Zenia Mariam Khan didn’t have a single “aha” moment. Her story started when she was just 15, curiously picking through makeup her mom, sister, and aunts owned. Without any formal skills or experience, she began reviewing those beauty products on her personal blog. She had no idea how to blend eyeshadow back then, but her love for beauty and writing was enough to fuel the beginning of something much bigger.
That hobby turned into a passion. And that passion turned into a profession.
Over time, Zenia learned more, experimented more, and finally became a professional makeup artist. She didn’t just stop at applying makeup — she began hosting classes, mentoring groups, and sharing the art she loved with others. It was more than just cosmetics; it was confidence, creativity, and community.
The YouTube Spark and Sisterly Inspiration
The early 2010s saw a rise in beauty YouTubers like Carli Bybel and NikkieTutorials. For Zenia, they were more than just creators — they were her virtual mentors. But the one who really inspired her journey was closer to home: her sister.
“She was the first to start watching YouTube tutorials and trying makeup,” Zenia recalls. “I really looked up to her, and that’s what got me interested too.”
What began as watching videos soon became writing blog posts on WordPress, then promoting them on Instagram when it started gaining popularity. She even created a YouTube channel. Slowly but surely, her online presence started to grow, and she became part of the small but rising beauty creator community.
A Degree for Her Mother, A Dream Come True
While her online world was blossoming, Zenia never lost sight of another important goal — her education. She graduated with a degree in economics from the Institute of Business Administration (IBA), one of the most prestigious business schools in Pakistan. And even though it wasn’t directly related to makeup or beauty, it was a proud achievement — especially for her mom.
“My mom dreamt of this for me,” she says. “She wears it like a badge of honor that I went to IBA. So anything for her.”
Zenia speaks fondly of her time at university, describing it as a meaningful chapter filled with growth and memories. Her degree might not define her current career, but it shaped her into the well-rounded person she is today.
The Mocking Never Broke Her Spirit
In 2015, social media wasn’t the giant it is now. The creator community was small, and “going viral” wasn’t a thing. Zenia started posting anyway. She shared her thoughts, tutorials, and beauty experiences, even when people from school made fun of her.
“That was the biggest challenge,” she admits. “Getting mocked by people I knew. But I never stopped.”
Her consistency paid off. The same people who once laughed at her efforts now ask her for advice, brand contacts, or even collaborations. She doesn’t hold a grudge, though. “I wish them all the best,” she says with grace.
Zenia’s story is a powerful reminder that staying true to your passion can lead you exactly where you’re meant to be — even if the road feels lonely at times.
A Big Move and a New Perspective
Recently, Zenia made a big life decision: she moved to the UAE and took on a full-time job in PR. It’s a surprising shift for someone who’s worked with beauty brands and agencies from the outside — but now, she’s inside the system.
“It’s so interesting to be on the other end now,” she shares. “I’ve worked with brands before as a creator, and now I see how things work behind the scenes.”
This experience is helping her understand the business side of content and beauty partnerships better. It’s also teaching her balance — how to manage a demanding 9-to-6 job while continuing to create content and inspire her followers.
Knowing Who You Are Is the Real Glow-Up
As Zenia’s platform grew, so did her understanding of people — and herself.
“One thing I’ve learned is that not everyone is your friend,” she says. “It’s good to be kind, but I treat most people I meet as colleagues, not close friends.”
She shares a grounded and mature view of life in the public eye. “You have your own luck, your own personality, your own ‘naseeb.’ Nobody can take that from you. So we should be happy for others instead of being jealous.”
This level of self-awareness is what sets Zenia apart. Her advice isn’t just about beauty tips — it’s about personal growth, staying focused, and trusting in your own journey.
Why People Keep Coming Back to Her Page
Zenia’s Instagram isn’t just a gallery of pretty pictures or perfect eyeliner flicks. It’s a space where humor, honesty, and confidence meet. Her goal is simple — make people feel better about themselves.
“I want people to leave my page feeling good. Feeling entertained, yes, but also confident in who they are,” she says.
Her content doesn’t push an unrealistic image of beauty. Instead, it promotes being comfortable in your own skin and finding what works for you.
Her Message to Aspiring Creators
Zenia’s advice to those starting out in content creation is clear: stay true to yourself.
“Your personality and features make you who you are. Trends are fun, but don’t lose yourself in them,” she says. “People are watching you like a TV series now. They want to see you, not a copy of everyone else.”
Her authenticity shines through in every video, caption, and post. And it’s that realness that keeps her community growing.
A Role Model for Modern Creators
Zenia Mariam Khan’s story is one of courage, creativity, and self-belief. From reviewing makeup as a teenager to becoming a professional artist, educator, and now a PR professional in the UAE — she’s done it all on her own terms.
Her journey teaches us that you don’t need overnight success or viral fame to make an impact. All you need is consistency, love for what you do, and the bravery to keep going even when others doubt you.
And whether she’s hosting a beauty class, creating content for her Instagram followers, or working behind the scenes in PR, one thing is clear — Zenia isn’t done inspiring yet.
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