Meet Aisha, a 27-year-old fashion blogger from Brisbane. After experiencing backlash from family and friends for not pursuing a "traditional" career, Aisha remained steadfast in her passion for fashion and pursued her dreams of starting a successful blog.
Aisha shares, "I realised that I had to be true to myself and follow my passions. It wasn't easy, but now I am doing what I love, and it's been a totally rewarding experience."
Interviewer: Hi Aisha, thanks for speaking with me today. Can you tell us a bit about yourself, your non-traditional career path and how you got started in the fashion blogging industry?
Aisha: Of course! It definitely wasn't easy, especially with the pressure from family and friends to pursue a more traditional career path. But I knew deep down that fashion was my passion, and I decided to take the leap and totally start my own blog!
I've always been obsessed with fashion and style. But growing up, I was always told that I needed to pursue a more traditional career path. I even went to university and got a degree in accounting, but I knew deep down that it wasn't what I really wanted to do.
After graduation, I started working at an accounting firm, but I was miserable. I hated sitting behind a desk all day and crunching numbers. So, I decided to take a leap of faith and start my own fashion blog. It was scary, but also exhilarating.
Interviewer: That's amazing! I know that pursuing a non-traditional career path can come with its challenges. Have you faced any obstacles along the way?
Aisha: Oh, totally! When I first started my blog, a lot of people didn't take it seriously. They didn't understand why I would want to pursue a career in fashion, and they thought it was just a hobby. I had family members and friends who thought I was wasting my time and should be focusing on a more "traditional" career. But I knew deep down that this was my passion and what I wanted to do. So, I just kept pushing forward and proved them wrong! Haha!
But I knew that I had to follow my passion, so I persevered. Another challenge was building a following and getting my name out there. It took a lot of hard work and dedication, but it was totally worth it in the end.
Interviewer: I'm sure that wasn't easy, but it's great to see that you followed your dreams despite the criticism. Can you tell us a bit more about your approach to social media and how it has helped you in your career?
Aisha: Social media has been a huge part of my success. It's allowed me to connect with other bloggers, brands and followers who share my love for fashion. I'm always active on Instagram, TikTok and Pinterest, sharing my latest outfits and trends. It's been a great way to build my personal brand and connect with others in the industry.
Interviewer: What do you think sets your fashion blog apart from others in the industry?
Aisha: I think what sets my blog apart is my unique voice and perspective. I don't just talk about fashion and style; I also talk about social issues and how they intersect with fashion. For example, I've written about sustainable fashion and the impact that the fashion industry has on the environment.
Interviewer: That's really interesting. Do you have any advice for others who may be considering a non-traditional career path, but are hesitant to pursue it?
Aisha: My advice would be to just go for it. Don't let anyone else's opinions or expectations hold you back from following your dreams. It may not be easy, and there may be times where you doubt yourself, but totally stay true to your passions and keep pushing forward. And most importantly, stay active on social media and build your personal brand.
Interviewer: That's great advice. Lastly, I have to ask, who is your style icon?
Aisha: Oh, that's a tough one! I have so many style icons, but right now I'm totalling loving Harry Styles' fashion sense! He's not afraid to take risks and is always pushing the boundaries with his style choices.
Interviewer: That's so true. Thanks so much for speaking with me today, Aisha. It's been great to hear about your success story and your approach to a non-traditional career path.
Aisha: Thank you so much for having me! It's been a total pleasure.
* Names and photos have been changed to protect the interviewees anonymity where requested.