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| OLAWALE ALONWONLE |
In the 21st century era across the globe, every youth have imbibed the culture of being an entrepreneur in different fields, this has turned many youths to millionaires, living their dreams and taken them away from all vices that could ruin their lives. The Publisher of CitySpy SOFOWORA OLADAPO, hooked up with this young wave making entrepreneur Olawale who has conquered his coast and deviated from the ordinary to become one of Nigeria’s extraordinary Tailor and fashionista clothing many celebrities, youths and the mighty both in Nigeria and in Diaspora. Known as Alonwonle Olawale Azeez the C.E.O of Olly Whales couture a young chap who has carved a niche for himself as a designer per excellence took us into his world and how he has sustained the clothing outfit for years dishing out the best of African couture as a means of Globalizing the local.
Let us into the world of Olly Whales clothing.
My brand represents class, excellence and quality. We are here to satisfy the needs of our esteemed customers. Our passion drives our fashion design. When we make an outfit for you, it’s a touch of experience and class. The name Olly Whales was coined from my names Olawale and it’s a brand that is going global.
What inspires your design as the creator of Olly whales couture?
Well, all inspiration comes from God. I get inspiration from my immediate environment. I go to events and check out different patterns to create my designs. Trust me, when I design, you will be wowed by the level of my creativity. I like working in a serene environment so as to be motivated by the muse that inspires me.
What is your biggest fashion influence and why?
Am greatly influenced by some indigenous design I see. Fashion is a mindset and its beyond the ordinary. I also get influenced by celebrities like Sexy Steel, Dbanj, P’square, and many other people who are lovers of fashion.
What is the exclusive selling point of your brand?
My brand is known for quality and standard , Classy effective delivery and Exclusive blend of colors to suit your fashion thirst.
What are the challenges you have incurred in this business?
Challenges most people call it, but I see it differently. They are stepping stone to greater achievements, It brings out the best in you if properly managed and you channel your energy to the right places.
What is your customer strength as for now?
A; My customer base is over a thousand both in Nigeria and in Diaspora.
How has your level of education affected your business?
Education is key to building any successful business and empire; it comes with certain level of exposure which gives a head start in any form of business. It really has affected my business positively and given it a true definition of a good clothing outfit.
Olly whales is fast becoming an house hold name, what will you attribute your success to?
Hard work, persistence, selfless service and prayer. I have invested much in building this Fashion brand, consistency and originality works for me. I deliver the best. This can’t make me fizzle out of this fashion business.
How affordable is your product? Any access point where people can easily get your clothes?
My products are very affordable at different sizes depending on the design you pick. We deliver when you call and make order. Another branch of our office would soon be located on the island. We are currently on the mainland. We receive orders online too via E-mail at OllyWhales44@gmail.com, and our Website: Ollywhales.com. We are very affordable and accessible just a ring we are at your beck and call.
What is the single most expensive product you’ve sold and how much was it sold?
It was a Tuxedo suit I made for a customer in the U.K. The second was sold to a client in South Africa. It was both sold close to a million Naira(laugh).
Will you say you’ve done for yourself in this business?
I give thanks to God Almighty. My immediate situation keeps inspiring me to do more. I have gone far but the sky is the starting point for me. I still look to go further. But currently, evidently I have been doing well for myself.
Your five most fashionable celebrities in Nigeria.
Well, the list is endless, Dbanj, Banky W, Sexy Steel, Psquare and Wizkid.
Your plans for the New Year?
My plan is to take the brand beyond where it is right now, I want it to be more accessible, open more outlets all around Nigeria. I want to hold a fashion exhibition next year which is open for sponsorship. Planning on training interested youths who have passion for fashion.
How can government reduce the unemployment rate among youths in Nigeria?
My advice is Government should create technical school’s where youth can be trained in vocational works like Tailoring, Carpentry, Welding, Cobbler, Catering, etc .This will make the youths engage more in jobs that will keep them busy. The English man will say ‘’An idle man is the devil’s workshop’’. Government can also support the youth with loans for business to curb alarming rate of the menace unemployment.
Most people have a notion that you can hardly make it without doing shady business, what is your take on it?
It’s not true, there are businesses that can be delved into that is very lucrative. We have youths who are making in their various fields doing legitimate business. Am a good example, making a living through fashion. So we can make it in Nigeria without doing shady deals. Prayer and hard work enhances success.
Advice to youths out there?
They should work smart and pray. Always believe in yourself and your dreams. Don’t relent even when you face challenges, its part of the process for progress. You don’t need to be desperate just do what you have to do. Originality really works so be original, Peace.
