Summary
Prudent Gabriel rose from a waitress to a fashion guru. Although born into a poor background, she has leveraged dedication, talent and creativity to become a rising star in Nigeria’s creative industry.
Prudent Gabriel, an iconic fashion guru, is an inspiring testament of resilience, determination and unwavering faith. The fashion colossus was born on August 12, 1996, to Akwa Ibom parents. Her father was a taxi driver, while her mother is a regular farmer who engages in tailoring sometimes. Prudent Gabriel, also known as Prudent Gabriel Okopi, grew up in Ajah, Lagos State, Nigeria.
Childhood experience
Her early life was characterised by a series of difficulties. Navigating early life was a big challenge due to the financial lack in the family. Speaking in an interview, Prudent said, “I was born into a family of seven with two step-siblings. We were born into a very disciplined Christian home.”
She has a childhood experience that made her cry during her interview session.
She said, “My most memorable childhood experience was when I always had to drive with my dad so I could protect and cover him up due to a skin sickness he had all over his body and neck. He was driving a taxi because he had lost his job. I did this with him for a while so we could at least raise some money daily for the family.”
Amidst the hardship, adversity and challenges, a spark of ambition ignited within her, fuelling an unquenchable desire to rise above her circumstances.
Early Adulthood
When Prudent finished her secondary education, she couldn’t pay for JAMB due to financial constraints.
She went into farming with her mum, where she processed palm kernels into palm oil in Akwa Ibom.
Luck seemed to shine on her when a relative took her from the village for a UK relocation. Unfortunately, the plan didn’t work out, plunging Prudent into despair and frustration. Dusting herself up, she went to live with her uncle, where she worked at different restaurants and bars as a waitress. But the salary was barely enough to meet her daily needs.
Prudent was an ardent lover of God. Her commitment to the church, especially in the choir, endeared her to all. Some helped her out in commuting to and fro when she couldn’t afford it, while some freely assisted her with clothing when she couldn’t change her worn-out outfits due to financial lack.
Educational Experience
Prudent aspired to be a medical doctor, but like the average Nigerian experience, her dream was aborted due to financial lack. She struggled with finances and later enrolled at the National Open University, where she studied political science.
Career Pursuit
Her mother’s local tailoring work greatly influenced her. When a roadside tailor spoilt her clothes, she decided to learn the craft. Despite a series of disappointments from a woman she wanted to learn from, she didn’t give up. She took the bull by the horns and started a self-learn, using many fabrics that ended up as waste. Yet, she didn’t relent. She continued learning by herself, improving on her mistakes until she got her mark.
Career breakthrough
Prudent engaged in free online lesson videos, Facebook Live sessions and Instagram Live, but her fellowship was low.
Her major breakthrough came with her ready-to-wear dresses. In an interview, she stated, “The turning point for my brand was my ready-to-wear. People started ordering my ready-to-wear en masse because they fit so well when I wear and post them.”
In 2020, she started Prudential Fashion Academy and Prudential Styling, which has produced over 150 fashion designers. Her network is currently estimated at $75,000 with over 400k followers on social media.
She has produced amazing students such as Ezinne, LazybyDesign, Preye, Idara, DesignbyIrene, RarebyAngel, and all superstars.
Inspiration models
In Prudent’s interview, she mentioned notable figures that serve as her model. She said, “My mum is always positive and would always spur you on no matter what. She taught me how to actually face my fears. Then, when it comes to fashion, I would say Veekee James.”
She further said, “Valdrin Sahiti is my first international style icon. For Nigeria, Matopeda Atelier first inspired me. And then Veekee James was also a force. I also love Vietnamese designer, Chung Thanh Phong.”
Awards and Recognition
Prudent has garnered several recognitions in recent years, including,
- Young Entrepreneur of the Year (Lagos State, 2022)
- Fashion Designer of the Year (Nigeria Fashion Awards, 2023)
- Women in Business Excellence Award (2023)
- Top 30 Under 30 Entrepreneurs in Africa (Forbes Africa, 2024)
- Best Fashion Academy (Nigerian Education Awards, 2024)
Other notable things to know about Prudent
Besides being a fashion guru, Prudent also doubles as a motivational speaker. She has produced several books on business strategy, personal development, motivation and goal setting, entrepreneurship in the African context and fashion industry insights. Her books have inspired many readers to pursue their ambitions and have become popular resources for aspiring entrepreneurs across Nigeria and beyond. She has styled several celebrities, including Naomi Mac, a finalist from Nigerian Idol, Queen B, a participant in the reality show Ultimate Love, and many others.
Prudent Gabriel’s story is an inspiration to all who aspire to greatness. Her sense of innovation and social responsibility is worth emulating.
Editor’s note: This story was written by Chisom Chukwu and was first published on Crispng.com
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