When Royal dreams come true for Ronke Ladipo 

.Rouch Padlock Bag In Meghan’s Hands
.Presents Art To The Sussexes

Let us into the life of Ronke Ladipo. Who is she?
I’M a self-taught artist and designer, deeply inspired by the symbolic meanings in everyday objects, particularly padlocks. My work is a reflection of my experiences, culture, and my desire to connect with people on a deeper level. I’m passionate about storytelling through art and design, creating pieces that symbolise resilience, protection, and hope. Beyond my creations, I’m someone who believes in hard work, faith, and the power of preparation. I strive to use my platform to inspire other young creatives to pursue their dreams relentlessly.

What led you to the arts? And your passion for padlock bags?
My journey into the arts began unexpectedly. I stumbled upon an old, rigid padlock on the ground one day, and it triggered memories from my childhood, where I often felt out of place. The padlock symbolised more than just security—it spoke to me about strength, protection, and resilience. I took it home, cleaned it, and decided I wanted to turn it into something meaningful. That’s how the idea for my padlock bags, or ‘Agadagodo’, came to life. My passion for them grew as I realised they weren’t just fashion accessories but powerful metaphors for love and comfort in a world that can sometimes feel unsafe.

Before padlock bags, what kind of bag designs were you doing before?
Before the padlock bags, my designs were more traditional, focused on aesthetic appeal and fashion trends. I created stylish, functional bags, but I always felt like they didn’t fully represent me or my personal story. The shift to padlock bags allowed me to create something much deeper—something that not only looked beautiful but also carried a message and sparked conversations.

Your wish on Meghan Markle was fulfilled when she carried your bag? What was the feeling that day?
The feeling was indescribable. Meeting Meghan Markle and seeing her appreciate the meaning behind my padlock bag was surreal. I had visualised that moment for so long, and when it happened, it felt like everything aligned perfectly. I was nervous but excited to share my story with her, and when she connected with it, I felt an immense sense of fulfilment. It was a reminder that dreams, no matter how big or unlikely they seem, can come true with perseverance.

Aside from Meghan, who else are you thinking of to do the same?
I have a few more people on my dream list. I would love to see Zoe Saldana, Kelly Rowland, and Genevieve Nnaji carry my padlock bags. These women represent strength, grace, and individuality, qualities that align with the message behind my work. I’ve admired their work for years, and I believe they would resonate with the deeper meaning of the bags.

Where do you see yourself in the journey of making padlock bags?
This is just the beginning. I see my padlock bags becoming a global symbol of empowerment and protection. I want them to transcend fashion and become something people connect with on a personal level. I envision expanding my designs, collaborating with other creatives, and continuing to tell stories through each piece. My goal is to make my padlock bags iconic, known for both their design and their message of hope and resilience.

Let us into your other side of the creative industry?
Beyond bag designs, I’m also deeply involved in painting and mixed media art. I work with acrylics on canvas and enjoy blending different materials, like wood and metal, into my creations. I also design art-deco furniture. My creative process involves merging my love for art and design into functional, yet meaningful, pieces. For me, each project is an opportunity to explore new ways of expressing my vision of empowerment, individuality, and the human experience.

What can be done to lift the industry?
The creative industry needs more support, particularly in terms of infrastructure and financial backing. Artists need affordable studio spaces where they can focus on their craft without financial strain. We also need more platforms to showcase our work and access to grants or funds that enable us to grow. It’s important to recognize that creativity takes time and resources, and providing artists with these tools will allow them to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the economy and culture. More collaborations between the government, private sector, and artists would help foster a thriving creative industry.