Modern Entrepreneur Profile - Mississauga's Faria Jafri
In conversation with Mississauga entrepreneur, Faria Jafri, owner of Haami Lingerie.
1. What does your company provide/do?
For far too long, the lingerie industry has ignored the needs of most breast owners. At Haami, we are working to revolutionize the bra by getting rid of it and building a new, sustainable and structurally supportive lingerie for those who are left on the margins of the bra world. Haami Bras’ patentable technology is specifically designed to address the biggest pain points faced by plus-size women seeking comfortable and functional bras. Haami’s technology is a combination of design and utility that adjusts to the user’s body. We developed a bra that is wireless, strapless, and cupless.
2. What inspired you to start your company?
Bras have been the bane of my existence since I was a teenager. During my Master’s in Entrepreneurship and Innovation, we were asked to identify a problem that exists in our life. I chose a problem close to my heart - the bra. I immediately started working on a solution by cutting up bras and gluing/stapling pieces of fabric together (mostly because her sewing skills are nonexistent).
3. What's been the most impactful lesson you've learned as an entrepreneur?
Entrepreneurship is a rollercoaster, and I’ve learned that every rejection is either a lesson in disguise or a redirection to something better. Fun fact: I’ve got a folder labeled “Lessons Learned” where I keep all my rejection emails—they’re basically my entrepreneurial trophies. Each “no” has steered Haami toward opportunities that align perfectly with our vision and purpose.
4. How do you unwind?
Give me a fantasy book, a bubble tea, and a cozy corner, and I’m in my happy place.
5. What’s your best advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?
Become besties with failure. Fail fast, fail often, and, most importantly, learn from every stumble—it’s the quickest way to success.
6. What are your goals for 2025?
2025 is our big glow-up year! We’re gearing up for an exciting crowdfunding campaign and setting the stage for Haami’s official launch. Let’s just say we’ve got big dreams and bigger plans.
7. How did the Mississauga Starter Company Plus program help you start or grow your business?
The Mississauga Starter Company PLUS program has been a game-changer for Haami Bras. From workshops that filled in key knowledge gaps to 1:1 coaching from seasoned entrepreneurs, the program has been like our entrepreneurial GPS. And the grant? It’s been the wind beneath our crowdfunding wings. Without this program, we’d still be dreaming instead of doing.