Efua Sam based in the Washington Metro area deserves a spotlight, a Ghanaian Fashion Designer, Enterpreneur, hard working and down to earth who is making a name for herself and destined for superstardom in the world of fashion. Ms Sam who learned the trade as a Seamstress in Ghana, is definitely proud to be a Ghanaian who has her dream come true in the land of opportunity; the great United States of America. The place where one can change from nothing to something. Afua Sam is a great example to many who would like to have a career in Fashion Design and own their own businesses. Like Rev. Jesse Jackson said; "Keep Hope Alive" Recognition is given where recognition is due. * READ AND BE MOTIVATED* STUDIO D-MAXSI is one of the fastest growing fashion houses in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. With unique, innovative, and edgy designs, AFUA SAM of Studio D-MAXSI creates women's wear masterpieces for the chic and funky modern woman. Afua's journey in fashion and design started at a very young age in Ghana. In 1995, Afua migrated to the United States where she worked numerous jobs including a seamstress position at a sweatshirt company; leading her to additonal fashion work for several local designers such as Hobo Shop, Machunnu House of Style, KOKO Fashion Gallery Med, and S.J. Fashion. Over the years, Afua's sense of strength and purpose has grown tremendously allowing her to broaden her horizons and use her sewing experience to create an empire; a legacy that her children could inherit. Her vision and focus gave birth to Studio D-MAXSI. The name is derived from the initials of her children - MAwuko and SelaSI e (the "D" stands for design and the "X" is included for phonetic reasons). Hard work, determination, and self sacrifice have kept Afua motivated. Now, standing as the humble yet vivacious CEO of STUDIO D-MAXSI, Afua has become one of the most sought after designers in the DC area and participates in numerous fashion shows. She counts her Ghanaian roots and rich culture as one of her many inspirations for the creation of her designs. Afua's brand of elegant yet edgy collections has gained her a diverse clientele that includes Jamie Foster Brown of Sister 2 Sister Magazine, Glynn Jackson of the Golden Scissors Awards Show, and Kenny Flannagan of KAS Collection. Afua has also been featured in magazines and T.V. shows including the March issue of COUNCILCOMMUNICATIONS - a premier online fashion magazine where Afua is a Fashion Designer, THINK TALK TV TALKSHOW, and The NEW GHANIAN NEWS. Efua Sam, Fashion Designer in her own words; It is my faith in GOD that has brougt me this far. I grew up poor and because of my father's untimely death, I had a tough growing up. My mom is my biggest strength. I have been very blessed to have very good people in my life. My Family and Friends, YOU ARE THE BEST. Along the way I have had some good advice from MR. JEFREY WUTOH (CEO OF PharmaScientific IN GHANA AND IN THE USA) when I first came to America. My advice to everyone who has a dream, DON'T GIVE UP. It does not matter if you are poor or from a village, BE FOCUSED, SURROUND YOURSELF WITH POSITIVE PEOPLE AND KEEP YOUR FAITH IN GOD. I'm always passionate about AFRICA and I'm looking for the opportunity to give BACK, I WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE. Look out for D-MAXSI in Ghana in the near future. We encourage the Ghanaian community and the world at large to patronize Afua Sam in her endeavor. Please contact her via email @ amonoo66@msn.com The RUNWAY photos is Courtesy of DC FASHION WEEK and Photo shoots are courtesy of councilcommunications.com *In honor of Afua SAM - D-MAXSI By Councilcommunications.com * *Afua A. Sam, D-Maxsi, Ghana, Fashion Designer * It's more than just cloth hanging on a rack. It's more than just fabric blowing in the wind. Through the eyes of fashion designer Afua A. Sam, a simple cloth is transformed into garments of splendor. With a needle and thread she stitches seamless artwork of majestic beauty and casual wear. Her work is seen by thousands of people each month on Council online magazine and down runways across the United States. With a needle and thread this aspiring designer has set herself apart from many others in the field. She stays true to her heritage and respects the boundaries of other cultures. Her work is the essence of style and honor. With a needle and thread she sews with love and compassion for family. Her kindred spirit keeps lit a life-long dream of reunion. I am reminded of endless hours of photo shoot preparations. A stitch here and a stitch there, help reinforce her commitment and dedication to the craft. It is my honor to proudly proclaim ? that Afua Sam of D-Maxsi Designs is showing the world that she is a force to be reckoned. May God continue to bless you with your needle and thread in hand. Best regards, Jerald Council Editor-in-Chief Council Magazine