My Story

NAOMI NICHOLLS AUTOBIOGRAPHY

I was born on a warm, sunny day in August in Goodwill, Dominica, a small but vibrant island in the Caribbean. From my earliest years, life was marked by movement , living in different villages across the island before settling in the peaceful village of Giraudel at the age of 11. Raised by my mother, Clara, alongside my siblings Nathan, Sherquan, Nerrisa, and Laveda, I learned the values of love, resilience, and responsibility. As the first-born child, I often took on the role of protector, ensuring my younger siblings always felt safe. Despite the usual sibling squabbles, we shared a deep bond filled with laughter, inside jokes, and an unbreakable connection.

My mother, a hardworking single parent, provided for us, while my father, who lived in Calibishie, remained a strong presence in our lives. Summers spent in his village were some of my most cherished memories, immersed in nature, surrounded by family, and discovering the raw beauty of the island. Though my parents were separated, they both instilled in me the values of perseverance, strength, and love. Laveda, my half-sister, was born years after their separation, and Sherquan, who was adopted into our family, added another layer of love and unity to our home.

Education & Career Journey

Education was always a priority in my household. I started pre-school at just two years old then attended Goodwill Primary School and later the private Convent High School, where I studied Information Technology and Physical Education. After high school, I continued my education at Dominica State College, initially pursuing Psychology. However, due to limited opportunities in the field at the time, I chose to gain hands-on experience by working at a call center while I carefully planned my next steps.

During this period of reflection, I uncovered my true passion for design. I briefly considered law & architecture, but I soon realized my love for fashion design far outweighed my interest in pursuing a formal degree in those fields. My journey in fashion had already begun in subtle ways, I had modeled for local designers, worked behind the scenes on shoots, and witnessed the creative process unfold in ways that deeply resonated with me. The more I explored fashion, the more I felt an undeniable pull toward creating something of my own.

The Birth & Evolution of Dohara N Designs

Out of this realization, Dohara N Designs (D.N.D.) was born a brand that initially began as a crochet-focused beachwear line inspired by my Caribbean roots. Growing up near the ocean, beachwear was personal to me—a reflection of freedom, beauty, and cultural expression. My designs combined functionality with elegance, embracing the rich textures and vibrant colors that define my homeland.

However, as I grew as a designer and entrepreneur, I realized that D.N.D. was more than just fashion, it was a lifestyle. My vision expanded beyond clothing into a holistic movement that merges fashion, wellness, sustainability, and conscious living. This transformation led me to redefine D.N.D. as a global lifestyle brand, offering not just handmade fashion but also:

• Statement Accessories – Ethically sourced jewelry, bags, and artisanal pieces.

• Sustainable & Handmade Lifestyle Products – Candles, natural skincare, home essentials, and wellness items.

• Educational Resources & Digital Products – Business courses, e-books, and skill-based workshops.

• Curated Collaborations with Artisans & Creators – Featuring handcrafted, exclusive designs from partners worldwide.

This expansion turned D.N.D. into a movement—one that embodies freedom, authenticity, and intentional living. The brand is no longer just about what we wear but how we live, how we express ourselves, and how we contribute to a more sustainable world.

A Mission Rooted in Purpose

At its core, Dohara N Designs is about self-expression, empowerment, and sustainability. I believe fashion should be inclusive, accessible, and aligned with ethical values. Every piece I design or curate tells a story, a story of culture, craftsmanship, and creativity.

My commitment to slow fashion and sustainability is deeply personal. I want to encourage mindful consumption, where people invest in pieces that are not only beautiful but also intentional and meaningful. Through D.N.D., I am creating a space where people can shop consciously, support artisans, and embrace a lifestyle that aligns with their values.

Overcoming Challenges & Embracing Growth

Like any entrepreneur, I have faced challenges and setbacks. From the devastation of Hurricane Maria to delays caused by COVID-19, my journey has been anything but linear. I’ve had to navigate multiple career paths, refine my vision, and constantly adapt to new circumstances.

But through it all, I’ve remained resilient, driven by my unwavering belief in my purpose and my commitment to building something impactful. Every obstacle has shaped me into the businesswoman, creator, and visionary I am today.

Beyond Fashion: A Life of Exploration & Purpose

While D.N.D. is my passion, my ambitions extend beyond business. I have an insatiable curiosity for the world, its cultures, and the mysteries of the universe. I am deeply drawn to philosophy, metaphysics, quantum physics, and spiritual exploration. My journey is about more than just success, it’s about living authentically, embracing adventure, and constantly seeking wisdom.

At the heart of everything, family remains my foundation. Their love and support fuel my dreams, and I strive to create a legacy that honors my roots while elevating my future.

The Future of Dohara N Designs & My Legacy

I envision Dohara N Designs as an internationally recognized lifestyle brand, a movement of fashion, wellness, and self-expression. I want D.N.D. to connect cultures, empower creators, and redefine how people experience style and conscious living.

My goal is to:

• Expand D.N.D. internationally, making it a hub for curated, sustainable fashion and lifestyle products.

• Offer educational resources, helping aspiring entrepreneurs and creators bring their visions to life.

• Continue exploring quantum physics, philosophy, and consciousness, integrating these insights into my work.

• Live a life of adventure, authenticity, and impact, inspiring others to pursue their highest potential.

Through all that I have experienced, I have come to understand that life is about growth, connection, and the courage to pursue what sets your soul on fire. My journey is far from over, it is just beginning.

And I welcome every challenge, every lesson, and every possibility that the future holds.

Style with Soul. Wear the energy, live the mindset.

Updated: January 2025