We had the good fortune of connecting with Abby Jahaira and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Abby, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My creative journey started in 2017 when I decided to share my natural hair and self care journey on Youtube. The community of people that found value in my words compelled me to share my lifestyle, Caribbean culture, and so much more within my work. This allowed me the opportunity to go a step further and create Abby Jahaira the brand. My goal has always been to create a safe space for girls and women who look like me, and who have similar experiences.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
The greatest part about being my own brand is that it is me in all aspects. If you go on Youtube, you will be encountered with the side of me that focuses on my love for natural hair, and self care practices. If you find me on TikTok, you will discover the more cultural and family oriented pieces of me that truly encompass who I am as a whole. I am proud that my brand has allowed me to gain opportunities to interview Puerto Rico’s very own Justin Quiles, who is one of the leading songwriters in the Latino Urban music scene.
My journey has definitely been presented with many challenges. I think the biggest challenge has been remaining authentic in a space where a lot is fabricated. Due to the lack of representation in a lot of spaces, I always felt the need to change something, and ultimately lead to a strong sense of dissatisfaction.
The parts of me that I was always afraid to show are the very things that have allowed me to build such a strong community of supporters. I created an environment where i am able to show up as myself even in those spaces where I can sometimes be the “only”.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Miami has been home for me since I was 8 years old. So, my idea of Miami stems around the mom and pop shops in Allapattah, Brownsville, Liberty City, and Lil’ Haiti. When I want some authentic Dominican food, I make my way to any restaurant on 17th avenue and NW 36th street. If I want some amazing fritanga, I love going to Caña Brava or Pinolandia. For a good Miami night with the authentic Dade & Broward County vibes, Ricky’s in Pembroke Pines on a Friday night is the spot! Miami has so much to offer, and the creative soace is extremely extensive. It’s all about who you know and where the vibe is curating. Trust, there is more to the 305 than South Beach! Come over to my side for a good time.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
A huge part of my growth has been because of organizations like Girls Make Beats. Girls Make Beats is a nonprofit organization that empowers girls by expanding the female presence of music producers, DJs, and audio engineers. This organization helped lead me to features both as a musician and campaign model for Nike and Footlocker’s Air Max Day 2021. Along with this, Girls Make Beats is a place where black and brown girls are empowered, and are encouraged to be comfortable in their skin. This organization has been a huge push in my successes and a huge part of the motivation that keeps Abby Jahaira going.
Website: www.abbyjahaira.com
Instagram: @abbyjahaira
Facebook: Abby Jahaira
Youtube: Abby Jahaira
Image Credits
Melody Timothee Celia D. Luna