Beginning with what was available
The venture began with ₦5,000. Its story is one of choosing to begin, learning through the work and building with intention.
Cultural entrepreneurship
A living story of culture, creativity and enterprise
Founded in 2016, Agbeke Alasooke grew from a small beginning into a cultural venture devoted to preserving Aṣọ-Òkè through contemporary design and storytelling.
The origin
A name carried with affection and honour
Agbeke began during a period of transition in Ibadan, when corporate work was hard to find and Joan chose to start rather than remain idle. The name is her oríkì — a Yoruba praise name. Her late grandmother called her “Oluwadamilola Agbeke”, and naming the venture for that memory became a way of honouring her while preserving the artistry of Aṣọ-Òkè for a new generation.
Agbeke — a Yoruba praise name carried with affection and honour.
Culture & enterprise
A venture built with purpose
The story brings together resourcefulness, contemporary design and respect for the people and practices that keep heritage alive.
Heritage made living
Agbeke’s work is shaped by local weavers, artisans and the belief that heritage can remain living, relevant and proudly African.
Read the full storyThe book
The story behind the venture
In Agbeke Alaso-Oke: A Story of Passion, Art & Growth, Joan shares a journey of resilience, creativity and purpose — one that transforms a simple beginning into a cultural venture rooted in culture and innovation.
Explore the bookContinue with Agbeke
Discover the living brand beyond this story.
Visit Agbeke’s official website for its current work, collections and contact channels.
Visit agbeke.com