Today we’d like to introduce you to Aida Saffiyah Muhammad.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’ve always been interested in clothing and the many forms it can be used. As children, we always have our favorite outfits, and tell our moms or caregivers that we want to wear it again, the day after wearing it. Well, I had many and I remember putting different pieces of clothing together that didn’t necessarily “match”, but I loved it and didn’t care what anyone thought. I’ve kind of embraced that childhood mentality again (not caring what others think).
While living under the principles of Islam, being covered was also constantly enforced. ASMNINETEEN is a brand inspired by my grandmother, Mother Tynnetta Muhammad. Under her many talents and gifts was the gift of design. While working on my first design, I decided to introduce my brand with scarves. Scarves are such subtle accessories, and easy to alter, to add on to your everyday wear; to wearing them on your head, around your neck, transforming them into shawls, skirts, or even dresses. I didn’t know exactly where to start, but I did know that if I had faith that God would guide me. One year later, I’m blessed to be where I am now and couldn’t be more thankful for all the support I’ve had. The ambition increases daily as I see the fruitions of my labor, and look forward to what the future has in store.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has not been a smooth road, and I don’t think it’s never a smooth road when you’re looking to achieve a dream. When business owners say that their blood, sweat and tears went into their business, I believe them! Selling scarves is what my brand is known for right now, and I enjoy all the bits and pieces of creativity that is involved; photoshoots, directing, being outdoors, and matching personalities with the several different colors I offer.
One of the main challenges I had, and still have, is marketing. As in any business, you have to build relationships and connect with others in your field in order to grow, whether they be good or bad. My introverted personality has somewhat hindered that aspect of growth, I’m not your typical social butterfly.
The process of getting a design up and going has also been a challenge. It’s not as easy as drawing your design, and sewing the pieces together. There’s a lot that happens in between before you can actually make a profit. I’ve found the beauty in servicing a need, want, desire or what have you, and pleasing women who can’t easily find what they’re looking for.
I also strongly believe in having a strong and healthy support system. Be around those who have the desire to see you succeed. There are people who won’t put themselves before you (nor can you expect them to), and then there are others who will sacrifice their wants and needs to help you achieve. Those are the kinds of people who you want on your team, even if it means just your mother, or grandmother. I’ve also learned to listen to constructive criticism and let go of unvalued opinions. Criticism is probably something we’ll never get away from, unless we’re doing nothing, being nothing, saying nothing, or have nothing. Let go and let God steer you towards greatness.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about ASMNINETEEN – what should we know?
Aside from attempting to start my own clothing brand, I am a second grade teacher. Children are great reflections of ourselves, especially our own (not that I have any children), and viceversa. So, how or what do we want our children to see, be, and achieve when they’re older? I am proud of the fact that my students are able to see their teacher doing for self. My first year, my students would see me sell scarves after school and even at events that their parents were a part of. It’s about being an example and stepping out on what you believe in. I pray that I represent that to my students and children in general.
Which women have inspired you in your life?
I’ve been blessed to have many women in my life who have been great examples of loyalty, entrepreneurship, and standing on what they believe in, in it’s totality. My grandmother, Mother Tynnetta Muhammad, whom my brand is inspired by, plays a significant role in my development and whose example I strive to follow. She was not only a designer, but a scholar, musician, producer, traveler, mother, wife, grandmother, among many other titles to which she contributed to. I admire her cultural exchange with communities throughout the world, and her brilliance in linking all that she did with the Teachings of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad, her foundation of faith and belief. She brought many of her cultural findings into her clothing and designs, providing another perspective and conveying a universality in all humanity. My mother has also been one of my greatest inspirations. My mother also worked many years in the clothing business, and the greatest lesson I’ve learned from her is never giving up on what you believe in. She was and is constantly working, no matter the cost. She’s a mover and a shaker, and always has words of wisdom to share, and touches the hearts of everyone she comes across. Mother Khadijah Farrakhan who is the perfect example of a loving mother and wife, and any time I have a moment to be in her presence, my ears are always open to soak in her knowledge and wisdom. To the women mentioned above, and those who’ve helped me become who I am today, I am and will be forever thankful for.
Pricing:
- Scarves and Accessories start at $8
- Clothing $30+
Contact Info:
- Website: www.asmnineteen.com
- Email: asmnineteen@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asmnineteen/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asmnineteen.m/
Image Credit:
Photographers: Karime Muñoz; Hassan Muhammad, Models: Friends and Family
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