Post by Sukhi Ghuman

Meet Taran Mullhi, she’s the owner and designer behind Mahari Collection – a womenswear clothing brand based in Vancouver, BC. Taran was brought up in the UK and as a child explored carrying creative arts. She has always loved mixing and matching her wardrobe and drawing inspiration from her Indian heritage into her everyday style. Taran established Mahari Collection in the Spring of 2015 and aims to design pieces that are versatile, timeless, and most importantly clothing that makes her client’s feel amazing.

Tell us about the path you took to get to where you are today. What advice would you give South Asian women wanting to do what you do?

I have always been extremely creative and as a child I spent time playing the piano, dancing and drawing. I first got involved in fashion when I took a textiles class at high school – I loved pairing different fabrics and colours to create beautiful pieces. I then went on to study Fashion Management at University. Throughout school I was unsure of what my end career goal would be – I knew I loved fashion and creative arts but at times felt nervous about pursuing a career in this field. In order to gain clarity I tried to take on as many internships as possible so that I could get lots of hands on experience. I found opportunities to intern in small family owned businesses in the UK through to large fashion companies in New York. I gained so much invaluable experience which I apply to my brand and I would definitely advise any young women looking to pursue a career in fashion to do the same.

How important is it to you to make South Asian women feel empowered?

It is very important to me to empower South Asian women and encourage entrepreneurship amongst women in our community. I try to support other local businesses and offer advice to friends and contacts who may be looking to pursue their own ventures. I also recently joined the Go Girls program (a division of Big Sisters BC) as a mentor and have found volunteering a great way to make a difference in my local community. I truly believe creating a strong sisterhood between women starts at a young age. There is often a huge pressure on young girls to look and act a certain way and there is a need for strong female role models to remind girls to embrace their individualities.

What is your personal motto or mission statement?

Stay positive, remain grateful and the universe will reward you.

Besides your work, what are you passionate about?

Reading, dancing, sketching, hiking and more recently photography!

Where can one find you on your days off?

I love spending time outdoors during the summer and exploring this beautiful city! Otherwise I am quite a homebody and like dabbling in different creative arts and spending time with family.

How do you balance work, life, family?

This is something that I can find challenging. As an entrepreneur I find my mind never fully “switches off” from work so I have to be disciplined in setting time aside for myself and my family. I’ve found its important to have time away from my business so I can refresh and come up with new creative ideas!

Catch Mahari Collection at Vancouver Fashion Week!

Mahari Collection will be debuting at Vancouver Fashion Week on Tuesday March 21st at 5:15pm. For more details and to get on the guest list please email info@maharicollection.com