By JaneMichael Ekanem has encouraged young fashion designers to focus on building their brands and embracing uniqueness to attract the right clientele. She believes that originality and consistency are key to long-term success in the industry.
Ekanem, a pioneer in Africa’s billion-naira fashion industry, shared insights into her journey, blending creativity, sustainability, and business acumen. Her career began behind the scenes, styling celebrities like Tiwa Savage, Wizkid, Yemi Alade, and Ini Edo. Over the years, she refined her unique style and established herself as a leader in the industry.
“In life, you must know what you want and carve your niche by doing things differently in your career and profession,” Ekanem stated. “My passion in the industry knows no bounds as I wanted to render service and stand out, making my clients feel special and keep coming back.”
Her success led her to launch the JaneMichael Collection in 2016, a brand known for its sophisticated and structured designs that incorporate contemporary African aesthetics. She gained further recognition by curating a fashion show for French President Emmanuel Macron and showcasing collections at GTBank Fashion Weekend and Lagos Leather Fair.
Beyond fashion, Ekanem is committed to mentorship and education. As the Dean of the School of Style Africa, she trains aspiring designers to navigate the competitive industry. She also advocates for mental health and wellness, encouraging young entrepreneurs to balance ambition with self-care.
With a career spanning celebrity styling, high-profile collaborations, and industry-first achievements, JaneMichael Ekanem continues to shape the future of African fashion.
