Queen Elizabeth Ihowa, a childhood between Lagos and Paris
Queen Elizabeth Ihowa describes herself as a multipotential Franco-Nigerian woman on a mission to reach her highest potential every day. Inspired by the two cities in which she grew up and evolved, Lagos and Paris, she is passionate about the creative industries. Her diverse career path is a reflection of her constant quest to align herself with her values and remain authentic. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Queen Elizabeth moved to France at the age of 10, where she had to adapt to a new language and culture. Her academic career, though classic, has always been influenced by her attachment to her Nigerian roots. After graduating with honors from her baccalauréat L, she went on to study for a degree in applied foreign languages, with a focus on international business.
Developing your personal brand with Queen Elizabeth Ihowa
Her immersion in the digital world began during a final-year internship with a fashion brand. This experience sparked her passion for digital marketing, leading her to pursue a master’s degree in international business with a specialization in digital marketing.The support and education of her parents played a crucial role in preserving her Nigerian culture. At home, English and ethnic languages were commonly spoken, preserving the traditions and values that marked her childhood.
Once she had finished her studies, she decided to dream big, influenced by her parents, and applied for a job at LVMH. Her career in luxury began with key roles at Givenchy, Kenzo, and Make Up For Ever, where she was responsible for content and influencer partnerships. She then moved to the Estée Lauder group, where she was in charge of Brand Content for the Bobbi Brown brand.
During her internships and experiences in the luxury sector, she developed her personal brand or personal branding on social networks. As a make-up artist, photographer, videographer, youtuber and storyteller, she acquired the skills that are essential for content creation.
Solicited by an audience looking for advice, she took the plunge and became a social networking consultant. Alongside her permanent position, she organizes masterclasses to help entrepreneurs and bloggers develop their online presence.
Queen Elizabeth Ihowa’s vision of African fashion
Fashion and beauty have always been at the heart of Queen Elizabeth’s life, and having grown up in a creative environment with a fashion designer mother, she identifies four pillars in Africa’s fashion ecosystem:
- Thebe Magugu and Mai Atafo, for example, can be considered a form of African creative elite.
- Stylists who help create looks and support brand development
- Tailors and dressmakers who make collector’s items on a daily basis
- Craftsmen who are the guardians of African heritage
According to her, African fashion responds above all to the need to dress, a cultural expression that has its origins in everyday life. Despite the challenges, Queen Elizabeth is optimistic about the paradigm shift and the rise of African fashion on the continent and beyond.
An exciting episode
In this interview, storytelling expert Queen Elizabeth Ihowa tells us about her unique journey and her determination to remain aligned with her values in all her initiatives. She left Lagos for Paris at the age of 10, and has retained a strong attachment to her native country. Today, her plural identity enables her to be at ease in any environment.
Also listen to
- Rabi Taabara Yansané, co-director of the documentary African Styles
- Alia Baré, the art of fusing entrepreneurship, creativity and design
- Kassim Lassissi, the art of fusing fashion and travel
