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

Hi Michelle, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
In 2016, there was a notable and undeniable shift in our society. I had a feeling a revolution was on the cusp of happening. I don’t mean to instigate war, but something as impactful and life-changing. As projects evolved, the name matured into WEAREUPRISERS because it takes a whole village to create change.

What should our readers know about your business?
What you wear is what you represent. Community-driven and based in Los Angeles, CA,  we’re  no ordinary streetwear brand. We’re rebels—with a mission. UPRISERS core DNA is rooted in amplifying impactful and authentic stories and disrupting social norms to transform communities. We are the one-stop destination for fashion and activism. Our work is a blend of aesthetic designs with impactful messages. If you’re a rebel with a cause we hear you. We exist because we respond to the people.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
In a non-pandemic world, Los Angeles would almost be close to a city that never sleeps. There is always something to do, people to see, and events to go to. I would probably mix it up with high energy activities (industry events with free booze) but then go home early so I can be at the comfort of my own bed. Sleepy time tea is my go-to. I do value and appreciate what mother earth has provided us; so you’ll see us being around nature. Something that I am more conscious of as of this year is to support other local BIPOC small businesses. I would take my best friends to local eats, shops, and events that support our BIPOC community.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My family; parents and grandparents who persevered, and went through hardships I could never imagine to have lived through so that that the future generations can have a better life. I’m able to live my dream because of their perseverance.

Website: www.weareuprisers.com
Instagram: weareuprisers
Linkedin: Uprisers.World
Twitter: weareuprisers
Facebook: We Are Uprisers
Youtube: Michelle K. Hanabusa

Image Credits
https://www.instagram.com/reinhardtkenneth/ https://www.instagram.com/leoyoulagi/

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.