Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in a clothing line but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ravleen Kaur, co-founder of Navaa- An online collective of New South Asian Designers.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Navaa is an online collective of new and talented South Asian designers. We provide a platform to the designers from the subcontinent to gain access to the audience in North America. Cities like Mumbai and Delhi are the hub of South Asian fashion. With Navaa, we want to bring the latest trends to Canada and USA. Even though the designs are inspired by South Asian craftsmanship, anyone who wants to wear vibrant, unique, and sustainable fashion will love the collection on our website.
Tell us about yourself
I grew up in Delhi in India, always loving fashion. I would often accompany my mom, my two masis( aunts), and naani (grandmother) on numerous shopping trips exploring different markets. From designing my own outfits to hustling my way to get passes to fashion shows, I was in awe of these successful and amazing designers. They conceptualized and created outfits for years for my family and friends.
Fast forward, when I moved to Canada, fashion was the only thing that reminded me of home. It was the one thing that connected me to my roots. I wanted my family and friends in my new home also to have access to these talented designers and the same type of outfits without the hassle of making expensive trips to India. I also wanted to provide a platform to the young, modern, and emerging brands to showcase their talent in North America. Hence, Navaa was born in 2021. Each day, we chat with new designers to hear their stories and the inspiration behind their collections. Also, seeing our customers wear these designs and feel special and empowered. That is what keeps me going!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is helping these talented designers showcase and expand their reach. As Navaa grows each day, they grow with us!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
You're constantly learning that owning a business is not just limited to creating a product, but many other things like digital marketing, strategy, logistics, operations, branding, storytelling, etc. Every day you're learning something new!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Start! Just start somewhere.
- Stay consistent. Even if it is one task per day, do it.
- Hire for your weakness. Accept that you're not good at something and hire for it.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://shopnavaa.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Shopnavaa-111610861358513/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopnavaa/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/shopnavaa
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.
