Meet BwariTimes person of the month, a prominent fashion designer, entrepreuneur and a blaze setter in her field. Miss Ruqayyat Musa is an outstanding personality we interviewed and we know you can’t wait to meet her already.
1. Can you give us a brief introduction about yourself?
My name is Ruqayyat Musa. A fashion designer based in Bwari, Abuja. I am passionate about fashion, creativity and self-expression, and I enjoy creating beautiful pieces that make people feel confident and comfortable. I am a simple, hardworking and ambitious woman who believes in continuous growth and learning.
2. Educational background
I started my primary education at Pilot Primary School, Bwari, which is now known as Science Primary School, Bwari. I proceeded to JSS Bwari One for my junior secondary education and attended GSS Yaba, Abaji for my senior secondary education.
After secondary school, I furthered my education at Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic, Zaria, where I completed my tertiary education.
3. Give us an insight into your career.
My career is centred around fashion designing. I have always been drawn to creativity and the ability to turn ideas into something beautiful and wearable. Over time, I have developed my skills, gained experience working with different clients and learned the importance of quality, patience and attention to detail.
For me, fashion is not just about making clothes; it is about understanding people, bringing their ideas to life and helping them feel confident in what they wear.
4. Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
In the next five years, I see myself running a well-established fashion brand with a strong presence beyond Abuja. I want to expand my business, train and empower younger people who are interested in fashion, and become known for quality and creativity.
5. What was growing up like?
Growing up was a mixture of beautiful memories, discipline, learning and challenges. Like every child, I had my fun moments, but I was also taught the importance of respect, hard work, good character and being responsible.
6. Challenges faced in life (Personal or Professional)
One major challenge has been learning how to balance personal responsibilities with my career. Building a career also comes with setbacks, difficult clients, financial challenges and moments of self-doubt. But these experiences have taught me resilience and helped me become stronger and more determined.
Never underestimate the importance of consistency.
7. Over the years, what have been your life lessons?
I have learned that life does not always happen according to our plans, and that is okay. I have learned to be patient, to trust the process, to value good people and to never underestimate the importance of consistency.
I have also learned that sometimes you have to start small before you can achieve something big.
8. What were your aspirations growing up?
Growing up, I wanted to be successful and independent. I always wanted to build something of my own and become someone my family could be proud of. As I grew older, fashion became a major part of that dream.
9. What is your typical day like?
My day usually starts with planning what needs to be done. Depending on my schedule, I may have clients to attend to, fabrics and designs to work on, measurements to take, fittings to supervise and orders to complete. I also make time to rest and spend time with family because maintaining a balance is important to me.
10. What is your most cherished gift and who was it from?
One of my most cherished gifts is a thoughtful gift I received from someone very special to me. What makes it valuable is not necessarily the price of the gift, but the thought and love behind it.
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11. Top 5 on your wish list
1. Growing my fashion brand into a recognised name.
2. Owning my own fashion studio.
3. Travelling to places I have always wanted to visit.
4. Financial stability and continued personal growth.
5. Seeing my family happy, healthy and successful.
12. Favourite kind of music on replay
I enjoy music that has a good rhythm and positive energy. I particularly enjoy Afrobeats and soulful music, depending on my mood.
13. What is the first app you check in the morning/bedtime?
WhatsApp. I like to check my messages and see what I may have missed.
14. Favourite fashion items
Beautifully tailored dresses, handbags, shoes, sunglasses and statement accessories. I love pieces that are elegant but still comfortable.
15. What wouldn’t you be caught wearing?
Anything that I don’t feel comfortable or confident in. I believe you can look fashionable without compromising your comfort or personality.
16. Best travel destination and why?
Dubai would be one of my favourite destinations because of its beautiful scenery, fashion, luxury, architecture and the variety of things to experience. I would also love to explore more African and international destinations.
17. How do you relax?
I relax by staying indoors, watching movies, listening to music, spending time with people I love and sometimes simply taking a break from work.
18. Favourite food
Rice and chicken would definitely make the list! I also enjoy traditional Nigerian meals, especially when they are well prepared.
19. Definition of style
To me, style is the way you express yourself through what you wear. It is not necessarily about wearing expensive clothes; it is about confidence, personality, comfort and knowing what works for you.
20. Favourite fashion designer
I admire designers who are creative, consistent and able to create designs that are both beautiful and distinctive. I particularly admire PRUDENT GABRIEL OKOPI for her creativity and impact on Nigerian fashion.
21. Favourite perfume, designer bag and shoes
I love fragrances that are elegant, feminine and long-lasting. For bags, I appreciate classic designer pieces that can stand the test of time, while for shoes, I prefer elegant heels and stylish but comfortable footwear.
22. Mum’s advice that stuck with you
One advice from my mum that has stayed with me is to always be respectful, hardworking and independent, and never look down on anyone because you never know where life will take you.
23. Favourite sport, colour and weather
My favourite sport is football. My favourite colour is black, because it is simple, elegant and timeless. I enjoy cool weather, especially when it is calm and comfortable enough to relax.
24. Favourite day of the week and why?
Sunday, because it gives me the opportunity to slow down, reflect on the week, spend time with family and prepare myself mentally for the new week.
25. Role model(s)
My biggest role models are my parents because of the values they instilled in me. Professionally, I admire successful entrepreneurs and fashion designers who built their brands through hard work, creativity and consistency.
26. Looking back, what would you tell a younger you?
I would tell my younger self: “Be patient with yourself. You don’t have to have everything figured out immediately. Keep learning, keep working and never be afraid to start small. Your journey will make sense eventually.”
27. What are your plans for Bwari, if any?
I would love to contribute to the growth and development of Bwari through fashion. My goal is to build a stronger fashion community where young people can learn skills, discover their creativity and have opportunities to become financially independent.
I would also love to see more fashion-related businesses and training opportunities in Bwari, especially for young women.
It has been awesome talking with a young CEO and uprising business mogul. Follow BwariTimes on Facebook and other social media handles for more insightful info, news and updates.
