Can you tell us a little bit about your path to Temple? 

Since high school, I knew I wanted to go to Temple, but life had other ideas, so I wound up enlisting in the U.S. Army. My main priority was academics, so when I learned the military would support me, I figured, “Why not?” About two years into my service, I received an honorable discharge. The leadership skills, work ethic and problem-solving abilities I developed during service were invaluable to starting a business. And that is exactly what I did. But first, I began my academic career at Delaware County Community College, transferred to Temple University and completed my bachelor’s degree in business administration in December 2020. 

What did you do after graduation? 

I graduated at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and, like many people, found myself with more time on my hands. I used that time to develop a comprehensive business plan with careful research, analysis and attention to detail, which Temple taught me extremely well. I also analyzed consumer trends and behavior during the pandemic, identified new opportunities in the market and assessed the competition. Developing new products and services was next, and I focused on catering to the changing needs of consumers during the pandemic. Finally, with more people spending time online during the pandemic, I worked toward creating a strong digital presence by optimizing websites for search engines, creating engaging social media content and investing in online advertising. 

Tell us a little bit about how AAIZAA was created. 

On my recent trip to Bangladesh and India, I came very close to my artisan and entrepreneurial roots as far back as my maternal grandfather. He was into poetry, painting, screenplay writing and cinematography. My mother and her sisters have knowledge and skills in making clothes, bags and jewelry. My uncles have amazing painting, sketching and woodcrafting skills. My cousins are singers, choreographers and musical artists. 

Growing up, I also showcased artistic skills without knowing they ran in our blood. I am a photographer and makeup artist. I’ve choreographed and styled people for cultural programs in the community, and I have been writing poetry and short stories since the age of 11. However, my family did not immediately recognize these skills as a potential career. They were set on the idea of a 9-5 “safe” career, but it wasn’t my dream. How could I explain that to my family, who left their home country and came to America to give us the “American Dream” of a 9-5 routine and a “safe” corporate life? There’s nothing wrong with following that route, but it wasn’t something that I was passionate about. I had this idea for AAIZAA and knew I needed to choose creativity over certainty. 

My mom started a small business from home, crafting dresses and ethnic wear and slowly built the product list. I was 13, and I remember being excited to help her at local markets and gaining skills in customer service, sales, marketing and so much more. That was another motivator to create AAIZAA and fulfill not only my dreams but hers alongside mine. I wanted to show her that living the American Dream means that anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, can achieve success and prosperity through hard work and determination. At its core, the American Dream is about having the freedom to dream of having something of your own. 

Why is your brand so important? 

First and foremost, as a women-owned business, I am contributing to the growth and success of female entrepreneurship and creating job opportunities for other women. Additionally, as a first-generation immigrant with minority status, my brand represents the American Dream and the potential for success that exists for all individuals, regardless of their background or upbringing. My parents’ sacrifices and hard work have undoubtedly influenced my drive and determination to succeed, and my brand is a testament to their efforts. 

My brand is also a powerful tool for economic empowerment. As a minority and veteran entrepreneur, I create jobs and economic opportunities for members of my community who may face barriers to employment. By supporting women artisans and handcrafters in developing countries, AAIZAA is also positively impacting global communities. By providing fair wages and safe working conditions, my brand empowers these women and promotes sustainable economic growth. 

Furthermore, as an individual of South Asian heritage, I can bring a unique perspective and set of experiences to the table. AAIZAA has the potential to bridge cultural gaps and promote diversity and inclusion within the fashion industry. As a South Asian immigrant, I can use my brand to showcase traditional textiles, designs and techniques from my home country while incorporating modern styles and trends. This helps preserve cultural traditions while also sharing them with a wider audience.