CEO of Joyce Ababio College of Creative Design calls for the formation of a fashion design union

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the renowned Joyce Ababio College of Creative Design, Joyce Ababio has emphasized the need for a union that represents the interest of the fashion industry in Ghana.
According to her, the formation of a strong union is the only way for them (Fashion Designers) to be heard and considered in all the policies of the nation and financial institutions.
When asked by Y 107.9 FM’s Rev Erskine, host of the ‘Myd Morning Radio Show’ on the Y Leaderboard Series how students fund their own businesses after graduating from fashion school, Joyce noted that it is quite difficult.
“Going to the bank for a loan to start your business as a Fashion Designer does not work because the bank will be asking for collateral we do not have. And going to the bank to take a loan with an interest rate which can even collapse the business before it starts is bad.”
She indicated that most of her students are supported by their families to set up their own businesses after graduating from her institute.
Joyce disclosing why it is difficult for fashion designers to receive funding to support their businesses said, “Fashion designers have not succeeded in bringing people together to form a Union.”
The renowned designer noted that with the formation of a union, the group can influence policies that will help fashion schools and the entire fashion scene in the country. “It is through unity that we can change a lot of things and grow our industry,” she stated.
She reiterated that with favourable policies and structures put in place to support the industry, it will grow and its impact will be highly felt on the economy of the country.
By: Joel Sanco