From Nigeria to Maine: Olagunju Busola Dorcas’ Journey of Fashion, Refugee Support, and Storytelling Through Design

Podcast Notes: Olagunju Busola Dorcas – Fashion, Storytelling, and Community Impact**

Episode Overview:

In this episode, we speak with Olagunju Busola Dorcas, a Maine-based fashion designer originally from Nigeria. Olagunju shares her inspiring journey from studying project management in Maine to following her true passion for fashion. Alongside her design work, she supports refugees as they settle in Maine, weaving together her love for creativity and community.

Key Topics:

1. Background & Journey:

- Olagunju’s move to Maine to study project management.

- Despite focusing on a degree in project management, her passion for fashion never faded.

- How she transitioned from academics to pursuing a full-time career in fashion design.

- The importance of following one's true passion and making career shifts.

2. Fashion Design & Creative Vision:

- Her approach to fashion design – blending personal stories with each creation.

- Custom designs and bespoke dresses tailored to tell a meaningful narrative.

- Notable figures she’s worked with in Maine, including the owner of Coffee Be Design and USOA Ms. Maine.

3. Fashion as Storytelling:

- How Olagunju uses fashion to communicate deeper personal stories.

- The power of design as a tool for self-expression and narrative.

- Examples of her work and how each piece tells a unique story.

4. Community Impact:

- Olagunju’s role in supporting refugees in Maine and helping them settle.

- The intersection of fashion and community engagement in her life and work.

- How her career enables her to make a positive difference in people’s lives.

5. Advice for Aspiring Designers & Creatives:

- The importance of persistence and staying true to one's passion.

- How to balance creative dreams with practical life responsibilities.

- Tips for anyone looking to start their own business in the fashion industry.

Takeaways:

- The importance of combining passion with purpose, as Olagunju does through both her fashion design and refugee support work.

- Fashion as a means of storytelling and cultural expression.

- How personal experiences can shape creative pursuits and contribute to broader community support.

Listener Action Points:

- Reflect on how creativity and passion can be integrated into your own career.

- Support local designers and businesses in your community.

- Consider how fashion and other creative industries can be used as a platform for social good and storytelling.

Closing Thoughts:

Olagunju’s journey is a testament to the power of following one's passion, the impact of community support, and how creativity can be used to inspire and make a difference in the world. Tune in to hear more about her journey and the lessons she’s learned along the way.

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