and other relationships can feel like too much pressure. Instead, I look at my life as a whole and think about how I can integrate and harmonise all the moving parts together to support me in showing up as the truest and highest expression of myself in service of myself, my community and those that I love. Throughout the different seasons of my life, I find this harmony and wholeness by defining, refining, and redefining the key areas of my life and ensuring my values are aligned with how I spend my time. I have also learnt to prioritise and set up support systems that enable and empower me to make choices that make me fulfilled and help me to serve.
How do you unwind?
For me, unwinding is all about being in a state of peace and tranquility. I start my day with journaling and yoga. I love gardening and sitting still in nature. I find that so peaceful. Great conversations around the dinner table with family bring me joy and remind me of what’s most important. Also, travelling and seeing the world often helps me switch off from the hustle and bustle of life.
How would you describe your childhood?
I grew up in the Government Reservation Area of Ijebu-Ode in Ogun State, so my childhood was fun, adventurous and spent mostly outdoors. From imaginative games with my brothers to our comforting family traditions, those early years instilled in me a sense of curiosity and a deep appreciation for the simple joys of life.
Are any of your kids taking after your fashion path?
My three children are expressing themselves creatively in their unique ways, and that is beautiful to see.
Mowalola is conquering the global stage with her thought-provoking fashion designs; Tiwalola is using her words as an author to empower women to be confident; and Adegboyega is a musical genius, producing some of the world’s top charting songs. There is nothing more fulfilling than witnessing them own their distinct journeys.
Credit: The Punch
