Neelofa Shares Her Survival Story

Her ability to change, adapt and push boundaries to achieve her vision has made her a true survivor. This Asian icon has joined the wave of change taking place in the world of high fashion where the perception of hijabwearing women is quickly evolving. Neelofa shares her survival story with lorraine chai.

- Lorraine Chai

From New York to Milan, Neelofa made her mark at the ‘Big 4’ fashion capitals of the world during last year's Fashion Week season. From hosting one of the top entertainment talk shows, meleTOP (she has since departed the show), Neelofa has levelled up to create her very own talk show. Her collaboration with Italian shoe maestro Giuseppi Zanotti also marked her entrance into the international fashion world where she aims to crush stereotypes of the Asian hijabi. With her sweet, gentle smile and down-to-earth personality, the 30-year-old looks very much like the girl next door. But it’s hard to miss the star presence she carries. As soon as she walks into the room, she oozes confidence – one just can’t help but be drawn by her charisma and enthusiasm.

A SURVIVOR

HW: What does survival mean to you?

N: What I have been through in the past 10 years is survival. It’s about being consistent and how much one is willing to do to overcome setbacks. A survivor, to me, is someone who addresses a problem and not run away from it. If one could do that, that’s survival. You stay in the game and fight through it.

HW: Have you ever thought of leaving the limelight?

N: The first two years of my career was quite difficult. I was hammered with all manner of gossip and controversies. It was tough, but because I’ve been through that, I feel like nothing can beat me now, I can overcome any problem easily. Have I ever thought of not being in the spotlight? No, I don’t think so. Since I’m already in the limelight, I think there’s no point in looking back or to stop doing what I’m doing. I might slow down a little when I have a family in future or when I’ve achieved my goals, but I don’t think I will ever leave the industry entirely.