Lubna Najjar on Ethical Fashion and the Future of Retail | Pt. 1

How can consumers make more ethical choices when it comes to their clothing purchases to combat overconsumption?

In this two-part interview, I have a special guest, Lubna Najjar, the entrepreneurial powerhouse behind Ilmoda Brands, a boutique agency in Columbus that bridges the gap between fashion concept and market. Lubna brings a wealth of experience as a woman navigating the design and fashion industry, balancing creative prowess with corporate acumen.

The Challenges of Business Ownership: “It’s never on cruise control because there’s always something. You’re always developing new. You’re always trying to figure out something that can be better and greater.”— Lubna Najjar

In this first part of our conversation, we learn more about Lubna’s journey, discussing the challenges and high expectations tied to her consulting roles and board seats, and the immense pressure to consistently perform at the highest level.

Lubna shares her insights on the importance of self-care, emotional balance, and the necessity for resilience. With a focus on ethical fashion, Lubna talks about her doctoral pursuits in business, analyzing consumer behavior, the impact of fast fashion, and her mission to drive sustainable and ethical practices in the industry.

We explore the need for disruptors and ongoing improvement within their fields, finding inspiration in their cross-disciplinary approaches.

Join us as we uncover the story of a hometown hero and role model, we learn about her endeavors in mentoring, community involvement, and her commitment to fostering the next generation of women leaders.

Inspiring Moments

05:57 Self-made and successful, formed strong relationships.

07:27 Women entrepreneurs face challenges in business.

10:25 Grieving loss in business, finding strength within.

13:42 Females in leadership have influential advisory roles.

22:28 Different consumer behaviors and fast fashion’s impact.

23:54 Ethical movement to improve product development processes.

26:18 Quality isn’t determined by price alone.

Inspiring Takeaways

Lubna Najjar highlights the gender disparity within the fashion industry, noting that while women dominate the creative side, men are more prevalent on the corporate and retail side.

We discuss the immense pressures and high expectations associated with consulting and holding board seats.

We both stress the importance of maintaining emotional balance, self-care, and allowing time for rest and recovery to sustain long-term performance.

We talk about the importance of resilience and the ability to say no.

Lubna Najjar, who is pursuing a doctorate in business focused on ethical fashion, discusses the impact of fast fashion on overconsumption and the environmental consequences of inexpensive materials.

Najjar underscores the negative impacts of waste from fast fashion, including effects on the ozone layer, water quality, and labor practices.

Lubna’s involvement with nonprofit work, such as the Women’s Small Business Accelerator, and her dedication to mentorship and community support, highlight the importance of giving back and empowering others in business.

Part 1 of this conversation concludes with a mutual acknowledgment of the inspiration and the support we both draw from each other’s work, exemplifying the power of role models and the positive influence they can have within their industries.

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