
Maysa Shems
From Atlanta to NYC: A Hijabi Model's Inspiring Journey
EPISODE NO. 18 / 43:50
From Atlanta to NYC: A Hijabi Model's Inspiring Journey features a conversation with Maysa, a trailblazing Muslim fashion model breaking cultural boundaries. This episode explores how Maysa navigates the modeling world while staying true to her faith and modest style. Discover her journey from aspiring model to working with major brands like Nike and Marc Jacobs, all while wearing her hijab with pride. Maysa shares insights on authenticity in the fashion industry, the growing demand for hijabi representation, and how she balances her career with her cultural and religious values. She discusses the challenges she faced, from family expectations to industry norms, and how she overcame them to pursue her passion.
This episode is for anyone interested in fashion, cultural representation, or pursuing their dreams against the odds. Maysa's story offers inspiration and practical advice for aspiring models and young Muslims looking to make their mark in creative fields. Learn about Maysa unique perspective as a first-generation Eritrean-American, her approach to modesty in fashion, and her hopes for the future of diverse representation in modeling. Whether you're curious about the fashion world or seeking motivation to follow your own path, Mesa's journey will captivate and inspire you.
LISTEN NOW
December 19, 2024
Watch this Episode on Youtube
EPISODE NO. 18 / 43:50
Ep 18: From Atlanta to NYC: A Hijabi Model's Inspiring Journey
​
From Atlanta to NYC: A Hijabi Model's Inspiring Journey features a conversation with Maysa, a trailblazing Muslim fashion model breaking cultural boundaries. This episode explores how Maysa navigates the modeling world while staying true to her faith and modest style. Discover her journey from aspiring model to working with major brands like Nike and Marc Jacobs, all while wearing her hijab with pride. Maysa shares insights on authenticity in the fashion industry, the growing demand for hijabi representation, and how she balances her career with her cultural and religious values. She discusses the challenges she faced, from family expectations to industry norms, and how she overcame them to pursue her passion.
This episode is for anyone interested in fashion, cultural representation, or pursuing their dreams against the odds. Maysa's story offers inspiration and practical advice for aspiring models and young Muslims looking to make their mark in creative fields. Learn about Maysa unique perspective as a first-generation Eritrean-American, her approach to modesty in fashion, and her hopes for the future of diverse representation in modeling. Whether you're curious about the fashion world or seeking motivation to follow your own path, Mesa's journey will captivate and inspire you.
More Episodes
Episode 17: An Artist Journey: Hip Hop To Hijab, Why You Can't Marry A Man You Do Not Respect and Spirituality
​
Special guest: Basirah Raheem
​
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Basirah Raheem, a multifaceted artist whose journey bridges two worlds. As a former hip-hop emcee turned Muslim author and creative, Basirah shares her remarkable transformation and how her faith shapes her artistic expression today.
In this powerful episode, Basirah opens up about her evolution from the hip-hop scene to embracing Islam, her experiences studying in Yemen and Egypt, and how these experiences shaped her creative path. She discusses her acclaimed poetry book "The Dissolving Cloud," her work with major brands like Lancome and Adidas, what love is and why you cant marry a man you do not respect.
Ep 16: Sudan's Hidden Crisis: Diaspora Activists Speak Out
​
Special guest: Sana Ginawi & Elkhair Balla
​
Sudan's Hidden Crisis: Diaspora Activists Speak Out features a conversation with Sana Ginawi and Elkhair Balla, two passionate Sudanese diaspora activists. These accomplished professionals discuss how their multifaceted identities as Sudanese, African, Muslim, and American shape their perspectives and drive their advocacy efforts. Haqq Islam delves into Sudan's rich history, current political turmoil, and the ongoing humanitarian crisis with his guests. They explore the complexities of Sudan's cultural heritage, from ancient Nubia to modern-day challenges, and share personal insights on maintaining connections to their roots while living abroad. This episode is for anyone interested in understanding the power of diaspora activism, the importance of preserving cultural identity in the face of adversity and the importance of creativity.
Ep 15: The Complex Identity of Arabs & Muslims & Why Inclusive Marketing Matters
​
Special guest: Dena Mekawi
​
In "The Complex Identity of Arabs & Muslims & Why Inclusive Marketing Matters" this episode features a conversation with Dena Mekawi, a marketing expert dedicated to amplifying Muslim representation in media and corporate America and founder of Mekawi Impact. Host A. Haqq Islam delves into Dena's journey from growing up in a predominantly Italian-American community on Staten Island to founding Mekawi Impact, a company championing authentic storytelling and marketing strategies for underrepresented communities. This episode is for you if you're interested in understanding the rich, complex identities of Arabs and Muslims and why brands should embrace inclusive marketing. Dena shares her personal experiences of overcoming cultural identity struggles and advocating for diversity through creative partnerships with major corporations. Join us as we explore the impact of Islam on personal and professional life, and the powerful role of media in shaping perceptions.
Ep 14: The Untold History: Palestine's Fight For Justice
​
Special guest: Professor Mohammed Abu-Nimer & Maliha Fairooz
​
Join the conversation on "The Untold History: Palestine Fight For Justice" as host A.Haqq Islam delves into the complexities of the Palestinian conflict with two insightful guests. Featuring Professor Mohammed Abu-Nimer, an esteemed expert in International Peace and Conflict Resolution, and Maliha Fairooz, a passionate activist and a Columbia University graduate. This episode offers a deep historical appraisal and a honest perspective on the current events. Discover their take on the socio-political dynamics, international relations, and the resilience of the Palestinian people. From dissecting historical timelines to addressing modern-day challenges, this episode is for you if you're eager to understand the history and profound impacts of this ongoing struggle. Don't miss out on the chance to broaden your perspective and engage in meaningful discourse.