Sienna Dhariwal Fellowship Update

“Constant smiles and fulfillment through meaningful connections” is what I tell people when they ask me about my senior year of high school. The past year has been numerous experiences where I can see growth and expansion among myself and my brand. I own my own swimsuit company, Bikini Blend, that focuses on female empowerment, body positivity, and sustainability. All of the swimsuits are made from 100% recycled material. I began this passion of mine 5 years ago in 8th grade through a shark tank styled experience. Bikini Blend has allowed me to meet several amazing women and cultivate an environment of supporting women who empower one another. I had the honor of attending several fashion shows and meeting inspiring females who advocate for women's rights. The support I have received is outstanding, and I owe my success to all those who have supported me.

Through the support of the Ann Bancroft Foundation, my passions were able to be pursued. In 2022, when I received my first ABF Grant, I was able to utilize it to buy fabric and attempt to sew it myself. Unfortunately, the time was consuming, and the product’s end result was not meeting my expectations. I continued to do research and seek opportunities to learn about sustainability in fashion. By researching several different options, I decided to work with an eco-friendly manufacturer in Indonesia. Three years later, I still had the amazing chance to apply to become an ABF Trailblazer Fellow, which allowed me to engage more with the program and implement my passions into a stronger initiative. The Trailblazer Fellowship has allowed me to meet several women who all come from a diverse range of perspectives. These women push me to become more optimistic and determined to achieve my goals, both minuscule and large. Through the Fellowship, there have been so many chances to network and foster a stronger community within Minnesota, which generates solidarity towards female equality.

The Ann Bancroft Trailblazer Fellowship grant allowed me to create the fifth collection of swimsuits for Bikini Blend. I was able to customize the styles and sizes to my ideal demographic customers. The grant allowed me to curate a photoshoot with a professional photographer who represented my company and my beliefs. We utilized horses and so many other fun props. The grant allowed me to discover the amount of creative freedom owning a business has, which made me pursue entrepreneurship as a minor at the University of San Diego. The doors that were opened because of this grant were numerous. I sold several swimsuits from the fifth collection, “Coastal Cowgirl,” and coordinated ambassadors for Bikini Blend using the fellowship award. This year, I have grown as an individual as I gained several new perspectives and insights, which made me grateful for each opportunity. My version of success has shifted through the fellowship program, as I learned I value strong friendships and connections with others, and gain more fulfillment through community than anything else. 

Overall, the ABF team and support system have impacted me greatly as it has provided meaningful connections and countless opportunities that allow me to continue my passion for selling a product (swimsuits) with a purpose. That purpose is to promote female empowerment and education while utilizing sustainable practices.