New Client Alert: How ALAKO Launched a Purpose-Driven Fashion Brand Celebrating West African Culture

The fact that I love what I do likely comes as no surprise to those who’ve been following me for a while. But I’ll admit—when I first launched my business, my main goal was to work with designers driven by purpose. For me, it’s never just about creating a new clothing line; it’s about the story a brand tells and the impact it brings to the world. That’s why working with clients like Adura, and helping bring brands like ALAKO to life, has not only been my mission—it’s also been my greatest reward.

ALAKO is a brand of purpose, identity, and bold creativity. Founded by designer Adura, ALAKO was born from a deep desire to celebrate the richness of West African culture while reimagining it through a modern lens. What began as a passion project is now a sophisticated ready-to-wear label that stands at the intersection of heritage and innovation.

Adura, who leads both the creative and strategic direction of the brand, came to me at the earliest stages of her journey. At the time, she had a clear vision but needed structured support to bring her ideas to life. Together, we built her business plan from the ground up, carefully selected the right materials for her collection, and mapped out every stage of her product development. It was through this collaborative coaching process that ALAKO found its foundation—and today, that foundation supports a clothing line that is both visually powerful and culturally grounded (what fulfills my heart on a whole other level).

At the core of ALAKO’s identity is a mission to celebrate West African craftsmanship and storytelling. The designs pay homage to traditional silhouettes, patterns, and textile histories, but reinterpret them in a way that feels fresh and globally relevant. From color palettes that mirror the vibrancy of Lagos to details that draw from Yoruba artistry, every piece tells a story that bridges continents and generations.

What also sets ALAKO apart is its commitment to value creation within Africa. The brand actively explores and utilizes Made in Africa opportunities to manufacture its garments, supporting local artisans and suppliers across the continent. This approach not only preserves authenticity but also contributes to sustainable economic development in the region—an effort that aligns with the brand’s broader purpose. 

Adura’s journey with ALAKO is a great example of how strategic coaching can turn vision into reality. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see her now launch a beautifully curated line that resonates with her audience and reflects her roots. As one of my former coaching clients, she represents what is possible when creativity is matched with guidance and structured action—everything that my business stands for! 

I’ve had the privilege of supporting many designers like Adura—individuals with strong ideas and a passion for fashion, who just need a bit of help navigating the complexities of launching a brand. My coaching program is tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, covering everything from product development to sourcing strategies, brand identity, and operational planning.

If you’re ready to turn your fashion vision into a successful business, I invite you to schedule a free 30-minute strategy call with me. Let’s take the first step toward launching a brand that’s aligned with your values and designed for success.

Book your free session here

To explore ALAKO and shop the latest collection, visit www.alako.com