Fashion & Beauty
Emerge 2025: Rhoda Michael’s Fashion Institute Unveils 38 New Fashion Brands In Lagos
Rhoda Michael’s Fashion Institute, a globally recognized fashion and creative training institution based in Lagos, has launched 38 new fashion brands into the Nigerian and international fashion industry.
The launch took place recently in Lagos, during the highly anticipated “Emerge 2025: Fashion Show and Business Launch.”
The historic event was witnessed by family, friends, and well-wishers of the graduating designers, who gathered to celebrate their creativity, resilience, and transformation.
Founded by renowned fashion designer and entrepreneur Rhoda Yemisi Agbeyo, popularly known as Rhoda Michaels, the institute marked yet another significant milestone in its mission to raise world-class fashion entrepreneurs.
Speaking at the event, Rhoda Michaels emphasized that the institute goes far beyond teaching cutting and sewing.
“At Rhoda Michaels Fashion Institute, it is not just about cutting and sewing. We are launching 38 brands into the market, and these are not just designers but fashion businesses.”
She explained that the institution is intentional about producing graduates who can compete globally, innovate boldly, and run sustainable fashion enterprises.
“Everybody can cut and sew, but not everybody can run the business. That is why we focus so much on business development, mentorship, colour theory, branding, and entrepreneurship. Even if fashion is not your calling, you must graduate as someone who can run a fashion business.”
Michael highlighted the institute’s commitment to global exposure, noting that its curriculum is designed to meet international standards.
“An average Rhoda Michaels student can list 50 international designers, 50 African designers, and 50 Nigerian top designers.
This institution imparts deep knowledge, identity, and confidence. Today, we are giving the world 38 new fashion brands that will take the industry to a global lens.”
She added: “Rhoda Michael’s Fashion Institute is recognized both in Nigeria and internationally. We don’t give what we don’t have. When they say they are products of Rhoda Michaels, I can beat my chest to defend them.”
Michael also revealed that she personally supervises both local and foreign students to ensure that every graduate receives the highest standard of training.
Commenting on the challenges in the Nigerian fashion space, she noted: “The industry lacks skilled manpower.
You can find someone who can cut and sew, but you may not find someone who can supervise production or manage a supply chain. That is why we train them thoroughly to become competent entrepreneurs.”
One of the newly unveiled designers, Shola, founder of Style by Shola, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the institute.
“I have always wanted to become a fashion designer, but the process can discourage you. At Rhoda Michaels, the doors were open.
You have to know it, you have to learn it, and gradually we developed a passion for the identity they trained us to build.”
He added, “I applaud the founder for this great opportunity and the impactful knowledge she is giving the fashion industry.
They have been doing this for close to 10 years, and many fashion brands have passed through them—and many more will still come. I am a proud product of the institute, and I am ready to explore the industry.”
The “Emerge 2025” showcase underscored the institute’s long-standing commitment to nurturing young, creative minds, preparing them not only for design but for leadership in the fashion industry.
As the Rhoda Michael Fashion Institute continues to empower new brands and equip designers with world-class skills, the institution remains a force in shaping the future of African fashion.

