In the world of fashion, where trends come and go, there are some who dare to create a brand that not only reflects personal style but also celebrates cultural heritage. One such visionary is Edmund Galabe, the CEO of African Rich, a streetwear brand that captures the essence of individuality, creativity, and African influences. In this exclusive interview, we delve into the story behind African Rich, its unique offerings, and the ambitious dreams of its founder.
African Rich was founded in 2019 by Edmund Galabe, born on March 30, 1979. The brand has a small but dedicated team of three employees and its revenue varies each year, with the previous year recording an impressive $50,000. Despite its modest size, African Rich has its sights set far beyond the USA, as they proudly ship their products to customers worldwide.
The driving force behind African Rich’s rapid growth is its commitment to filling a void in the streetwear market. Edmund’s vision was born from personal frustration. In 2019, he embarked on a quest to find street-style clothing that resonated with his unique cultural influences and heritage and exhibited top-quality craftsmanship. To his dismay, the market offered nothing worthy of his passion for fashion, leading him to the realization that he could create something exceptional himself. With the desire to share the richness of African culture, values, natural resources, foods, music, and people, African Rich was born.
Intrigued by the genesis of African Rich, we inquired about the inspiration behind the brand. Edmund recounted the moment of realization, stating that the lack of suitable streetwear propelled him to embark on this remarkable journey. He is driven by the mission to provide quality and affordable streetwear that embodies his African roots. Moreover, the brand’s commitment to social responsibility is commendable, as a certain percentage of its proceeds go towards supporting orphanages in Africa.
Edmund’s background adds depth and authenticity to the brand’s cultural narrative. Born and raised in Cameroon, Africa, he ventured to the USA after high school to pursue higher education. Armed with a master’s degree in Business Administration, he brings both a keen business acumen and a passion for fashion to African Rich. Beyond his professional pursuits, Edmund cherishes his role as a parent and embraces life’s adventures, traveling the world with enthusiasm.
A brand is only as strong as its leadership team, and African Rich is no exception. Assa, the brand’s Creative Designer, and Gio, the Social Manager, play instrumental roles in bringing Edmund’s vision to life. Together, they infuse the brand with vibrant designs and trendy merchandise, setting African Rich apart from its competitors.
Despite the challenges faced on his entrepreneurial journey, Edmund remains steadfast in his dedication to African Rich. The fashion industry demands resilience and innovation, and Edmund’s love for fashion and filling the market gap have fueled his pursuit. As a dapper-dressed man himself, he is determined to create a lasting impact on the streetwear scene.
Looking ahead, African Rich is set to explore new opportunities and markets. While primarily a B2C business at the moment, the brand has its sights on expansion into the B2B sector. Among its competitors, D’iyanu and Temu, African Rich stands out with its top premium quality merchandise, vibrant designs, and unique offerings.
Despite African Rich’s remarkable progress, Edmund has not sought investment funding as of now. The brand remains wholly independent, allowing it to maintain its creative autonomy and unwavering commitment to its mission.
African Rich is more than just a fashion brand; it represents a cultural movement celebrating African heritage and individuality. Under the visionary leadership of CEO Edmund Galabe, the brand has carved its path toward success, captivating the hearts of fashion enthusiasts globally. As we bid farewell to this enriching conversation, we eagerly anticipate the future of African Rich, where culture, creativity, and fashion unite in a harmonious blend of style and identity.
by Pricilia Mugwa
Subscribe to my channel
Recent Comments