Single mum empowering others through culturally-appropriate activewear

A pioneering entrepreneur has successfully launched a modest activewear brand, empowering Muslim women to embrace fitness without compromising their cultural values. Yasmin Jammoul, a determined single mother of three, turned her personal struggle into a thriving business venture with the support of IntoJobs’ Self Employment Assistance program.

The idea struck Yasmin in 2020 after she struggled to find suitable gym attire following the birth of her third child. “At the time, I couldn’t find anything that was modest and appropriate for me to wear, but still made me feel good. There was nothing available, so I thought, why not make it myself?” Yasmin said.

IntoJobs’ Self Employment Assistance program was instrumental in Yasmin’s journey, providing her with the necessary guidance and confidence to turn her business idea into a reality. “I felt like I always had this idea, but I was too scared to take the steps. IntoJobs were so supportive; they believed in me which made me believe in myself,” Yasmin said.

“Every single time I had an idea, they were there to encourage me.”

The program, delivered by IntoJobs (part of the IntoWork Group), offers practical and confidential guidance and support on all aspects of starting and running a small business – from coaching, registering business names, website domains, business plan development, mentoring, and setting up an ABN through to financial, marketing, and strategic advice.

Services are designed to offer maximum flexibility and are tailored to individual business needs, with training delivered by highly qualified and highly experienced business coaches across a range of industry and service-based professions.

As a single mum, Yasmin faces the challenge of balancing her business responsibilities with family life. She starts her day at 6 am, driven by her desire to inspire her daughters. “I think about my girls and want to inspire them to achieve their goals. I’m building myself up for my kids, I want to be able to say to them I made it. I want to show them that they can do anything,” Yasmin said.

Yasmin’s brand is more than just activewear; it’s a movement promoting women’s fitness and mental wellbeing, particularly in communities where cultural norms may discourage women from going to the gym. Yasmin plans to collaborate with organisations focused on women’s health and is considering gaining a fitness certificate next year. “My sister and I have been discussing programs for next year and how they can be more inclusive. We’re also looking into mental health courses to combine both mental and physical health, helping women rebuild and become their best selves,” she said.

“I want to be an example and make going to the gym feel accepted and comfortable for women who face similar challenges. I’ve had people tell me it’s not appropriate or you can’t do that so I want my gym wear to give them the inspiration that they can go,” Yasmin added.

Self Employment Business Navigator Shaun Harris noted that Yasmin’s journey exemplifies the impact of their support programs, saying, “Yasmin’s determination and our team’s guidance have come together to create a business that not only succeeds but also makes a real difference in the community. We’re proud to have played a part in her success story and look forward to seeing her continue to grow and inspire others.”

Her long-term goal is to expand her brand beyond Australia, working with influencers to reach a wider audience. The initial reception of her products so far has been met with positivity, with customers praising the quality and design.

Her advice to other women considering entrepreneurship is clear: “Take the leap”, even if you’re a single mum or facing similar challenges, “I think it’s the best decision that I’ve made. Just to build that up for yourself, for your

kids, to be able to say you made it. It’s worth it, and you can achieve great things. You’re not made to just survive; you’re made to be and do more.”

As Yasmin continues to grow her business, her message remains inspiring: empowering women to be more than they ever thought possible, one workout at a time.