Meet Philip Oppong-antwi

We were lucky to catch up with Philip Oppong-antwi recently and have shared our conversation below.

Philip , thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?

As a designer deeply rooted in both African heritage and contemporary aesthetics, I keep my creativity alive by constantly drawing inspiration from the rich cultural tapestry of my roots. My journey is guided by the stories and symbolism embedded in traditional African textiles, such as kente, Ankara, and mudcloth, which fuel my passion for creating pieces that blend timeless craftsmanship with modern flair.

I stay engaged with the world around me—urban culture, music, art, and global fashion trends—allowing these dynamic influences to shape my designs and keep my work fresh. My recent collection, Ankyem: Birds Set Free, is a perfect example of how I transform personal experiences into powerful artistic statements. Inspired by the Little Weaver Bird, the collection reflects the struggle to break free from self-imposed limitations, mirroring my own evolution as an artist.

By combining traditional techniques with innovative design, and staying connected to both my heritage and the global fashion landscape, I ensure that my creativity remains vibrant, authentic, and ever-evolving. Each collection is a testament to my commitment to pushing boundaries, embracing self-expression, and celebrating the beauty of liberation—both personally and creatively.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I’m Philip Nana Kwesi Tieku Oppong-Antwi Okogyeaman III, the founder and creative force behind Phyll Quahsey, a fashion brand that celebrates African heritage through avant-garde couture. My journey as a designer is deeply intertwined with my passion for reimagining traditional African textiles, blending them with modern aesthetics to create something entirely unique. In 2017, after graduating from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology with a degree in Industrial Arts, specializing in Textiles and Fashion Design, I launched Phyll Quahsey with the goal of redefining what African couture could be—celebrating the rich history of African craftsmanship while pushing the boundaries of contemporary luxury.

At the heart of what I do is a commitment to storytelling through design. Each collection I create is a journey, weaving together personal narratives, cultural symbols, and modern influences. The recent Ankyem: Birds Set Free collection is a perfect example of this. Inspired by the Little Weaver Bird, it explores themes of self-expression, breaking free from limitations, and embracing creative freedom. It’s a personal reflection of my own artistic evolution, and I believe it speaks to anyone who has faced challenges or self-doubt in their own journey.

What excites me most about what I do is the ability to blend tradition with innovation. By using fabrics like kente, Ankara, and adire, which hold deep cultural significance, and incorporating them into contemporary silhouettes, I’m able to bring a fresh perspective to African couture that resonates globally. There’s something deeply satisfying about creating pieces that not only celebrate the beauty of African craftsmanship but also challenge conventional ideas of luxury and fashion.

Phyll Quahsey is more than just a fashion brand—it’s a movement. It’s about celebrating the resilience, creativity, and cultural pride that define Africa’s fashion evolution. Our mission is to make African couture a global force, reshaping beauty and luxury on the world stage.

Looking ahead, we’re focused on expanding Phyll Quahsey’s international presence. We’re exploring exciting new collaborations with artists and designers from around the world to push the boundaries of what couture can represent. We’re also committed to sustainability, working to preserve traditional textile techniques while promoting eco-friendly practices in fashion. As we continue to grow, we’re eager to share our vision and collections with a broader audience and contribute to the global conversation about the future of fashion.

It’s an exciting time, and I’m thrilled to continue this journey of artistic expression, cultural celebration, and global impact. Thank you for being part of this story.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back on my journey with Phyll Quahsey, I’d say the three most impactful qualities that have shaped my path are creativity, cultural understanding, and resilience. These have been essential in not only building the brand but also staying true to my vision despite the challenges that come with any creative endeavor.

1. Creativity: Creativity is the backbone of everything I do. It’s not just about making beautiful clothes, but about telling a story through design—capturing emotions, traditions, and experiences in a way that resonates with others. For anyone starting out, I recommend nurturing your creativity by constantly exploring new sources of inspiration. Stay curious—whether it’s through travel, reading, or engaging with different art forms. Push the boundaries of what you think is possible, and don’t be afraid to take creative risks. Creativity thrives when you allow yourself the freedom to experiment and make mistakes.

2. Cultural Understanding: Growing up immersed in African traditions, I developed a deep appreciation for the significance of cultural symbols and the rich history embedded in African textiles. Understanding the cultural context behind design is crucial—whether you’re working in fashion or any other creative field. My advice to those starting their journey is to invest time in learning about your heritage or the cultures that inspire you. Understanding history, folklore, and traditional crafts will not only deepen your connection to your work but will also help you honor those traditions in a way that’s respectful and meaningful.

3. Resilience: Resilience has been a constant companion throughout this journey. The road to success is rarely a straight line, and there have been countless moments of doubt and setbacks. But it’s the ability to keep going, even when things get tough, that has been crucial. For those early in their journey, my advice is to embrace failure as part of the process. Learn from mistakes, stay adaptable, and never lose sight of your passion. Building resilience takes time, but with patience and perseverance, it becomes the foundation that will carry you through challenging times.

To those starting out, I’d say: trust your instincts, keep learning, and be prepared to face the ups and downs with courage. The creative journey is as much about personal growth as it is about the work you create.

To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?

The most impactful thing my parents did for me was instilling in me a deep sense of pride in my heritage and the value of education. Growing up, they emphasized the importance of understanding where I came from, which shaped my respect for African culture and its rich traditions. This foundation has been a key part of my journey as a designer, influencing both my work and my mission with Phyll Quahsey.

In addition to cultural pride, my parents always encouraged me to pursue my passions with dedication and resilience. They supported my academic endeavors, especially when I chose to study Industrial Arts and Fashion Design. Their belief in my abilities gave me the confidence to take risks, follow my creative instincts, and eventually build a brand that combines both tradition and innovation. Their support laid the groundwork for my professional journey and continues to be a source of inspiration as I push forward with my work

Contact Info:

• Instagram: phyll_quahsey
• Twitter: phyll_quahsey