Entrepreneur of the Month (September)

Tell us about yourself
My name is Ibitoye Omowunmi Grace, the third girl of six (6) children. I am a graduate of Computer Science from Bowen University. I like to describe myself as a creative yet indigenous maker/designer of bags.
How did you come about bag making?
Bag making started during my NYSC days. I remember falling in love with the Ankara works of a fellow Corp member as I was lover of DIYs, art and craft too. I’m one who is interested in things that allow me explore my creative side. Moving on, she taught me how to make a purse which ignited my interest even more. After youth service, it felt right to invest in this passion. I looked forward to seeing people argue about where my bags were produced. Officially, I started in November 2015 and never looked back ever since. 

How has the entrepreneurial journey been so far?
It has been great, frustrating, exciting, fulfilling all at the same time. Lessons have been learnt from this craft and the one that has kept me going is my love and passion for it.
What does Omowunmi do when she is not making bags? (other interests)

 I love music, watching movies, drawing, surfing the net and hair styling.

Tell us one unique feature about your bags
I sketch my designs.
What’s the plan for Gio_Designs in the next 5 years?
In the next five years, Gio_Designs will have a glass display room for her gorgeous bags and a workshop fully equipped for training and production. The Brand will be displayed in major fashion houses situate in Nigeria and beyond. Gio_Designs will become a household name with God’s help.

How did you come about the name Gio_Designs
GIO is from my name, Grace Ibitoye Omowunmi
Lastly, favorite quote?
Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men. Proverbs 22:29