We love inspiring stories from amazing people across the globe who are doing great things. This week’s feature focuses on Najeema Iman. Najeema Imanis a self taught independent wearable art and accessory designer. Born in Queens, New York, breed in Detroit, MI, she is inspired by all of the textures, sounds, and flavors that the world offers.

Photo Credit: [photo of Najeema Iman wearing a Curlitude earing]. (N.D). Retrieved August, 5 2015 from http://www.curlitude.com

Who is Najeema Iman?

I have always been artistic, but I never wanted to be an artist. My parents met in design school during the 80’s in New york, and split before I was born.   I was provided many opportunities to see beyond the confines of my community. I can’t even count the amount of times I’ve been to the Fox, Detroit Opera House, DIA, and the joy of summer festivals at Hart Plaza. My Saturdays consisted of art classes at the College of Creative Studies, DapCep, guitar lessons, and more. I have to say that these things laid the foundation for who I am, and who I am becoming. Though I attended two different colleges, one of my greatest regrets is not having my degree, but I hope to change that in the future as it is never to late.

Beyond being a creative, I am a mother two little girls and have been married to my husband for almost six years. Before Curlitude I lived in the fog of depression, overwhelmed by my day to day life; now I am free and full on life. I have my bad days, but the good sure out ways the bad.

What is Curlitude?

A Michigan based handcrafted wearable art and accessories company created to accent your natural beauty and style.

What made you leap forward to make the first step to Curlitude?

Being an extremely social artistic person who turned to the life of a Stay at home wife and mother, I needed an outlet, a way for my voice to be heard. Curlitude allowed me to meet new people on a consistent basis and share my art with the world.

How did you know this what you wanted to do for sure?

There are many things that I would like to do with my life. Not only do I work on Curlitude, I also love helping people. I think everyone is multifaceted and I can’t put myself in a box. I am actually still discovering who Najeema is, like many other 20 somethings I know. I don’t know where Curlitude will take me next, but I am happy to continue meeting cool people along the way.

So after getting set up with Curlitude, what were the setbacks and what did you do to improve?

Trust me when I say, “I have not arrived.” There are many things that I need to work on now, but one of my biggest downfalls for me has been over thinking things and doubting myself. I often subconsciously put myself in competition with other artists, but truth is there is room for everybody . I don’t know who I saw post it recently, but it was something along the lines of “Don’t judge yourself according to what someone else is doing, judge yourself on how you used to be, be your own competition and keep striving to make your products better. You will make mistakes but learn from them and keep it moving,

What products do you offer?

My most popular items are my handcrafted one-of-a-kind paper earrings, however I have a host of other products including wire bracelets, rings, necklaces, and headpieces.

What is your advice to potential business owners having a fear of launching?

Don’t give up. Invest in yourself. Don’t stop asking questions. Surround yourself with people that are where you want to be and learn from them.

Photo Credit: [photo of a Curlitude ring]. (N.D). Retrieved August 5, 2015 from http://www.curlitude.com

Where and how can people find you?

You can shop Curlitude online at www.curlitude.com and www.curlitude.etsy.com. Catch me on Instagram at www.instagram.com.curlitude, Facebook at www.facebook.com/curlitude, Twitter www.twitter.com/curlitude For other inquires email curlitudellc@gmail.com