Ruth Okhah: I turn ordinary pieces of fabric into amazing attire
Ruth Okhah is a young and innovative fashion designer. She is the chief executive officer of Ariah Khah Fashion, which according to her, is a fashion house where women’s delectable custom-made outfits are designed and created.
A holder of both the bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Economics from the University of Lagos, her love for fashion did not let her stay in the corporate world despite having an opportunity to intern as a corporate finance analyst for Pricewaterhousecoopers. She enrolled in a fashion school to pursue her passion.
She started her business in 2016 and has since been able to register it at the Corporate Affairs Commission.
She was inspired to go into the fashion world because of her love for beauty and modesty.
“I was inspired by my love for make innovative and beautiful designs from any piece of fabric. She enjoys buying and discovering new materials, which she gets from major markets in Lagos.
Although her first sewing machine was a gift from a family friend, her initial capital was N30,000 which she got from her savings, as well as profits she got from doing few jobs she got.
Ruth explains that her company creates affordable outfits to suit the clients’ tastes while being prompt in delivery. She says this has allowed continuous patronage and generous referrals from customers. Her company remains distinct by offering image consulting services to candidates.
She further states that since its establishment, the company has attained high profit margins and has an extended customer database. She has also been able to employ two full-time staff members. She plans to expand her business by opening a ready-to-wear store and a fashion school that includes 3D fashion illustration in its cur- riculum.
Ruth also attends trainings and workshops both digitally and physically as she believes there is room for improvement while gathering certifications to improve her business.
Despite the love for her work, Ruth outlines some of the challenges she encounters.
“Some of the challenges I face include raising enough capital to acquire sufficient space for the ready-to-wear store and the fashion school,” she says.
“Aside that, getting good designers to help me is quite difficult too. Nonetheless, I am putting back the profit into the business with the hope of getting grants which would facilitate the execution of the business expansion plan”.
She adds that government can also help by providing cheap loans and grants as well as encouraging skills acquisition.
Advising other entrepreneurs, she says that they should think intentional about things concerning them and must trust God too.