Meet Baiyinah Brookins | Founder

We had the good fortune of connecting with Baiyinah Brookins and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Baiyinah, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
The most important factor behind the success of Mystics and Sages, my ethical jewelry brand, is undoubtedly persistence. Entrepreneurship is like a labyrinth, with twists, turns, and unexpected dead ends. But it’s the persistent ones who find their way through.

Growing up, I watched my father navigate the turbulent waters of entrepreneurship. He instilled in me the belief that hard work and dedication are the ultimate keys to success. His words resonated deeply with me, shaping my mindset as I embarked on my own entrepreneurial journey.

Launching Mystics and Sages wasn’t easy. There were countless obstacles along the way – from sourcing sustainable materials to building a brand identity that resonated with our audience. But through it all, I remained persistent. I refused to let setbacks derail me. Instead, I saw them as opportunities to learn, grow, and refine our approach.

Persistence isn’t just about stubbornly pushing forward despite challenges; it’s also about adaptability. It’s about being willing to pivot, to iterate, to evolve in response to feedback and changing circumstances. That flexibility has been crucial in navigating the ever-shifting landscape of the ethical fashion industry.

Yes, entrepreneurship can be a lonely journey at times. But when you’re fueled by dedication and driven by a clear vision, you’re never truly alone. And when you finally reach your goal – when you see your brand making a positive impact, when you witness the joy it brings to your customers – all the trials and tribulations along the way are more than worth it. That, to me, is the essence of success.

What should our readers know about your business?
Embarking on the journey of building Mystics and Sages, was anything but easy. In fact, it was riddled with moments of self-doubt and uncertainty. But it’s those very challenges that have fueled my determination to push this business to new heights.

What sets Mystics and Sages apart from others in the industry is our unwavering commitment to ethical practices. From the sourcing of our materials to the crafting of our designs, we prioritize transparency and environmental responsibility every step of the way. Our pieces aren’t just beautiful accessories; they’re symbols of conscious consumerism and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world.

I’m most proud of the community we’ve built around our brand – a community of like-minded individuals who share our values and believe in the power of ethical fashion to drive meaningful change. It’s incredibly rewarding to see our customers not only appreciate the beauty of our products but also align with the ethos behind them.

Getting to where we are today hasn’t been easy. Along the way, we’ve encountered countless obstacles – from logistical challenges to financial constraints. But each hurdle has only strengthened our resolve. We’ve learned to approach setbacks as opportunities for growth, to pivot and adapt in the face of adversity.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the importance of perseverance. There were moments when I questioned whether I had what it takes to succeed as an entrepreneur. But through sheer grit and determination, I’ve proven to myself that I am capable of overcoming even the toughest of challenges.

What I want the world to know about Mystics and Sages is that we’re more than just a jewelry brand; we’re a movement. We’re a testament to the power of conscious consumerism and the belief that business can be a force for good. Our story is one of resilience, passion, and a relentless commitment to making a difference. And as we continue on this journey, we invite others to join us in creating a more equitable future for all.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
We delved into the vibrant arts scene with visits to museums and galleries, savored delicious meals at local eateries showcasing the city’s diverse culinary offerings, and explored the breathtaking natural landscapes that surround Pittsburgh.
Throughout our journey, we marveled at the city’s history, from its industrial roots to its vibrant neighborhoods teeming with creativity. Whether cheering on the Pirates at PNC Park, taking in the panoramic views from the Duquesne Incline, or simply strolling through the charming streets of Lawrenceville, we couldn’t help but be captivated by Pittsburgh’s unique charm and character.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The success of Mystics and Sages, my ethical jewelry brand, is a testament to the collective tenacity and support of many individuals and groups along my journey.

First and foremost, I must credit my parents for instilling in me the value of tenacity. Their unwavering determination in the face of adversity has been a constant source of inspiration for me. Their resilience has shown me that no obstacle is insurmountable if you approach it with grit and determination.

I’m also grateful for the incredible team at Ascender, who believed in my vision from the beginning and provided invaluable support and guidance as I navigated the challenges of entrepreneurship. Their expertise and encouragement helped me refine my business model, hone my brand identity, and overcome obstacles along the way.

Additionally, I owe a debt of gratitude to my former colleagues at Carnegie Mellon University’s Engineering Research Accelerator. Their collaboration and camaraderie laid the foundation for the innovative approach that sets our brand apart.

Beyond these core groups, there are countless individuals who have played a role, however small, in the success of Mystics and Sages. From mentors who offered guidance and advice to customers who supported us with their purchases and feedback, each person has contributed in their own unique way.

Entrepreneurship is often portrayed as a solitary journey, but the truth is that it takes a village to build a successful business. I am deeply grateful to all those who have been a part of my journey, and I am excited to continue growing and evolving with their support by my side.

Website: https://www.mysticsandsages.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mysticsandsages/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mystics-and-sages

Twitter: https://twitter.com/mysticsandsages

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557191363578

Image Credits
Photographer: Ryan Powell
Model: Reiko (Le-aiko)