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From time to time, Naijahottestgist will bring you stories and profile of entrepreneurs who through hardwork, resilience and determination have carved a niche for them selves in different fields. Today we feature Yetunde Ilesanmi-Fowowe, who left her Bank Manger Job in Canada to pursue her dream. Read below:
Sometime in 2010, I walked into a boutique on Akerele(Surulere) with a friend to check out clothes, and that’s how I met this great Lady. That day, I couldn’t help but be impressed with the way she attended to us. Despite putting her through so much stress, by trying out outfits and shoes and not buying anything in the end,( because I for one was just window shopping..lool!), she was all smiles and encouraged us to come in some other time. What caught me the most was her enthusiasm and ability to “sell water to the mermaid” attitude. Yes, such is the sweet tongue of this Lady who in such a short time has done very well for her self. Today, NHG presents Yetunde Ilesanmi Fowowe, an entrepreneur and mother of three, who serves as an inspiration to young people(and everyone) to pursue their dreams.
Brief Background and Profile: Raised in Canada, she attended Carleton University Ottawa, where she bagged a degree in Professional Accounting in 1997. She worked as an an accountant in Bank of Canada for 3 years, then moved to Wells Fargo Financial House in Toronto where she worked for 10 years. While she pursued her professional career, she never forgot or gave up on her first love: FASHION. Tired of the same boring routine of waking up every morning to an office job, she decided to follow her heart, and pursue her dreams. In 2005, she resigned her Job as Bank Manager at Fargo Finacial House Toronto, and relocated to Nigeria.
UP2U Fashion World: Venturing into unknown territory, she was skeptical, yet willing to give it her all, 
to achieve her goals. Her plan: To set up a world class boutique, and become a reputable stylist in the Nigerian fashion industry. Armed with strong will, saved up capital, and sheer determination, she put her plan into motion. Fortunate to have trust worthy friends and family around her, they helped familiarize her with the way things were done here, and facilitated her dream becoming reality. On the 1st of December 2006, after careful planning and research, she opened her first outlet of UP2U FASHION WORLD at 81 Akerele Street( by Randle Avenue). Now in her late 30’s, she has other outlets around Lagos, and styles celebrities like Fathia Balogun, Tayo Odueke,Empress Njamah, Grace Amah, Lepacious Bose amongst others.
The Future: Despite her success so far, she says she has only just begun. Few years from now, she intends to have outlets all around the country, as plans to start her own clothing line are already in the works. She says the sky is not the limit, but her point of view, and as such can only strive to achieve more.
Below are more pictures of her, and a tour of the store. Enjoy.
BB PIN: 285F7DBE
