Sepideh Tavakol, Founder, Lusso Ca
March 8, 2023, welcomes International Women’s Day where we encourage everybody to stop and reflect, rejoice, and commit to shaping an equitable world for women. startGBC strives to empower, inform, and motivate women entrepreneurs and so this month we have the pleasure to spotlight Sepideh Tavakol, a passionate entrepreneur who has just opened her first Canadian women’s clothing store in Thornhill, having successfully operated 5 stores in Iran.
We had the pleasure of catching up with Sepideh and asked her to share some of her story and journey on the road to opening Lusso Ca.
About Sepideh Tavakol
Sepideh is a determined serial entrepreneur, who began developing her business skills in Iran, where she established a women’s clothing chain with 5 stores. Having made the decision to relocate to Canada, Sepideh first returned to education to learn more about fashion management and the processes used in Canada. Whilst still at college Sepideh was already shaping her vision for her first Canadian store, developing her business plan, building contacts and her sourcing channels.
Now with a truly global trading perspective, Lusso Ca, under the watchful guidance of Sepideh’s leadership, is set for a bright future bringing gorgeous high-quality products at an affordable price point. Be sure to check out the store in person at 7181 Yonge Street, Unit 14, Thornhill, ON, L3T 0C7 lussoca.com.
Academic Background
Sepideh holds a Bachelor in IT Engineering and a Master’s in IT Management from Iran and a Diploma in Fashion Management from George Brown College.
What made you want to become an entrepreneur?
From a young age I dreamed of doing being my own boss and always envisioned myself as the owner of a fashion brand. To pursue this dream, I studied two different fields of management which helped me to have an eye for digital marketing, the latest marketing trends and the fashion market both in Canada and internationally.
Why did you create your business?
I created Lusso CA after holding a number of positions with small and large well known companies and brands, Since I always determined to develop a fashion brand, I felt my education and experience gave me the confidence to start the business.
What successes have you enjoyed so far with building your company?
I began to develop early online sales success while I was in school at George Brown, but who I have become as a business owner is the real accomplishment particularly responding to challenges pivoting to deal with to them. We celebrate the small and large victories, such as traveling to Turkey on a buying trip to the renovation of the space and creating the store we have now. I am proud to have launched the store, itself a major milestone as we move forward and plan our future work.
What is one piece of advice you would give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
“The most important trait for anyone who wants to be their own boss is perseverance. You must strengthen your will to move forward regardless of obstacles and difficulties…”. – Sepideh Tavakol
Who helped support your entrepreneurial journey?
I would recommend any George Brown College students and alums to utilize startGBC.
Any recommended reads?
Open Your Mind to Prosperity by Katherine Ponder
Website & Socials
Website: lussoca.com
Instagram: instagram.com/lusso_ca
Store Address: Shops on Yonge, 7181 Yonge Street, Unit 14, Thornhill, ON, L3T 0C7
Telephone for opening hours: +1 (416) 832 7484
