We recently had the chance to connect with Ashton Akinrimisi and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Ashton, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Outside of work, I find so much joy in working out at the gym. In 2023, I felt compelled to start working out as a form of self-care and mental wellness. Since then, I’ve truly fallen in love with it—something I never thought would happen for me. I love the daily opportunity to show up for myself, focus on personal growth, clear my mind, and improve my health. The consistency and mental clarity it gives me bring me genuine joy.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Ashton Akinrimisi—a multi-hyphenate creative, marketer, and strategist shaping culture in the entertainment industry. As both a marketing professional and content creator, I’ve built an engaged community around self-care, lifestyle, faith, and fashion; bringing authenticity and strategy into everything I do.
My journey started by spotlighting talent within the African community in the DMV, and over time I evolved from styling productions to developing marketing for brands and media agencies. I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with powerhouse names like BET, Apple, Sony Music, RCA Records, Verizon, and TV One. As a digital influencer with over 14,000 Instagram followers, I’ve also partnered with brands such as HBO Max, &Pizza, Valentino, Prada, and YSL.
For me, style has always been my sport. Drawing from my Nigerian heritage, a love for streetwear, and a high-fashion taste, I’ve developed a signature aesthetic that inspires others to express themselves boldly. This passion led me to launch ILÈ ICON, my love letter to fashion. ILÈ ICON is a curated hub for luxury streetwear, created for people who value individuality, exclusivity, and statement-making design.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My relationship with God has most shaped how I see myself and the world around me. God created me in His likeness: a masterful visionary, producer of peace, mighty conqueror, and deeply loving soul. I believe I am all of these things, and I draw my inspiration from Him. My relationship with God has been my source of security, knowing that nothing and no one can take this awareness from me. My talents, qualities, and uniqueness are innate, by design. As I grow deeper in my relationship with God and gain more life experience, I am continually refined and elevated.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell myself younger self a few things.
First, be patient and believe. Everything that you have envisioned for yourself will come true. Stay faithful. Everything will unfold when the timing is right. Embrace and be grateful for the timing,
Second, be yourself. All of your quirks, dualities, and traits make you special. You are enough and capable of everything you desire.
Third, every challenge is preparing you for what’s in store. Gather your experiences like infinity stones. Learn from challenges/mistakes fast, or else you will have to learn a harder way.
Lastly, everything will be alright. I love you.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
I think the media industry often believes it is sharing diverse stories accurately and progressively. TV, film, music, and advertising carry a huge responsibility; not only reflect society as a whole but to tell stories that resonate with individuals on a personal level.
We’ve made progress in representation, but we’re still far from where we need to be. We need less tokenism, box-checking, and surface-level portrayals. In a time when media is increasingly segmented and personalized, true equity is essential. All races, sexualities, and genders should be represented across all genres; not just in spaces deemed “appropriate” for them.
But representation must also be authentic. Too often, we see brands celebrate Black History Month, Pride, or body positivity without genuine care or connection to the communities they claim to honor. These hollow displays of “wokeness” are quickly clocked by the public. Brands should approach representation with proper understanding, intentionality, and wisdom; ensuring their actions match their message.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What will you regret not doing?
With plans to leave a legacy, I refuse to leave this earth with anything left inside me. I want to give my all to myself, to my vision, and to the purpose I’ve been entrusted with. My goal is to maximize my potential in every facet of life. The only regret I could imagine is letting fear or doubt hold me back from experiencing the fullness and depth of it all.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Instagram.com/shopileicon
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/iconic_ashton
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