How finding my spark led to a new Ramadan tradition.
By Madeeha Siddiqi
Embracing Creativity and Tradition
“Creativity is a fundamental aspect of being human. It’s our birthright. And it’s for all of us.” – Rick Rubin
Reading this line in The Creative Act by Rick Rubin changed everything. As an attorney 10 years into my career, I hadn’t seen myself as a “creative.” But his words helped me realize creativity isn’t reserved for artists – it’s something we all carry.
Finding My Spark
In 2022, my family moved from Minnesota to Austin. I had two young kids (now 7 and 5) and a growing desire to build something of my own – but no clear idea of what or how. My career had followed a straight path: college, law school, the bar exam and a climb through legal roles. There was no roadmap for entrepreneurship.
Then in 2023, I heard Rick Rubin – legendary producer and music guru – on a podcast promoting his newest book. His belief that we all possess a unique creative fingerprint stuck with me. Around the same time, I experienced deep personal loss: two of my grandparents passed away, and the third was nearing the end of life. They lived in Pakistan, where my parents were born and raised. It hit me how easily our stories and traditions can slip away. I wanted my kids to feel connected to their heritage – Pakistani, Muslim and American were big components of that.
Building New Ramadan Traditions
Ramadan is a month of fasting, prayer, reflection and community. As a child, I cherished sitting at the table with my family at sundown, breaking our fasts together. I wanted my kids to grow up with that same warmth and meaning – especially the idea that Ramadan is about more than fasting. It’s about kindness, patience and good deeds.
I also wanted to share those traditions with our non-Muslim friends, giving them a small glimpse of what Ramadan’s spirit is about. Growing up in Las Vegas, my parents enrolled me in Jewish and Lutheran schools to help me achieve strong academics. Those experiences showed me the beauty of different faiths, their shared values and the fundamental ways we are all so similar.
While living in Minnesota, we embraced Elf on the Shelf, as introduced by our neighbors. My kids loved it, and it built a sense of community. That inspired me to create something equally playful for Ramadan – something that celebrated faith and values, while sparking joy.
Enter Goat in a Coat
Goats carry cultural meaning in many Muslim communities—representing nourishment and tradition. Coats symbolize warmth, comfort, and the idea that good deeds can be “worn.” Plus, who wouldn’t love an adorable goat in a coat?
That was my spark. Goat in a Coat – Your Ramadan Companion was born. The idea was simple: each day of Ramadan, Goat in a Coat – like Elf on the Shelf – hides in a new spot, along with a “Deed of the Day” card; like sharing a toy, thanking someone or donating to charity. Easy for parents, exciting for kids and rooted in values.
In just three months, I created a prototype, wrote and rewrote the storybook, collaborated with an illustrator from my mom’s hometown of Lahore, and designed a set of good deed cards. Each step – incorporating my business, copyrighting and publishing my book and trademarking various aspects – felt intuitive. The more I built, the more momentum I gained.
A Growing Tradition
Now in its second year, Goat in a Coat includes a book, upgraded “Deed of the Day” cards, a plush toy and a keepsake box. I’ve read at schools across the country, participated in local markets and joined The Kindness Campaign’s Community Day on April 12.
The response has been incredible. Families share how much it’s helped their children engage with Ramadan. Non-Muslim friends and customers have bought it for themselves or their friends. One law school friend said it best: “Learning about other cultures creates empathetic humans.”
Rooted in Austin
From the start, Austin has been the perfect home for this journey. Local businesses generously shared insights. Organizations like NAWBO, GAACC, and the City of Austin have offered guidance, mentorship, and community. To anyone starting something here: tap into these resources – they’re a goldmineThank you for letting me share my story. I hope it inspires you to explore Ramadan, trust your creative spark, and understand the heart behind Goat in a Coat – Your Ramadan Companion: connection, kindness, and culture – all wrapped in a warm little coat.
