Ada Okpo’s connection to the world of fashion dates back to her early years, where she was immersed in the artistry of design through her mother’s influence. This early exposure ignited her passion for fashion, leading her to pursue a professional background in various facets of the industry, including fashion and sustainability, accessory design, fashion styling, and social entrepreneurship. Her multifaceted skills and dedication to pushing design boundaries have enabled her to create stunning designs that have graced the wardrobes of celebrities and eminent personalities alike.
But Ada’s story doesn’t stop at the runway. Her commitment to social entrepreneurship and community impact has touched the lives of thousands. In this interview with AV1 News, Ada shares her vision for a brighter future, where individuals of all ages and backgrounds are empowered to achieve their full potential, contributing to economic growth and development in Nigeria, Africa, and beyond.
Ada: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
AV1 News: Let’s start from the beginning. Can you tell us how your journey in the world of fashion began, especially considering your early exposure to it through your mother?
Ada News: Certainly. My journey into the world of fashion started at a very young age, around six years old, to be precise. My mother is an iconic fashion designer, and I was fortunate to be exposed to her creative process and the world of design from an early age. It was truly inspiring to see her work, and that’s where my passion for fashion was ignited.
AV1 News: It’s fascinating how early experiences can shape one’s path. You’ve not only embraced fashion but also sustainability, accessory design, fashion styling, and social entrepreneurship. Can you share more about your professional background and how these diverse interests have shaped your career?
Ada: Absolutely. I believe that fashion is not just about creating beautiful clothing; it’s also about responsibility and impact. So, I pursued various professional backgrounds to be well-rounded in this field. Sustainability is a core value for me, and I incorporate eco-friendly practices into my designs whenever possible. Accessory design and fashion styling allow me to provide a complete fashion experience to my clients. And social entrepreneurship is my way of giving back and creating positive change in communities.
AV1 News: Your commitment to pushing design boundaries has resulted in your creations adorning celebrities and prominent personalities, including Kerry Washington’s mother-in-law and Mrs. W. Adenuga. What inspires your creative process, and how do you approach design differently?
Ada: My inspiration often comes from the world around me. I’m inspired by nature, culture, and the vibrant people I encounter. When it comes to design, I strive to create pieces that not only look stunning but also tell a story. Each design is a canvas for creativity and a reflection of the wearer’s personality. I approach design with an open mind, embracing innovation and a commitment to quality.
AV1 News: You’ve also been featured in live shows on various media platforms. Could you share some insights into your experiences and the importance of media exposure for fashion and social entrepreneurship?
Ada: Being featured in live shows has been a wonderful opportunity to share my journey and values with a broader audience. It’s essential for both the fashion industry and social entrepreneurship because it allows us to connect with people, raise awareness about important issues, and inspire positive change. Media exposure amplifies our messages and empowers us to reach more individuals who can join us in making a difference.
AV1 News: Your dedication to community impact is truly remarkable. Can you tell us more about the community impact programs you’ve been involved in and the impact they’ve had on individuals and communities?
Ada: Community impact is at the core of my mission. I’ve been fortunate to volunteer in various programs aimed at building human capacity through skills training. These initiatives, both offline and online, have empowered over 7,000 individuals so far. Partnering with NGOs and organizations such as the Asomugha Foundation, Widows Help Rendezvous, and Young African Women Congress has allowed us to drive and achieve social impact goals, fostering empowerment and positive change.
AV1 News: That’s truly inspiring work. Finally, could you share your vision for the future and how you see yourself contributing to economic growth and development in Nigeria, Africa, and beyond?
Ada: My vision is to continue building human capacity, especially among women, youth, men, and girls. I believe that by empowering individuals to become the best versions of themselves and by nurturing their entrepreneurial spirit, we can contribute significantly to economic growth and development. I’m committed to scaling our impact, not only in Nigeria and Africa but also on a global scale, creating a brighter future for all.
AV1 News: Ada Okpo, your journey is a testament to the power of passion, innovation, and the desire to make the world a better place. Thank you for sharing your inspiring story and mission with us today.
Ada: Thank you once again for having me. It’s been a pleasure to be here and share my journey with you.
