From Seed to Strides: How Community Ignited That Spark for Love Ankara

"Dua Kor Gye Ehum aa Obu"!

That's a Ghanaian (Akan) proverb (the same one inscribed in my peplum top) that literally translates into: "If one tree stands alone against the wind, it breaks; or if one tree alone receives the wind, it breaks." ??

These words encapsulate the essence of unity and community - a sentiment that has become the cornerstone of Love Ankara's story. ?

While the seeds of my footwear brand sprouted during my time at Vlisco Group, it's the incredible community we’re nurtured that has truly fuelled its growth. From my Dad and my husband who helped fund my dream to my sister and brothers who've helped me sell at my many fairs and trade shows, I am forever grateful to who helped me pay for our first Woodin Fabric Collection and come up with our brand’s first name, “Dutch Ankara”...lol….and then later to what it is now, Love Ankara (another post on the name later ??) My amazing father-in-law bought many pairs of ballerinas for friends on his trips abroad and generously “rented” his garage and porch to a few of my workers in 2019, while heavily pregnant with my daughter. Mentors like Mirabelle who've generously invested, shared their insights to the incredible repeat customers like Adoma, Nana Oye and Akua who've become friends and confidants, each moment on this journey has been enriched by the presence of our people. ????

Our shared stories have become the heartbeat of Love Ankara's journey. The testimonials that warm our hearts and grace our social media pages? They've not only touched us deeply but have also introduced our brand to new supporters who resonate with our vision. ???

The power of community extends far beyond just customers. Through fairs and trade-shows, we've formed lasting relationships that have evolved into creative collaborations and fruitful partnerships. ?? These connections remind me that when we unite, the possibilities are truly boundless. ??

Media interviews and engagements have shone a spotlight on our brand story and the unwavering support has amplified our message, attracting new advocates to our cause. ????

When the world took an unexpected turn in 2020, we focused on survival, but also pivoted? swiftly, adapted and began crafting our own fabric face masks and shields from our surplus materials. This pivot not only supported our workers but also allowed us to give back to our community. The face shields and masks found their way to churches, children, and those most in need. ????

During our hiatus, many people asked, heck, demanded and “pressured” us for our flagship ballerinas and we couldn’t say no. We made it a point to have a collection available as and when the orders came in. In the last few months and perhaps in the past year, the echoes and re-echoes to “come back" have been persistent.?

Some of the challenges that kept us away are still present but we have resolved to keep at this and go the long haul because of the people who’ve always, truly and forever had our backs. Manufacturing is a serious, expensive business but our resolve to go global is stronger even now than before. This tree may bend, but we didn’t come this far to break.?

The milestones we’ve achieved have been possible because of all of you. Without this incredible community, Love Ankara wouldn't shine as brightly. Thank you for embodying the very essence of community and together, let's continue this journey, one stylish stride at a time.?

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#journeyofathousandmiles #goingthelonghaul #loveankara #loveafricalovenkara