Oluwadunsin Bolaji shares insights on exploring Afrocentric Fashion Waste, Environmental Responsibility

Oluwadunsin Bolaji is a visionary entrepreneur and business leader who has made a significant impact in the fashion and accessories industry. She is the founder of DunsinCraft Collection LTD, a sustainable Afrocentric Accessory brand that manufactures Africa-inspired bags and accessories that inspire imaginative storytelling rooted in the rich culture of African individuals. In addition to her business acumen, Oluwadunsin is also a dedicated and passionate advocate for entrepreneurship and education.

DunsinCrafts Academy has empowered over 1,000 young women in craft making skills, helping them to become financially independent.
Oluwadunsin is the Public Relations Officer of the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) Alumnae Association, a U.S. Consulate program. She is an alumna of The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Program, AFDP Fashionomics Africa, She Leads Africa and United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network Nigeria.

Could you tell us about yourself and your journey as an entrepreneur in the Afrocentric accessory business?

Certainly! My name is Oluwadunsin Bolaji, and I am the founder of DunsinCraft Collection Ltd. My journey as an entrepreneur in the Afrocentric accessory business began with a deep passion for celebrating African culture and promoting its beauty through unique accessories. I have always been inspired by the rich heritage, vibrant colors, and intricate patterns of African fabrics.

With DunsinCraft Collection, I wanted to create a brand that could capture the essence of Afrocentrism through accessories and share them with the world.

What inspired you to start DunsinCraft Collection, and what sets your brand apart from others in the market?

The inspiration behind DunsinCraft Collection came from my desire to showcase the beauty and diversity of our African culture. I noticed a lack of representation and appreciation for Afrocentric accessories in the market, so I decided to fill that gap. My brand stands out by offering meticulously handcrafted accessories that have a lifetime waterproof feature and blends traditional African elements with contemporary styles. Each piece is carefully designed to reflect the essence of African heritage and make a bold fashion statement.

How does your business contribute to social impact or community development?

Community development and social impact are integral parts of my mission. By offering skill acquisition training, DunsinCrafts Academy has empowered 1,776 young girls and women. We partnered with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Skills Acquisition & Entrepreneurship Department (SAED), Academy for Women Entrepreneurs, Federal University of Technology, Akure and so on.

Secondly, through DunsinCrafts School Bag Initiative, we upcycle fabric waste from bag production into school bags for underprivileged children in rural communities with 1,677 beneficiaries so far.

Can you share any insights or observations you’ve gained regarding the environmental impact of plastic-infused fashion waste?

Plastic-infused fashion waste poses a significant environmental threat. As synthetic materials continue to dominate the fashion industry, they contribute to the accumulation of non-biodegradable waste. When these materials end up in landfills or ecosystems, they take hundreds of years to decompose, releasing harmful chemicals into the environment. Reports said about 1,320 tonnes, which is equivalent to 12 per cent of the total daily waste generated in Lagos state, are made up of textile materials. This calls for serious concern. It is crucial for the industry to embrace more sustainable alternatives and circular fashion practices to mitigate this issue.

What steps or initiatives have you taken to promote sustainability and reduce plastic waste in your business operations?

To promote sustainability and reduce plastic waste, we have implemented several initiatives within DunsinCraft Collection. Firstly, we actively engage in recycling and upcycling practices within our production process, repurposing materials and minimizing waste. Secondly, we educate our customers about the importance of sustainable fashion choices and encourage them to adopt eco-conscious behaviors.

Can you tell us about your experience as a delegate at the United Nations SDSN Conference of Youth on Environment and Climate 2023?

Being a delegate at the UN SDSN Nigeria COYEC ‘23 was an incredibly enriching experience. It provided me with a platform to engage with like-minded individuals passionate about addressing environmental and climate challenges. Being surrounded by such a motivated and diverse group of young people was truly inspiring. It was a unique opportunity to contribute my skills and work collectively towards a common goal of creating a more sustainable future.

Were there any notable speakers or experts at the conference who shared valuable insights on environmental and climate issues?

Yes, there were several notable speakers and experts who shared valuable insights during the conference such as Jumoke Olowookere, founder of The Waste Museum, Yetunde Deborah Fadeyi, Olugbenga Ogunbowale, co-founder and CEO of Grant Master, Mayokun lyaomolere, founder of Plogging Nigeria and many others. Their expertise and experiences provided us with a deeper understanding of the complex challenges we face and the potential solutions available.

What are your future aspirations or plans to continue your involvement in environmental activism following your experience at the conference?

Following my experience at the conference, I am more determined than ever to continue my involvement in environmental activism. I plan to create awareness campaigns and community-based projects through the School Bag Initiative that promote sustainable fashion practices. I also intend to engage with schools to educate and inspire young people about environmental issues.

Additionally, I aim to build a solution that will upcycle and recycle fashion waste in Africa. Through these efforts, I hope to contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future for our planet.