We’re looking forward to introducing you to Anwar Jr.. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Anwar, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
I’m feeling in my spirit to continue with consistency and asserting myself, by letting it be known. Being humble can really be a block at times because, it can cause me to not really acknowledge my accomplishments. Improving on the things that shape me as an artist and how I present myself to people.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Absolutely! My name is Anwar Jr, I’m a designer/seamstress and I’m a big advocate for mental health, and doing what scares you. I’ve never really thought of a brand name other than using my own, it shows leadership as well as control. Growing up I was really shy yet really curious, still applying today separates me into that category of a creative where the imagination is unmatched.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
Growing up my mother would always tell me and my siblings that “can’t never did anything” whenever we would say that we couldn’t do anything. I loved hearing that back then because, I still tell myself that whenever I’m feeling discouraged. Having seasonal depression along with anxiousness, putting on these fashion shows and continuing to be myself, that quote from my mother really is something that reminds me that I can do it all.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
After my first fashion show in 2017 I figured I should keep things rolling. During 2018 I went through the most challenging mental heath event, still in production of my second show, with feeling continuous pain I still decided not to stop. Most men feel like they need to suppress their feelings but, I was tired of being another statistic and feeling trapped. After that fashion show I felt charged, inspired like no other. Overcoming something so dark while still being here talking in this moment, the sky’s the limit.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
They would say support and affirmation in regards to my work. Showing up means so much to me, family is the backbone to every single thing I do. I come from a supportive family and, I use a lot of fuel from that support as well as affirming words from anyone to keep me going. Whenever the ideas can seem a little too complex or I’m experiencing a creative block I channel all of that and just like that I’m back in the game.
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?
I’m doing both of those things. My dad would ask if I’m a leader or a follower, then proceed to let me know that I am indeed a leader. The more aware I got I realized that I’m here to inspire as well, I’ve been affirmed countless times of that and, it keeps me grounded so that I’m also inspiring myself.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bepridefulpdf.bigcartel.com
- Instagram: @1freearchive
- Youtube: @strivearrive
Image Credits
@osherphotography
@rebecca.carville
@zionsperspective
