Sunderland Graduate, Esther Moyomola Oludare Explores Sustainable Nigerian Fashion

• Esther, an MBA student from the University of Sunderland, hails from Akure, Nigeria.
• Her final year project focuses on sustainable production of Nigeria’s traditional tie-dye fabric, Adire, in collaboration with the Nike Art Gallery in Osogbo.
• Esther graduated with Distinction and plans to start her own fashion business.

Sunderland Graduate Explores Sustainable Nigerian Fashion

Esther Moyomola Oludare, an international student from the University of Sunderland, has embarked on a fascinating journey that bridges her academic pursuits and cultural heritage.

Hailing from Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria, Esther came to the University in February 2023 to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA).

Her final year project has seen her collaborate with one of West Africa’s largest art galleries to delve into the sustainable production of Nigeria’s iconic tie-dye fabric, Adire.

Embracing Roots and Passion

Esther’s project is a testament to her desire to intertwine her three passions: business, arts, and culture. She chose the Nike Art Gallery in Osogbo, Osun State, as her focal point.

This gallery, established in 1983 by the renowned artist Nike Davies-Okundaye, has been pivotal in preserving and promoting the traditional Yoruba textile, Adire.

This fabric, traditionally dyed with indigo, is not just a piece of clothing but a cultural emblem, often worn by Nigerians during special occasions, weddings, and parties.

Exploring Sustainable Practices

The Adire industry predominantly consists of small, independent traders who are both entrepreneurs and artists. Esther’s research centered on the support available for these business owners and the environmental sustainability of their practices.

Despite her busy schedule and family commitments, Esther conducted her research remotely from Sunderland.

Her findings highlighted several sustainable practices at the Nike Art Gallery:

1. Training Programs: The gallery offers free training for students in the art of Adire, empowering them with skills and boosting their confidence, particularly among women.
2. Environmental Initiatives: The gallery has shifted to using gas instead of burning charcoal in the production process, reducing environmental impact.
3. International Exposure: By exhibiting students’ work in other countries, the gallery helps in selling and promoting Adire internationally, creating more job opportunities.

Esther Moyomola Oludare expressed her admiration for these initiatives, stating, “Adire is an indigenous craft in Nigeria and mostly in the western part of Nigeria, Osun Osogbo.

The gallery is helping in the sustainable production of Adire in many ways.”

Achieving Academic Excellence

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Despite not being able to visit the gallery in person, Esther’s dedication and effective remote collaboration resulted in an outstanding project.

“Working on this project was a really lovely period for me,” she said.

Her hard work earned her an excellent grade and accolades from the gallery’s management.

Lawal Saheed, the manager of Nike Art Gallery in Osogbo, praised Esther’s perseverance, saying,

“Esther worked hard and persevered to achieve her goal. We would welcome her any time and we are always here if she needs support as she moves forward in her career.”

Academic and Professional Journey

Esther’s academic journey began at the University of Delta in Abraka, Nigeria, where she graduated with a degree in Fine and Applied Art (Textiles) in 2017. She then worked as an Administrative and Event Manager for EMC3 Nigeria until 2023 before pursuing her MBA at Sunderland.

Earlier this month, Esther was among thousands of students who celebrated their achievements at the University of Sunderland’s Summer Graduation Ceremonies, where she graduated with Distinction.

Now, she is focused on setting up her own fashion business, driven by her passion for sustainable and culturally rich textiles.

Inspiration and Future Impact

Ashleigh Blackwood, a Lecturer in Professional Practice at the University of Sunderland’s Faculty of Business, Law and Tourism, commended Esther’s work.

“Esther’s achievements make our University proud. Her excellent MBA research project, which focuses on sustainability in the Adire textile industry and the role of cultural arts and heritage organizations in supporting business growth in Nigeria, helps us to understand contemporary entrepreneurship in new ways,” she said.

The Nike Art Gallery continues to be a beacon of cultural preservation and empowerment. Founded by Nike Davies-Okundaye, the gallery initially served as a safe haven for young women, providing food, accommodation, and skills training. Today, it stands as a major center for training in textile art, attracting students from across Africa, Europe, Canada, and the United States.

A Bright Future

Esther Moyomola Oludare’s journey from Akure to Sunderland, and her impactful project on sustainable Nigerian fashion, exemplify the power of combining academic pursuits with cultural heritage. Her work not only sheds light on the importance of sustainable practices in traditional industries but also inspires future generations of students and entrepreneurs.

For more information on studying a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the University of Sunderland, visit: University of Sunderland MBA Program

For more details on the University’s Faculty of Business, Law and Tourism, visit: Faculty of Business, Law and Tourism