The Point talked to Ebrima Badjie, who is popularly known as Gambian Eboulie, an experienced, award-winning Gambian fashionista, who has been passionate about fashion from an early age.
Ebou professionally stormed the market in 2017. His fashion attires are mostly African outfits matched with Fedora Hats. This with other unique styles has made him stand out as a superstar over most of his peers in the industry.
“One thing about me is my sense of fashion, is my sense of style. I literally love anything that has to do with appearing nicely (Lu nice),” he told The Point in an interview. He however explained that as he as he is concerned, appearing beautiful does not entail wearing expensive luxury products. “One can look attractive or charming in a simple and creative way that will appease anyone that set eyes on you.”
Read the full interview
Apart from your perception and passion for beautiful things like you mentioned earlier, what made you decide to be a fashionista? “It is an overwhelming feeling being complimented each time you appear nicely. That is motivational. It is more like doing what I love and enjoying all the good rewards that come with it. Fashion is life; fashion is magical and… spiritual.”
Have you seen yourself accomplish a mission in your journey? If yes, tell us something about it. “Sure, fashion is more of representation, and I have been very keen at representing and promoting my African culture, values, and modesty since the onset. That is what I am most known for. Of recent, I receive numerous messages and calls of appreciation concerning what I represent, and I have seen my fashion style trending at some point. That is an accomplishment.”
You have endeavoured to accomplish a certain mission in your career, such as promoting your culture and African wears which is amazing. Are there any challenges you have faced in your journey? “I have faced a lot of challenges, such as being judged by people from my community, because most of them don’t believe in my dreams. Others don’t even know what I represent and why I chose to represent what I represent, yet saw the career as worthless.
Also, it’s hard to see a brand/company approach you for brand ambassadorship. I am good at what I do and do it to the best of my ability, but if Gambian brands/companies don’t really want to invest in the promotions of their products using models, we can’t make money and they can’t make profits as well. And hardly do Gambians host fashion events that pay well. However, despite the numerous challenges, I understand that The Gambia’s fashion industry is expanding, and there is a need for experienced fashionistas.
Do you consider yourself the most suitable or most experienced candidate any fashion brand should look out for? If so, then why? “First, I am good at what I do. I put my heart, body and soul into my craft and try to be creative with it as much as possible. Second, my experience in the industry is well-grounded, and I have worked with several outstanding fashion brands in The Gambia. I am also an award-winning fashionista.”
Which prominent brands will you like to work with in the near future? “Well, I would love to work with any creative, innovative and lucrative brand. But here are some super amazing brands I would love to work with: FASHION WEEKEND GAMBIA, MR TOURISM GAMBIA, BIDY’S PROMOTION, and IMICA MODELLING AGENCY.”
Where do you see yourself in the next five or ten years, as in your long-term goal? “I want to be an epic fashion model, designer, fashion icon, and fashion stylist. [I would also wish to] have my own showroom and style so many celebrities around the globe.”
What do you have to say to the young aspiring fashionistas out there that might be looking up to you? “Let them just believe in themselves, accept critics and be super-innovative. It’s very important. If you love what you are doing, keep going and never stop believing.”
