Finding Ways to Inspire and Impact My Community

Since I was young, I was really passionate about the arts and inspiring people through art. As I got older, this passion started to transition to design. I always imagined myself going to a fashion design institute or doing a degree in fashion design. After I graduated from university, I ended up spending a year at fashion school and decided that it was time to start living my dream. It was an exciting life-long vision, and I had so many Ideas. I was thinking BIG. I had plans to create unique and attractive products that could impact the community.

Little did I know it was tough to actually get into the business. It was challenging because in this system we are taught the basics, but not how to get our business off the ground. There was a lot to think about from choosing the business structure, to the business plan and the most important thing, the startup costs. There were costs needed for the brand design, the logo, the website, rent for a work location, machines, design tools and many more. Even though I had so many ideas, I learned that I had to focus on one idea at a time and start small.

I started with a few craft pieces and custom traditional clothes for family and friends for holidays and events. I liked sharing my designs and sketches in the hopes of inspiring people. It wasn’t anything big, but I was really happy that I could make something that people could enjoy wearing with confidence. It satisfied me greatly, and it still does. Whether it was a big or small project, I knew I would be happy doing what I love on the side and exploring other things that I could do. That’s when I finally decided that I wanted to have this be a side project, and I started looking for more opportunities to grow professionally.

When I started looking for full-time employment, I knew I wanted a way to grow my business skills, and I still wanted to be at a job that was inspiring and that would have an impact on my community. As I began my search, I came across RENEW, a company which was really trying to have a positive impact on the community where I live. I knew I wanted to be a part of that.

When I joined RENEW, I was really nervous about my first day. It was my first job, and I didn’t want to mess anything up. It actually took me no time at all to familiarize myself because everyone was really welcoming, and I enjoyed everything I was doing. I was so fascinated by how well-planned and organized everything here at RENEW was. I was in love with all the guiding statements and disciplines, and it made me want to align it with my personal life. I’ve been at RENEW for for about 15 months now, and I know I’m in the right place where I can grow both professionally and as a person.