Miracle’s story: from food scientist to fashion designer

Miracle Olaoluwa is the Creative Director of Miraps Styles, a fashion brand based in Abeokuta, Nigeria. Her business designs bridal wear, bespoke outfits, and Adire pieces, while also training fashion students to build careers of their own. Here, she shares her unexpected journey from food scientist to fashion designer, and how our Road to Growth programme supported her to access funding and grow her empire.

“My fashion journey was unexpected. I studied Food Science and Technology and started out working as a food scientist. At the time, fashion was just a side hustle, something I was passionate about but never thought would become my career. Over time, however, I realised that even with limited time, the income from fashion was sometimes more than my salary as a food scientist. That was a wake-up call. I was afraid at first—leaving a stable job for something uncertain—but my passion was stronger than my fear. Eventually, I took the leap and went full-time with my fashion brand. It has been one of the best decisions of my life.

I wanted people to wear my designs and feel happy, confident, and unique. However, being a young woman entrepreneur in the fashion industry came with its own set of challenges. Many clients didn’t take me seriously. Some questioned my prices, assuming I had no responsibilities because I was female. Access to funding was also challenging, making it difficult to grow the business as quickly as I had wanted. 

I joined the Road to Growth programme because I wanted financial stability and a better structure in my business. I knew I had the talent, but I was missing the tools to manage finances, market effectively, and scale sustainably. The programme transformed my life and my business. I learned to track my finances, price my work confidently, and set achievable goals. Networking with other entrepreneurs gave me mentors, collaborators, and support that I never had before.

Since then, Miraps Styles has grown by more than 30% in revenue, thanks to clearer financial strategies and targeted marketing. I also applied for and won a ₦1 million Afro Artisan grant, which allowed me to buy industrial sewing machines, weaving equipment, and an industrial iron. These investments boosted productivity, enabling me to expand into men’s wear and reach a broader market. I was also able to hire additional tailors, creating jobs in my community. 

Collaboration has been another key to my growth. Through connections made in the programme, I’ve partnered with other fashion and beauty entrepreneurs, gaining visibility, clients, and even thousands of new followers on social media. Their mentorship and support have made me stronger, both as a businesswoman and as a leader. 

Today, Miraps Styles not only creates clothing but also trains students, giving them the skills and confidence to pursue careers in fashion. I believe in impact—passing knowledge forward and empowering others to stand on their own. For me, success means fulfilment, freedom, and stability—for myself, my family, and my community. 

My dream is for Miraps Styles to become a global brand and to establish a foundation that equips young people with the skills to succeed. Programmes like Road to Growth are essential because when women are empowered, their families and communities thrive. Women are the backbone of society, and when we are supported, everyone benefits.”