Ruia Ahmadzada is the founder of NARI Skincare. The driven executive holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Leadership and Management from New York University and has over 30 years of business experience. As a true visionary, she is using her skills to build a better world for her family, our communities, and for future generations—one NARI product at time.

Seeking to create a community of conscientious consumers committed to their physical and spiritual health, Ms.Ahmadzada founded NARI in 2015. It is the world’s first purpose-driven luxury skincare line that is safe, vegan, cruelty-free, non-GMO, and 100% Halal certified, which means NARI also meets the needs of one of the world’s most underserved demographics.

Along with an outstanding R&D team, led by a renowned chemist and a highly credible board of advisors —including Tariq Farid, Founder & Chairman of Edible Arrangements; Adnan Durrani,

CEO & Founder of Saffron Roads; Ali Bouhouch, former CTO of Sephora; and Farha Aslam, Managing Partner at Crescent Capital—NARI is looking to be the next disruptor of the beauty industry!

“We, at NARI, wholeheartedly believe in individual and corporate responsibility to do good by our clients and community. As such, a percentage of our profits goes toward funding projects to empower women and educate orphans around the world, as well as to advocate for endangered wildlife around the world.”

RAINE: Knowing what you know now, what advice would you have given yourself five years ago?

AHMADZADA: To be less of a perfectionist and critical of myself. I wish had taken on chances earlier and worked on improving as I went along, and not waited for everything to be perfect!

RAINE: What three traits do you feel are most needed to pursue entrepreneurship?

AHMADZADA: In my opinion, the three traits most needed to pursue entrepreneurship are passion, resilience, and being a self-starter with a great work ethic.

RAINE: What wellness tips do you swear by?

AHMADZADA: Proper sleep, a wholesome diet, a daily fitness routine and, most of all, a daily meditation practice. Also, drinking a lot of WATER!

RAINE: What major upcoming project are you most excited about?

AHMADZADA: NARI was one of the finalists at the 2019 INNOCOS Startup Challenge in Seoul. Industry leaders from across the world gather at The INNOCOS International Beauty Innovation Summit to explore the latest trends— in marketing, product placement, and retail—that are rapidly transforming the beauty, personal care, and fragrance industries. At NARI, we hope to be at the forefront of that transformation.

RAINE: Word to the wise: What advice would you lend to a budding talent on the rise in your chosen field

AHMADZADA: Make your dream purposeful. Be the change you want to see in the world!

RAINE: What is your viewpoint of failure and how to deal with it?

AHMADZADA: I see it as an opportunity to learn and grow! Without failure, there would be no success. I have had my share of failure, but it only made me resilient, discerning, and strong! I dealt with it by staying positive and moving forward!

RAINE: Describe yourself in five words or less. AHMADZADA: Visionary. Passionate. Discerning. Resilient. Innovative.

RAINE: Talk about how technology has changed your industry for newcomers?

AHMADZADA: Newcomers are entering a new era in the beauty industry. As technology continues to advance, products and services that increase personalization and improve the consumer experience are becoming more and more innovative. AI/AR technologies are among these.

RAINE: In regard to your unique selling advantage, explain how you made the choice to break the mold?

AHMADZADA: We are not only meeting the needs of the much ignored $81 billion Muslim beauty market, but we are also offering a collection of premium anti-aging products with no dilution (no water added). All of our products have the highest level of potency and are made with safe, natural active ingredients that are easily absorbed by the skin and work in less time!

RAINE: Regarding fashion, what would you describe as your signature “look”?

AHMADZADA: Feminine. Classic.Timeless.

RAINE: Do your fashion choices affect your success in meetings or pitches?

AHMADZADA: As an aspiring entrepreneur, it’s important to dress the part. Your personal brand is as important as your business brand. Looking your best during a pitch while on stage is always a great way to stand out from the crowd. So, take the opportunity to make every element work for you. Stay authentic and develop your personal style just as you would your leadership style.

RAINE: What is your favorite city for work and play and why?

AHMADZADA: NEW YORK CITY. It’s one of the world’s business hubs, the fashion capital of the world, and the ultimate destination for FUN! From its high-rise financial district to the views from the High Line, no matter where you are from, you will never be bored in the city that never sleeps!