In 2005 Lisa Folawiyo and her team of expert craftsmen stormed onto the Nigerian fashion scene with Jewel by Lisa. In less than four years Lisa has perfected the art of wearing Ankara, turning it into a coveted luxury label through the embellishment of the fabric with sequins, swarovski crystals, beads and the like - all which are handmade in workshops in Lagos, Nigeria. Jewel by Lisa uses the highest quality Ankara from the Vlisco-Hollandis brand and is frequently mixed with fabrics as wide ranging as taffeta, linen, cotton, chiffon, chantilly lace, and silk. Each Jewel by Lisa garment is handcrafted, individual and unique.  With each embellishment hand sewn carefully onto the fabric, a JBL garment on average will take about 120 hours to make. The ease with which the garments could be worn and the intricate workmanship visible in each piece sparked a new revolution in Ankara couture.

Jewel by Lisa has grown with a strong clientele, and the beginning of an international interest. JBL’s goal is to cater to the Nigerian market, creating desirable, one-of-a kind luxury pieces while establishing itself as an international label.

In 2008, Jewel by Lisa featured in the This Day Africa Rising Festival in London, and was one of only 3 designers chosen for the catwalk show at the M-net Face of Africa modelling competition. In June 2009, the label will participate in the inaugural African Fashion Week in Johannesburg as well as a host of other renowned fashion events around the continent.

Jewel by Lisa has been featured in several publications such as Arise Magazine, True Love Magazine, ThisDay Style, Genevieve, and Elan. Lisa Folwaiyo was also featured and interviewed on the Moments with Mo talk show in 2008.