Today we’d like to introduce you to Afeez Akande.
Afeez, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My Name is Afeez Akande, but most people know me as Afeezus. Originally from Nigeria but currently reside in Miami. Being able to express myself with artist freedom, it gave me the drive to help others because I find comfort in my clothes. If you don’t RESPECT yourself and your craft, no one will! With many titles under my belt, here are a few: I’m the creative director of Mr.feez which was created in February 2014 with one t-shirt called “Mr.Feez X Art Tee”. This piece is an illustration of one of my favorite artist George Condo. The merchandise was a quick sale having one type of t-shirt selling (200 Pieces), it sold out in 40 mins and ever since I have been creating pieces that I feel people can relate to and afford. Within the next two years, I became a fashion consultant, personal shopper, and model for other brands. In 2015, I worked with my first celebrity client was J Balvin a Columbian Reggaeton Artist
Mr.Feez continued to drop merchandise and in June 2016. A few fashion blogs including Hypebeast, TheSource and others showcased one of our collections,” Bear’ N All season 1′. Bear’N All was worn by a few influences and artists like Jbalivn, Davido, Russ, Daddy Yankee. Due to the impact of the release of Bear’ N All one of the influencers became one of my celebrity clients Davido a Nigerian Afrobeat singer and to this present day, we still work together.
Fast forward present, the business has been great, created new business ventures and even branched off into having another business. Fashion is what I love to do and is a great way to express myself without any boundaries. or rule. With business soaring and new merchandise releasing running a company hasn’t been better. Be on the lookout for new merchandise and business venture from Mr.Feez in 2020.
Has it been a smooth road?
Life is like a rollercoaster, nothing I meant to be easy. Nothing is given, nothing is received EVERYTHING is worked for. Being a young business owner you have obstacles, including funding, doing everything on my own, and managing to stay afloat my everyday life.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Mr.Feez – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
My business??? I wouldn’t call it that. I would call it my life, my likelihood. My craft includes being a fashion consultant, personal shopper and fashion model. Proudest moment of all is I did this all on my own.
What sets me apart from others, well, I’m structured, driven by adversity and works as though it’s still the beginning not having years in this. Many people are only focused on the next dollar I’m focused on showcasing talent and artist freedom.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
Living somewhere where art is acceptable in all forms that makes me feel welcome, for example living so close to Wynwood you see artists showcase everything from clothing to canvas painting, moral work and music. Diversity is KEY and is accepted in Miami and the only place that has an open heart for it.
The downside is that you sometimes can’t always showcase how talented you are because some people put limits on your abilities and creative direction.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.rvrestudio.net
- Instagram: @afeezus
- Other: snapchat – mr.feez
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