Modade Ayeni: My start-up journey

Class of 2024 Business Administration undergraduate, Modade Ayeni, embarked on his entrepreneurial journey while still in secondary school. His masterpiece, Pegasus, is a fashion and lifestyle brand that blends streetwear with personal stories, designed to inspire others to chase their dreams and stay fly.

How it started…

I first conceived the idea for Pegasus while attending boarding school as a teenager. Equipped with nothing but rough sketches and a clear vision, I began outlining my dream of a clothing brand that would not only create stylish pieces but also tell stories. Inspired by a desire to combine fashion with meaningful narratives, I set out to build a brand that encourages others to dream big.

I started sketching concepts and ideas immediately, outlining the vision I had for Pegasus. I wanted to create something that was unique, blending streetwear and high-end fashion with personal stories.

Though I’d had the idea early on, I admit that I hesitated to take advantage of the resources Essex Startups offered during my studies. Despite hearing about Essex Startups through classes and university emails, it wasn’t until later that I truly understood the potential support available to me.

How it’s going…

Pegasus has evolved far beyond its initial concept. What started as a fashion brand has now grown into a multifaceted media entity. In addition to creating unique clothing, Pegasus documents creative journeys worldwide, showcasing inspiring stories in hopes of encouraging others to chase their dreams.

The brand’s motto, Dreams come true, emphasises the importance of perseverance in a world that often values instant gratification. In a generation constantly seeking quick dopamine hits, it's crucial to remind people that the very same technology can be used to achieve long-term dreams.

What sets Pegasus apart is not only the fashion but also its commitment to social change. Through fundraising campaigns and giveback initiatives, I aim to reach underprivileged communities globally, inspiring young people who may not have access to the resources needed to pursue their dreams.

The next step…

My vision for Pegasus continues to expand. The next step for the brand is implementation - taking all the knowledge, techniques, and ideas I’ve learned and applying them to offer better value to the consumer. From my first sketches to running a business that inspires creativity, I have transformed Pegasus into a platform that bridges garments and storytelling.

I’m also exploring new marketing strategies, such as influencer collaborations and documentary-style videos that feature stories from creatives around the world. As Pegasus gains traction in the UK, I envision the brand becoming a market leader in the streetwear space, not just in the UK but potentially worldwide.

Words of wisdom

My advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple: never stop dreaming, and don’t be afraid to start small. My journey with Pegasus has taught me that while the path to success may not be linear, each challenge and failure presents a valuable learning opportunity. Every year, I learn something new that takes the brand to a higher level.

Dreams are for everyone, regardless of age or background. Whether you’re a 60-year-old ordering from our site or a young creative just starting out, Pegasus is about chasing your dreams.

Find out more

If Modade’s story has inspired you, why not start your own entrepreneurial journey? Essex Startups provides mentoring, workshops, and funding opportunities to help students and graduates launch their own businesses.