As the economy ’s cutthroat job market makes it harder for people to get jobs, youths are exploring opportunities in the fashion industry to carve a career, ANYA FLORENCE reports.
In a country where employment is not guaranteed after graduation and the economy has gone down drastically, one has no choice but to start up a business no matter how small.
However, it seems that sewing, which was looked down upon in years past, has become the beautiful bride.
People are venturing into it in their quest to find solution to their financial problems.
Miss Olamide Boluwatife, a 200 level architecture undergraduate of the University of Lagos, is already preparing for the challenge of unemployment .
Since she loves artistry and craftsmanship, she is already involved in fashion designing as a side hustle.
Speaking with The Nation, she explained that as an architecture major, she has always been creative through art and design, and as such, fashion designing is a natural forte of hers.
Her journey into sewing started when someone in her church accidentally saw her sketches.
“I do sketch clothes designs and while I was doing it one day in the church someone saw it and advised my mother to take me to a fashion school.
I started learning the skill when I was in SS3 and ever since, I have been sewing and designing for myself, close friends and relations .
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About two years ago, I started sewing for other people too, so I can say that even before I gained admission, I had already started the business.”
She said that ever since she started studying in the university, she has become more creative with her sewing. When asked how she manages her time between sewing and lectures, she said “I sew only on weekends, and I collect it on time, so it can be ready before it’s actually needed.
The business is a lucrative one, I don’t even disturb my parents much for upkeep money while in school” One of the skills that she think the job market wants today is sustainable practice.
She is interested in the idea on how to create a brand identity through fashion. The most important thing for her is her freedom.
A Mass Communication student of Abia State University (ABSU), Uturu,Abia State, Miss Success Ezeugo, also disclosed to The Nation that she started the business before she gained admission
“My motivation has always been me seeing myself as a boss, so I have no choice than to work hard in order to get there. Now, I don’t only sew clothes but I am also a makeup artiste”
Success said it is not easy balancing business with school work.
Another undergraduate student , Miss Philip Jennifer studying English and Literature, said education has also helped her in designing trending clothes. “Every day I try my best to come up with new designs.”
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