Nigerian UK based fashion designer

Olubukola Olukayode (Mrs) CEO TENBOLUSAM a clothing brand that making waves both in Nigeria and United Kindom Mrs. Olubukola Olukayode was committed to expanding fabrics frontier across Africa. Her love for artistry and design is second to the none. She is always loved looking good and making others look better, and that is the attribute that drew her to the fashion industry. In the spirit of workers day 2023 Elitist Media team choose to celebrate the fashion Icon as one of leading diligent worker. Below is her insight on how we can grow Nigeria Fashion Industry and her projections for her brand in the nearest future.

1. Who is Mrs. Olubukola Olukayode?
   Mrs olubukola olukayode can best be discrible as woman of many parts an erudite entrepreneur who specialized in fabric business popularly known as asoebi , a distinguished event planner and a fashion designer.
2. Tell us about your academic and professional backgrounds.
   My academic background started at Abesan Primary School. Aiming at building a solid future I proceeded to community grammar school after which I gained admission into, Ibadan Polytechnic. In all I believe in resilience , adaptability and a strong commitment to learning as primary tool to attain success.
3. Tell us about your Brand.
   Tenbolusam as a company named after the combination of abbreviation of my first 3 children names. the birth of my company Started from when I was staff of Eko Fm radio Lagos . then I am into Selling of fabrics material also sewing it for customer because I use to be fashion designer . So I would always sell fabrics to people at work, sews the dress then deliver it back to customer the next day. I’ve always live the life of entrepreneurship and I enjoy lots of benefit associated with it.
4. What influenced your decision to become a fashion designer?
   I would say my mother influence my decision, global trend also influenced it. Taking a look around me all I see is lots of People who are crazy about fashion . People want to look good. I think that’s enough motivation knowing fully well that I can make someone look beautiful with pieces of fabric.
5. How did you derive your brand name Tenbolusam?
   It is a collection of abbreviations from my three children name.
6. How would you describe the reception of your brand in United Kingdom?
   My brand in the united kingdom isn’t quite niche it’s welcoming to both old and young . I make prom dresses for young adults sometimes so it’s fit into different age group which I quite enjoy making dress for different size of people.
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7. What makes your brand distinct from others?
   Communication skills and excellent customers service culture, giving them the best fabrics and classy dresses, making sure they get the best always. We go extra mile to satisfied our numerous clients. Even if a particular demand seems impossible I will make sure I communicate with them on time and weigh out options for them . Not all vendors does that . most Vendors just want to sell and make profits . but we value our customers.

8. What bold steps have you taken so far for the growth of your brand?
   Risks! I have taken different risks, investing a large sum of money and even sometimes the customers always cancel our supply deal at ninth hour . I mean it’s expected in business but I think that is such a bold step too . Opening our UK branch is another bold step so I have both UK Store and another one in Nigeria running where they pick and deliver clothes and transact business of fabrics.
9. What do you consider as your biggest achievements?
   I have achieved quite a lot. And I bless God for that. But when it come to talking about biggest achievements I feel I haven’t gotten there yet! To be among the leading name when it come to fabrics both in Nigeria and United Kingdom that’s where my brand is focused on doing this year! I wish to get my quota of biggest achievements in fashion industry .
10. Who are your role models in the fashion industry?
    They are numerous but let me mention few in the likes of Veekee James , Melinda Boss , Alonuko, Tiannah Empire , Tuboreni
11. Aside from fashion what other career can you thrive in?
    I also thrive in Event Planning . I am a party person . I love planning events and making people feel soo happy. I have urge for event planning.
12. What is your assessment of the Nigerian fashion industry?
    Talking of Nigerian fashion industry, the industry has experienced significant growth and transformation in recent years, with increasing recognition and appreciation for Nigerian fashion both at home and among the global community. This growth can be attributed to a number of factors, including the country’s vast cultural diversity, the increasing popularity of African fashion globally . Despite the challenges, the Nigerian fashion faces, the industry has significant potential for growth and development. With the right investments in infrastructure, education, and support systems, the industry can continue to thrive and make a significant contribution to the Nigerian economy.