We were lucky to catch up with Hamed Cisse recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hamed , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to have you retell us the story behind how you came up with the idea for your business, I think our audience would really enjoy hearing the backstory.

FREEMIND US was founded in the summer of 2014 after a trip to Paris inspired me. I was struck by how people dressed and, more importantly, their confidence in expressing their unique styles. Upon returning to the U.S., I launched a project aimed at bringing people together and empowering them to believe in themselves. As someone often misunderstood, I strive to understand others and appreciate everyone’s uniqueness. Redefining a free mind means doing your best to understand.

There isn’t enough space for love, art, and legacy in today’s world. I believe we need more of these, along with a safe space for them to flourish. FREEMIND US aims to connect people with their inner style. Our vision is bigger than us, and that’s why I call on the world to unite around this mission with love, so we can leave a lasting legacy that will inspire future generations.

I started the journey with graphic tees in Minnesota then eventually switched to cut and sew when I moved to New York in 2020. I was blessed to have my first solo fashion show during NYFW last year showcasing 33 new looks from my collection LA PLUIE SS24. The collection aimed at encouraging people that are going through a hard time to keep going and never give up, there is sunshine after the rain.

It’s been a roller coaster and a lot of learning experiences but I love eve every piece of it, the challenges, the wins, etc. It can get really tough but I’m happy I can rely on my family and community for the help and support I need.

I’m excited for what the future holds for the brand.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

FREEMIND US was founded in the summer of 2014 after a trip to Paris inspired me. I was struck by how people dressed and, more importantly, their confidence in expressing their unique styles. Upon returning to the U.S., I launched a project aimed at bringing people together and empowering them to believe in themselves. As someone often misunderstood, I strive to understand others and appreciate everyone’s uniqueness. Redefining a free mind means doing your best to understand.

There isn’t enough space for love, art, and legacy in today’s world. I believe we need more of these, along with a safe space for them to flourish. FREEMIND US aims to connect people with their inner style. Our vision is bigger than us, and that’s why I call on the world to unite around this mission with love, so we can leave a lasting legacy that will inspire future generations.

I started the journey with graphic tees in Minnesota then eventually switched to cut and sew when I moved to New York in 2020. I was blessed to have my first solo fashion show during NYFW last year showcasing 33 new looks from my collection LA PLUIE SS24. The collection aimed at encouraging people that are going through a hard time to keep going and never give up, there is sunshine after the rain.

It’s been a roller coaster and a lot of learning experiences but I love eve every piece of it, the challenges, the wins, etc. It can get really tough but I’m happy I can rely on my family and community for the help and support I need.

I’m excited for what the future holds for the brand.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

I have dedicated an entire collection to the theme of resilience, which I showcased during New York Fashion Week. It’s okay to trip and fall because we all do, but life rewards the brave ones who get up and learn a lesson each time they fall. I’ve faced many hardships on my journey as a fashion designer. As a self-taught designer without an academic background, it’s been difficult to gain recognition and respect from my peers and the industry. I’ve had to work twice as hard and listen to critics. Over time, and through the opportunity to learn from other designers and creatives. I’ve learned to enjoy what I love doing and continue creating for those who see and appreciate my work. I’m also grateful that during hard times I’ve been able to lean on my family and community.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

Achieving the desired level of success takes time, but starting small with my friends has been very helpful. Having people around who connect with my vision and support my pieces has significantly boosted brand awareness.

Moving to New York, where people are more receptive to my ideas, and connecting with other like-minded creatives have also helped attract new audiences.

Hosting events such as pop-up shops and a fashion show has further expanded our reach and introduced the brand to a broader audience.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.freemindus.com
• Instagram: Freemind.us
• Facebook: FREEMIND US

Image Credits
@le_jaconbin_noir @braylendion