African Voices, the 30-minute programme of the Cable News Network (CNN), this week profiles two Nigerian fashion icons making waves across the globe. African Voices Changemakers is sponsored by telecommunications services provider, Globacom.
The guests are Andrea Iyamah, a Nigerian-Canadian fashion designer and Ruth Erikan James, whose brand name is known as Veekee James.
Born on March 18, 1993 and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, Andrea Dumebi Iyamah is the founder and CEO of her fashion label, Andrea Iyamah. At 17, she launched her fashion brand which is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. The fashion outfit which caters for top personalities including Michelle Obama, Kate Hudson, Gabrielle Union, Ciara, Issa Rae and Nigerian Nollywood star, Genevieve Nnaji. is specialized in bridal, swimwear and ready-to-wear lines.
Andrea Iyamah has a flagship store in Lagos which was launched in 2017 and its bold swimwear blends African heritage with contemporary design.
Ruth Erikan James, on her part was trained by her fashion designer mum while growing up. She started her own fashion brand Veekee James in 2019.Veekee James later expanded to Veekee James Man, a fashion brand for men’s wear, and Shoprikan for women. Veekee James has grown over the years and is known for bespoke couture with her exquisite gowns known for their impeccable craftsmanship and red-carpet appeal.
The duo will engage viewers with their stories on Saturday at 8.30 a.m., while a repeat will be shown on Saturday at noon. On Sunday, there will be two repeats at 4.30 a.m., and at 7.00 p.m.
