Women aren’t waiting for change; they are driving it. This International Women’s Day, Accelerate Action isn’t just a theme; it’s a call to move beyond conversations and implement real strategies that close the gender gap. It’s about taking small but intentional steps—reinvesting in your craft, building the right partnerships, and seeking financial education to transform ambition into tangible success.
Powered by SME.NG, in collaboration with InvestNaija, this initiative is about more than inspiration—it’s about equipping female entrepreneurs with the tools to turn ambition into economic power. That’s why we’re spotlighting three trailblazing women who are redefining passion and business. Their stories are a masterclass in resilience, strategy, and financial empowerment. As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, we are sharing their unique journeys, showcasing exactly what’s possible when women are empowered to take control of their financial futures.
Omaedo Oyefodunrin never set out to be a shoemaker. A trained lawyer, she spent the early years of her career navigating the corporate world, sharply dressed but struggling to find stylish, well-made footwear that could keep up with her. That frustration sparked an idea, one that would evolve into Little Miss Fab, a footwear brand redefining the Nigerian shoe market with its blend of elegance and practicality. From bootstrapping her way through the early days to securing funding through SME NG’s Accelerator Programme, Oyefodunrin has built a business rooted in resilience and adaptability. Now, as she scales her brand and explores new growth opportunities, she’s proving that the right pair of shoes can take a woman anywhere, especially when she’s the one designing them.
What inspired you to start a footwear brand, and what were the biggest challenges you faced in the early days?
I am a trained lawyer, and working in-house as a solicitor at the early stages of my career meant I needed to be corporately dressed in smart shoes. Finding the perfect corporate shoes in Nigeria was not a walk in the park, and that's how I started entertaining the idea of owning my own shoe brand.
The fashion industry can be capital-intensive. How did you secure funding for your business, and what financial strategies have helped you sustain and scale your brand?
I started this business by bootstrapping, but as the business grew, there was an immense need to upscale. I started making inquiries on how to secure funding, and I signed up for the Accelerator programme with SME NG. I secured my funding from them, and I've been able to move from where I was to the next level of my business.
Many fashion entrepreneurs struggle with pricing, inventory management, and cash flow. What are your best practices for financial sustainability, and have you explored investment opportunities for your business?
Growth and expansion remain key areas for us. While we’ve primarily scaled through debt financing, we recognize that exploring investment opportunities will be essential for reaching our full potential. It’s a conversation we’re actively considering. Regarding pricing, we remain diligent and market-focused, ensuring our strategy aligns with current industry trends.
Collaboration is key in fashion. Can you share an example of a partnership or network that significantly impacted your brand’s success?
Collaboration has been instrumental in our brand’s growth. We’ve partnered with several fashion brands—both online and offline—that create products complementing our shoes. From corporate clothing brands to handbag designers, these collaborations have allowed us to offer a more cohesive style experience for our customers. These ongoing partnerships have not only expanded our reach but also strengthened our brand positioning for our target market.
What advice would you give to women looking to break into the fashion business and take control of their financial future?
Look for what people want and give them the best you can offer. Identify your target market and ensure you master the act of keeping them satisfied. Patience is key and being in the same room with other women who can lift you up is extremely important. Lastly, staying up-to-date with the industry is non-negotiable.
Bonus Question: What’s the best financial decision you’ve made in your life so far?
My best financial decision so far was stepping away from a thriving law career to start my own business—and committing to it through the highs and lows.
