We’re proud to introduce one of our most inspiring AHIG Grant recipients: Natasha Fleming, a student-athlete, entrepreneur, and the creative force behind Athleisure Lockerstyle — a brand that’s reimagining how we store and secure valuables during active lifestyles. With $35,000 in funding, Natasha is taking her dorm-room startup to the next level.

Read her story below, and prepare to be inspired.

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From Campus to CEO: The Birth of Athleisure Lockerstyle

AHIG Committee: Tell us how Athleisure Lockerstyle came to life — and how that idea led to not one, but three patent-pending products.

Natasha: I play tennis at my university and juggle full-time classes and a packed training schedule. One day, after practice, my teammates and I went to the gym with just our keys and student IDs. But the locker didn’t lock, the gym cubbies were wide open, and we ended up having our valuables stolen. That moment lit a fire in me. I imagined the perfect solution — a secure, wearable storage option. And since it didn’t exist, I set out to create it.

At the time, I didn’t know how to sew, build a website, or even what being an entrepreneur really meant. Thankfully, my mom owned a bridal salon and had a talented seamstress team. I sketched out my first design, and after multiple iterations, The Wrist Locker was born.

The response was overwhelming. People of all ages loved it — from students and runners to travelers and concertgoers. That’s when I knew this could be something much bigger. I changed my major from biomedical sciences to entrepreneurship and marketing and threw myself into building this business.

Today, we sell three patent-pending products:

• The Wrist Locker

• The Head Locker

• The Little Locker

Each one is designed to store small essentials like IDs, keys, cash, and even phones — perfect for staying active without worry.

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A Product That Could Save Lives

One story that really stuck with me was from a runner who contacted me after purchasing a Wrist Locker. She had been hit by a car during her run and was unconscious for hours. Because she wasn’t carrying ID, emergency responders couldn’t identify her or contact her family. She told me that now, she never runs without her Wrist Locker — not just for convenience, but for safety.

That story reminded me: I’m not just selling products. I’m helping people feel protected and seen.

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Overcoming Setbacks with Grit

Athleisure Lockerstyle wouldn’t exist without my mom’s bridal salon — I practically grew up there. But in 2019, a devastating fire destroyed her business of 26 years… and with it, all of my materials, prototypes, and production equipment.

It was a heartbreaking setback. But I refused to quit. I found a temporary manufacturer, rebuilt my website, and — despite a student budget and zero dollars spent on marketing — have now sold nearly 2,000 units across the country.

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Juggling It All: Student, Athlete, and Entrepreneur

AHIG Committee: How do you manage it all?

Natasha: Planning is everything. I rely on a structured daily system — including a 30-item to-do list that keeps me focused and efficient. I don’t move on to item #5 until I’ve finished #4. On especially packed days, I schedule by the hour. It may sound intense, but it works.

I truly love what I do, and that passion fuels me — whether I’m in class, at tennis practice, or packing orders.

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Expanding Through Retail and Partnerships

AHIG Committee: What are your current sales and distribution channels?

Natasha: Most of our sales come through the Athleisure Lockerstyle website, and we now ship nationwide. We’re also available in select retail locations across Chicago, Boulder, and Grand Rapids.

One exciting new partnership is with FedEx, where we’re exploring co-branded promotional opportunities. It’s still in development, but it’s a huge step forward.

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What This Grant Means

AHIG Committee: How will you use your AHIG grant?

Natasha: This $35,000 grant is a game-changer. Up until now, I’ve done everything myself — from sewing to fulfillment — but demand is growing beyond what I can handle solo. The funds will help us invest in our first large-scale manufacturing batch and give our marketing budget a much-needed boost so we can expand into expos and retail partnerships.

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Inspiring the Next Generation

AHIG Committee: Any advice for other young entrepreneurs?

Natasha: Lean on your support system. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and use the resources and people around you. My family and mentors have been essential to my growth.

One thing I’m passionate about is supporting other young women in business. At some pitch competitions, I noticed a lack of female founders — and that inspired me to launch the Athleisure Lockerstyle Ambassador Program. We now have 30 incredible women on board who live active lives and aspire to run their own businesses. I want to give them the tools and encouragement I wish I had early on.

The journey hasn’t been easy — but it’s been worth every step.

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Final Thoughts

Natasha Fleming is proof that resilience, creativity, and passion can turn a stolen moment into a six-figure dream. Her story is still unfolding — and we’re honored to be a part of it.

We award a new AHIG grant every month. If you’re building something bold, apply today.