Adenike Ogunlesi, the visionary founder and Creative Director of Ruff ‘n’ Tumble, has redefined Nigeria’s children’s fashion industry through sacrifice and a commitment to excellence. Her journey from a modest entrepreneurial endeavor to leading a Pan-African brand exemplifies the transformative power of strict adherence to passion and clear vision.
Born on July 14, 1959, to a Scottish mother and a Nigerian father, Ogunlesi was raised in a multicultural and polygamous household in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. Her mother, Elizabeth Okuboyejo, was a pioneering fashion entrepreneur renowned for her work with indigenous fabrics, notably Adire. This environment instilled in Ogunlesi a deep appreciation for cultural heritage and craftsmanship. Initially enrolling in law at Ahmadu Bello University, she soon realized her true calling lay elsewhere and left academia to apprentice under her mother’s tutelage in the fashion industry.
The inception of Ruff ‘n’ Tumble in 1996 was both serendipitous and necessity-driven. As a young mother seeking quality children’s pajamas without satisfactory options in the local market, Ogunlesi took matters into her own hands by designing and sewing pajamas for her children. The positive reception from friends and family highlighted a significant market gap, prompting her to produce children’s clothing on a larger scale. Starting from selling garments from the trunk of her car and at local bazaars, her dedication to quality and innovative designs quickly garnered a loyal customer base.
Ogunlesi’s commitment to excellence propelled Ruff ‘n’ Tumble from a small home-based operation to a leading children’s clothing brand in Nigeria. By 2000, she established the flagship store in Ikeja GRA, Lagos, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s retail presence. Today, Ruff ‘n’ Tumble boasts 17 retail outlets across major Nigerian cities, including Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, and maintains a robust online presence catering to a diverse clientele. The brand is celebrated for its vibrant, high-quality, and fashion-forward designs that resonate with both children and parents.
Beyond her entrepreneurial achievements, Ogunlesi is deeply committed to social responsibility and mentorship. In memory of her mother, she founded the Betti-Okuboyejo Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to training young individuals in garment making and entrepreneurship. The foundation has empowered over 200 youths, equipping them with essential skills for sustainable livelihoods. Additionally, she established the I Share Cuz I Care initiative, focusing on providing school uniforms and educational materials to underprivileged children, thereby fostering a culture of empathy and community support.
Ogunlesi’s expertise and passion for nurturing emerging entrepreneurs led to her role as one of the “Lions” on Nigeria’s adaptation of the globally acclaimed business reality show, Lions’ Den. In this capacity, she evaluates and invests in promising business ventures, offering not only financial support but also invaluable mentorship. Her participation underscores her dedication to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation within Nigeria’s burgeoning business landscape.
Her contributions have been acknowledged through numerous awards and honors. She has been celebrated for her creativity, excellence, and impact on the fashion industry, serving as an inspiration to many aspiring entrepreneurs. Her journey reflects a blend of cultural appreciation, business acumen, and a profound commitment to societal betterment.
Adenike Ogunlesi’s trajectory from crafting children’s pajamas at home to steering a leading fashion brand epitomizes visionary leadership and entrepreneurial spirit. Her multifaceted roles as a business leader, philanthropist, and mentor continue to influence and inspire, leaving an indelible mark on Nigeria’s fashion industry and beyond.
