Amie Ro of Los Angeles on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Amie Ro. Check out our conversation below.

Hi Amie, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What is a normal day like for you right now?
This year has been particularly difficult for a lot of people including myself and so it almost feels like having a “normal” day is rare. As an independent contractor it consists of searching, starting, and finishing a project. Keeping up with the news has become somewhat of a priority whereas in the past it was not. On the bright side I’ve grown to be more disciplined to include physical activities in between for the sake of my mental health.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’ve started my little brand RIN to introduce something I thought was missing in the women’s cycling gear. It was and still is very much for me in terms of what I think we need in the market and or can use more of. I think what’s special about it aside from my personal sentiments is that it’s fully developed locally in bare minimum small batch production. Of course that has a lot to do with funding on my own but it also prevents waste which is something that I feel is very important in an industry that produces so much waste.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
I can’t pinpoint to a specific moment but I think every year there is an event that will add a layer to how I see the world in a different way. It has become increasingly more important to pay attention to things outside your immediate environment. There are a lot of moments recently that made me think about how I contribute to society. Lots of conflicting moments as a tiny business owner participating in capitalism!

What’s something you changed your mind about after failing hard?
Looking back on many failures that’s happened in my life I think I’ve changed my mind about being successful. It’s something I go back and forth on but I definitely don’t cling on to wanting “success” or proving myself as much as I did when I was younger. What’s important for me now is to stay curious and ambitious, that doesn’t have to lead to any form of measurable success.

I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
I think consideration for others is a huge value that I hold strong to. I was born and raised in Japan and consideration is a big part of the culture. I think about the people I work with, the customers that take a moment to see what I make, and the support I get from my close circle. That dictates how I operate and the direction I take with the brand.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. How do you know when you’re out of your depth?
I see it as that most things are out of my depth! I know immediately because when you try something you’re not experienced in it feels like your feet isn’t touching the ground. But that has never kept me away from moving into the deep! The easiest way to deal with the feeling you’re out of your depth is to keep going while simultaneously gathering what you need to get back on the ground.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://rin-store.com
• Instagram: @rinxdesign