We had the good fortune of connecting with Jameelat Bakare and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jameelat, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
I believe the most important factor behind my success and overall brand is being unafraid to be myself. In the digital/ social media space sometimes its easy to get lost in trends and trying to keep up with the joneses. Ive learned through the years of being a content creator/influencer that there is power in my authenticity and uniqueness. As a black muslim woman, The way I share my thoughts, my values, myself, resonates with people who need to see me show up as me. It has helped me find my online community of individuals who are inspired to do the same. Like wow, if she can do it so can I. Representation matters especially as a Black muslim girl/woman. My success / brand is nothing without their support and love.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My name is Jameelat Bakare, I come from a multicultural background my father is Nigerian and my mother is Jamaican. Growing up in an Afro-Carribbean household, I witnessed through example, the importance of working hard and persevering in all aspects of life. I wanted to be many things when I was growing up from being an actress to a doctor. It wasn’t until I took a linguistics course in college that I realized I love language, I went on to attain my BS and MS speech-language pathology and currently work full time with middle school grades 6-8th grade. My life biggest turning point stems from wanted more out of life and having a relationship with my Creator. In 2015, during Ramadan, (a holy month for muslims around the world) is when that turning point happened. I began wearing the Hijab and dressing more modestly, realigning with my purpose. At the time, I had no social media but always had a passion for Fashion and Beauty. In 2018, I decided to create an Instagram simply to share my journey and find inspiration from women who look like me. I had no idea my platform would be where it is today. I love sharing tips on modest fashion, beauty, and lifestyle.

I enjoy being inspired and inspiring other women who look like me. Reminding myself first to show up as I am because that is more than enough, to uphold my morals and values, and pursue my dreams. Im grateful that I’ve been able to transition something that I love into a lucrative business/side hustle. I look forward to continuing to add value and to serve others in anyway that I can. Ive learned a lot of lessons along the way but the biggest one is to be kind, compassionate, and caring to everyone I meet or interact with. Character and Integrity will take you place where talent can not.
I want whoever is reading this to know that they are doing amazing and that they should continue to pursue their dreams and be an example for those who want to do the same.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Im from NYC so there is so many cool and fun places but some of my favorites are The Color Factory its a cute interactive/sensory experience in downtown. I also love the restaurant Negril that serves authentic Jamaican cusine. The Brooklyn Bridge is beautiful and perfect for taking pictures.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
This is to the Black Muslim Women who inspire me to always show up as me authentically, whole and enough:

Bilikiz @_bilikiz
Hakeemah @hakeemahcmb
Khadeejah @itskhadeejahb
Neelam @neelam_
Azizat @_taztv
Angelica @villageauntie
Cire @styleso_versatile
Hameedah @meedah.sf
Nadirah @nadirah.p
Maryam @maryamalausa
Rayya @_rayyaansari
Tahirah @sincerlytahiry

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meelahxo/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrpM6D7ysc82rHKwoIrZ7jg

Image Credits
Taoheed @thetouchphotography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.