Story & Lesson Highlights with Samya Mohamed of New York City

Samya Mohamed shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Good morning Samya, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
I’m most proud of the community I’ve built both on and off social media—the connections, opportunities, and impact that have come from giving back in meaningful ways. I take pride in the discipline and respect I’ve cultivated for myself, setting a high standard for how I live and lead. What I value most are the investments of time, creativity, and support I’ve poured into others without needing to speak about it. Often, the most meaningful contributions happen quietly, and yet the gratitude and fulfillment they bring have truly transformed my life for the better.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
As a Lifestyle Creator at the intersection of fashion and fitness, based in New York, I’ve built a unique presence by blending my passion for style, wellness, and storytelling into content that inspires and empowers. With a background in creative project management and collaborations with global brands, I bring a polished yet authentic perspective to everything I create.

What makes my work stand out is bridging fashion’s artistry with fitness’s discipline—curating not just looks and routines, but a lifestyle centered on confidence, balance, and expression. Beyond social media, I’ve worked with renowned names in fashion, beauty, and wellness, always aiming to create content and experiences that connect with people on a deeper level.

Currently, I’m expanding my brand into new creative projects, including fashion collaborations, lifestyle products, and community-driven initiatives that celebrate individuality and strength. My journey is proof that style and wellness are more than just trends.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
This year, one of my favorite moments involved a community lunch program I recently joined this summer. As a community volunteer for over 10 years, this experience significantly impacted me mentally. I had the opportunity to be one of three kitchen cooks, and our first night, we prepared food for approximately 500 people. The following morning, we returned to package the food and distribute it to community members in need. The moment the line formed outside and I handed out meals, everything changed. I had never witnessed so many people smile because of my involvement. Being thanked by hundreds of people was incredibly overwhelming, and I realized then that one individual can truly make a difference. While helping and giving back is important, feeling so empowered in that moment of giving has made it a mandatory part of my life.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self, “I love you.” Growing up without hearing those words, and in my attempts to become a “grown-up” and suppress my emotions, really held me back. I always felt like someone else had to tell me they loved me or be responsible for my success. I would also tell myself to be patient, not worry when things don’t go my way, and be happy with the outcome as long as I put in my best effort. I would emphasize that my life is narrated by me and not by what others want for me.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I admire Bill Gates for his character, not his power. Beyond his success as the co-founder of Microsoft, what stands out most is his commitment to using his influence and resources for the greater good. Through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, he has dedicated decades to tackling some of the world’s most pressing issues—eradicating diseases, expanding access to education, and addressing global poverty. What I find admirable is not just his philanthropy, but his humility and curiosity; he continues to learn, evolve, and seek solutions rather than resting on his achievements. His ability to balance innovation with compassion shows that true leadership is not measured by wealth or titles, but by the positive impact one leaves on others.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
For much of my life, I did what I was told to do. But in recent years, I’ve stepped into what I truly feel I was born to do. Over the past six years, I’ve devoted my energy to cultivating every skill I have—whether in creativity, sports performance development, building brand awareness, or giving back to communities through my voice, passion, and platforms.

Living in alignment with my purpose means using my influence for impact. That’s why I’m especially proud to be partnering with Alice + Olivia and the Fashion Fights Cancer Foundation to host a shopping event on October 15th in Soho, New York, in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Nothing excites me more than blending creativity, community, and advocacy to benefit the causes and people who deserve it most.

Image Credits
@jadesvisions_