Tinuke Eboka, a creative powerhouse rooted in her South African-Nigerian heritage, is reshaping the boundaries of art, culture, and fashion. From DJing to digital content creation and creative consultancy, her multidisciplinary portfolio speaks to a bold and innovative spirit. With a Bachelor’s in Business Management from the University of Cape Town and a Master’s in Fashion Marketing and Visual Communication from the prestigious Polimoda in Italy, Tinuke has refined her craft on a global scale. Her impressive credentials are further amplified by qualifications in fashion business, styling, and graphic design from esteemed institutions like HEC Paris, Conde Nast College in London, and Vega.
Having collaborated with iconic brands like Vogue, Adidas, Telfar, Rich Mnisi, and Thebe Magugu, Tinuke’s multidisciplinary expertise has positioned her as a key player in shaping today’s fashion and cultural movements. Now, she’s channeling her creative energy into her boldest venture yet: Akobe Studio.
Launched this season, Akobe Studio is Tinuke’s visionary reimagining of streetwear, blending her love for nightlife, music, and cutting-edge style. The brand draws heavily from Johannesburg’s underground culture and LGBTQ+ community, creating designs that celebrate identity, inclusivity, and self-expression. For Tinuke, Akobe is more than a brand—it’s the culmination of her artistic journey and a celebration of her multifaceted talents.
In this exclusive interview, we delve into her inspirations, the ethos of Akobe Studio, and what’s next for this fearless creative.
Congratulations on the launch of Akobe Studio! What inspired your vision for the brand, and how did you know this was the perfect moment to take such a bold step?
I’ve toyed with the idea of starting a brand for most of my life. When I finished my master’s in fashion during the pandemic, I had the downtime to reflect on my career trajectory and realized I was the only one who could bring my artistic vision to life. I couldn’t wait for anyone else to give me permission to live my truth. As a DJ, content creator, producer, and all-around multi-disciplined artist, starting my own line felt like the natural evolution of my journey. Akobe seamlessly blends everything I’ve ever done, which is essentially the essence of fashion. Fashion combines multiple art forms—film, music, influence—and I see it as storytelling through wearable art.
Can you take us back to the moment you fell in love with creativity and knew this would be your path? Was there a particular experience that made everything click?
To be honest, I’ve been surrounded by creative people my whole life. My older brother is a film composer with impeccable taste in art and culture, so being a professional creative never felt unusual. That environment shaped me into someone fearless about exploring different mediums. Creativity feels like it’s part of my DNA—it’s all I’ve ever known. I was born for this, and I can’t imagine doing anything else.
Akobe draws on the dynamic energy of Johannesburg, especially its underground culture and LGBTQ+ community. How do you incorporate these influences into your designs, and why is this representation so important to you?
While I can get deeply political and philosophical about my creative rationale, much of my decision-making—whether it’s casting or design—is influenced by the people around me. Many of my friends belong to groups considered minorities, but to me, they’re just my people—cool, inspiring individuals I love and want to support in any way I can. Akobe reflects that. It’s about inclusivity—no one gets left behind.
How would you describe your personal style, and to what extent does it influence the creative direction of Akobe?
I believe in designing selfishly. Female designers often have a practical approach to creating garments, and I’m no different. I want to make clothes that are wearable and functional, even if it means holding back when I could do more. For me, less is often more, and my personal style heavily informs that ethos.
Your designs have already captured the attention of style icons like DBN Gogo and Lelowhatsgood. What message do you hope Akobe conveys to those who wear your pieces?
Clothes are cool because of the people who wear them. Wear it your way and go be great—that’s the only message that matters.
You’ve worked with iconic brands like Vogue, Telfar, and Thebe Magugu. What would you say has been the defining highlight of your career so far?
That’s always a tough question because I tend to focus on what’s next rather than dwelling on what’s been. But every moment, big or small, is a blessing because it’s brought me to where I am now. If I had to name a few iconic moments, they’d include opening for Black Coffee, booking an international billboard campaign with Adidas—a brand I’ve always admired—playing at Rocking the Daisies, and having my styling work featured in Vogue. Still, I’m most excited about what’s ahead.
Having studied in Cape Town, Italy, Paris, and London, you bring a rich blend of global influences to your work. How do you combine these with your South African-Nigerian heritage in Akobe’s vision?
I love African culture and design, and maybe one day, I’ll lean deeper into that space. For now, my inspiration comes from what I see in clubs, streets, vintage markets, and bars. That said, being a young African woman filters everything I do through that lens, whether consciously or not. Traveling has only reinforced how much the world looks to Africa for inspiration. We’re the blueprint.
In addition to being a fashion entrepreneur, you’re also a DJ and digital content creator. How do these creative roles influence and enrich your work with Akobe?
Each creative pursuit informs the others. I’ve learned about photography, modeling, and styling through my sets, made invaluable connections while DJing, and sharpened my social media marketing skills through influencer gigs. All these experiences come together to elevate Akobe as a brand.
Looking ahead, what are your hopes and plans for Akobe Studio? Are there any upcoming projects or partnerships you’re particularly excited about?
Recently, I’ve been getting opportunities to create custom looks for both local and international artists, which has been unexpected and exciting. I’m also working on my first brand collaboration set to launch in the first quarter of next year. Plus, I’m moving into a new studio, which will open the door for some interesting multimedia projects. Fashion is just the foundation—my vision for Akobe is so much bigger. The world isn’t ready for what’s coming next!
