In contemporary discussions, there’s often a misconception that no matter what happens, always seems to find its way into popular discourse and it’s the notion that women hate each other and never support one another. More recently, with the increasing popularity of the reality show, Real Housewives of Lagos, I can’t ignore the rise of the narrative making its way into the streets of social media yet again.
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However, my journey in business, particularly, within Nigeria’s fashion industry contradicts this notion. Women have been instrumental in my success, significantly shaping my brand, Lady Biba’’s recognition.
This article highlights the pivotal role of women’s support in my career. By sharing these experiences, I hope to inspire and guide others in cultivating their networks of supportive women. So, why does this narrative even exist? And why does it apply specifically to one gender? Does this mean all men support one another? Dating as far back as the late 19th and early 20th centuries, women united globally in the suffragette movement to fight for the right to vote.
Leaders like Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and many others. formed alliances and supported one another’s efforts in advocating for women’s suffrage. In the early 20th century, Marie Curie, along with her daughter Irène Joliot-Curie, made significant strides in scientific research. Marie, the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, and her daughter, who later received her own Nobel Prize, supported each other’s groundbreaking work in physics and chemistry.
Throughout the 20th century and beyond, various feminist movements have seen women coming together to advocate for gender equality. Women such as Gloria Steinem, Betty Friedan, and Audre Lorde supported each other’s writings, speeches, and activism, contributing significantly to the progress of women’s rights. So I ask again, why is “women not supporting women” the superior narrative?
As per Forbes, venture capital firms that include at least one female investor are notably more inclined to finance female-led startups and companies helmed by women CEOs compared to those composed entirely of male partners. In my personal journey within Nigeria’s fashion industry, my path was profoundly shaped by incredible women who generously offered support and guidance.
My initial steps in the industry began at 15, when Funke Babs Kufeji, entrusted me with one of my first jobs. Attending fashion events with her, I gained firsthand experience and began documenting the industry’s evolution. Chance encounters, like meeting Omoyemi Akerele at an airport and exchanging business cards during my early business days, led to pivotal connections. Through Omoyemi, I was introduced to Lanre Da Silva Ajayi, whose mentorship became invaluable in my fashion journey.
Further, encounters with individuals like Arese Ugwu, a customer who not only admired my products but also featured them prominently in her bestselling book; Smart Money Woman —now transformed into a popular Netflix series—contributed significantly to my brand’s visibility.
Additionally, various stylists, like Yolanda Okereke, selecting my products for top Nigerian productions on Netflix, played a pivotal role in expanding my reach.
I share these experiences not merely to name-drop, but to underscore just a few of the influential women who have been pivotal in my growth as a fashion entrepreneur. It’s important to highlight that these connections weren’t about networks or exclusive circles; many remarkable women were strangers to me initially. However, their belief in something special they saw in me propelled their support, shaping my journey to date.
One of Lady Biba’s most impactful partnerships has been with Gazmadu Studios, particularly, in the creation of the renowned Lady Boss Portraits. Frequently questioned about the genesis of this collaboration, I always relish recounting its inception—a beautiful convergence of shared values and aspirations between Yagazie Eguare, the founder of Gazmadu Studios, and myself.
Joining forces enabled us to forge an initiative that wouldn’t have attained its current magnitude if pursued independently. Moreover, this collaboration serves as a platform to honour and uplift fellow women. Working alongside other women annually on this project allows us not only to celebrate their stories but also to witness firsthand the incredible potency that arises when women unite and share their narratives. It’s a truly empowering experience!
In conclusion, the prevailing notion that women don’t support each other is a misconception shattered by historical evidence and personal experiences. From the suffragette movement to modern business endeavours, women have continuously united, collaborated, and uplifted each other. My journey in Nigeria’s fashion landscape stands as a testament to the immense support I’ve received from remarkable women all of whom played pivotal roles in shaping my success.
Their belief in my potential transcended initial encounters, showcasing the transformative power of genuine support. Moreover, collaborations like the partnership with Gazmadu Studios underscore the potency of women uniting for a common cause, exemplifying the strength in celebrating and amplifying each other’s narratives. This article aims not only to challenge stereotypes but to celebrate the profound impact of women supporting and empowering one another — a force that continues to drive progress, innovation, and collective success in every sphere.
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