We’re looking forward to introducing you to Tosin Olaniyi. Check out our conversation below.
Tosin, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Integrity is very important to me, especially as a Small Business Owner.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
As a creative artist, I found pleasure in expressing myself through drawing, painting and sewing. Growing up in an environment that celebrates African Arts and Culture, I was surrounded by a lot of painters, dancers and musicians which sparked my interest in Arts. I discovered my passion for fashion during my first year in college, while I was studying Accounting. I started creating chic and effortless ready to wear collection for both male and female, using African prints.
My brand has shifted towards bridal and evening collection. In the past years, I was uncertain which market to target, as I was only creating designs for every special occasion for both genders.
In recent years, I have discovered that helping brides to create unique and exquisite garments is my special calling. The wedding day is a special day in every woman’s life, and as a fashion designer this gives me a chance to make an impact in a bride’s life. Helping brides to identify specific fabric elements including; silhouette, train length, embellishments, garment production, maintenance, and durability is the main purpose at RONNIE.
While I am still discovering myself I find that creating garments for women brings me a sense of excitements and happiness. Getting married tells a story. A story of love, life, commitment, successes, failures, and growth. Being a part of a wedding love story, celebration and family brings me fulfillment.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
Bonds can be easily broken by trust, although It can takes years to rebuild and restore in relationships and business. When relationships are broken parties involve must be willing to be vulnerable, listen and respect each other, but most importantly their must be willingness to forgive and be open to trust again.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, the idea of giving up comes up during the difficult phase as a fashion designer. When I experience these feelings and thoughts of giving up, I encourage myself to continue to persevere and I focus on my business goals and vision.
I refuel myself, persists and I celebrate during my achievement whether big or small.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
Collectivism, integrity, trust, respect, celebration of life, peacefulness, reciprocity, and social justice are all great values that are important to me. These values are important to me to build and serve the community.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I would love to be remembered for being loving, kind, respectful, helpful, and fun.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Ronnie_Coutore
- Linkedin: RONNIE
- Facebook: Ronnie
