Dusu Mansaray: The Fashion Visionary Behind Ankara by Dex
Weaving Culture into Contemporary Fashion
In the heart of Sierra Leone’s vibrant fashion industry, Dusu Mansaray is redefining African fashion with her brand, Ankara by Dex. What began in 2018 as a passion for creating stylish, high-quality African-inspired clothing has blossomed into a thriving business that celebrates culture, craftsmanship, and creativity.
Ankara by Dex is more than just a clothing brand, it’s a movement that merges tradition with modernity, using rich African prints and locally sourced materials to craft elegant, smart-casual designs. With her keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for African textiles, Dusu has built a brand that empowers individuals to express themselves through bold colors, intricate patterns, and sophisticated silhouettes.
From her flagship store on 282 Bai Bureh Road, Wellington, Freetown, to her newest branch in Makeni, and a partnership with Djulaa Concept Store at Imatt, her reach is steadily growing. Yet, her vision stretches even further, she dreams of expanding Ankara by Dex across Sierra Leone and beyond, creating more opportunities for local artisans and young fashion enthusiasts.
The SLEDP Impact: Turning Passion into a Powerhouse
Dusu’s entrepreneurial journey has been one of resilience, ambition, and strategic growth. Like many creative entrepreneurs, she faced challenges in scaling her business, from sourcing quality materials to financial management and market expansion. However, with the technical and financial assistance of the Sierra Leone Economic Diversification Project (SLEDP), Ankara by Dex has transformed into a structured and competitive business.
Through SLEDP’s support, Dusu refined her business strategy, strengthened her financial management skills, and gained the tools to position her brand in a competitive market. She embraced innovative ways to enhance production efficiency, improve branding, and expand her customer base. The program also opened doors to networking opportunities, allowing her to collaborate with other entrepreneurs and explore new market trends.
A Message to Young Women: Dream Bold, Create Fearlessly
As she celebrates International Women’s Day, Dusu shares a powerful message with young women:
“To every young woman out there with a dream—your creativity has the power to change the world. When I started Ankara by Dex, it was not just about fashion; it was about telling stories through design, embracing our African heritage, and creating opportunities for others.”
“The journey hasn’t been easy, but with passion, resilience, and the right support, I have built a brand that is making an impact. Thanks to SLEDP’s guidance, I transformed my dream into a thriving enterprise.
The Future of Ankara by Dex
With her sights set on greater heights, Dusu envisions Ankara by Dex becoming a household name in African fashion, with stores in multiple cities and an even greater impact on the local economy. Her journey stands as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the right support – and on this International Women’s Day, she shines as one of SLEDP’s true game-changers.
