Today we’d like to introduce you to Muyiwa Togun.
Hi Muyiwa, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My name is Muyiwa Togun, Founder and CEO of Roy Urban Kollection (RUK), an African textile, art and fashion manufacturer and brand. I am an artist and textile designer, pulling inspiration from my Yoruba roots, my lived experience as a Nigerian youth and assimilation into a new culture as a recently immigrated resident to the United States. RUK has been operating since 2008 and was formally incorporated and registered in 2013 in Nigeria and in 2020 in the United States.
Our primary product is traditional Nigerian batik and “Adire” (tie and dye) textiles. We also design and produce ready-wear clothing, upholstery for furniture, and original artwork. Our work reveals the beauty of Yoruba culture and everyday life, paying homage to the traditional method of African storytelling through art.
The idea for RUK evolved during a difficult period in my life. I was laid off unexpectedly from my job and went through a period of intense unemployment which left me homeless and sinking into poverty. I always held a passion for art and used this period to hone my skills, leaving the city and moving back to the town I grew up while working under the tutelage of the Osogbo Artists village to master batik and traditional Yoruba fabric making. I grew RUK from an individual producing a collection of textiles and art pieces to a small team of artists, tailors and operations specialists who support production, sales, marketing, and events coordination. Over the past year, we have participated in numerous fashion and art events in Nigeria and United States.
As CEO, I lead the artistic direction and general management of our company. I visually represent Roy Urban Kollection in expositions and media events. My experience with adverse events has enabled me to be nimble in responding to abrupt change. I can navigate challenges through innovation and creative solutions, such as sourcing new ideas and partnerships for brand expansion and marketing outlets. My vision and mission are to put the RUK on the map as a competitive brand and black-owned supplier of handmade African textiles and original art, making high-end fabrics accessible to the masses and contributing to the immortalization of African history and culture.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I wouldn’t describe my journey as smooth; challenges arise in every area of life. What keeps me going is my ability to adapt and navigate through them. One of the major challenges I faced was reaching the right customers, but through persistence and consistency over the years, I was able to overcome it and build momentum in what I do.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As the Creative Director and Owner of Roy Urban Kollection, I oversee the operations of the business to ensure we remain relevant and competitive. I am known for my artistic Batik textile patterns and original artworks, which reflect both cultural heritage and contemporary design.
I am most proud of how far we have come and the impact we continue to make in our communities through our training and workshop series, “Create Traditional African Batik/Adire Textile.” To date, we have conducted over 20 workshops across Nigeria and the United States, training more than 300 participants within our communities.
What sets Roy Urban Kollection apart is the originality and uniqueness of our Batik/Adire (tie-and-dye) textiles and original artwork. We place a strong emphasis on quality, authenticity, and customer satisfaction in everything we create.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My family has been a tremendous source of support, and I would not have been able to achieve all of this without them. Their encouragement and belief in my vision have played a vital role in my journey.
I am also deeply grateful to Chief Nike Davies-Okundaye and Mr. Oluwafemi Johnson Ogundipe, who have been constant mentors to me. Their guidance, wisdom, and influence have had a profound impact on my creativity and artistic growth.
Additionally, I would like to acknowledge the many individuals, far too numerous to mention, who have supported and assisted with our events and production. Your contributions, dedication, and belief in our work continue to make our success possible.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.royurbankollection.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/royurbankollection
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/royurbankollection
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oluwamuyiwatogun/
- Twitter: https://x.com/roykollection
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@muyiwatogunofficial
