Rooted, Bold, and Unapologetically African.

When fashion becomes more than fabric, when it becomes a voice, a message, and a ministry, you know you’ve met someone doing more than designing clothes. I sat down with Joy Mon Ogunmiloro, the visionary CEO of MZUAMI ANKARA OUTFITS, a brand that’s rewriting the narrative of African fashion with purpose, pride, and prayer. Here's our conversation, exactly as it unfolded.

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1. What inspired you to start your brand, and how did the journey begin?

I've always seen fashion as more than clothing. It’s a voice, a statement, and a form of resistance. My journey began from a place of deep curiosity. I started experimenting with fabrics, especially Ankara, and was inspired by how people reacted to my early pieces. Over time, I realized I wanted to build something that celebrates African identity with a modern edge. That’s how my brand was born, rooted in tradition but bold enough to challenge norms.

2. What does Ankara fashion mean to you personally?

To me, Ankara is power. It’s history, ancestry, and pride stitched into every thread. Wearing Ankara is a way of saying, “I know where I come from, and I’m proud of it.” It’s also incredibly versatile. I love showing people that Ankara can be high fashion, streetwear, bridal, or even corporate. Whatever you dream it to be.

3. Was there a moment you knew this was your calling?

Yes. There was a moment I styled someone for an event and they came back emotional, saying they had never felt more seen or confident. That moment sealed it for me. I realized fashion isn’t just aesthetic. It’s transformational. That’s when I knew this was my purpose.

4. How do you approach designing your collections?

Every collection starts with a story or a mood. Sometimes it’s a cultural element I want to highlight. Other times it’s a color, a scripture, or even a social issue. I sketch, play with textures, research trends, but always make sure the final result feels deeply personal. I want each piece to say something without needing words.

5. Do you see fashion as a form of storytelling or cultural preservation?

Absolutely both. Fashion is one of the most powerful tools for telling our stories, especially in African communities where oral history and symbolism are deeply embedded. Every design is an opportunity to preserve traditions, celebrate our roots, and inspire future generations.

6. How does your faith or personal belief system influence your work?

My faith is the foundation of everything I do. It keeps me grounded, reminds me to lead with purpose, and gives me the courage to dream bigger than my limitations. I always pray before launching a new collection or making a major decision. My work is a ministry in its own right. It’s how I serve.

7. Are there guiding principles or scriptures that inspire your leadership?

Yes. One scripture that constantly guides me is Proverbs 16:3: “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” I also live by the principle of excellence, doing everything as though I’m doing it unto God, not man. That mindset shifts how I lead my team and serve my clients.

8. What has been your biggest challenge as a CEO and how did you overcome it?

One major challenge was navigating self-doubt, especially in the early stages when resources were limited and imposter syndrome crept in. I overcame it by staying rooted in my why, surrounding myself with mentors, and reminding myself that perfection isn’t the goal. Progress is.

9. How do you hope your work impacts the community locally and globally?

Locally, I hope to empower young people, especially women, to see creative work as a viable, dignified career. Globally, I want to shift how African fashion is perceived. Not as a trend, but as a movement with staying power. I want to help redefine what luxury looks like through the lens of African excellence.

10. What advice would you give to young people interested in fashion or entrepreneurship?

Start where you are. Don’t wait for perfect resources or the right time. Learn as much as you can, stay consistent, and don’t be afraid to stand out. Also, stay rooted in your identity. Don’t compromise your uniqueness for trends.

11. Where do you see your company in the next five to ten years?

In the next five to ten years, I see my brand expanding across Africa and globally, with a flagship store, a fashion academy to mentor the next generation, and collaborations with international platforms. I also see us influencing pop culture and red carpets worldwide, all while staying true to our roots.

12. If you could collaborate with any artist or designer, who would it be?

I’d love to collaborate with someone like Virgil Abloh if he were still alive. His ability to blend streetwear with high fashion was genius. Currently, I’d say a designer like Thebe Magugu or even a brand like Loewe. They’re not afraid to mix tradition with innovation, and that aligns with my vision.
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This conversation with Joy Mon Ogunmiloro, the creative force behind Mzuami Ankara Outfits, left me inspired, deeply reflective, and more certain than ever that fashion can move culture forward without losing its soul. It was an honor to hear her journey, and I hope it speaks to you too.

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If you are passionate about what you do and would love to share your story through an interview like this I would love to hear from you Feel free to leave a comment below, follow me on social media or send me a direct message through the links in my bio. Let us celebrate creativity purpose and vision together.

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