Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Priya Grimes. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Priya, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
I feel like my purpose found me. I was born prematurely and In the early stages of my life. Being born premature, the birth defects of that had my lungs having to do the work for my heart, a complication that nearly cost me my life. I endured numerous procedures, but like so many other tiny fighters, I refused to give up. I outlasted those early challenges and emerged stronger.
As I grew older, I discovered a passion for t-shirt design during a silk screening class at SoCal Roc. However, fear kept me from fully pursuing that purpose. I worked at Ralphs for 10 years, but eventually, issues with vascular veins in my legs forced me to retire, as I could no longer stand for extended periods. This unexpected challenge led me to focus on my t-shirt business, Pre[Me]’s of the World.
In 2021, I committed fully to becoming a business owner, attending seminars and learning everything I could about entrepreneurship. By early 2022, I had filed all the necessary paperwork to officially launch my business. It was one of the greatest achievements of my life to be able to support the tiny fighters and their parents.those who, like me, refuse to give up.
I am also incredibly proud because being able to start a business is amazing. It reminds me every day that nothing is impossible when you believe in yourself and your dreams.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
At Pre[Me]’s of the World, we focus on creating a supportive and empowering community for individuals touched by premature birth. Our mission goes beyond selling t-shirts. we aim to connect adults who were premature babies, parents of premature babies, or those with shared experiences of raising or being raised by premature children.
The most exciting part of my work is fostering connections through shared stories and experiences. Premature birth often comes with unique challenges, and my brand serves as a platform for individuals to feel seen, heard, and understood. Each shirt represents a badge of resilience, pride, and community, making it more than just a product.
One thing that makes us special is the personal connection behind the brand. As someone born prematurely, I’ve channeled my journey into this business, ensuring it remains authentic and heartfelt. We’re building more than a clothing line. we’re creating a space for healing, celebration, and advocacy.
As for what’s new, we’re actively working on expanding our outreach and launching designs that represent different aspects of the premature journey. We also plan to host community events in the future to raise awareness about the realities of premature birth. Pre[Me] of the World is just getting started, and we’re excited to grow alongside our community!
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
The three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are resilience, empathy, and creativity
Being born prematurely and navigating life taught me how to overcome challenges. Resilience allowed me to embrace setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow. For those just starting their journey, I’d say don’t fear failure. Build your resilience by reflecting on what you’ve overcome and recognizing your ability to persist. Set small goals and celebrate progress, no matter how small.
Empathy My experiences inspired me to create a space where others can share their stories and feel understood. Empathy is at the heart, it’s about listening, connecting, and building community. Empathy is the backbone of my business
Creativity allows me to share meaningful messages through my shirts. For those early in their journey, exploring your passions. Don’t be afraid to experiment and take risks.
Ultimately, my advice is to embrace your story. What makes you different is what will make you stand out to others. Invest in events to build skills around your passions.
Alright, so before we go we want to ask you to take a moment to reflect and share what you think you would do if you somehow knew you only had a decade of life left?
A significant challenge I’m currently facing is building momentum with sales. In the past nine months, I’ve only had one sale, which has been both humbling and a learning experience. It’s taught me how important it is to connect with my audience and effectively communicate the deeper mission behind Pre[Me] of the World.
I think part of the challenge lies in raising awareness and standing out in a new market while staying true to the heart of my brand. However getting that message across to the right audience has been an ongoing struggle.
While the slow start has been challenging, I see it as an opportunity to grow, learn, and adapt. I’m committed to finding ways to connect more deeply.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://premeoftheworld.company.site/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Premesoftheworld
Image Credits
N/a
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