Today we’d like to introduce you to Mo Pirela.
Hi Mo, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started Solidarity & Company as a product design shop and began creating designs with solidarity in mind, mostly sparked by the Black Lives Matter Movement and my deep passion for advocating for others. Today, Solidarity & Company has grown into a space where like-minded individuals can still shop for products but also find information that allows them to easily take action and get updates on current events that pertain to racial justice and social solidarity.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I have experienced some struggles along the way. The biggest struggle was believing in myself and my business enough to promote solidarity and distinguishing my brand as being more than performative. I’ve also struggled with asking for help when trying to grow my business and have come to realize that there are organizations, like this one, that assist, highlight and support Black creatives.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As a freelance creative, I specialize in business writing, product design, and podcasting tips. I am known for helping other startups to update, innovate, or better communicate their brand and ideas. In short, I am always writing or proofreading something for someone, and I have a little tech-savvy that allows me to bring others who may struggle with tech into the online space. I also give podcasting tips and have created my own podcast called the Mix of Black Girl Magic.
I am also proud to be known as someone who creates inclusive products with solidarity in mind. I am most proud of selling my merchandise to people who I know truly care about creating a better society and show that through their daily actions. I am also super proud of my podcast, where I share my perspective on a range of things from history to intersectionality, to LGBTQIA+ rights. I think what sets me apart from others is my commitment to solidarity while creating an umbrella for self-expression, inclusion, and creativity. I truly strive to make every customer or client feel heard, seen, and supported. I do this by trying my best to help them with their needs, listen attentively to their goals, and make a personal connection so that their experience is unique and we form an ongoing relationship.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I grew up in a small town in Eastern North Carolina and spent most of my childhood in church and community-based organizations. Growing up in a single-parent household, I spent a lot of time with my Grandmother and Great-Aunt, which I think contributed to me growing up with “an old soul.” I always had a very outgoing personality and would love to jump in to help, but I was sometimes a little too outspoken and often challenged authority and stereotypes, which got me into a little trouble. I went to an elementary school where I was of the minority and worked hard to excel in reading, writing, and social studies.
I was eventually accepted into the Academically Gifted program at the school but continued to be singled out because of my excellent grades or my “attitude.” Either way and even with the disadvantages of southern living, I worked hard to educate myself even after school. I loved to sing and sang in my church and community gospel choirs. And, I loved to make friends, so I was a member of many social groups because of my ability to adapt to my surroundings. I think growing up like this led to me being well-rounded and able to relate to the struggles of oppression while appealing & connecting to a variety of people. It also helped me to gain the understanding that if you can simplify things for people, then you can get more done. (K.I.S.S.) So, it fits perfectly for me to use those same principles embedded in me as a child when starting a business.
Contact Info:
- Email: solidarityandcompany@gmail.com
- Website: https://www.solidarityandco.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solidarityandcompany
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/solidarityandcompany
- Other: https://anchor.fm/themixofbgm
