Maryam Ishtiaq is a multidisciplinary creative, chef, and founder of Its Actually, a premium halal bone broth and cooking essentials brand rooted in honesty, heritage, and flavor.
Before launching Its Actually, Maryam built a dynamic career in creative strategy and digital storytelling. She began as Head of Creative at Raised Real, leading brand and visual direction for the organic baby food company and helping define its voice within the wellness and family lifestyle space. She later joined Loop & Tie, first as a Sales and Marketing Strategist and eventually as Head of E-Commerce, where she helped scale the brand through digital innovation and thoughtful user experience.
Throughout her career, Maryam has worn many hats, from consulting startups and founders on creative direction and brand identity to developing digital strategies that connect meaningfully with audiences. That same curiosity and depth of storytelling ultimately led her into the culinary world.
Creative,
Chef,
Founder,
Mom
Maryam’s approach to food is rooted in both heritage and curiosity. Fascinated by the history of food and the science behind cooking, she brings intention and balance to every dish, creating experiences that are thoughtful, soulful, and deeply personal. She began her culinary journey as a private chef, later competing on Gordon Ramsay’s Next Level Chef, where she showcased her bold fusion of modern techniques with the vibrant, spice-driven flavors of her Pakistani roots.
Today, Maryam hosts fine dining experiences across the U.S. and collaborates with restaurants on menu development and culinary research, helping bridge cultural authenticity with innovation.
Through Its Actually and her evolving work in the kitchen, Maryam continues to explore the intersection of creativity, history, and heritage - reminding us that food, like storytelling, has the power to connect people across time and place.