VIDA is a global platform offering unique products on-demand and at scale. The brand partners with artists from around the world and family-owned manufacturers and entrepreneurs to create unique products.

In addition to helping to build up these makers and small businesses, VIDA offers programs supporting literacy, women's rights, and financial education across each of its partner plants.

Lastly, VIDA works to support various organizations with a portion of proceeds supporting them.

What was the inspiration to start this business?

Since childhood, I’ve dreamed of paving my own path in business by building and leading a multi-national company.

My background and experiences from rural Pakistan to Boston inspired me to create a collaboration that tells the story of the rich interconnected world that we live in. I wanted artists and makers from around the world to be given the chance to come together and create beautiful, artful products that are made in a responsible way.

The idea was to rebuild commerce in a way that enriches the everyday lives of creatives, makers, and customers worldwide and to break the chain of poverty often linked with the textile industry in developing countries.

Through technology, we could create beauty that is based on global reciprocity. I believe fashion can be responsible, accessible, and innovative and those are the key pillars of VIDA today.

When you started your business, did you ever envision that you would be where you are now?

Growing up, I wanted to be an artist and taught myself to paint, sew, screen print, and more, though I never actually pursued design and fashion as a profession. Having built my career in product management and technology, I am trained to look for bold and innovative ways to solve real-world problems.

This helped guide my vision for VIDA, creating a platform that would enhance daily lives in an original and beautiful way. I wanted each VIDA item to reflect the artist’s vision and inspire, uplift and connect with our global customers.

What was the biggest lesson you learned while starting and growing this business?

Always focus on what makes sense rather than what is the common opinion.

What would you tell a FEM that is struggling in her business and feel like it's too difficult?

Start somewhere, anywhere. There are many ways we can improve on the status quo. I would advise my fellow entrepreneurs and designers to not feel overwhelmed and constrained by the enormity of the problems, to not feel discouraged or feel that can’t make enough of a difference, to not overthink it, but rather start where they are, start where they can.

What continues to inspire you to keep on growing your business?

Knowing that through VIDA we can make a huge impact in creating economic opportunities and progress for local regions.

Final advice for those thinking of starting a business or looking to grow their current business?

Again, don't feel overwhelmed and constrained by the enormity of the problems, try not to feel discouraged or feel that you can’t make enough of a difference, but rather start where they are, start where they can.

We have the responsibility to change the current system and we can make a difference.

To connect: Insta:@shopvida

"VIDA: collaboration of designers and makers that brings original, inspiring products to fill the needs of conscientious consumers. "