Adebayo Okelawal
Meet Adebayo Okelawal @orangecultureng, “I own an androgynous brand called Orange culture based in Lagos Nigeria. Also, I run a mentorship program called Orange mentorship for aspiring designers.”
IRK: Adebayo Okelawal tell us your “Why”?
Adebayo Okelawal: I have always loved fashion, ever since I was a kid! I loved watching the joy in people’s eyes when they wore a shirt they loved. Or, when they purchased a piece of clothing that accentuated who they were. I noticed the power and importance of fashion at a very young age and I wanted to be a part of it. I started the mentorship because when I was younger I didn’t have access to information about starting a brand. We don’t have certified fashion schools here. So I created this platform to assist aspiring designers in gaining access to experienced practitioners. This way, they do not make the same mistakes I’ve made.
IRK: What are you most passionate about with respect to taking care of people and the planet?
Adebayo Okelawal: I believe in community and working to build the community. Orange culture is where we are today because of the beautiful hands that have stitched each piece. The stories that have inspired and the people who make us a part of their story are important too. So I believe in working to build the community whether it’s creating platforms that support development, local production techniques, slow fashion, and finding ways to be circular. For us, it’s about working with the environment and not against it. Love.
IRK: What are some conscious actions you implement in your daily life, Adebayo Okelawal?
Adebayo Okelawal: We work to reduce waste within our production unit. We use leftover fabrics to create linings, masks, and all sorts rather than waste. Also, we create pieces out of second-hand items, we practice slow fashion. I love second-hand items and I like to donate, give, or even exchange with fellow designers. I don’t remember the last time I dumped anything. It is not a practice I was ever taught even growing up. I volunteer and have been doing that for a long time. This is for knowledge transfer, mentorship, charity work, and more. Recycling, reducing shopping, vegan food.
IRK: What’s your hope for the future of the planet?
Adebayo Okelawal: That it will still be habitable for the next generation. Therefore, we need to keep working to ensure she is here and she is improving and not deteriorating.
What Sustainable Development Goal do you align with the most? (https://sdgs.un.org/goals)
Adebayo Okelawal: Goal 4: Quality and accessible education for all – education will help alleviate a lot of our issues.
