Photo provided by Rick Moore
Rick Moore is the CEO and designer for Carolina Culture Clothing and Nyla Elise, which is named after his first-born daughter. “My wife chose the name Nyla after the Nile River in Africa,” he says. “The river is important culturally and historically and has been vital in regards to the development of civilizations.”
Nyla Elise is a grassroots company that was started in Moore’s one-bedroom apartment in Raleigh, North Carolina, in 2009. Moore has since made a name for himself in the clothing industry while stretching his brand into the film, radio and television industries. Moore’s clothing has been seen on celebrities such as Kevin Hart, George Lopez, Ava DuVernay and plenty more.
Moore is a successful business owner and powerful influence on the clothing industry today. The company prides itself on using local resources to create and design the exclusive gear. Nyla Elise represents the power, beauty and resilience of his company and family.
Here, Moore speaks with rolling out about building his network, the evolution of his brand and his core values. Check out Moore’s story below.
How do you utilize your knowledge to benefit and inspire others?
I like to serve as a resource to others. When you’re always thinking of how you can be of help to others, then relationships grow and you can inspire someone to dig deep within themselves to achieve their dreams.
If you were to give a speech to young men, what would you title your speech and why?
Keep working. Somebody’s telling somebody you’re dope.
What two quotes do you use to motivate yourself and others?
Keep God first. Patience is a virtue.
Name two iconic humans that have inspired you or currently inspire you.
Muhammad Ali. He was the ultimate humanitarian. Tupac Shakur — passionate about life, well diverse, he believed in something greater than himself.
Please share the evolution of your brand and purpose.
Passion to create a strong clothing line [and] brand, which would provide a platform that could speak to all mankind.
How do you build your network for success?
[I’m] willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done [and] always remain humble.
What two moments in your life changed you the most?
Becoming a father and my parents’ divorce.
What are three important pieces of advice you would tell your son?
Keep God first, work hard, rule with love — never fear.
What piece of advice would you tell your teenage self?
Life’s a marathon, not a sprint.
What advice would you give to young men about dealing with their emotions? Communication is key; never let your emotions supersede your intelligence.
If you could leave a legacy to your children and grandchildren, what would it be?
Legacy of wealth and wisdom.
What do you define as your #BlackManMagic?
My God-given ability to connect with people of all walks of life
What are three values that you govern and live your life by?
Keep God first, family [and] business.
How do you deal with obstacles and setbacks?
[By] being a problem solver.
What is one indispensable book that all Black males need to read at least once in their
Lifetime?
Mind of a Winner by Steve Canal
Follow Ricky Moore on his website, www.nylaelise.com
Instagram: @Nylaeliseclothing
Twitter: @Nylaelise
Facebook: @Nylaeliseclothing
Also, check out the Lenovo, Day in the Life of Rick Moore video below.
