Every mother’s journey through motherhood is a distinct and personal lifelong adventure. Tatyana Ali is sharing her own unique experience, revealing the inspiration behind her company, Baby Yams, and how motherhood has transformed her, among other insights.

In an recent interview with First For Women, the multi-hyphenate entertainer is giving readers a glimpse into her adult world as both entrepreneur and mom. Check out snippets from her interview below.

FFW: You are also the creator of a company called Baby Yams. What was the motivation behind this concept?

Tatyana Ali: The motivation and inspiration come from personal experience. After I got married, I wanted to start a family. My first pregnancy started out healthy but all of that changed when I got to the hospital and my son had a very traumatic birth. My son ended up in the NICU for four days because of what happened in the hospital.

When I got pregnant again, I was terrified and I didn’t know what to do. I took to social media to search for a community by posting messages about my story. I found a group called Black Mamas Matter Alliance, which is focused on Black Maternal Health and mental health, … They have been fighting for equal medical treatment for a long time. While I was pregnant, I was also traveling all over the place where I continued to learn about this area … It was during this time; I found great comfort in sewing.

FFW: When did you launch Baby Yams?

Tatyana Ali: Last year I started the business and made 50 blankets, and each one tells a story. I personally design them and get the fabrics from a woman in Ghana. After we sold out last April, I gave 100% of those profits to be used for small grants so midwives and doulas can get their education to help others.

FFW: How did becoming a mom change you?

Tatyana Ali: Oh, that is a good question. I think it ordered my steps. When I was younger, I didn’t know what the important things were and how to prioritize. When I became a mom to my two boys, my whole world changed. Everything centered around them and for them. They come first no matter what and they ordered my steps. I am also a working mom and that lasered everything in my life. I became razor-focused about everything meaning if it is not important and good for them, I do not have time for it.

The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air alum wrapped up her interview by sharing with the outlet that she has plenty left to achieve, with the expansion of her company, Baby Yams, leading the way for her future ambitions.

“I really want to build Baby Yams and The Yam House Diaries because I stepped out on faith with it, and it encompasses everything right now. Making this successful is my mission right now and I really want to see what I can do with it because these blankets have so much meaning and bring a lot of smiles.”

The 46-year-old shares her two sons, Edward Aszard Rasberry, 9, and Alejandro Vaughn Rasberry, 7, with husband, Dr. Vaughn Rasberry. To read Ali’s interview in its entirety, click here. 

Photo: Tatyana Ali Instagram