Noor Elkhaldi On Launching Her Podcast, Building A Digital Community And Her Key To Success
“Launching Arab-American Psycho was a big moment for me. I had spent many years contemplating it, so for it to finally be a reality and have an audience that looks forward to new episodes every Sunday, feels surreal”
Digital creative and podcast host, Noor advocates for diversity and inclusion in whatever she puts her brilliant mind to. Her raw, honest and often hilarious podcast, Arab-American Psycho makes it easy to understand why she’s garnered such a loyal following
What are you most passionate about?
“As an Arab-American woman who is visibly Muslim, I grew up never seeing anyone in the fashion world who looked like me. Advocating for diversity and inclusion is something I feel very strongly about.”
Describe yourself in three words?
“Confident, adaptable, hilarious.”
What motivates you?
“The feeling of accomplishment once I’ve completed a task.”
Which part of your work are you most proud of?
“Building a digital community that resonates with so many women, especially Arab-American women who grew up feeling unrepresented.”
What aspect of your job do you enjoy the most?
“I have loved fashion for as long as I can remember, so it’s an absolute dream to work in the fashion space and partner with brands that I truly love.”
Your defining career moment?
“The first time I was ever flown out to shoot a campaign and realising that I was doing exactly what I had always dreamed of.”
Your proudest achievement?
“Launching my podcast, Arab-American psycho, was a big moment for me. I had spent many years contemplating it, so for it to finally be a reality and have an audience that looks forward to new episodes every Sunday, feels surreal.”
The key to success is?
“Investing in yourself”
Who is your role model?
“Definitely my mum. Her work ethic is admirable and she has achieved so much from building schools and universities to publishing multiple books, all while raising six kids, getting multiple degrees, and being a loving wife.”
What values do you most admire in others?
“I have so much respect for people that are comfortable in their own skin.”
What one experience in life taught you the most about yourself?
“When I moved into my first apartment on my own, I realised how emotionally rewarding independence really is.”
What advice would you give to your younger self?
“You will always find a reason not to start whether you think you don’t have the right equipment, resources, connections, etc. – but just go for it!”
Your biggest regret?
“I don’t really have any regrets. I sincerely believe that everything in life is a learning experience that has made me the person I am today.”
The value you most admire in yourself?
“I am authentically myself, always.”
Motto you live your life by?
“Trust your gut.”
What does family mean to you?
“I cannot stress how important family is to me. My weekly family dinner with my parents, siblings, nieces and nephews is sacred. I feel so grateful for them.”
From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s October 2020 issue