By the time I hit 30, I had started MLO Technologies, founded L&O Apparels, launched Hdaiacom Perfume Company, and taken ownership in Raw Studios. Here are the 5 hardest lessons that shaped everything.
1. Speed Beats Perfection
Ship it, learn from real feedback, and iterate. My best ventures weren’t born perfect — they were born fast and evolved quickly.
2. Diversification Is Protection
Having multiple income streams isn’t about being unfocused — it’s about being resilient. Tech, fashion, fragrance, and creative services all have different cycles.
3. Your Network Is Your Net Worth
Every major opportunity in my career came through relationships. Netflix’s Takki, Raw Studios, Pepsi design work — all started with genuine connections.
4. Culture Is a Superpower
Being Sudanese, raised in Saudi Arabia, with a global perspective — that’s not a limitation, it’s an advantage. Different cultural lenses let you see opportunities others miss.
5. Stay Hungry, Stay Creating
Whether it’s a new track, a business plan, a photograph, or a line of code — keep making things. Creation is the engine that drives everything forward.
The best time to start was yesterday. The second best time is right now.