In the vibrant tapestry of Nigeria’s fashion industry, where creativity meets resilience, Azeez Barakat Itunu, fondly known as Bambina, stands as a testament to the power of hard work, passion, and unwavering determination. Born on January 31, in a modest yet nurturing family in Nigeria, Barakat’s journey from a young girl with dreams to a celebrated fashion designer is inspiring and emblematic of her values.
Roots and Beginnings
Azeez Barakat Itunu was born into a nuclear family of five, the youngest of three children. Her parents, traders by profession, instilled in her the values of discipline and perseverance. Growing up, she watched her mother juggle the challenges of entrepreneurship, which unknowingly sowed the seeds of business acumen and creativity in her young mind.
“My childhood wasn’t particularly tough, but I saw the struggles my parents endured to give us a better life,” Barakat recalls. It was tough being teased by classmates, but my mother’s sacrifices shielded us from the worst.”
Despite financial constraints, her parents ensured their children had access to education and opportunities. This foundation would later become the bedrock of Barakat’s unwavering commitment to self-improvement and excellence.
Discovering a Passion for Fashion
At just 15 years old, Azeez Barakat Itunu journey into the world of fashion began, not as a deliberate career choice, but as a practical skill to benefit her and her family. “I enrolled in a six-month fashion course after secondary school, with no intention of taking it seriously. It was meant to be a personal skill,” she explains.
However, fate had other plans. The immense demand for her designs from friends and neighbours quickly turned her casual interest into a blossoming business. By the time she turned 16, Barakat was already running a small tailoring service from home. Her innate talent and unique designs quickly gained recognition, setting her on a path she hadn’t anticipated.
Education Meets Entrepreneurship
When Barakat gained admission into Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) to study Biology, she faced the daunting task of balancing her burgeoning fashion business with the rigorous demands of academia. “My department was strict, and as the assistant head of class, I had to be present for every class. Juggling both was far from easy,” she admits.
At one point, the pressures of managing both worlds led to setbacks. “I failed two courses in 200-level because I was too engrossed in my business,” she shares. Determined not to let her education suffer further, Barakat temporarily scaled back her work to focus on her studies. This decision, though challenging, proved instrumental in helping her navigate both realms successfully.
A Dream Redirected
Interestingly, fashion wasn’t Barakat’s initial career ambition. As a child, her frequent health issues inspired her to dream of becoming a medical laboratory scientist. “I wanted to ease my parents’ burden by taking care of my health and building a stable future,” she reveals.
Although life steered her away from that path, Azeez Barakat Itunu found fulfilment in fashion. “I realized that designing clothes brought me immense joy and excitement. It became clear that this was my calling,” she reflects.
Turning Challenges into Triumphs
Barakat’s journey wasn’t without its fair share of challenges. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she experienced a turning point that reshaped her perspective. “The pandemic was a blessing in disguise. I focused heavily on social media and gained numerous clients, even though people didn’t have events to attend. It was a period of growth and self-realization,” she says.
However, her success wasn’t always celebrated. “A common misconception is that I have wealthy sponsors or engage in immoral activities to fund my lifestyle,” she notes with a mix of humour and frustration. “The truth is, I’ve always worked tirelessly for everything I have.”
Achievements and Ambitions
Barakat’s time at TASUED not only honed her entrepreneurial skills but also cemented her reputation as a reliable and innovative designer. Today, her brand, Bambina Creations, is synonymous with elegance, creativity, and quality.
Her designs have captured the hearts of many, but her dreams stretch far beyond Nigeria’s borders. “In five years, I see my business expanding globally, with clients from all corners of the world,” she declares.
Barakat also aspires to work with top celebrities and brands, citing figures like Toke Makinwa, Chioma Goodhair, and Mercy Aigbe as inspirations. “I love their fashion sense and can’t wait to see my designs grace their wardrobes,” she says excitedly.
The Woman Behind the Brand
Barakat describes herself as optimistic, hardworking, and goal-oriented—qualities that have defined her journey. Despite her achievements, she remains grounded, crediting her family, particularly her mother, for shaping her character.
“My mother’s resilience and sacrifices made me who I am today. She taught me to persevere and never settle for less,” she says with pride.
Looking back, Barakat wishes she had started her journey earlier with the same determination she has now. “If I could advise my younger self, I’d say, ‘Never relent, and always push forward,’” she muses.
Inspiring Others
Through her story, Barakat hopes to inspire others to pursue their dreams with passion and perseverance. “To anyone walking a similar path, especially those less privileged, I say: work hard and pray. God sees your struggles and will crown your efforts in due time,” she advises.
Looking Ahead
As Barakat continues to chart her course in the fashion world, her focus remains on growth and impact. “I want to make sure the challenges I’ve faced are worth it. I want to leave a legacy of excellence and resilience,” she affirms.
With her unwavering determination, unyielding faith, and boundless creativity, Azeez Barakat Itunu is not just a fashion designer but a trailblazer, redefining what it means to succeed against all odds.
