TheGoldScarf’s creator and CEO, Bolaji Akande, was inspired to launch a company by his unwavering emphasis on facilitating the sale of African fashion designers’ creations to customers throughout the world.
His internet marketplace now serves as a one-stop shop connecting designers and global customers in need of African fashion companies.
He observes, “Many fashion brands struggle with visibility and logistical hurdles despite the incredible talent and creativity in Africa.” “By building a marketplace that streamlines logistics and boosts brand credibility, I saw an opportunity to close this gap and give these brands the international recognition they deserve,” he says.
According to Akande, he used his savings and AWS start-up credits to fund his initial startup. “We maximised our first investment when we created TheGoldScarf by combining personal resources with AWS startup credits.”
In response to enquiries about the ways in which the online marketplace is bolstering the legitimacy of African fashion firms, Akande states that TheGoldScarf does so by giving them access to a worldwide client base.
He claims that the company provides visibility tools and state-of-the-art logistical solutions to fashion firms. We make sure these brands adhere to international norms. This increases their legitimacy and promotes economic development as well as cross-cultural interactions between Africa and the rest of the globe.
Regarding the strategies the company is using to stay in business, he points out that TheGoldScarf is focussing on a particular market segment within the $152 billion African fashion industry.
“Our technology streamlines logistics and increases the visibility of African businesses worldwide. He says, “We have established ourselves as the worldwide platform of choice for African designers through our focused and promising solution to a particular challenge.
He notes that the nation has a robust and promising IT landscape when assessing the tech and digital ecosystem, but he also adds that infrastructure and financial limitations are significant issues for business participants.
“Nigeria has a tremendous pool of digital talent, and the country has the potential to become a major global tech powerhouse with additional funding and support.”
When asked about some of the biggest obstacles the company has encountered since its founding, he stated that logistics is still a significant obstacle, pointing out that many African brands do not have the necessary infrastructure for international shipment.
The youthful business owner claims that by collaborating with logistics companies to guarantee smooth shipping, the company has found a solution. “An additional obstacle is expanding globally, which we’re tackling with smart digital marketing initiatives.”
He calls on the government to establish more incubation programs for start-ups, particularly in the fashion and e-commerce industries, and to help companies like TheGoldScarf with grants or subsidies for logistics infrastructure.
He states that he has been recognised for his works at Yelp, Gokada, and LottieFiles, saying he “contributed to the development and innovation of the various platforms in addition to AWS startup credits, which were essential in building our platform.”
On his advice to other entrepreneurs, he says, “Focus on solving meaningful problems. Entrepreneurship can be tough, but if you’re addressing a real need, you’re already ahead.”
“Always keep learning from mentors, customers, and the market, and remember that success requires persistence, adaptability, and the courage to take risks,” he advises.
