Nigerian fashion brand DWL gets Qatar accelerator programme recognition

By Cynthia Ezekwe.

Nigerian Luxury women’s fashion brand,Defining Women’s Lifestyle (DWL), has been accepted into the Scale7 Fashion Accelerator programme funded by Qatar Development Bank (QDB).

DWL, known for its bespoke designs, and currently based in Qatar with operations in Lagos and Doha, was selected alongside nine other prominent Qatar-based fashion and design brands for the programme  which kicked off on September 18, 2023. The programme involves provision of specialised mentorship, business development activities and funding.

Scale7 is the first fashion and design business incubator in Qatar founded by Qatar

Development Bank (QDB) in partnership with M7, Qatar’s epicentre for innovation and entrepreneurship in design, fashion and tech.

Established by Qatar Museums under the leadership of Sheikha Al-

Mayassa, M 7 responds to the demands of Qatar’s growing fashion and design industries to support Qatar -based promising innovative entrepreneurs with huge market potential to grow their businesses to iconic global fashion and design brands.

Commenting on the achievement, Ivie Odemwingie-Osula, founder and creative director of DWL, said,  “We are absolutely thrilled to have DWL selected for the prestigious Scale7 fashion accelerator programme  after a rigorous selection process.  This recognition not only validates our vision and hard work but also provides us with unparalleled opportunities for mentorship, networking, and capacity growth towards

positioning DWL as a competitive global brand.”

On how the support from Qatar Development Bank will impact her business, she enthuses: “Undoubtedly, the government of Qatar  will enhance the status of the DWL brand, to increase our operations and growth, globally. For us at DWL, the Business Accelerator Programme will amplify our capabilities, allowing us to refine our strategies and scale faster for enhanced brand presence, increased capacity, streamlined operations, and a wider reach and audience. We are excited for the journey ahead and the positive impact it will have on the DW L brand and community.”