Today we’d like to introduce you to Shanti Sylvester
Hi Shanti, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My journey to becoming an entrepreneur has been one of resilience, passion, and perseverance. Growing up, I always had a deep love for fashion, but my path initially led me into the world of finance. As a young mom, I had to balance motherhood, school, and work, overcoming challenges that strengthened my determination. I worked my way up in corporate finance, gaining invaluable business experience while never letting go of my creative dreams.
Mode718 was born from my lifelong passion for fashion and my desire to create a brand that embodies confidence, inclusivity, and culture. Inspired by my Caribbean roots and Brooklyn upbringing, I wanted to offer high-quality, stylish pieces that allow women to express themselves unapologetically. After years of planning and preparation, I took the leap and launched Mode718 in November 2024.
Starting a business from the ground up, especially as a self-funded entrepreneur, has come with challenges, from securing resources to building brand awareness in a competitive industry. However, my dedication to my vision, along with the incredible support from my community, has fueled my journey. Since launching, Mode718 has gained momentum, forming partnerships with artisans and manufacturers worldwide, collaborating with creatives, and earning recognition in the fashion space.
For me, Mode718 is more than just a brand—it’s a testament to perseverance, the power of self-expression, and the belief that dreams are always worth pursuing. My goal is to continue growing Mode718 into a household name, empowering women through fashion and storytelling, and leaving a lasting impact in the industry.
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?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but every challenge has shaped my journey and strengthened my resolve. Starting Mode718 as a self-funded business was one of the biggest hurdles. Securing funding has been tough, as many grants and loans require established revenue or employees—barriers that many startups, including mine, face. I’ve had to be resourceful, using my own savings and reinvesting profits to keep things moving forward.
Another major challenge has been balancing everything—running a business while being a single mom and managing my responsibilities. Time management is crucial, but it’s not always easy. There are days when the workload feels overwhelming, but my passion for Mode718 and the example I’m setting for my daughters keep me motivated.
Building brand awareness in the highly competitive fashion industry has also been a journey. While I’ve received incredible support, getting Mode718 in front of a wider audience takes constant effort, from social media marketing to collaborations and community engagement. Additionally, managing a global supply chain with female artisans and manufacturers requires careful coordination to ensure quality, ethical sourcing, and timely delivery.
Despite these struggles, I wouldn’t trade this journey for anything. Every challenge has pushed me to grow, learn, and find creative solutions. Mode718 is a labor of love, and no matter how tough the road gets, I’m committed to building a brand that empowers women and represents my vision.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Mode718 is more than just a fashion brand—it’s a reflection of my passion for style, self-expression, and empowerment. I specialize in curating high-quality, stylish pieces that blend the sophistication of New York, the boldness of Brooklyn, and the vibrant influences of my Caribbean heritage. Mode718 is all about making women feel confident, chic, and effortlessly stylish, whether they’re dressing for a casual day out or a special occasion.
What sets Mode718 apart is our commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and craftsmanship. We work with various artisans and manufacturers from around the world, ensuring that our pieces are ethically made while celebrating diverse talent in the fashion industry. Our designs are made to be versatile and timeless, allowing women to express their individuality without sacrificing quality or affordability.
I’m most proud of the impact Mode718 is making—not just in fashion but in the lives of women who wear our pieces. Seeing customers feel empowered and beautiful in our designs is the most rewarding part of this journey. Additionally, being able to build a brand that aligns with my values, while showing my daughters that pursuing your dreams is always possible, is something I cherish deeply. Mode718 is about more than just clothes; it’s about confidence, culture, and a community of women who uplift and inspire one another.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I believe that taking risks is an essential part of growth—both in business and in life. Without stepping outside of your comfort zone, you can never truly discover your full potential. For me, starting Mode718 was one of the biggest risks I’ve ever taken. Leaving the stability of a successful corporate career in finance to pursue my passion for fashion was a leap of faith. I was stepping into an industry that, while I loved, was completely different from what I had spent years building expertise in.
Financially, it was also a huge risk. Mode718 is self-funded, and investing my own resources into launching the brand meant putting everything on the line without any guarantees. But I knew that if I didn’t take the chance, I would always wonder what if?
To me, risk-taking isn’t about being reckless—it’s about calculated decisions, trusting your instincts, and being willing to fail forward. Every entrepreneur faces uncertainty, but I’ve learned that the biggest rewards often come from the biggest risks. Even when challenges arise, I remind myself that taking this step wasn’t just about building a brand; it was about proving to myself, and to my daughters, that dreams are worth chasing.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mode718.com
- Instagram: @mode.718
- Facebook: mode718
- Other: tiktok @_mode718
Image Credits
Gallery Anderson Smith
