Today we’d like to introduce you to Khaula Kai Mahmood.
Hi Khaula, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey from the Middle East to the United States has been a tapestry of diverse experiences that have shaped my perspective and fueled my passion for storytelling. As the daughter of a military veteran, I’ve had the privilege of immersing myself in various cultures and religions, fostering a deep understanding of the complexities of human nature.
Upon becoming a U.S. citizen in 2019, I realized that my true calling lay in amplifying the voices of marginalized communities and shedding light on their untold stories. Despite spending years in a conventional 9-to-5 job, I felt a profound sense of disconnection and yearned for a more meaningful path.
It was in Los Angeles, amidst the vibrant creative community, that I found my true purpose. Enrolling at the Ruskin School for Meisner Acting, I met like-minded individuals who shared my vision of using storytelling as a catalyst for change. It was there that I forged a partnership with Kristie Lam, a fellow believer in the power of cinema to provoke conversation and inspire empathy.
Together, Kristie and I embarked on the journey of producing “Frayed Flags,” a film that delves deep into the struggles of POC war veterans grappling with addiction, loss, and societal alienation. Our aim is to challenge stereotypes and ignite dialogue surrounding mental health and addiction, particularly within communities that have long been silenced or stigmatized.
Drawing from my own experiences as a person of Muslim and Asian descent, I understand the cultural barriers that often prevent open discussions about these pressing issues. Through “Frayed Flags,” we strive to create a safe space for dialogue where individuals from all walks of life can feel seen, heard, and understood.
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?
For me, the journey hasn’t been smooth sailing. Being an immigrant, I’ve grappled with the challenge of belonging. It’s a delicate balance between not feeling fully accepted in the country I’ve immigrated to, yet also feeling disconnected from the community I left behind. This struggle to find where I truly belong has been one of the greatest obstacles I’ve faced.
Navigating this uncertainty has led to a series of challenges and setbacks. There have been times when I’ve tried various avenues to gain acceptance, only to find myself met with resistance or indifference. It’s a frustrating and sometimes disheartening experience, not knowing whether my efforts will bear fruit or lead to further disappointment.
Despite these obstacles, I’ve persevered, constantly seeking ways to carve out my place in the world. Each setback has taught me resilience and reinforced my determination to forge my own path, even in the face of adversity.
While the road has been bumpy at times, I’ve come to understand that acceptance isn’t something that can be forced or controlled. Instead, it’s a journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance, learning to embrace who I am and finding solace in the knowledge that my worth isn’t defined by external validation.
In hindsight, these struggles have been instrumental in shaping my identity and guiding me towards my true purpose. They’ve taught me the importance of resilience, empathy, and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. And while the journey may not always be easy, I’m grateful for the lessons learned, the People I’ve met, and the growth that has come from overcoming each challenge along the way.
As you know, we’re big fans of Strange and Shadow. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about the brand?
I’m more than just a filmmaker; I’m also a serial entrepreneur driven by a desire to create positive change. After earning my master’s degree in social entrepreneurship from Hult Business School in San Francisco, I gained a deep understanding of how to make meaningful impacts. This led me to establish “Strange and Shadow,” a hot sauce company with a purpose-driven ethos.
Inspired by the love I have for my cats—Kiki, Ginger, Wilbur, and Nandor—I founded this company that gives back to the community. For every bottle of hot sauce sold, we proudly donate 2% of our profits to animal shelters, specifically aiding foster and rescue animals in need.
This venture reflects my dedication to making a tangible difference in the world, not only through my creative endeavors but also through socially responsible business practices. By harnessing my entrepreneurial skills and resources, I strive to contribute to the well-being of animals and foster a culture of compassion within our society.
Through “Strange and Shadow,” I’m thrilled to embark on a journey that merges my passion for filmmaking with my love for animals, creating a business that not only tantalizes taste buds but also leaves a lasting impact on those in need.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Amidst my well-known affection for cats and animals, there’s a larger vision I’ve quietly been nurturing, one that consumes my days and nights with purpose. It’s the dream I’ve steadfastly pursued: to establish a sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and providing refuge for felines facing dire circumstances, whether they’re vulnerable in kill shelters or in need of nurturing foster care.
My connection to animals runs deep, rooted in childhood memories of German Shepherds who were cherished members of our family. However, it was in my early thirties that I welcomed my first pet, Panther, a Russian Blue cat, into my life unexpectedly in Oakland. His presence not only solidified my bond with feline companionship but also ignited a profound passion for their well-being.
In 2019, the seeds of my dream began to germinate, nourished by Panther’s influence and my determination to create a safe haven for cats like him. Despite his struggles with FIV and kidney issues, Panther remained a resilient fighter until his passing in 2022. His legacy, however, lives on in the impact he made and continues to inspire in the mission to help other cats facing similar challenges.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://strangeandshadowshop.com/
- Instagram: @strangeandshadow
- Other: @frayedflags
Image Credits
Zachariah Schmitt
Kristie Lam
