We had the good fortune of connecting with Kijafa Martin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kijafa, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My business was actually started from a place of healing. I started creating with my hands after an emergency surgery that caused me to have to stop doing what I normally did, which was music and performing.

While I was recovering I became depressed due to not being on stage and creating music. A close friend of mine told me to start using another form of creativity, which was with my hands. I took her advice and began crafting as a form of therapy. Eventually I began posting different items I made on Instagram. Someone asked if a particular item was for sell and that’s where it KreationzByKijafa started.

From there, I didn’t want to keep taking cash apps in my DM… I wanted to become a legit, trusted business. So I did what I needed to do to become just that.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My Kreationz are all handmade! I feel like we are all unique and our accessories should be too. I make everything with love and positivity and I take my art seriously!

My most exciting experience was when Kris Middletown from the Milwaukee Bucks chose my etsy store to shop from for 200 Christmas gift bags!

Being a business owner is far from easy. But the smiles on my customer’s faces and their reviews keep me inspired.

Lessons I’ve learned on this journey are to never waiver. Believe in yourself and believe in your prices. Know your worth! Do your best and be honest.

There will be days where you feel overwhelmed and that’s okay. Take time for yourself, but keep going! Surround yourself with people that inspire you and encourage you.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m a beach girl. So everything I’d suggest would be near the beach. A different beach or promenade each day. But I’d definitely take them to see some live music in leimert Park! So many vendors out there and the drum circle.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Much love to my husband! He’s super supportive and encourages me to do what I need to do to grow my businesses. Also my mother! She’s been my #1 supporter from the beginning! I also want to shout out my friend Tekela for inspiring me to try another form of creativity and encouraging me along the way.

Website: Kreationzbykijafa.myshopify.com

Instagram: Instagram.com/kreationzbykijafa

Facebook: Facebook.com/kreationzbykijafa

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfriI9wVLrIIY-UgxRmcmBg

Other: https://linktr.ee/KreationzByKijafa

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.