Life & Work with Ola Ahmed of New York City

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ola Ahmed.

Hi Ola, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
During April 2021, I designed a logo using my name, put it on a sticker and used it to build a career that would bring all my passions together. For me, creativity has always been about honesty. The only way to express my vision as an artist was to let it come from a real place, rooted in originality and purpose. Ola was created to be universal, a symbol anyone can feel and understand beyond language, culture, borders, and even generations. Ola is made to last, to provoke thought, and to capture attention in a meaningful, innovative way.

In a world that often feels loud and complicated, I wanted to create something simple and positive that cuts through the noise. Ola is unstoppable and unforgettable, not by choice, but because it operates beyond the bounds of normal human behavior.

All my life, I’ve always been rebellious, and in many ways, this journey feels like an extension of that. Tagging people with the Ola sticker gives me that same thrill. It’s fun, challenging, and rewarding, especially because people have no idea. What started as something daring and unthinkable has become a quiet expression of connection, and persistence. This feeling will never get old to me.

When I first started Ola, I had no funds, just faith in myself as an artist, and a clear vision to guide me. From the smallest detail to the overall functionality, everything had to be intentional. Stickers were the perfect way to bring my ideas into the world because they don’t cost much, but they’re rich in meaning. I’ve always believed that value doesn’t come from the price of something, it comes from the meaning you give it.

At the time, I wasn’t focused on the Internet and social media. I just wanted the idea to exist in the real world and make an impact there. The day my first order of stickers arrived I went outside and I literally just started tagging random people. After that first tag, the rest was history. I really felt like I was playing a real-life video game, as if there were levels to it, and with people already being unpredictable, my curiosity grew stronger. Weeks and months went by as I was getting away with it. And I still am, almost 5 years later. It’s always a big reminder for me that staying committed and true to yourself allows even the simplest ideas to take on a life of their own.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road is never smooth, especially when paving a new one. One of the biggest challenges has been working with people. I’m intentional with my time, and over the years, I’ve come to recognize when others aren’t aligned with the same level of dedication. I’ve never relied on others to make things happen, and along the way, I’ve learned that not everyone shares the same focus or intention. Building the right team means aligning with people who share your values, drive, and commitment, sometimes even on a spiritual level. Those kinds of connections aren’t easy to come by, and the process has taught me a lot about myself, about others, and the importance of patience, as well as truly valuing the people who consistently show up.

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?
I build my work around my name, Ola, as a way to bring everything I’m passionate about together under one vision. I specialize in creating art and experiences that are universal, that connect with people across ages, backgrounds, and perspectives. A big part of what I do involves translating that vision into both visual and experiential forms, whether through performance, design, or projects like Ola.

People recognize Ola not just as a name, but as an idea, a presence, and a way of seeing the world. What I’m most proud of is how Ola has grown from a simple idea into something tangible that people engage with. Ola has evolved into a presence that’s recognizable, unexpected, and lasting.

I focus on the details, the energy, and the experience, rather than fitting into what’s expected. Whether it’s through stickers or larger artistic expressions, I aim to create work that feels timeless and resonates on multiple levels- intellectually, emotionally, and even playfully. At the heart of what I do is connection, not just with an audience, but with the world and the people who choose to engage with my work. That sense of connection is what gives Ola meaning, and I believe that dedication to creating something authentic and meaningful is ultimately what sets my work apart.

What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite childhood memory was performing in school plays. This was my favorite way to tell stories and connect with people. Those experiences had a lasting impact because performing arts gives me a space to embrace my true identity.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://INSTAGRAM.COM/OLANEWYORK
• Youtube: https://YOUTUBE.COM/@OLANEWYORK