This week has all been about fashion-both good and bad news. To begin with the bad news, revolutionary fashion designer, Virgil Abloh, passed on at the age of 41, succumbing to cancer. The passing of Abloh left fashion lovers shocked, having established himself among the most celebrated fashion designers of our time. Abloh, who was the creative director of Off-White and menswear creative director at Louis Vuitton, is one of the most successful fashion designers and leaves behind a solid legacy. Back home, House of Tayo founder, Matthew Rugamba, was featured globally for his role in taking Rwanda’s fashion industry from being a local one, to one that dresses Hollywood celebrities. Rugamba is among the crème de la crème fashion designers that modernised the fashion industry in Rwanda, earning global recognition. The two names are proof that a career in fashion is worth a try, contrary to the belief of many African parents that being a doctor, lawyer or pilot is a better career choice for their children than being a fashion designer. Beatrice Uwamariya, 52, who has been a tailor for more than 30 years, says that she cannot allow her child to choose a career in fashion because it is not lucrative. “I have been working as a tailor for more than three decades, but I cannot say I have earned a lot out of this job, though I have been able to pay school fees for my children,” says Uwamariya, who works in Kimironko market. She adds that she wouldn’t wish to see her child, who she paid for with her hard-earned money, divert into fashion rather than being a doctor or engineer. Whether it is bespoke, modern or high end, Uwamariya doubts it can generate more revenue than corporate jobs. On the contrary, looking at global fashion brands, there is no limit as to what you can be and achieve as a fashion designer. To allay your fears as a parent, it is advised that supporting your children to explore their creativity in fashion can trigger many other benefits, especially considering that passion for fashion can be pursued alongside studies or other jobs. Reasons for a career in fashion Apart from being lucrative, a career in fashion can be a glamorous one, depending on how you position your brand and how far you want to take it. You can choose to stay local or go international and big. A career in fashion can spur one’s creativity. Fashion is all about creating and bringing out the best of you. We all wish for a career that makes us happy about what we do and that satisfaction is important in life. If it is your child’s calling, so be it. Immense possibilities Fashion is a dynamic and robust industry. As a fashion designer, you can be anything you want to be. You can be a billionaire, a celebrity or you can be a global icon. It is all about how you stand out from others and how you position yourself. In fact, your parents are likely to be popular too as fame comes in. Every parent would wish to see their children featured on international televisions and in newspapers. Not so? Huge network A career in fashion can take you places, to different parts of the world showcasing what you do, rubbing shoulders with the high and mighty. Think of dressing Presidents, First Ladies and Hollywood celebrities. How about that? Be your own boss As a fashion designer, you are your own boss. In fact, depending on the size of your fashion house, you can employ as many people as possible and impact lives. From tailors to cobblers and weaving mothers, there is a lot more you can do in this lucrative industry.
