Raklias, an independent clothing brand based in Ethiopia, is making waves in the fashion industry with its unique blend of style, affordability, custom fitting and commitment to using locally available resources. Founded by Rakeb Elias, a passionate entrepreneur with a rich family history in the clothing manufacturing industry, Raklias is on a mission to redefine Ethiopian fashion while staying true to its cultural roots.
Rakeb Elias, the CEO and founder of Raklias, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table. With four years of international study and travel in countries like China, Spain, Germany, and Austria, she has honed her skills and gained a global perspective on the fashion landscape. In 2022, Raklias was born, representing the culmination of Rakeb’s passion and dedication.
When asked about the inspiration behind applying to Venture Meda, Rakeb expressed her desire for guidance and support during the early stages of her business. She recognized the value of mentorship and the potential benefits of securing seed funding to address some of the challenges she faced. The program offered an opportunity for Rakeb to receive the necessary assistance to propel her brand forward.
Raklias focuses on creating custom-fitted clothes that not only showcase style but also reflect the rich heritage of Ethiopia. By utilizing locally available resources, the brand aims to contribute to the growth of the domestic textile industry. Rakeb’s vision extends beyond just offering fashionable garments; she strives to understand her customers’ preferences and deliver products that resonate with their desires.
Like any startup, Raklias encountered challenges during its initial phases. Rakeb admitted that the responsibility and demands of the business and financial aspects took her by surprise. However, through perseverance and a determined spirit, she overcame these obstacles and gained a deeper understanding of the intricacies of running a successful clothing brand.
One of the most memorable moments for Rakeb is witnessing her team’s cohesion and dedication to their work. Seeing her employees passionately contribute to Raklias’ vision and witnessing the joy on customers’ faces when they wear the brand’s creations brings her immense pride and satisfaction.
Rakeb’s advice is simple yet powerful for aspiring entrepreneurs entering the fashion industry: “Just do it.” She encourages individuals to find a way to pursue their dreams and overcome any obstacles that may arise along the way. The journey may be challenging, but with determination and resilience, success is within reach.
To stay up to date with the latest trends and developments, Raklias relies on social media, word of mouth, and networking within the fashion community. By staying connected and informed, the brand ensures its relevance in the ever-evolving fashion landscape.
As for the future of the Ethiopian clothing and textile industry, Rakeb acknowledges that there is still much progress to be made. It’s an exciting yet challenging path ahead, with opportunities for growth and innovation. Raklias aims to be at the forefront of this transformation, continually refining its products and understanding its customers better to meet their evolving needs.
At the heart of Raklias’ work philosophy is creating a positive and inspiring work environment. Rakeb believes in fostering a workplace that she herself would love to be a part of, where collaboration, creativity, and respect thrive.
For personal and professional growth, Rakeb recommends two impactful resources: “ON Purpose” by Jay Shetty and “The Diary Of A CEO” by Steven Bartlett. These sources have influenced her mindset and provided valuable insights on purpose-driven entrepreneurship and leadership.
Raklias represents the spirit of Ethiopian fashion, blending tradition with contemporary aesthetics. With a commitment to using local resources and an unwavering dedication to quality, this rising clothing brand is poised to make its mark in the industry. As the Ethiopian clothing and textile sector evolves, Raklias stands ready to embrace the exciting possibilities and shape the future of fashion in the country.