Creative Director, Boriah Couture | Founder, Fashion Trainee Mentorship Program

La Mode Magazine: Jane, thank you for speaking with us. Let’s start with the big moment you recently launched the Fashion Trainee Mentorship Program. What inspired it?

Goodluck Jane Okechukwu: Thank you for having me. The inspiration was deeply personal. When I began my journey in fashion, mentorship was almost nonexistent. Young designers were expected to figure it out themselves, and many great talents fell through the cracks. With the Fashion Trainee Mentorship, I wanted to create what I never had a nurturing space for emerging designers to grow confidently, both creatively and professionally.

La Mode Magazine: What makes this mentorship different from other programs?

Goodluck: It’s rooted in intentional access. We don’t just teach design we guide on branding, pricing, intellectual property, and how to speak to global markets. Also, we embrace our African identity. The curriculum includes traditional textiles, sustainability with local materials, and business training grounded in our cultural context.

La Mode Magazine: You’re the force behind Boriah Couture, known for blending bold modern silhouettes with African craftsmanship. How does your design philosophy influence the mentorship?

Goodluck: Everything I teach is an extension of what I practice. Boriah Couture has always been about duality bold femininity and rooted identity. In mentorship, I encourage that same balance. I want mentees to explore their voice, but also respect the stories embedded in our heritage fabrics and techniques.

La Mode Magazine: How do you select mentees for the program?

Goodluck: It’s a mix of talent, commitment, and perspective. We look for designers who show raw potential, but also a deep hunger to learn and contribute to the industry. Our first cohort includes creatives from Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, Kenya — and they each bring something uniquely powerful.

La Mode Magazine: You’ve often been described as one of Africa’s quiet visionaries. How do you see your role in shaping the continent’s fashion future?

Goodluck: (laughs) I don’t know about “visionary,” but I care deeply. I see my role as a bridge between tradition and innovation, local craft and global business. If I can help designers walk confidently into boardrooms as much as onto runways, then I’ve done my job.

La Mode Magazine: What’s next for the program and for Boriah Couture?

Goodluck: For the program, we’re expanding. The 2026 intake will introduce a virtual component and scholarships for underserved creatives. For Boriah Couture, I’m working on a new collection that merges hand-dyeing techniques from Osogbo with architectural tailoring. It’s going to be a bold love letter to African artisanship.

La Mode Magazine: One last question what advice would you give a young African designer starting out today?

Goodluck: Learn your craft deeply, protect your originality, and don’t wait for the world to validate you. Build, even if it’s small. Consistency will take you where confidence sometimes falters. And don’t be afraid to dream loudly Africa is listening.

La Mode Magazine: Beautifully said. Thank you, Jane and congratulations again on all you’re building.

Goodluck: Thank you so much. It means the world.