Princess Kelechi Oghene, the visionary behind GMYT Group Ltd, has redefined fashion, education, and philanthropy in Africa. As the driving force behind GMYT Fashion Academy, GMYT Hostel, GMYT Foundation, and the renowned GMYT African Humanitarian Awards (GAHAwards), she is committed to creating opportunities for aspiring designers, empowering women, and fostering social change.
In this exclusive interview, Princess Kelechi shares her journey, the impact of her initiatives, and her vision for the future.
Interviewer: Your work bridges fashion, education, and philanthropy. What initially inspired you to create GMYT Group, and how has that vision evolved over the years?
Princess Kelechi Oghene: GMYT Group was born out of my passion for fashion and my desire to empower people, especially women. I started GMYT Fashion Academy to equip aspiring designers with the skills they need to succeed in the industry. But I quickly realized that true empowerment goes beyond fashion—it’s about education, mentorship, and providing opportunities. That’s why I expanded into philanthropy through the GMYT Foundation. Over the years, my vision has evolved from simply running a business to building a legacy that transforms lives.
Interviewer: The GMYT African Humanitarian Awards has become a major platform for celebrating changemakers. What impact do you hope GAHAwards continues to make?
Princess Kelechi Oghene: GAHAwards is more than just an award ceremony; it’s a movement. We want to recognize and amplify the voices of individuals making a difference in Africa. By celebrating humanitarian efforts, we inspire others to contribute to their communities. The goal is to create a ripple effect where more people embrace social impact, whether through business, philanthropy, or advocacy. We want GAHAwards to be a catalyst for meaningful change across the continent.
Interviewer: Education is a core focus of GMYT Foundation. Can you tell us about your scholarship program and how it has transformed lives?
Princess Kelechi Oghene: Education is a powerful tool for change. Through the GMYT Foundation, we offer scholarships to young women who want to build careers in fashion but lack the financial means to do so. Many of our scholarship recipients have gone on to establish their own brands, breaking generational cycles of poverty. The impact is not just in the skills they gain, but in the confidence and independence they develop. We are committed to expanding these opportunities so that more women can rewrite their futures.
Interviewer: Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in fashion. How is GMYT Fashion Academy integrating sustainable practices into its curriculum?
Princess Kelechi Oghene: Sustainability is no longer an option—it’s a necessity. At GMYT Fashion Academy, we emphasize eco-friendly fashion by teaching our students about sustainable fabrics, ethical production, and waste reduction. We encourage them to think beyond trends and focus on creating pieces that are timeless, durable, and environmentally responsible. Our goal is to produce designers who are not just creative but also conscious of their impact on the planet.
Interviewer: As a mentor to many young entrepreneurs, what do you think is the biggest challenge they face today, and how can they overcome it?
Princess Kelechi Oghene: One of the biggest challenges is self-doubt. Many young entrepreneurs have great ideas but hesitate to take the first step because they fear failure. My advice is simple: start where you are, with what you have. No one has it all figured out from the beginning. Success comes from taking action, learning from mistakes, and continuously improving. Surround yourself with mentors, invest in learning, and remain persistent.
Interviewer: Looking ahead, what are your biggest goals for GMYT Group?
Princess Kelechi Oghene: We’re expanding in multiple directions. We plan to launch a mentorship program that connects upcoming designers with industry leaders. We’re also looking at taking GAHAwards to an international level to spotlight African excellence on a global stage. Additionally, we want to increase the number of scholarships we offer, so more young women can access the education they need. The ultimate goal is to create a lasting impact that outlives me. Interviewer: Finally, what legacy do you hope to leave behind?
Princess Kelechi Oghene: I want to be remembered as someone who uplifted others. Whether it’s through fashion, education, or philanthropy, I want my work to continue transforming lives long after I’m gone. My legacy is not about titles or awards—it’s about the people whose futures were changed because of what we built at GMYT. If my story can inspire one person to chase their dreams and make a difference, then I have succeeded.
Princess Kelechi Oghene is more than a fashion mogul—she’s a force for change. Through innovation, empowerment, and social impact, she is shaping a new narrative for African fashion and philanthropy. And with every initiative, she is proving that true success is measured by the lives we touch.
