Zara Kattiems, building a legacy fashion brand in Nigeria inspired by her grandmother — Lionesses of Africa

Tell us a little about your team

My team comprises of me, the Creative Director/CEO, 2 sales associates, 1 Pattern maker for samples,1 intern, 1 assistant. We are a power house of innovative creative minds that source, manufacture and style our clothing.

Share a little about your entrepreneurial journey. And, do you come from an entrepreneurial background?

Yes indeed, I do. I come from four generations of entrepreneurial women who have imbibed the tenants and expertise of good and fair business skills within me. We are African Women who hold up the standard of our customers at heart with pride. At age 17, my mom bought a dress for me that till this day fits, not that I remained the size all these years, but based on the fit, cut, and silhouette of the style, it has remained in my closet through the test of time. This also influenced my journey as a designer, to create pieces that are both aesthetically beautiful, functional and “TIMELESS”.

What are your future plans and aspirations for your company?

To be able to inspire young designers, showing them that they can achieve as young African youth in the fashion industry! As a designer, I would love to establish fashion institutions with a new style of education, that can shape the sphere of their young minds and nurture them to perfection. I would also like to carve a niche for myself on a global platform in fashion.