When I started Malabskin, I wasn’t just building a skincare brand, I was stepping into the unknown. I wasn’t following a family legacy of entrepreneurs or stepping into a ready-made business. I was creating something that had never been done before in my world. That’s what being “the first in the family” often looks like, there’s no blueprint, no guidebook, just you… and your gut .
I grew up as the only daughter in a migrant household, raised by parents who have always been in survival mode. They came to this country with hopes for a better life, but stability never came easy. I watched them work hard, struggle, and put everyone else’s needs before their own..including mine. So, when I told them I was starting a business, their reaction wasn’t full of applause or excitement. It was confusion, concern, and questions like: “But why would you leave a stable job?, Are you going to finish your studies?, Is this really what you want?” And I get it. When your family is still surviving, thriving feels like a luxury. But something in me knew this wasn’t just about me. Malabskin was born out of love for my skin, my heritage and my people. I wanted to create a brand that honored ingredients from Somalia, and other African countries. I wanted to show that our natural remedies like Qasil powder and Huruud are powerful, healing and luxurious. But before I could teach others to take care of their skin in the “Somali” or “African” way, I had to teach myself how to believe in my own vision. And honestly? It wasn’t easy.I was sourcing products, testing ingredients, studying regulations, building a website, handling packaging, figuring out shipping, all on my own, while still being the go-to person at home . I love my parents deeply. I always want to be there for them. But being the emotional and logistical backbone of a household.. while trying to build something for yourself , can feel heavy. There are days when the pressure is so loud that I forget to celebrate how far I’ve come. There are moments when I want to give up , not because I don’t believe in Malabskin, but because I’m tired of holding everything together. But then I remember: I’m not just doing this for me . I’m doing it for the girls who are also “the first" . The first to graduate. The first to start a business. The first to say, “What if I can create something better?”
If that’s you, I feel you. I know how hard it is to balance dreams with expectations. But I also know this: being the first means you’re building a path where there was none. And one day, your little cousins, nieces, or even your future children will walk that path and say, “She made it easier for me.” Insha’Allah (God willing) It's an emotional experience, a heavy responsibility, and a huge achievement. They may not understand your journey now, but one day they’ll call it legacy sis! What does that feel like for you? Let’s talk about it, support each other and remind ourselves: we’re not alone in this journey. Share your journey here below or email me on hello@malabskin.com
"Hold on tight to yourself"