By Dimeji Alara
In the heart of Ibadan, a name has steadily risen to become synonymous with fashion education and empowerment — Oluwatoyosi Mary Asunmo. As a seasoned fashion educator and trainer, Oluwatoyosi is the driving force behind Crego House, a fashion institution she established in 2020. With over 1,000 students trained under her meticulous guidance, her impact on the fashion landscape in Ibadan and beyond cannot be overstated.
A Journey of Passion and Purpose
Oluwatoyosi’s foray into fashion education is fueled by her deep passion for creativity and her desire to see the next generation of fashion designers and creators thrive. Asunmo’s love for the craft of fashion began at an early age, and over the years, she transformed this passion into a platform for learning and growth for others. Her dream was to create a space where aspiring designers could hone their skills, learn the nuances of the fashion industry, and develop the confidence to take on the world.
Crego House was born out of this vision, providing intensive and hands-on training to hundreds of students who have passed through its doors. In just a few short years, the fashion house has become a hub for creativity, innovation, and excellence in fashion education. Crego House stands as a testament to Oluwatoyosi’s unwavering commitment to quality training, equipping students with the skills necessary to succeed in a competitive industry.
Achievements and Impact
Oluwatoyosi’s achievements are nothing short of remarkable. With over 1,000 trained students, many of whom have gone on to establish their own fashion businesses or secure prominent positions in established fashion brands, her influence has rippled across the fashion industry. Under her tutelage, students have mastered the art of fashion illustration, garment construction, fabric manipulation, and even the business side of fashion.
Her approach to teaching is both innovative and practical. She places a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, ensuring that each student gains real-world experience in addition to technical skills.
Oluwatoyosi has also been known to push the boundaries of fashion education by incorporating modern techniques and technologies into her training programs. From traditional tailoring methods to the latest in digital fashion design, her curriculum is designed to keep students at the forefront of industry trends.
The impact of her work extends beyond the technical skills she imparts. Through Crego House, Oluwatoyosi has empowered countless young people, particularly women, to pursue careers in fashion and break barriers in an industry that can often seem inaccessible. Her commitment to mentorship and her nurturing spirit have earned her respect not only in Ibadan but across the fashion community in Nigeria.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
While her accomplishments to date are impressive, Oluwatoyosi’s vision for the future is even more inspiring. She looks forward to expanding Crego House into a fully-fledged fashion institute that offers certifications and diplomas in fashion design and related fields. Her dream is to create a fashion academy that is internationally recognized for producing top-tier fashion designers and industry professionals.
Oluwatoyosi also has plans to establish a scholarship program aimed at providing opportunities for underprivileged students who are passionate about fashion but lack the financial means to pursue it. Her long-term goal is to continue making fashion education accessible to all, regardless of background, and to uplift the next generation of creative minds in Nigeria.
Additionally, Oluwatoyosi envisions a future where Crego House becomes a leader in sustainable fashion practices, teaching students the importance of eco-friendly design and production methods. She believes that the future of fashion lies in sustainability, and she is committed to integrating this philosophy into her teachings.
Conclusion
Oluwatoyosi Mary Asunmo’s journey in the fashion world is one of passion, dedication, and impact. Through Crego House, she has not only trained over 1,000 students but has also inspired a new wave of fashion talent in Nigeria. Her commitment to excellence, innovation, and empowerment sets her apart as one of the most influential figures in fashion education in Ibadan.
As Oluwatoyosi looks ahead to the future, her vision for growth, inclusivity, and sustainability continues to shape the fashion industry, one student at a time. There is no doubt that her contributions will leave a lasting legacy, not just in Ibadan, but across the entire fashion landscape in Africa and beyond.
