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

Hi Dauriya, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
My journey into the artistic and creative world has been deeply personal and fulfilling, shaped by my passion for fashion, education, and empowering others. As the founder of the School of Couture, my career results from years of dedication to teaching, inspiring and preparing the next generation of designers for the exciting and challenging world of fashion.
From a young age, I was captivated by the beauty and potential of creativity. Fashion became my language—a way to tell stories, express ideas, and connect with others. Over time, this passion evolved into a calling: to create and teach. I realized creativity’s profound and transformative power and wanted to share this gift with others, particularly children and young dreamers.
Through my journey in education—earning degrees in business, education, and fashion design—I learned the importance of blending theory with practical skills. While pursuing my third bachelor’s degree in fashion, I witnessed how many students struggled to meet the technical demands of the field due to a lack of preparation. The experience of seeing talented individuals give up on their dreams due to these challenges deeply impacted me. I knew then that I wanted to create a solution—a space where children could develop practical skills early on while nurturing their creativity.
This desire led to the founding School of Couture, a fashion school for young designers with big dreams. Here, we guide our students through every step of the creative process, from sketching ideas to completing their first finished garments. Our curriculum includes sewing, embroidery, knitting, crocheting, pattern making, and more—everything they need to transform their ideas into reality. We also provide mentorship, opportunities to showcase their work, and a supportive community encouraging their unique creative expression.
Beyond teaching fashion, I’ve also had the privilege of using creativity as a tool for healing. Through a specialized program for the cancer community, in partnership with the Cancer Support Community of South Bay, we help survivors regain motor skills and find solace in artistic expression. This initiative, which includes workshops, individualized projects, and a culminating fashion show, has shown me the power of creativity to uplift and transform lives in ways that go far beyond professional aspirations.
One of my proudest achievements is our annual fashion show for kids, where over 100 young designers showcase their work. This event is more than just a celebration of talent—it’s a platform for kids to experience the joy of seeing their hard work come to life on the runway. Watching their confidence grow as they proudly present their creations reminds me why I pursued this path in the first place.
Another important lesson on this journey is to follow your instincts and trust your vision. My life has taught me that success comes not from adhering to conventional wisdom but from pursuing your passion wholeheartedly. When you believe in your ideas and dare to act on them, the rewards are immeasurable—not just for you but also those you inspire. This journey has also taught me the importance of resilience, adaptability, and the transformative power of creativity in overcoming challenges.
In choosing an artistic and creative career, I’ve found a way to align my passions for fashion, education, and empowerment. School of Couture is more than a school; it’s a mission to help children and communities discover the transformative power of creativity. This journey has taught me that art and design are not just about creating beauty—they also build confidence, resilience, and the belief that anything is possible. That is why I pursued an artistic and creative career.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
School of Couture is more than a fashion school—it’s a place where creativity, education, and empowerment come together. Our mission is to inspire all children, regardless of background or circumstance, to dream big, believe in themselves, and embrace the power of their imagination.
I want the world to know that creativity is for everyone, and with the right tools and guidance, every child can achieve greatness. Whether through the excitement of a fashion show, the sheer joy of learning a new skill, or the healing power of creative expression, the School of Couture is about more than fashion—it’s about building a brighter, more confident future for every student. We believe in the joy of learning and strive to make every moment in our school a thrilling experience.
This journey has been one of challenges, growth, and incredible rewards. I am proud of what we’ve built, including our students’ successful fashion shows and acceptance into prestigious design schools. None of this would have been possible without the support of our dedicated parents, teachers, and community. I am excited to continue sharing this passion with the world. Through the School of Couture, I hope to inspire others to see the potential in themselves and the next generation of creative thinkers.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
No success story is ever written alone, and my journey with School of Couture is no exception. I’ve been fortunate to have incredible support, mentorship, and encouragement along the way, and this is my moment to express my gratitude.
First and foremost, I want to dedicate my shoutout to the Cancer Support Community of South Bay. Their unwavering belief in our mission to empower the cancer community through creativity has been a cornerstone and a catalyst for our success. Their collaboration and support allowed us to launch a program that helps survivors regain their motor skills and provides a transformative pathway for healing and self-expression. I am forever grateful for their trust and encouragement, which has significantly impacted our journey.
I also want to recognize my family and close friends, whose love and encouragement have been my constant source of strength. They’ve stood by me during every challenge and celebrated every milestone, reminding me of the importance of perseverance and passion. Their unwavering belief in me, comforting words during tough times, and joyous celebrations during my successes have given me the courage to follow my dreams and turn them into reality.
To my mentors and educators who shaped my understanding of creativity, education, and business, thank you for inspiring me to think and dream even more. Your guidance, whether helping me refine my business model or encouraging me to think creatively, has been invaluable during my years of academic and professional growth.
Lastly, my shoutout goes to the students and families of the School of Couture. They are not just the heart but the soul of everything we do. Their dedication, passion, and talent are not just fuel but the driving force behind our growth and innovation. Their stories and successes are not just measures but the essence of our impact, and I am endlessly proud of them.
Through this journey, I found inspiration in books like The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. These books taught me to trust the process, follow my instincts, and fearlessly pursue my passion. The idea that the universe conspires to help us achieve our dreams has been a guiding principle in my life and career.
To everyone who has contributed to my story, big or small, thank you for believing in me, supporting me, and contributing to the mission of empowering the next generation of dreamers and creators. Your generosity, kindness, and encouragement have shaped my success.

Website: https://schoolofcouture.com

Instagram: schoolofcouture

Facebook: schoolofcouture

Yelp: schoolofcouture

Youtube: schoolofcouture

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.