7 Muslim Women Teaching Us to Embrace Authenticity
We are constantly inspired by the remarkable journeys of women who fearlessly embrace their authenticity, paving the way for others to do the same. We embrace the uncompromising nature of these women staying true to the Muslim faith, despite the obstacles hijabi women face when pursuing certain career paths.
Today we raise a glass to seven incredible Muslim women whose stories shine a lot of light on being your best authentic self unapologetically. We can’t help but love them all day, every day!
1. Bilqis Abdul-Qaadir
If you’re into basketball, meet Bilqis Abdul-Qaadir. She is breaking barriers on and off the basketball court. Despite facing discrimination for wearing a hijab while playing basketball, she stayed true to herself and her passion for the game. Bilqis founded the NGO, ‘Muslim Girls Ball Too’, an organization where young women build confidence in their identities as athletes and faithful Muslims. She is also well-known as the first Division I athlete to compete while wearing a hijab.
2. Shaymaa Ismaa’eel
Shaymaa Ismaa’eel’s iconic image of smiling in the face of hate went viral, capturing the hearts of millions worldwide. Her message of self-love and resilience is a powerful reminder that no matter the challenges we face, our authenticity shines brightest when we remain true to ourselves.
3. Basma Kahie
Basma Kahie is a London-based Somalian fashion and beauty influencer who has proven that conservative garments can also be incredibly stylish. She is the go-to source for unlimited modest fashion inspiration and is an expert at matching her hijab headwraps with super chic ensembles. Whether she’s out with her beautiful daughter or touring cities in Europe, her outfits are typically made up of suits, coats, T-shirts and ultra-feminine dresses in neutral hues and soft pastel colours.
4. Ibtihaj Muhammad
Ibtihaj Muhammad made history as the first Muslim-American woman to compete in the Olympics wearing a hijab. Her trailblazing journey not only shattered stereotypes but also inspired countless young girls to pursue their dreams unapologetically.
5. Ikram Abdi Omar
Supermodel Ikram Abdi Omar is rapidly changing the fashion landscape. Despite the challenges, she made her first debut in 2018 at London Fashion Week for British designer Molly Goddard’s FW18 collection. Following that, her modeling calls naturally increased. She broke barriers and made ground as a young hijab-wearing Muslim model, she was one of the first to do so.
6.. Halima Aden
Halima Aden made waves in the fashion industry as the first hijab-wearing model to grace the cover of major magazines and walk the runways of top designers. Her authenticity and unwavering commitment to her beliefs have paved the way for greater diversity and inclusivity in the fashion world.
7. Ilhan Abdullahi Omar
Ilhan Abdullahi Omar is a fearless advocate for justice and equality. As one of the first Muslim women elected to the U.S. Congress, she continues to champion the rights of marginalized communities and challenge the status quo with her unapologetic authenticity.
