Ola Nesheiwat Hawatmeh is a Jordanian-American entrepreneur, fashion designer, and philanthropist based in New York City. Her dynamic energy and unyielding commitment to helping others have made her a role model for many, especially women who aspire to balance successful careers with meaningful contributions to society.
Ola’s journey to success was shaped by her experiences as a first-generation American. Her upbringing instilled in her a strong sense of determination, a desire to achieve her dreams, and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by immigrants and women in the workplace. These formative experiences would later drive her to establish herself as a force to be reckoned with in the fashion industry and beyond.
In 2008, Ola launched Ola Style, an eclectic clothing brand that quickly gained recognition for its urban-chic designs tailored to women aged 18-35. Ola Style stood out in the crowded fashion market for its individualistic approach, embracing the unique styles and personalities of its clientele. The brand’s success can be attributed not only to its innovative designs but also to Ola’s vision of empowering women through fashion.
Ola Style’s designs have graced the runways of fashion shows across major cities like New York, Kansas City, Los Angeles, and St. Louis. These events helped cement the brand’s reputation as a leading name in the urban-chic fashion scene. For her efforts in establishing and growing the brand, Ola received the St. Louis Women in Business Awards in 2014 and again in 2016, awarded by STL Small Business Monthly.
However, Ola’s entrepreneurial spirit did not stop at fashion. Recognizing the need for a service that could help mothers regain their confidence and sense of self, she founded Mom Me Makeover, a personal styling company that offers inside-out makeovers. Through this venture, Ola aimed to support mothers in embracing their styles and identities, providing them with the tools to feel empowered and confident in their own skin.
Mom Me Makeover quickly attracted attention from influential figures in the personal styling industry, further establishing Ola as a leader in her field. The company’s services, which range from enhancing or updating an existing look to completely revamping a client’s image, have helped countless women rediscover their self-worth and confidence.
While Ola has achieved significant success in the business world, what truly sets her apart is her dedication to philanthropy. For Ola, success is not measured solely by financial gains but by the positive impact one can have on the lives of others.
In line with this belief, she founded Makeover for a Cause, a non-profit organization that offers holistic life improvement solutions to individuals in difficult situations. The organization helps people connect with their inner beauty and confidence, providing them with the support they need to overcome challenges and achieve personal growth. Through Makeover for a Cause, Ola has helped countless individuals transform their lives, demonstrating the profound difference that compassion and support can make.
Ola’s commitment to philanthropy extends beyond her non-profit work. She also founded Survivor Fashion Week, a charity event that allows cancer survivors to walk the runway as models, raising funds for cancer research in the process. This initiative not only empowers survivors by celebrating their strength and resilience but also contributes to the fight against cancer, a cause that is close to Ola’s heart.
Ola’s contributions to the business world and philanthropy have not gone unnoticed. She has been honored with numerous awards, including the Most Influential and Top Business Woman award by Alive magazine and SBM. In 2017, she was also named Top Business Woman, further cementing her status as a leading figure in her field.
These accolades reflect Ola’s impact not only as an entrepreneur and fashion designer but also as a philanthropist and advocate for women’s empowerment. Her work has inspired many, and her dedication to helping others continues to be a driving force in her career.
Ola’s journey from a first-generation American with big dreams to a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist is a testament to the power of perseverance, vision, and compassion. She has proven that success is not just about personal achievements but about the difference one can make in the lives of others.
Through her businesses, Ola has empowered women to embrace their individuality and confidence, helping them navigate the challenges of motherhood and career. Her philanthropic efforts have provided support to those in need, offering them a path to personal growth and self-discovery.
As she continues to build her legacy, Ola remains dedicated to her mission of empowering others and giving back. Her story serves as an inspiration to women everywhere, showing that with determination, passion, and a willingness to help others, anything is possible.
Ola’s motto, “Never give up and never give in,” encapsulates the spirit of her journey. It is a reminder that success is not just about reaching the top but about lifting others up along the way. As she continues to make her mark on the world, Ola Nesheiwat Hawatmeh’s impact will be felt for years to come, inspiring future generations of women to pursue their dreams and make a difference in the lives of others.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
