We had the good fortune of connecting with Yendi Nieto and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Yendi, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Empowering indigenous people by making clothing and accessories by ingenious people. Making these items and wearing them proudly in todays society.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a self-taught designer for our clothing brand. Our Indigenous Traditions. I sat down one day, turned on YouTube and started sewing. I started off with one yard of fabric, making a few items of each clothing and accessory. It took a lot of practice, a lot of trial and error. It was rough some days, but I would take a break and get back at it a few days later. I started out dancing pow wows (Native American- traditional gathering) and I wanted to wear appropriate clothing while representing ourselves. I use general tribal patterns. This way can be able to wear what I make on a daily bases or to special events, ceremony, conferences etc. I wasn’t sure if this was going to succeed but I knew I wasn’t gonna give up. I started this brand for the people with the people. It was made with pride and welcoming to all of those that are wanting to learn about their cultures. I am here trying to help myself and others to be able to wear your culture with pride.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take my best friends to husbands Homelands – Tule River Indian Reservarion in California. We would go down the creek, swim in the river, enjoy nature and take advantage of the no phone service. Live in the moment. We would camp out, get bit by mosquitoes, fight off flies all while trying to get to beautiful top of the mountain. Looking down at the land, feeling the wind and seeing the sky in its all natural form.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I thank all of those that have supported me through this rough journey. All of my family, and friends who supported the brand, gave me encouraging words. This has helped tremendously. At times when I didn’t know what I was doing, the support kept me going. My husband Johnny Nieto who has been there by my side. He has taken on the business side of it, which allows me to be creative and able to care for our kids full time. Thank you all for believing in me.

Website: OITClothing.com

Instagram: OITClothing

Facebook: Our indigenous traditions

Youtube: Our indigenous traditions

Other: Podcast- The talking stick

Image Credits
Vanilla Smile Photography

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