Habibat Adeoye Adebanjo: Early Life, Education, and Entrepreneurship Journey into Fashion

Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Habibat Adeoye Adebanjo, a visionary fashion entrepreneur and quality assurance expert based in Lagos, Nigeria. As the Founder and Creative Director of House of Beebah, she has made a significant impact in the fashion world.

House of Beebah is a leading womenswear brand celebrated for its blend of traditional Nigerian aesthetics and contemporary trends. Through her unique approach and attention to detail, Habibat has established House of Beebah as a prominent name in the Nigerian fashion industry.

What inspired you to establish House of Beebah, and how has the brand evolved since its inception?

Growing up in Lagos, I was always surrounded by vibrant colors and unique styles, which sparked my interest in fashion. My mother’s stylish influence inspired me to experiment with different looks. Her sense of style was deeply personal and expressive, and it had a profound impact on me. Throughout my teenage years, I spent countless hours browsing her collection of fashion and style magazines.

This early exposure led to the establishment of House of Beebah in 2013, right after I completed my degree in social work from the University of Lagos. My goal was to create a brand that embodies elegance, creativity, and personal expression while making high-quality fashion accessible to a broader audience. Since then, House of Beebah has evolved, to create unique womenswear. Our designs reflects global fashion trends and diverse tastes, expanding from made-to-order pieces to ready-to-wear collections.

How do you view the current state of the fashion industry and the role of technology in it?

We are in a digital world, and the possibilities are endless. The fashion industry today is constantly changing and growing, with a focus on being more eco-friendly, inclusive, and innovative. This evolution is enhancing the way we connect with global audiences, makes our fashion brands more accessible globally, you can easily purchase  our collections on our website at www.houseofbeebah.com. This fusion of technology and creativity has opened up great opportunities, making the fashion industry a dynamic and impactful field, which makes it an exciting field to be in.

What prompted you to start House of Beebah Fashion School , and how has it impacted aspiring fashion designers?

I started the House of Beebah Fashion School in 2019 to provide good education and practical skills to aspiring fashion designers. One big reason was to fill the gap caused by a lack of quality fashion workers in the industry. Many talented people didn’t have access to proper training and resources. By sharing what I’ve learned, I wanted to support new designers and raise the level of fashion professionals. Since then, our school has made a real difference by giving students the training and resources they need to develop their skills and start their careers. It’s been great to see how the school has encouraged creativity and opened doors for many new designers

Can you share some examples of successful partnerships/collaborations you’ve had and how they benefited your brand?

We have successfully partnered with various organizations to advance fashion education and employability. One successful partnership is with the Lagos State Government Technical College, Ikeja. We also work with the Fashion Designers Association of Nigeria (FADAN), providing vital support(SIWES) and networking opportunities for our students.

The most impactful collaboration has been with the Industrial Trust Fund (ITF) through their Artisans Skill Up Project. This initiative provides free, high-quality training and certification for artisans, boosting the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises. ITF supplies essential materials, while we conduct the training, creating immediate employment pathways through internships with FADAN and top fashion houses in Lagos.

My background in social work (BSc) enhanced my understanding of community needs and skill development. These partnerships have not only supported House of Beebah’s growth but have also empowered many individuals with the skills and opportunities to start their fashion careers.

What are some of the major challenges you have faced as a fashion entrepreneur in Nigeria, and how did you navigate through it?

One major challenge I face as a fashion entrepreneur in nigeria is the unstable economy, which impacts material and production costs. Navigating these challenges requires resilience and innovation. By focusing on quality, maintaining strong relationships with suppliers, and exploring cost-effective production methods, I have been able to keep House of Beebah thriving despite economic fluctuations.

What is your vision for the future of House of Beebah and the fashion school?

My dream is to expand House of Beebah both locally and internationally, continue to deliver timeless pieces. For the fashion school, our aim to train more aspiring designers, increasing our capacity and partnerships. Ultimately, I want to contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s fashion industry and empower more people through fashion education.

What advice would you give to young aspiring fashion designers looking to make their mark in the industry?

Stay true to your passion and never stop learning. The fashion industry is competitive, but with dedication, creativity, and perseverance, you can achieve your dreams. Invest in quality education, seek mentorship, network, and be open to new experiences. Believe in yourself and your vision, and let your unique voice shine through your designs.