Fatima Zahra Ba, a Visionary at the Heart of Senegalese Fashion
Fatima Zahra Ba, founder of So’Fatoo and co-founder of Arka concept store, embodies the soul of a passionate entrepreneur. At 30, this veiled Senegalese mother stands out for her dynamism and creativity. Since creating her brand in 2012, Fatima has made her mark on the Senegalese fashion landscape.
First Steps in Entrepreneurship
Fatima Zahra Ba grew up in an environment steeped in creativity and craftsmanship. From an early age, she observed her grandmother working alongside weavers and her aunts expert in dyeing. This early exposure to artisanal fabric making fueled her passion for fashion. At university, while studying international relations and public law, Fatima began offering her creations to her friends. One April 24th, on a whim, she decided to launch her own business. So’Fatoo was born, with the long-term aim of creating a veritable empire.
A hybrid business model
So’Fatoo stands out for its hybrid model. Fatima offers collections that she designs and puts online, enabling customers to place orders. At the same time, she accepts custom orders. Her first major order was for her sister and her friends for their graduation gala. This marked a turning point in the professionalization of the brand. Today, So’Fatoo focuses on producing ready-to-wear collections that can be ordered via social networks and the Afrikrea marketplace, which has recently become Anka. A website is under construction and should be online shortly.
From Politics to Fashion
Before devoting herself fully to fashion, Fatima worked in politics. After her studies, she juggled her job at the Ministry for Women with her workshop. In 2018, she left politics to focus on her brand. So’Fatoo is launched and the results go beyond her projections. The revenue generated by marketing the collections exceeds her technocrat’s salary. Her order book is full. She decides to devote 100% of her time to developing her fashion brand. With no regrets!
A multi-faceted entrepreneur
In addition to So’Fatoo, Fatima is co-founder of Arka concept store and another Islamic concept store in tribute to her late mother. The latter initiative functions as a waqf, generating funds for charity. Fatima is also exploring other projects, including real estate and agriculture, demonstrating her versatility and determination.
Fatima Zahra Ba is a creative force and a determined entrepreneur. Her journey, marked by bold choices and an unwavering passion for fashion, inspires and motivates. Through her many projects, she continues to promote Senegalese culture and create opportunities for women and local communities. Fatima embodies a new generation of leaders, proving that fashion can be a powerful vector for social and economic change.
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