(1) Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Sana Maqsood and I am the Founder of SOOD and a Product Designer in the Bay Area. I have had the opportunity to work as a designer at Afterpay, First Republic Bank, and currently am at Amazon. Three years ago, with a dream to create, I started SOOD. My background in Finance and Design gave me the confidence to build a brand from the ground up. I am always actively giving back to the community by being a mentor at Amazing Design People list and a Creative Producer for Creative Mornings’ San Francisco chapter.
(2) In two sentences or less, describe how you participate in the startup ecosystem.
I participate in the startup world by creating and providing a sustainable brand that not only tries to be thoughtful when it comes to production, but collaborates with local artists and gives back to the community as much as we can.
(3) What are you currently reading right now and would recommend to others?
I am currently reading the Designer’s Dictionary of Color by Sean Adams. I would definitely recommend it as a great beginner’s guide on the impact of color within design and what meaning various colors can portray.
(4) What makes you stay in the startup ecosystem?
As a designer, I believe in contributing thoughtful, physical, and digital designs by collaborating with fellow designers and artists. Also, actively being involved in the community of like minded individuals helps me to not only grow myself, but give back to the community.
(5) What drives your passion about the startup ecosystem?
My drive stems from the desire to design and create timeless pieces that are everlasting in elevating your style along with redefining modest fashion.
(6) Where do you see the startup ecosystem in 5 years?
I see SOOD developing into a well-defined brand that not only provides and online experience, but also participates in local markets in the San Francisco area and other larger metropolitan areas.
(7) How has failure, or apparent failure, set you up for later success?
I began the idea of SOOD being oblivious to the amount of time and work it would take. With a business background and minimal manufacturing knowledge, I failed quite a bit when it came to finding the right manufacturer, learning the process of developing samples and more broadly, creating the right tech pack. I learned as I went through the ins and outs of the process, which now sets me up for success, because I know exactly what is needed and required to produce quality products.
(8) What is one of the best worthwhile investments you’ve ever made (could be financial, time, energy, etc.)?
The best investment I have made was choosing to invest in all kinds of educational avenues such as: classes, events, and conferences to help educate myself and grow within the fashion/ecommerce industry. I also attended events after work to help me network and learn more about local sustainable manufacturing options in San Francisco.
(9) What do you do to refocus yourself when you feel overwhelmed or unfocused?
When I feel blocked or unfocused, I give myself a break and do an activity that I enjoy and lately that has been painting. Activities such as painting helps me gain inspiration and allows my mind to flow and get back to an equilibrium, to help me focus.
(10) What’s one piece of advice you would give someone trying to break into the startup ecosystem?
Be open to constructive criticism, network to surround yourself with individuals or groups of individuals who will elevate and motivate you to progress and be better. Lastly, don’t give up! There will be lots of ups and downs (sometimes more down), but you should remind yourself the reason for why you chose to pursue what you want.
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