Oheneba Yaw Boamah, the founder and Creative Lead of the menswear brand Abrantie TheGentleman, has called on young Ghanaians to actively shape their career paths. He stated that success stems from deliberate choices, not luck. Mr. Boamah shared his experiences at the first "My Hustle" event. Hitz FM organized this initiative to support young entrepreneurs.
The event took place on April 25. It was held at the Joy Prime Studios. This initiative is part of wider efforts to boost small and medium-sized businesses in Ghana. The theme was "Building Smart Businesses, Growing Strong." It brought together new business owners, creative individuals, and industry experts. They discussed practical ways to achieve lasting business growth.
Mr. Boamah explained his career was built on careful planning from the start. He said, "I always tell people that I made a conscious decision to be very particular about what I was doing." He detailed his planning process. He thought deeply about how his resume, or CV, would be seen. He wanted it to represent his skills and ambitions. This foresight helped him position himself effectively in the industry.
His interest in design began in secondary school. He studied visual arts there. This choice laid the groundwork for his future in fashion. He later enrolled at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). He pursued Industrial Art, focusing on textiles. This academic path aimed to combine his creative talents with technical knowledge.
During his time at KNUST, Mr. Boamah identified a specific goal. He wanted to be known as a designer. He also recognized the need for a thorough knowledge of textiles. This understanding is crucial for textile-based design. He actively sought practical experience to achieve this. He pursued internships and attachments within Ghana's textile sector. He also completed his national service with these companies.
He was deeply involved in the textile industry. He worked for several textile firms. This hands-on experience was vital. It shaped his professional identity. He worked with two different textile companies simultaneously at one point. This dedication showed his commitment to mastering the craft. He completed his national service at Tex Styles Ghana Limited (GTP).
Mr. Boamah stressed that success in fashion involves more than just making clothes. It requires understanding the entire creative field. This includes areas like make-up artistry, modeling, and effective storytelling. He made a deliberate effort to educate himself in these related disciplines. This multidisciplinary approach enriches his brand's appeal.
His background extends to television production. This experience informs his artistic vision and brand. His fashion shows are designed to tell stories. They are artistically driven. This stems from thoughtful decisions made over time. He aims for a holistic presentation of his work.
Building a career in the creative industry requires discipline and sacrifice. Mr. Boamah recalled working long hours. He often went from his job at GTP straight to Katamanto market. These sacrifices were necessary for his success. He encourages young entrepreneurs to value every experience. He believes even small steps contribute to future achievements.
He advised them, "You may feel like you are not making progress, but every experience is adding to your story and shaping you for where you are going." He concluded by reiterating that consistency and intentional effort are key. Success is not accidental. It is the result of planned actions and hard work.