Sharon McCluskey has nurtured the dream of establishing her own fashion brand, Mana, for as long as she can remember. With a strong background in styling and creativity deeply rooted in her family, Sharon is set to make a mark in the fashion industry. However, the unexpected loss of her younger brother, Alan, in a tragic car accident has profoundly impacted her journey.

Overcoming Adversity

Sharon, who has been living with her husband in Dubai for the past eight years, had planned to launch Mana in November. Tragically, those plans were interrupted by Alan’s untimely death in 2025. “Everyone suggested I take a step back,” Sharon recalled, but she felt compelled to forge ahead with her plans despite the overwhelming grief. “We’ve invested so much time and energy; life must go on,” she remarked. In moments of doubt, she reflects on Alan’s unwavering support for her ambitions, which serves as a guiding light as she navigates this challenging path.

Sharon found motivation not only in her brother’s memory but also in the support from his girlfriend, Chloe. Together, they had laid the groundwork for Mana, with Chloe even helping Sharon create content when she could not return home. “Alan believed in my dream,” Sharon shared, acknowledging that her brother’s spirit continues to inspire her efforts. This sense of purpose has allowed her to keep pushing forward, even when the hurdles seemed insurmountable.

A Vision for Mana

Mana is not just a brand; it embodies Sharon’s vision of fashion that empowers women. She desires her designs to evoke feelings of strength, elegance, and confidence. The name ‘Mana’ reflects inner power, a sentiment Sharon wishes for each of her customers when they don her creations. She envisions clothing that feels like armor, giving wearers a boost of confidence.

Drawing from her early experiences, Sharon’s passion for design has been a lifelong journey. Growing up surrounded by her mother’s dressmaking, she developed a deep appreciation for creativity and craftsmanship. “I always wanted to be involved in design,” she admitted, recalling a childhood penchant for wrapping fabrics around herself. After pursuing a Master’s degree in buying and design during the COVID-19 pandemic, Sharon felt reinvigorated, ready to channel her creative energy into Mana.

Future Aspirations and Collections

As Sharon continues to develop Mana, she envisions a diverse collection that will cater to various occasions. Although the debut collection includes eight pieces priced between €171 and €439, she plans to expand Mana’s offerings to include more everyday wear items. “I want pieces that I can wear daily and adapt depending on the occasion,” she explained fervently.

Sharon’s ultimate dream includes showcasing Mana on a fashion runway and establishing a physical store that reflects her brand’s ethos. “I’d love to even incorporate a bridal suite, allowing an immersive experience for my customers,” she expressed. Her long-term vision resonates with her aspiration to create timeless pieces that not only reflect current trends but also honor fashion’s rich history.

Mana’s journey has just begun, and with Sharon’s passion, creativity, and resilience, the future looks promising. As she gears up for the next chapter, one thing remains clear: her brother’s voice echoes in her heart, urging her to seize every opportunity. “Life is too short to stand still,” Sharon wisely reflects. With this mantra, she continues her mission to empower women through fashion, inspiring countless others to pursue their dreams.