Can you please share why you founded Custom Collaborative?

As the founder, I developed the organization because I wanted to create opportunities for women who are frequently overlooked: women from low income and immigrant communities. They do most of the work that makes the fashion industry go, but earn a disproportionately small portion of the pay.

Can you share a little bit more about how fashion and jewelry play an integral part in your life? 

I love bright colors and a wide range of embellishments. I prefer to express myself in my clothes and sometimes veer away from practicality. For example, if a dress that I design for myself has pockets, the pockets are likely as style choice rather than utilitarian. I love decorative accessories and belts that aren't holding anything up or in bold necklaces, bracelets, and semi-useless handbags [that are style statements].

Who do you admire most and why? 

Wow, that is so tough because I admire and am inspired by many people. Bryan Stevensen and Serena Williams. Stevenson because he has clear intentions, and stands with, and for people who society discards and discounts. Williams because she never gives up. She believes in herself, has the best work ethic that I've ever seen, and speaks her truth. Serena also makes wise business decisions and invests in her community. She has worked so hard to overcome so many challenges and is really a living legend as an athlete, as an American, and as a Black woman.

Is there a difficult moment you could share with us from your past and how you found your strength to get through it?

My first year of law school. Like many people, I entered law school having been the fastest reader and best writer or top something in my prior educational experience. At Georgetown University I was none of those things anymore. So I had to think harder than I ever had, read faster than I thought was possible, and generally elevate my game. That was really daunting because I hadn't had to try hard in the past. I remember how proud my grandmother was that I was going to be lawyer that she thought I was was "apt" so I could use my brain as a pathway to success and make her proud fo me. There was no way I could not be successful and disappoint her. I knew that I could succeed if I tried, so I worked really hard and graduated in the middle of the pack.

What gives you daily strength and inspiration?

I get inspiration from a few places. I know that there are people who came before me who did bigger things against bigger odds so that helps me dream and execute. I also get inspiration from people around me. I'm fortunate to have a husband, family, friends, and colleagues who believe in me and share my values of justice and equity. When I begin to think things are hard I remember that others can and will help me. Also I am strengthened and motivated by my faith in God. 

What value or mission do you consider to be most integral to your business?

We want to ensure that the people who make our clothes are paid an equitable wage that people who want good quality clothes can find them, no matter their body shape. And that people have equitable opportunities to improve their skills, networks, and lives.