OFF 2 MARS: A Rebranding Story Rooted in Legacy, Innovation, and Community

OFF 2 MARS: A Rebranding Story Rooted in Legacy, Innovation, and Community

Introduction:
OFF 2 MARS is more than a streetwear brand—it’s a mission to inspire, connect, and empower youth, especially in underserved communities. Through the intersection of fashion and S.T.E.A.M. education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics), we aim to help young people DREAM BIG, FLY HIGH, BREAK BARRIERS, and LOOK COOL. This rebranding initiative marks a new chapter in our story, one that pays tribute to an incredible legacy and sets the stage for an impactful future.

A Legacy of Leadership and Empowerment

At the heart of OFF 2 MARS is a profound inspiration: my mom. A magna cum laude graduate of NCCU with a master’s in social work, she was a trailblazer in every sense of the word. She helped launch the first Head Start program in our county, giving countless children a strong foundation for lifelong learning. She became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and built a consulting business to help students earn their clinical hours, ensuring the next generation of social workers had the tools to succeed.

As a single mother of two and grandmother of two, she not only raised a family but uplifted an entire community. Her dedication, resilience, and immense impact have been a guiding light for OFF 2 MARS. This brand is named in her honor—unknowingly, she gave me the initials M.A.R., aligning with the Mars mission’s vision of reaching new heights. Her legacy is woven into the fabric of everything we create, and her commitment to empowering others fuels our mission to inspire young minds.

A Personal Journey of Growth and Innovation

As the founder of OFF 2 MARS, I wear many hats. By day, I work as a Technology Support Analyst, helping solve complex tech challenges. By night, I’m pursuing my master’s degree in cybersecurity at NC A&T. These experiences have deepened my understanding of technology’s potential to transform lives.

After graduation, I plan to expand OFF 2 MARS’s impact by launching a S.T.E.A.M.-focused learning channel, offering scholarships, and forming partnerships with mission-aligned organizations. My goal is to create pathways for youth to see themselves as the next generation of scientists, engineers, artists, and innovators.

A Community-Driven Rebranding Effort

Powered by N.C. A&T and WBENC
The Fall 2024 WBENC Women of Color Incubator at N.C. A&T has been a game-changer for OFF 2 MARS. With guidance from WBENC mentors, I’ve refined strategies to lower production costs, streamline operations, and position the brand for sustainable growth. The program provided invaluable resources and a supportive network to help reimagine the future of OFF 2 MARS.

Built with Support from WBC Greensboro & East Greensboro NOW
Through the “Building Your Business Plan” Fall 2023 cohort, hosted by WBC Greensboro and East Greensboro NOW, I gained critical tools to sharpen our business model and scale our impact. Weekly sessions at the Nussbaum Center for Entrepreneurship strengthened our foundation and provided actionable insights for growth. You can also follow East Greensboro NOW on Instagram.

Our Achievements and Aspirations

Since 2019, OFF 2 MARS has: 

• Generated $25,000+ in revenue
• Sold 580 units
• Gained 1,000+ Instagram followers
• Achieved recognition through collaborations with:
  • NFL coach Jennifer King and athletes Blake Corum and the Edmunds Brothers: Terrell Edmunds, Trey Edmunds, Treamaine Edmunds
  • JD McCrary, who showcased OFF 2 MARS on VH1’s Nick Cannon Presents: Future Superstars.
  • Local and global influencers like DJ Double J, DJ Lil Vegas, DJ Mike Wawa and the Otis and Wawa family, choreographer Amanda LaCount, and Charlotte’s very own Ohavia Phillips and Chef Joya.
  • Young achievers like actress Ryann Wade and aerospace prodigy Caleb Anderson-Jeune.

Looking Ahead: Summer 2025 S.T.E.A.M. Back-to-School Pack

Our rebranding effort culminates in an exciting milestone: the launch of the S.T.E.A.M.-themed Back-to-School Pack in Summer 2025. These packs will inspire and equip students K-12 and college learners to DREAM BIG, FLY HIGH, and BREAK BARRIERS while looking cool in the classroom.

Here’s what we’re working toward:

• Engaging with S.T.E.A.M. communities at tech conferences, science fairs, and events.
• Elevating event presence with branded materials like a tent to create lasting impressions.
• Streamlining production by hiring a one-stop-shop screen printer and embroidery partner.
• Launching educational initiatives post-graduation, including a S.T.E.A.M.-focused learning channel and scholarships.

A Call to Action: Join the Movement

We need your support to make this vision a reality. Your donation will help OFF 2 MARS achieve early success in 2025 and launch the Back-to-School Pack on schedule.

Your contribution will:

• Support the creation of affordable, high-quality S.T.E.A.M.-themed apparel.
• Fund outreach efforts to connect with underserved communities.
• Provide scholarships and resources to inspire the next generation.

👉 Click Here to Donate and Support the OFF 2 MARS Mission

Note: Donations to OFF 2 MARS are not tax-deductible.

Thank you for believing in our vision and joining us on this journey. Together, we can empower youth to DREAM BIG, FLY HIGH, BREAK BARRIERS, and LOOK COOL.

Visit off2mars.com or follow us on Instagram to stay updated. Let’s inspire the future, one student at a time.