Grass to Grace series (30): Prudent Gabriel’s rise from a waitress to a fashion guru
Photo credit: Instagram
Prudent Gabriel, an iconic fashion guru is an inspiring testament of residence, determination and unwavering faith.
The fashion colossus is a was born in August 12, 1996 to an Akwaibom parents. Her father was a taxi driver while her mother is a regular farmer who engages in tailoring sometimes.
Prudent Gabriel also known as Prudent Gabriel Okopi grew up in Ajah, Lagos State, Nigeria.
Childhood experience
Her early life was characterized with series of difficulties. Navigating early life was a big challenge due to the financial lack in the family.
Speaking in an interview, Prudent said “I was born into a family of seven with two step siblings. We were born into a very disciplined Christian home.”
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She has a childhood experience that made her cry during her interview session, she said ” My most memorable childhood experience was when I always had to drive with my dad so I could protect and cover him up due to a skin sickness he had allover his body and neck. He was driving a taxi because he had lost his job. I did this with him for a while so we could at least raise some money daily for the family”
Amidst the hardship, adversity and challenges, a spark of ambition ignited within her, fueling an unquenchable desire to rise above her circumstances.
Early Adulthood
When Prudent finished her secondary education, she couldn’t pay for JAMB due to financial constraints .
She went into farming with her mum where she processed palm kernels into palm oil in AkwaIbom.
Luck seemed to shine on her when a relative took her from the village for a UK relocation. Unfortunately, the plan didn’t work out plunging Prudent into despair and fraustration.
Dusting herself up, she went to live with her uncle where she work with different restaurants and bars as a waitress. But the salary was barely enough to meet her daily needs.
Prudent was an ardent lover of God. Her commitment in the church especially in the choir endeared her to all. Some helped her out in commuting to and fro when she couldn’t afford it, while some freely assisted her with clothing when she couldn’t change her worn out outfits due to financial lack.
Educational Experience
Prudent aspired to be a medical doctor, but like the average Nigerian experience, her dream was aborted due to financial lack.
She struggled for finance and later enrolled into National Open University where she studied political science.
Career Pursuit
Her mother’s local tailoring work influenced her greatly.
When a roadside tailor spoilt her cloth, she decided to learn the craft.
Despite series of disappointment from a woman she wants to learn from, she didn’t give up.
She took the bull by the horn and started self lesson. Using many fabrics which ended up as wastes.
Yet, she didn’t relent. She continued learning by herself; improving on her mistakes, till she got her mark.
Career breakthrough
Prudent engaged in free online lesson videos, Facebook Live sessions and Instagram live, but her fellowship was low.
Her major break through came with her ready to wear dresses. In an interview, she stated, “The turning-point for my brand was my ready-to-wear. People started ordering my ready-to-wear enmasse because they fit so well when I wear and post them.”
In 2020, she started Prudential Fashion Academy and Prudential Styling which has produced over 150 fashion designers.
Her network is current estimated at $75,000 with over 400k followers on social media.
She has produced amazing students such as Ezinne, LazybyDesign, Preye, Idara, DesignbyIrene, RarebyAngel and all others who are all superstars.
Inspiration models
In Prudent’s interview, she mentioned notable figures that serves as her model. She said “My mum; she is always positive and would always spur you on no matter what. She taught me how to actually face my fears. Then when it comes to fashion, I would say Veekee James.”
She further said “Valdrin Sahiti is my first international style icon. For Nigeria, Matopeda Atelier first inspired me. And then Veekee James was also a force. I also love Vietnamese designer, Chung Thanh Phong.”
Awards and Recognition
- Young Entrepreneur of the Year (Lagos State, 2022)
- Fashion Designer of the Year (Nigeria Fashion Awards, 2023)
- Women in Business Excellence Award (2023)
- Top 30 Under 30 Entrepreneurs in Africa (Forbes Africa, 2024)
- Best Fashion Academy (Nigerian Education Awards, 2024)
Other notable things to know about Prudent
Besides being a fashion guru, Prudent also doubles as a motivational speaker.
She has produced several books several books on business strategy, personal development, motivation and goal setting, entrepreneurship in the African context and on fashion industry insights.
Her books have inspired many readers to pursue their ambitions and have become popular resources for aspiring entrepreneurs across Nigeria and beyond.
Celebrities she has designed for includes:
*Tim Godfrey, the renowned gospel singer*
Xtreme Crew, a popular dance group
*Debbie Rise, a contestant from Big Brother Naija Season 2*
Peggy Ovire whom she clothed for her wedding in 2022,
*Naomi Mac, a finalist from Nigerian Idol
*Queen B, a participant from the reality show Ultimate Love and many others.
She has been to events like: business conferences, university lectures,youth empowerment seminars, fashion industry workshops,women in business forums among others.
Relationship life
Prudent Gabriel got married to his heartthrob Peterson Okopi, a gospel artist on September, 27, 2024.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Prudent is deeply committed to giving back to her community. She actively supports various charitable initiatives and mentors young entrepreneurs, inspiring them to reach their full potential.
Iconic Prudent
Prudent Gabriel’s story is an inspiration to all who aspire to greatness. Her sense of innovation and social responsibility is worth emulating.
Her humble beginning from a local unknown waitress to global recognition is a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. In her words,
