Today we’d like to introduce you to Nikki Green.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Nikki. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
This journey began twelve years ago. Giving birth to my daughter Starr changed my perspective on life. It changed my mindset from the traditional way of functioning and it open my mind to individuals with all needs. My daughter was diagnosed with Schizencephaly. This condition is characterized by abnormal slits or clefts in the cerebral hemispheres of the brain; causing poor coordination, stiff muscles, weak muscles, development delay, feeding or swallowing difficulties, with one side of the body being utilized more.
With a lack of diversity for children with disabilities, that is what prompted me to work towards a clothing line that will assist with the day-to-day activities. About ten years ago I was at a local mall and I notice the lack of inclusion and diversity. I didn’t see children with disabilities on advertisements. That’s when I realized I wanted to be a part of changing the fashion industry and that is when the journey began. From that A-ha moment I decided to create an adaptive swimsuit line for children with disabilities. Swimwear that was fashionable and functional and made for children with all abilities.
Functional swimwear inspiration came from the challenges we faced on a daily basis. The daily process can become time consuming and challenging with consideration of; motor skills, body coordination, feeding tubes, and etc. Some of us may have the ability to wake up and get dressed in a timely manner but for our case it differs. I recall a time when we were on a family outing at a local water park and Starr urgently had to use the restroom but taking off the swimsuit was a hassle because my daughter has poor coordination with stiff and weak muscles. However, if there was a swimsuit that was adaptable to her needs, the situation would have been better.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There are definitely challenges along the way. I’ve experience many trial and error along the way. As a small business owner. I wear many faces. I am the creator, marketing operator, financial advisor, and I am a team of one. Balancing my personal my life and business can be overwhelming at times. When I get off balance, I realign and re-evaluate. I believe you’re always going to experience hurdles in life. The key is not to quit and adapt and you will overcome any hurdles that you are faced with.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Victory Adaptive Collection – what should we know?
Victory Adaptive Collection was created on the premises of specializing in swimwear that will embrace and include custom pieces for our customers. The pieces that Victory Adaptive makes are hand picked materials that are able to attach Velcro fasteners to assist with the dressing process. With this type of style and material being used, we hope to promote dressing independence while being fashionably forward. My proudest moment during this journey would have to be when I am able to see the finish product on a child with a big smile on their face. Importantly knowing that I am adding memories to a family vacation and helping parents and children with all abilities is priceless.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
The quality I have is empathy. I’m able to understand and put myself in those situations among the community and those that may have to face daily challenges such as putting on clothing attire.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.victoryadaptivecollection.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victoryadaptive
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/victoryadaptivecollection
Image Credit:
Eric Ita
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