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Check Out Afua Banful’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Afua Banful.

Hi afua, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hello, my name is Afua Banful. I am a Black woman from Portland, Oregon, and the proud owner of Finas Creations, a fashion business centered around creativity, sustainability, and self-expression.

For the past two years, I have been creating upcycled garments from fabrics that were once unused or overlooked. It has been an honor to grow Finas Creations, learn along the way, and continue developing my skills as a designer and entrepreneur. I have also had the opportunity to produce multiple fashion shows of my own, not only to showcase my work, but also to create a platform for other talented artists and creatives in Portland.

Fashion is only one part of who I am. I am also a musician, DJ, and entertainer who creates comedic skits and connects with people through social media. When I moved from Boston to Portland in 2016, I already knew that I was meant to be an entertainer. Over the years, that calling has continued to reveal itself through all of the different creative outlets I pursue.

I see my creativity as a gift, and I want to use it to inspire others to live sustainably, embrace their individuality, and stay true to themselves.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Growing up as a Black woman in Portland was not always easy. I experienced a lot of bullying, which made it difficult for me to love and fully accept myself. During high school, I began investing in my personal growth by reading, reflecting, and doing a lot of inner work. Through that journey, I was able to heal, reconnect with myself, and rediscover the person I truly am.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m proud that I’ve always stayed true to my vision and remained committed to my creative journey. I believe it’s a gift to be able to create, build, and bring ideas to life—because creating is part of what makes us human. I’m especially grateful to have found people who believe in my vision and have helped me turn those ideas into something real.

I’m excited to see where my creativity takes me next. What sets me apart is my consistency and my willingness to keep growing. I’m always thinking about how I can become better, evolve as a person, and continue building my brand. I’m committed to pushing myself, trying new things, and never being afraid to take my vision to the next level.

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
As a kid, I was constantly creating something. I would drift off into my own little world, imagining different scenarios and acting them out. It was repeatedly one of my favorite things to do, and from a very young age, I knew I was a creative person. I was born with a drive and a fire inside me to bring to life whatever my mind could imagine.

My passion for acting became even stronger during a difficult time in my life. I remember being at home after being bullied by a group of guys, and I reached a point where I told myself, “You know what? I’m going to become famous.” In that moment, something inside of me shifted. The voice within me became louder, reminding me that my purpose was much greater than what I could see or understand at that time.

Through everything I’ve experienced, God has taught me to choose myself, believe in who I am, and keep moving forward regardless of what life throws at me. My creativity, my passion for acting, and my faith continue to remind me that I have a greater purpose, and I’m determined to pursue it.

Pricing:

  • Skirts 40
  • Hoodies 60
  • Shirt 15-20
  • Pants 30-35
  • Etc 10-20

Contact Info:

Woman with curly hair looking at colorful fabric pieces in a plastic container, sewing tools on table, curtains in background.

Woman with curly hair reaching out, surrounded by colorful items on a white surface, with white curtains behind.

Five women standing together indoors, dressed in colorful, casual outfits, some smiling and looking in different directions.

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