Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Sara Salem. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Sara thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?

The genesis of Phi Phi Artland emerged from a convergence of personal passion and a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of art. Fueled by a desire to create a haven that seamlessly melds martial arts, fine arts, and mind-body practices, the idea materialized through a reflection on the synergies between physical and artistic pursuits.

The realization dawned amidst a recognition that conventional fitness centers often overlooked the holistic connection between mind and body. Identifying a gap in the market, the vision for Phi Phi Artland crystallized as a unique sanctuary where diverse forms of art converge to cultivate not just physical strength but emotional expression, stress relief, and personal growth.

Driven by the belief that art possesses therapeutic potential, the endeavor aimed to offer more than just exercise; it sought to provide a space for individuals to explore their creative selves. The decision to blend martial arts, fine arts, and mind-body sessions was a deliberate move to offer a comprehensive approach to well-being that transcends traditional fitness paradigms.

The excitement stemmed from the prospect of building a community united by a shared passion for art in its various forms. The logic lay in the conviction that an inclusive, small-group setting, paired with exceptional instructors and a meticulously maintained facility, would elevate the member experience, fostering a sense of belonging and personal connection.

In essence, Phi Phi Artland was conceived as a response to the unmet need for a space where art, in its broadest sense, becomes a catalyst for individual growth and collective harmony. The vision was not just about solving a problem but about crafting an immersive environment where the intersection of martial arts, fine arts, and mind-body practices could unfold as a truly transformative journey for every participant.

Sara, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Sara Salem’s journey into the realm of art and wellness is a tapestry woven with diverse threads of experience and expertise. A co-founder of Phi Phi Artland and a partner at Custom Teez Shop, Sara’s multifaceted role encompasses her position as the Head of Fine Arts at Phi Phi Artland, where she wears the hats of an art teacher, muralist, and yoga instructor.

Her trajectory began with a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts in 2011, laying the foundation for a rich tapestry of skills and knowledge. This foundation expanded as she pursued a 200 RYT yoga certificate, became a Reiki Level II practitioner, and earned a certification in art therapy. This holistic approach is the hallmark of Sara’s philosophy, rooted in the belief in the remedial powers of art across various disciplines.

With over 12 years of teaching experience spanning Africa, Asia, and the USA, Sara brings a global perspective to her craft. Her commitment to art as a therapeutic medium is not only academic but stems from a profound understanding forged through years of practice and cultural immersion.

At Phi Phi Artland, Sara is instrumental in curating a unique blend of martial arts, fine arts, and mind-body sessions, providing clients with a holistic approach to well-being. As a muralist, she contributes visual narratives to spaces that echo the ethos of Phi Phi Artland.

What sets Sara apart is her multifaceted expertise, seamlessly combining fine arts, yoga, and holistic practices. Her pride resonates in the community Phi Phi Artland has fostered—a testament to her dedication to creating an inclusive space for individual growth.

Sara Salem invites clients, followers, and fans to recognize Phi Phi Artland not merely as a fitness destination but as a sanctuary where the therapeutic potential of art, guided by her extensive knowledge and experience, becomes a transformative journey. Whether through teaching, creating murals, or offering yoga instruction, Sara embodies a commitment to holistic well-being that distinguishes her and Phi Phi Artland from others in the industry.

How’d you meet your business partner?

The story of how Sara Salem met her co-founder and husband, Fahd, is a narrative woven with the threads of companionship, shared dreams, and a vision for making a positive impact on others. Their journey transcends business and speaks to the deep connection between them.

Sara and Fahd’s story begins well before the inception of Phi Phi Artland, rooted in a friendship that evolved into a marriage spanning 11 years. Fahd has not only been Sara’s life partner but also her best friend, providing a foundation of trust and understanding that extends beyond the personal realm.

Their shared vision for entrepreneurship and a desire to contribute positively to people’s lives became a guiding force in their relationship. The dream of owning a business that could serve as a platform for helping others was a mutual aspiration that bound them together.

As the seeds of Phi Phi Artland began to sprout, Sara and Fahd found themselves not only co-founders but life partners embarking on a shared professional journey. The synergy between them, nurtured by years of friendship and marriage, infused Phi Phi Artland with a unique blend of personal connection and shared purpose.

In essence, Sara and Fahd’s story is one of a dynamic partnership, where the lines between personal and professional are beautifully blurred. Their shared history, dreams, and commitment to making a positive impact converge in the vision and mission of Phi Phi Artland, creating a business that reflects not just their entrepreneurial spirit but the enduring strength of their bond.

We’d love to hear the story of how you turned a side-hustle into a something much bigger.

My journey from muralist side hustle to a full-fledged business has been a transformative evolution rooted in my passion for creating meaningful art. The initial spark ignited as I found joy in painting murals for friends, a process that unexpectedly became a meditative ritual, allowing me to lose myself in the flow of creativity.

Driven by the satisfaction of witnessing the transformative impact of my art on customers’ walls and the genuine smiles it brought, the side hustle gradually emerged as a calling. The pivotal moment came when I realized that this endeavor wasn’t just a pastime but a profound expression of my artistic purpose.

The decision to transition from side hustle to a full-time career was guided by the genuine connection forged with clients and the deep fulfillment derived from each mural project. Embracing the shift, I began to channel my efforts into expanding my reach and clientele.

Key milestones in this journey include honing my skills through continuous practice, building an online presence to showcase my portfolio, and leveraging word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied clients. As demand grew, I made strategic decisions to allocate more time to mural projects, gradually phasing out other commitments.

The turning point was marked by the decision to establish a distinct brand identity and officially launch my mural business. Embracing social media platforms and local collaborations played a crucial role in scaling up, reaching a wider audience, and attracting diverse mural opportunities.

Today, Phiphi Artland mural business stands as a testament to the organic growth fueled by passion, dedication, and the genuine joy derived from creating art that transforms spaces. From the initial moments of painting for friends to a flourishing mural career, each stroke has been a step towards realizing the full potential of this artistic journey

Contact Info:

• Website: https://phiphiartland.com/
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/ss_artsy_yogi?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sara.saeed.39?mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-said-salem?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
• Other: https://instagram.com/phi_phi_artland?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==