In the ever-evolving world of business and branding, there are leaders who don’t just build companies but create movements that leave lasting impact. Umm-e-Hani Anis, Chief Strategy Officer at Kahani Digital Marketing, is one such visionary entrepreneur. Her story is one of resilience, courage, and purpose-driven leadership—an inspiring tale of how following your passion can lead you to make a difference not only in your own life but also in the lives of an entire community.
Umm-e-Hani Anis: From Finance to Finding Purpose
Born in Sharjah and raised in the United States, Umm-e-Hani Anis grew up like many South Asian children—with structured expectations and ambitious goals. Initially, she pursued the traditional path of medicine, striving to become a doctor. But life had different plans. After realizing that medicine wasn’t her calling, she turned toward business and finance, excelling in investment banking and later working on digital strategy for a venture capital firm.
Yet, deep within, she felt a pull toward something more creative, impactful, and personal. While she thrived in finance, she simultaneously ran a side hustle in digital marketing. It was here that her passion for storytelling, creativity, and helping small businesses blossomed. Unlike the corporate world, digital marketing allowed her to connect with people, understand their dreams, and transform their visions into thriving brands.
This realization was pivotal. In February 2021, Hani made the life-changing decision to leave the security of her finance career and step into the uncertainty of entrepreneurship. That bold move would go on to reshape not only her own future but also the landscape of multicultural marketing.
Building Kahani Digital Marketing
When Umm-e-Hani Anis launched Kahani Digital Marketing, she did so with a unique mission: to serve South Asian and minority-owned businesses that were often overlooked by mainstream agencies. She recognized a gap—no agency catered specifically to this niche demographic with authenticity, cultural understanding, and strategic expertise.
“Kahani” means “story” in several South Asian languages, and true to its name, her agency focuses on helping brands tell stories that resonate deeply with their audiences. With services ranging from social media strategy and influencer marketing to website development, SEO, and PR campaigns, Kahani Digital Marketing has become a creative hub for underrepresented voices.
What began as a freelance hustle quickly turned into a flourishing company. Within months of launching, her business tripled, and she was able to hire a team of equally passionate BIPOC women. Today, Kahani Digital is not just an agency—it is a community-driven brand that celebrates identity, empowers multicultural entrepreneurs, and brings South Asian cultural awareness to a global stage.
Umm-e-Hani Anis: Passion Beyond Business
Alongside her role at Kahani, Umm-e-Hani Anis also serves as Creative Director at Anis Collections, a luxury South Asian bridal boutique she founded during her college years. This venture allows her to blend artistry and tradition, designing custom bridal and wedding outfits that hold deep cultural significance. Watching brides and grooms light up as they wear her creations is one of her most rewarding experiences.
Additionally, through her role with SALUTE, she contributes to organizing national and local community events that foster connection, representation, and empowerment. This balance of entrepreneurship and community service demonstrates her belief that success is not just about profit—it is about purpose.
Challenges and Lessons Learned
The entrepreneurial journey of Umm-e-Hani Anis has been anything but smooth. Walking away from a stable career in investment banking was a leap of faith. There were moments of anxiety, imposter syndrome, and self-doubt, especially when comparing her path to her peers.
But instead of letting fear paralyze her, she leaned on the support of her family and friends, who stood by her vision and encouraged her to keep going. She learned that challenges are part of growth, and resilience is built in moments of uncertainty. Her journey reminds us that passion combined with persistence has the power to overcome even the toughest roadblocks.
Also Read : India-Canada Relations: Positive Turn with Counterterrorism