Oluwagbemisola Okunlola

Oluwagbemisola Okunlola, more widely known as Gmebi, is the founder and creative director of Alokuno, a luxury bridalwear and eveningwear brand recognised for its elegance and innovation. A dynamic voice in both fashion and entrepreneurship, she has established herself as a visionary designer whose work embodies creativity, resilience and purpose. Through her dedication to celebrating women in all their diversity, Gmebi has become a powerful advocate for inclusion within the fashion industry and beyond.

Her creative journey began at the age of eleven when she followed in her mother’s footsteps and crafted her very first dress at home in London. This formative experience fuelled her determination to carve out her own path in the world of fashion. Over the years, she refined her skills and built a brand that combines intricate craftsmanship with a deep awareness of the women she designs for. With Alokuno’s founding in 2015, she has created a British bridal and eveningwear label renowned for its bespoke embroidery and carefully tailored pieces, often designed to reflect and celebrate women of colour who have historically been overlooked in mainstream fashion.

Her commitment and artistry have led to significant recognition. She was recently named among HSBC and UK Black Business Show’s 25 Top Entrepreneurs to Watch and was one of four winners of Channel 4 and Lloyds’ Black in Business initiative, securing nationwide advertising support. Her designs have featured in Vogue, Insider, and The Huffington Post, while her expertise has been sought after on platforms such as BBC’s Wake Up To Money and Forbes Family Group at HSBC Innovation Banking HQ. These appearances not only highlight her entrepreneurial success but also amplify her message of visibility, empowerment and cultural representation in fashion.

As a Diversity and Inclusion speaker, Gmebi brings a rare authenticity and depth of perspective. She speaks from lived experience as a woman of colour who has built a business that directly addresses the underrepresentation in her industry. Her talks go beyond fashion to explore broader themes of identity, belonging and empowerment, resonating with audiences across sectors. By championing every curve, culture and identity, she provides a compelling voice that challenges norms and inspires meaningful change. Combining creativity with a clear vision for equity, Gmebi delivers insights that encourage organisations and individuals alike to embrace diversity not as a trend, but as an enduring value.