Florentina Agu, the creative powerhouse behind Hertunba, is no stranger to shattering ceilings. Since its inception in 2020, Hertunba has risen to global acclaim, rooted in Nigeria and celebrated for its seamless fusion of traditional African artistry with contemporary innovation. The brand’s name, a blend of “Her” and “Otunba” – a revered Yoruba title – embodies strength, honour, and empowerment, mirroring Florentina’s deep passion for African heritage.
In just five years, Florentina has cemented her place as a trailblazer in sustainable fashion, earning the prestigious 2024 Veuve Clicquot Bold Future Award in Nigeria. Her mission? To elevate African craftsmanship to its rightful place on the world stage. We sat down with Florentina to discuss her journey, her vision, and the future of African fashion.
YLA: In a world filled with noise, how do you ensure African culture and craftsmanship are heard?
Florentina: African culture and craftsmanship are not just rich – they’re revolutionary. At Hertunba, we amplify these voices by being intentional in everything we do. Our garments are more than fashion; they’re vessels of history, honouring artisans and telling stories that demand to be heard. Every piece we create carries the legacy of generations – from the weavers to the intricate handwork rooted in Nigerian textile traditions. When someone wears Hertunba, they’re not just wearing a design; they’re embracing a piece of cultural heritage.
We’re on a mission to shift perceptions. Just as Italian and French craftsmanship are celebrated, African artistry deserves the same reverence. It’s not about being seen – it’s about being recognised as a leader, not an emerging player.
YLA: Your grandmother was a textile virtuoso. How did she influence your journey?
Florentina: My grandmother didn’t just teach me about textiles – she immersed me in them. Her love for fabric was palpable. I learned by watching her, listening to her stories, and feeling the textures of the fabrics she cherished. She had an archive of wrappers – some predating the war – each with its own story. She’d take me to her weavers, and together we’d decide on designs. When I inherited her collection, it became the foundation of my personal archive of vintage Nigerian textiles. She didn’t just pass down fabric; she passed down a legacy.
YLA: What other lessons did your grandmother impart?
Florentina: Self-confidence and feminism. Both my grandmothers were fierce, independent women. My paternal grandmother, widowed young, navigated a patriarchal world with grace and strength. She taught me to hold my head high, to know my worth, and to lean on my faith. Her resilience shaped me. She believed I was the prize, and she made sure I never forgot it.
YLA: What does sustainability mean to you?
Florentina: Sustainability is more than a buzzword it’s a way of life. For me, it’s about preserving heritage, sustaining livelihoods, and creating quality that endures. At Hertunba, sustainability is woven into every thread. We source ethically, upcycle textiles, and ensure our artisans are fairly compensated. It’s not just about being eco-conscious; it’s about respecting people, culture, and the planet. Sustainability is a responsibility, not a trend.
YLA: How do you define success?
Florentina: Success is impact. It’s knowing that Hertunba is changing lives – whether it’s an artisan earning a sustainable income, a young designer inspired by African craftsmanship, or a global customer valuing our heritage. Success isn’t measured in numbers; it’s measured in stories told, perceptions shifted, and legacies built. If Hertunba helps elevate African craftsmanship to its rightful place, that’s success. And it’s a team effort – I want it for myself and everyone on this journey with me.
YLA: What’s next for you and Hertunba?
Florentina: More meaningful collaborations. Awards like the Veuve Clicquot Bold Future Award remind me of the responsibility I carry. They’re not just accolades; they’re calls to action. My goal is to keep pushing boundaries, amplifying African artisanship, and paving the way for the next generation of creative entrepreneurs.
YLA: How has being part of the Bold community influenced your journey?
Florentina: The Bold community is a powerhouse of fearless women who don’t just dream – they do. Being surrounded by such driven, purpose-led leaders has reinforced my belief in collaboration over competition. We rise by lifting others, and the Bold community exemplifies that. It’s a reminder that we’re stronger together.
If we want to drive lasting change, we need to show up for each other. The Bold Open Database is a powerful step in that direction. It’s a global, inclusive platform connecting women entrepreneurs across borders and industries. By joining, you’re not only gaining visibility and access to new opportunities; you’re becoming part of a collective force for growth and impact. Sign up now at boldopendatabase.com and help shape a more connected future for women in business.
YLA: How do initiatives like the Bold Open Database empower female entrepreneurs?
Florentina: Visibility is everything. The Bold Open Database breaks barriers by giving women-led businesses a platform to be seen, supported, and funded. For African women entrepreneurs, this is transformative. It means local businesses can reach global networks, and talented women no longer have to navigate their journeys alone. The world is finally watching, and the talent has always been there.
YLA: As a global leader, what’s your message to the world?
Florentina: African fashion is not a trend. It’s not an aesthetic to be borrowed. It’s a legacy of artistry, innovation, and excellence that deserves the same respect as any other global fashion heritage. The world has looked to Africa for inspiration – now it’s time to look to us for leadership.
Florentina Agu is more than a designer; she’s a visionary, a storyteller, and a force for change. Through Hertunba, she’s not just creating fashion – she’s crafting a future where African craftsmanship shines on the global stage.
