Yinka Ash, born on January 7, 1995, originally known as Olayinka Ashogbon, epitomizes creativity and entrepreneurial spirit within Nigeria’s dynamic fashion sphere. Possessing an innate talent for design and an impeccable sense of style, He has emerged as a prominent figure in both the fashion industry and the business world. Originating from Nigeria, Yinka Ash’s influence extends far beyond his homeland, captivating audiences worldwide with his exceptional designs and astute business.
Ash was born and bred in the bustling city of Lagos, Nigeria, specifically in the vibrant neighborhood of Epe. Raised amidst the dynamic energy of Lagos, his father, a skilled structural engineer, and his mother, a dedicated English language lecturer and writer, instilled in him a deep appreciation for both creativity and academic rigor.
Yinka Ash is multifaceted, a designer, artist, creative director and Founder of Ashcorp Luxury Projects Limited, the holding company for Ashluxe, Vertical Rave and Ashluxury. As a key opinion leader within his industry, he paves the way for young audacious creators who dare to leave a timeless mark on the global tapestry.
Following his graduation from Caleb University, Ash embarked on his professional journey by starting as a personal shopper, specializing in sourcing and importing discounted clothing items from online platforms for resale. In a bold move in 2017, Ash took the entrepreneurial leap and established Ashluxury, a minimalist concept store situated in Lekki, Lagos. Alongside the physical store, he also launched an e-commerce platform catering to the burgeoning demand for luxury fashion items across Africa. Ashluxury swiftly gained recognition for its curated selection of international luxury brands, boasting an impressive inventory featuring renowned names such as Rhude, Adidas, Naked Wolfe, Nike, Kenzo, and Coperni.
In 2022, Ash unveiled the Vertical Rave festival, a groundbreaking annual celebration intertwining music and fashion. The event quickly became a staple in the cultural calendar, captivating audiences with its innovative fusion of artistic expression.
The subsequent year saw the launch of the Yinka Ash ART (YAART) Incubation Programme, a non-profit organization dedicated to nurturing the talents of young artists. Through comprehensive training and support, YAART aims to guide emerging artists on their academic journeys and beyond.
In December of 2023, Ash made a significant mark in the fashion world with the launch of his debut fashion line, “Kalakuta Republic,” paying tribute to the indomitable spirit of Fela Kuti and the historical legacy of his Kalakuta Republic. This groundbreaking collection aspires to encapsulate the pulsating energy of Afrobeats while seamlessly integrating emerging cultural elements.
Notably, the collaboration with the estate of Fela Kuti marked a pivotal moment, with Ashluxe becoming the first African brand to secure official licensing rights. The launch event, held in Lagos, Nigeria.
Olayinka Ashogbon has firmly established himself as a formidable presence in the fashion industry, garnering recognition through prestigious awards and honors. His remarkable achievements have earned him a place among the industry’s elite. In 2022, Ash was honored to be named in Forbes’ Africa 30 Under 30 list, a testament to his remarkable talent and entrepreneurial acumen. The following year, he achieved another milestone by being inducted into the esteemed Business of Fashion (BoF) 500 class, an exclusive compilation of trailblazers shaping the global fashion landscape.
Ash’s creative vision draws inspiration from various sources, notably 90’s clothing styles and the vibrant culture of rap and hip-hop. These influences permeate his designs, infusing them with a distinctive blend of nostalgia and contemporary flair.
