We had the good fortune of connecting with Fatima Aqil Ali and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Fatima, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
My family is originally from Karachi, Pakistan. My Dad moved here in the 1980’s for better opportunities and has worked tirelessly since then. He comes from humble beginnings and has worked 7 days a week, 12 hours a day til today to make sure we have a comfortable life, different from the one he grew up with, and it’s made us value the work we do in a different light. His background merged with my Moms, them starting in the Jewelry industry together, supporting each other, working so hard and never depending on others to provide has impacted me in my life, my sister in hers, and my view on business and relationships in general. I feel that seeing them dedicate their life to working and providing for our family and the business values they’ve instilled in us, the importance of independence and security, how they run the business and their ambition with it has impacted who I am tremendously. For starters, I have always had an entrepreneurial mindset because of that, I’ve always wanted to create something that I could say I did, and I did that first with my blog as my business, and now diving into other ventures. I also joined my parents in their business and have learned their business style and am constantly learning so much, I never thought I’d become the woman I am not but I couldn’t be happier.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Diamonds Unlimited was founded the year I was born, 1995. What sets us apart is not only the fact that it’s a family owned business, we’re independent jewelers so we are one of a kind, but my parents put their whole life, soul, energy, everything into it. So I’m so excited to be able to contribute to the growth of our business. I got here by guidance, observation, and learning from mistakes. I started off working after I graduated and realized that if I can help grow someone else’s business, I can do all of that and more for my own. I created a website and took our business online, expanding the market to not only local but global exposure so that we can go worldwide. It isn’t easy because I don’t have much experience, but I’m loving the challenge and am growing daily. I want the world to know that 25 years in the business, we are better than ever. We’ve served our community and have loyal customers, quality merchandise, and one of a kind customer service. Our customers are truly like our family, we love that we become *their* jewelers and can provide for them in every area of the luxury fine jewelry market. We’d love to make you a part of our family too!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Houston is all about food, I’d start with brunch in river oaks district, then a stroll in Eleanor Tinsley stopping by Museum district to check out MOFA, after that lunch somewhere in Rice Village and head to Westheimer for some more sight seeing. I’d definitely have to take them to Aga’s restaurant, they catered my wedding and they are hands down the best Indo-Pak cuisine in Houston. I’d also love to show them Herman park, maybe head down to Midtown for some night time fun, the options are endless.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First off I have to shout out my parents and my sister, without their support and constant motivation, I wouldn’t be where I am today. My husband Zain, he’s my rock. He believes in me more than I do sometimes, and his support means the world to me. I believe in quality over quantity so I don’t have many close friends but their support and encouragement means so much to me as well, y’all know who you are!

Website: Www.diamondsunltd.com
Instagram: @diamonds_unlimited
Other: You can find us on Facebook at Diamonds Unlimited, shop our website on www.diamondsunltd.com, and follow us on instagram @diamonds_unlimited. My blog is @fatimaqil and you can always reach out to me there too!