Veronica Olukotun is an award-winning fashion designer, educator, and entrepreneur, celebrated for her innovative designs and dedication to empowering others. Honored as the 2024 recipient of the AC Awards Fashion Designer Award in Edmonton, she has established herself as a trailblazer in the fashion industry. With dual Bachelor’s degrees from Obafemi Awolowo University and NAIT, and a Master’s in Information Technology from the University of Lagos, Veronica bridges technology and artistry in her work. As CEO and Creative Director of Cosiste Fashion, Veronica’s legacy celebrates creativity, education, and the power of transformation, inspiring communities around the world. In this interview, she shares her story.
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Influence of Childhood On Entrepreneurial Journey
My parents were my first role models. My father juggled multiple careers as an entrepreneur, educationist, and engineer, while my mother combined teaching with running a business. They celebrated my creativity and often showcased my work, which gave me my first customers. Their belief in me was the foundation of my entrepreneurial journey.
The Inspiration Behind Cosiste Fashion: Honoring Family and Creativity
The name “Cosiste” holds profound personal and symbolic meaning, reflecting my upbringing and my work’s essence. In Spanish, cosiste means “you sew” or “you stitch,” a perfect metaphor for my craft—bringing diverse elements together to create masterpieces. Beyond its linguistic meaning, the name is a heartfelt tribute to my parents, who instilled in me the values of creativity, education, and innovation. ‘Cosy,’ derived from my father’s nickname (inspired by his name, Cosmas), represents his visionary entrepreneurial spirit and ability to weave diverse skills into impactful ventures. ‘Siste’ honors my mother, a dedicated teacher whose nurturing spirit stitched together knowledge and empowerment in the lives she touched. Together, they exemplified the transformative power of combining creativity and education, values deeply rooted in my journey. Cosiste Fashion embodies this legacy, seamlessly merging artistry, precision, and purpose to inspire and transform lives through innovative design and education.
Launch of Cosiste Fashion Academy on January 20, 2025
The official launch of Cosiste Fashion Academy on January 20, 2025, marks a significant milestone in my journey as an educator and creative professional. Although I have trained numerous individuals and collaborated with several NGOs to empower communities through skill development, this launch represents the official establishment of Cosiste Fashion Academy in Canada. It’s a pivotal step in creating a dedicated platform to inspire and nurture talent. This date holds deep personal significance as it would have been my father’s birthday. The academy is more than just a learning institution—it is a heartfelt tribute to my parents’ legacy of creativity, education, and empowerment. My father’s entrepreneurial vision and my mother’s dedication to teaching have profoundly influenced my path, and this academy stands as a testament to their values. Through Cosiste Fashion Academy, my goal is to equip individuals with the tools to express themselves artistically, build sustainable careers, and turn their creative aspirations into tangible achievements. This launch embodies my commitment to transforming lives through innovation, artistry, and education.
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Driving Success as a Multipotentialite: Balancing Multiple Passions
My success as a multipotentialite lies in prioritization, effective time management, and embracing the value of diverse pursuits. Rather than viewing my passions as competing, I see them as interconnected, enhancing one another and creating a harmonious, fulfilling journey. The phrase “Jack of all trades, master of none, but oftentimes better than master of one” validated my multifaceted nature, encouraging me to embrace my versatility. Influenced by my parent’s philosophy of multiple streams of income, I approach life with resilience and innovation, aligning each endeavour with my long-term goals and purpose. This integration drives my success and fulfillment.
The Role of Technology in Shaping Your Designs and Teaching
Technology is at the heart of my work. It allows me to merge my IT expertise with my creative vision, from advanced embroidery and direct-to-film printing to creating digital resources for aspiring designers. In teaching, I integrate modern tools to prepare students for the future of fashion.
Lessons or skills participants should expect from Masterclass
Participants in my masterclasses can expect to gain a combination of technical expertise, creative problem-solving skills, and entrepreneurial insights. Each session is designed to equip them with practical techniques tailored to their craft, whether it’s fashion design, embroidery, or beading, while fostering an innovative mindset. Beyond the hands-on skills, I emphasize the importance of attention to detail, time management, and the ability to transform ideas into marketable products. My goal is to empower participants not only to master their craft but also to build confidence, develop a unique artistic voice, and explore pathways to sustainable careers in their chosen fields.
My book, Tee-Craft Blueprint
Tee-Craft Blueprint is my way of sharing the knowledge I’ve gained in T-shirt design, a cornerstone of my fashion journey. I hope it inspires creativity, provides practical guidance, and empowers readers to turn their ideas into standout designs and sustainable businesses.
Vision for the Future of Cosiste Fashion Academy
My vision for the future of Cosiste Fashion Academy is to establish it as a premier institution where creativity meets innovation, empowering individuals to turn their passions into sustainable careers. I aim to create a nurturing and inclusive environment that fosters skill development, artistic expression, and entrepreneurial growth. Through cutting-edge training programs and collaborative opportunities, the academy will equip students with the tools to thrive in the ever-evolving world of fashion and crafts. Ultimately, I envision Cosiste Fashion Academy becoming a global hub for talent, inspiring a new generation of creators to lead with confidence, purpose, and excellence.
Balancing Roles as a Mother, Educator, and Entrepreneur
Balancing these roles requires intentional planning, prioritization, and adaptability. As a mother, I ensure that my children’s needs are at the core of my schedule, nurturing their growth and supporting their aspirations. As an analyst, educator and entrepreneur, I rely on strong time management and delegation skills to create structure and focus on what truly matters. I’ve also learned to embrace flexibility, recognizing that balance is dynamic and requires continuous adjustments. Most importantly, I stay grounded by aligning my goals with my values and surrounding myself with a supportive network that enables me to thrive in all aspects of my life.
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Overcoming Challenges
My greatest motivation comes from my children—the “EDJ Crew,” Emmanuel, David, and Joshua—who inspire me to strive for excellence daily. I draw strength from the unwavering support of my siblings, friends, and my parents’ legacy of creativity, education, and community impact. Launching Cosiste Fashion Academy fuels my passion for empowering others, and providing a platform for individuals to learn, create, and transform their lives. Gratitude for the support of organizations like the YEO Foundation and inspiration from trailblazing women drive my commitment to resilience, vision, and building a legacy that makes a lasting impact.
Advice for Aspiring Fashion Entrepreneurs
Start with passion, but don’t stop there—educate yourself, embrace technology, and remain open to learning. Surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you and remember that resilience is key. Most importantly, stay true to your vision while being adaptable to change.
What Excites Veronica Most About the Future of Fashion
The intersection of technology and sustainability excites me. From 3D printing to AI in design, the possibilities are endless. I’m thrilled to see how these advancements will reshape the industry and how Cosiste can contribute to this evolution.
How Veronica wants to be remembered
I want to be remembered as someone who lived with purpose, creativity, and a deep commitment to empowering others. A visionary who turned challenges into opportunities and inspired individuals to unlock their full potential. I hope to leave a legacy of innovation, resilience, and impact—someone who not only transformed the fashion and creative industries but also made a meaningful difference in the lives of those I encountered. Above all, I want to be remembered as a loving mother, a passionate educator, and a catalyst for positive change in my community and beyond.
Being a Woman of Rubies
Resilience, innovation, and a dedication to empowering others are the cornerstones of my identity. Throughout my journey, I have embraced challenges as catalysts for growth, transforming obstacles into stepping stones toward success. My passion has fueled the creation of a thriving business, and my mission extends beyond personal achievement to inspire and equip others to realize their full potential. I am committed to leading with purpose, fostering meaningful connections, and positively impacting every life I touch.
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