Young Pendle businessman Mesam Ali celebrates one year of his sportswear company Forba by opening his first office
Known as the ‘class clown’ Mesam Ali could never understand why his teachers used to get so frustrated at his carefree attitude.
“I was always in trouble, “ recalls Mesam. “Not because I was particularly badly behaved ,but due to the fact I was always messing around, talking and laughing.”
Fast forward 10 years and that former ‘class clown’ is now a successful company owner who has just celebrated his first year in business by opening his own office. And those same teachers who often despaired of him are now among some of Mesam’s customers.
“I understand now why they got angry with me for not listening, “ said Mesam. “Education is so important, it can open up so many opportunities for you.”
A former student at Marsden Heights High School in Nelson, Mesam (26) studied mechanical engineering at Nelson and Colne College before going on to Manchester Metropolitan University where he gained an undergraduate degree in sports science and coaching before studying for a Masters in sports nutrition.
Like most lads his age Mesam loves wearing sports gear and thought how great it would be if he could have his own range. Launching the idea with just £10 and a dream, Mesam’s first hurdle came when he had to change the original name of his company due to copyright issues. But that didn’ deter him and he came up with the name Forba, which is Swedish for to dream. And it couldn’t be more apt as Mesam was born in Sweden.
Selling a range of sportswear for men, women and children along with a fragrance line and also nutrition supplements on his website, Forba is averaging around 70 to 100 orders a month. But August smashed that score with 110 orders. Supported by former school friends, colleagues and teachers, orders are flooding in from across the UK and Mesam was delighted to receive an order from Australia. And while he likes to deliver ordered goods personally where he can, Mesam had to draw the line there.
Mesam said: “The business is going really well, I have received so much support and the word is really getting out there about Forba.”
Proud of his working class roots, Mesam has a very philanthropic attitude and regularly gives talks in schools, encouraging children to follow their dreams and be prepared to work for what they want to achieve in life, get a good education and always be kind to their fellow man.
Mesam is also extremely proud of his hometown and its traditional heritage built mainly on the textile trade. “Nelson is often criticised but we have a lot to be proud of in this area, “ he said. “ We have a diverse community of people who really support each other for a start, there is a lot of untapped talent and creativity in this town and so many people who have a strong work ethic.
"And with the Government due to inject £20M into the area this is a golden opportunity for the town, a chance to build upon what we already have.”