Fashion industry poised for success with access to funding, support

Founder and Creative Head Designer of ‘LOKITA’, Lokita Essuman, is optimistic about the future of the fashion industry, as they work toward creating a thriving sector celebrated for its craftsmanship and cultural heritage.

By providing support and funding, the industry hopes to create an environment where young talents can flourish and contribute to the growth and success of the fashion industry in Ghana. With the right resources, there is no doubt that Ghanaian fashion has the potential to make a significant impact on the global fashion scene, she noted.

The fashion industry is looking toward a bright future with a focus on nurturing young talent and empowering aspiring designers. The ultimate goal is to have access to funding that will allow the industry to thrive and stand shoulder to shoulder with international brands because its exquisite craftsmanship and unique cultural heritage.

“We envision a future where Ghanaian fashion stands shoulder to shoulder with international brands, lauded for its exquisite craftsmanship and unique cultural heritage. With the right policies and support, I believe the industry can be a driving force for economic development and a source of pride for our entire nation,” she said during an executive launch of LOKITA in Accra.

The executive launch served as an opportunity to display designs of some local designers after the brand had successfully rebranded from ‘Centric Styles’ to ‘LOKITA’. The rebranding journey is a testament to dedication to providing fashion that is not only visually appealing but also accessible to a wider audience.

According to her, the brand’s evolution goes beyond language but embraces a modern and sophisticated image that resonates with the everyday woman, emphasising accessibility and celebrating the talent within Africa’s artisan communities, with a particular focus on Ghanaian artisans.

In an interview, Ms. Essuman explained that “Bold Minimalism, Unparalleled Comfort” is not just a tagline; it encapsulates LOKITÄ’s commitment to simple forms, making bold statements and prioritising comfort. The rebranding reflects the brand’s dedication to providing visually appealing and accessible fashion.

One of Lokita’s pioneering moves is the investment in local artisans, a decision motivated not only by logistical advantages but also by the desire to showcase Africa’s vibrant cultural tapestry. The brand’s investment has created a win-win situation, empowering individuals through financial security, enhanced skills and cultural pride while contributing to local economic growth.

She highlighted the transformative impact of collaborating with three local artisans, offering them training, tools and access to markets. This support has not only grown their businesses and created employment opportunities, but has also enhanced the standard of their goods. By prioritising the empowerment of local artisans, the brand nurtures a culture of creativity, leading to the production of top-notch fashion with a beneficial influence.

To ensure the sustainability of its investment, the brand adopts a multi-faceted approach. This includes fair trade practices, fair wages, training programmes and skill enhancement initiatives. The brand creates an ecosystem that supports and nurtures local talents, contributing to the economic development of the community and the fashion industry.

However, she acknowledges challenges in finding skilled artisans, accessing training programmes, and securing capital. Despite these hurdles, the brand celebrates its successes, actively creating jobs, fostering skills transfer and contributing to regional economic growth.

The brand’s three key initiatives involve upskilling the local artisan workforce, accessing high-quality materials sustainably, and expanding production capacity and reach.

The recent executive launch of LOKITA’s retail store marks the first step in realising this vision. Ms. Essuman aims to create a brand that not only benefits her business, but also uplifts the people and communities around it, contributing to a brighter future for all.

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