Today we’d like to introduce you to Malika Ali Muhammad.
Hi Malika, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I graduated from Kean University with a B.A. in Communications and Minors in Political Science and Africana Studies.
Bright eyed and with a passion to make it as a Hip Hop Journalist, I got my start as an intern at VIBE Magazine and held several jobs in the Entertainment industry over the course of 10 years, having worked for Marvet Britto, Daymond John and AllHipHop.com to name a few. Then one day I realized, it was time to make a change. Pivoting to Event Planning, as it felt more aligned with how God intended me to share my gifts with the world.
I left New Jersey (I am originally from East Orange) and moved to the DMV and began working for one of the most respected restaurant groups in Washington, D.C., The Popal Group, as their Event Manager. In 2 years, post COVID, I managed 3 of their restaurant/bars (Lapis, Lutece and The Berliner) making the company half a million dollars in pure event sales.
In 2023, I started my own Event Planning company, HustleHER Events. Founding my company with a desire to focus on curating events with a purpose. In 2024, I landed my first big client, The Institute for Local Self Reliance, where I was responsible for the curation of their 50th Anniversary Gala. As I continue to build my business, my focus has been dedicated to developing HER Body, HER Mind, HER Power, a self care/self defense wellness retreat for women that incorporates boxing, dance, pole fitness and yoga, whose sole mission is to provide a safe space for survivors of child abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault and sex trafficking to regain their power and thrive.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My journey has seen many challenges. As a result of things I experienced while working in the Entertainment industry, I developed CPTSD, Chronic Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome. The main hurdle has been understanding my condition, managing my triggers and having the strength to let go of things that don’t serve me.
I can say however, that I have started to see the light at the end of the tunnel and that I am grateful that I never gave up. Because I am right on the cusp of accomplishing something that will allow me to position myself to help women like myself elevate.
As you know, we’re big fans of HustleHER Events. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
HustleHER Events is a full service boutique Event Planning and Management Agency.
We believe every curated event tells a story and we specialize in bringing working with our clients to bring the vision to life with precision, creativity, and flawless execution.
Founded with a passion for designing meaningful experiences, we are dedicated to designing, coordinating, and delivering events that leave lasting impressions.
From intimate gatherings to large-scale productions, we approach every project with the same level of excellence, care, professionalism, and attention to detail.
Our team combines strategic planning with creative vision to ensure each event reflects our clients’ goals, brand, and personality.
We manage every aspect of the process—from concept development and vendor coordination to logistics, timelines, and on-site execution—so our clients can focus on enjoying the moment while we handle the rest.
What sets us apart is our commitment to excellence and collaboration. We listen closely, plan thoughtfully, and execute seamlessly, building trusted relationships with our clients and partners along the way.
No two events are ever the same, and we pride ourselves on delivering customized solutions that feel effortless, elegant, and impactful.
At HustleHER Events, we don’t just plan events—we curate experiences that inspire, connect, and celebrate life’s most important moments.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
Being solutions based. I find that where most people go wrong is having a problem for every solution.
My number one goal in everything that I do is to provide equitable solutions and with my background in sales, restaurant/hospitality, I have an in-depth understanding of how to anticipate my clients needs to help them curate an experience that will leave a lasting impression on their guests.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://hustleherevents.com
- Instagram: instagram/hustleher_events
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1CwrnR7CwK/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HustleHEREvents
