My journey
From a challenging past marked by heartbreak and personal struggles, I found the strength to rise above the darkest moments.
In 2012, I faced a crisis that led me to a turning point in my life. Overcoming my battles with depression and anxiety, I discovered a new path when my father believed in me and handed me the keys to a nail salon. Despite my lack of experience, I took a leap of faith and opened my own salon in March 2013. Every mistake became a lesson, every hurdle a stepping stone. While the journey hasn’t been easy, I continue to push forward, learning and growing every day. My story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and the unwavering belief that with determination and support, we can overcome any challenge life presents. Here's to embracing the highs and lows, and to finding strength in every step forward.’
After successfully running my first salon for five years, I made the decision to close its doors in 2017 and transition to a mobile business. This change allowed me to prioritize spending more time with my family while also delving into my passion for creating beauty products. The shift in focus led me to exciting opportunities, including showcasing my work at London Fashion Week and later at Milan Fashion Week in 2018. The thrill of these accomplishments was soon overshadowed by a profound personal loss.
In March 2018, my world was shaken when my beloved father fell ill. He was not just my rock, but also my best friend and biggest supporter. Balancing the demands of work with the desire to be by his side became increasingly challenging as his health deteriorated. By May, the devastating news of his advanced-stage stomach cancer left us reeling with disbelief and heartbreak.
Despite the grim prognosis, I remained by his side, cherishing every moment together.
In September 2018, we said goodbye to my father, marking the darkest day of our lives. The loss left an irreplaceable void in my heart, a constant reminder of the deep love and bond we shared.
Though the pain of his absence is profound, I carry his memory with me as I continue to pursue my passion for beauty products and honour his legacy every day.
After returning from Egypt where we laid my father to rest in his beloved Cairo, in accordance with his wishes, I found myself grappling with the weight of loss. It took immense courage and time to navigate through the grief, but with each passing day, I found the strength to honour his memory and forge ahead.
About six weeks later, I made the journey back to Egypt, seeking solace and connection to my roots. Even upon my return, the pain lingered, a constant reminder of the profound loss. It was a journey of healing that unfolded over months, eventually leading me back to my passion and work.
In May 2019, I embarked on a new chapter by setting up a pop-up on Portobello Road. The endeavour gained unexpected momentum, culminating in a significant meeting with SUPERDRUG about carrying my eyelash products. The pop-up exceeded my expectations, drawing in returning clients and opening doors to exciting opportunities.
In November, a pivotal moment arrived when I was approached by another manicurist for a shoot. To my astonishment, the shoot was for none other than GUCCI. The experience was a whirlwind of excitement and validation, a testament to the remarkable journey I had embarked upon. Amidst overwhelming moments, I found solace in knowing that my father's guiding presence and belief in me were propelling me forward.
His words echoed in my heart, ‘Darling, your luck is due, and you deserve every bit of it.’ His wisdom continues to inspire me as I navigate through life's twists and turns, embracing each opportunity with gratitude and determination.
Embracing a new chapter in my journey, I find joy and fulfilment in my role as a dental nurse, where I blend my expertise with aesthetics and offer top-notch teeth whitening products for professionals. Alongside my dental career, I indulge in my passion for nails, a humble beginning that I continue to cherish as a hobby.
As I navigate through Fashion Week and various sessions, I remain open to the possibilities that the universe presents, guided by the loving presence of my father watching over me. Failure is not an option as I forge ahead with determination and gratitude, eager to see where this part of my journey leads.
With anticipation and a heart full of hope, I look forward to the adventures ahead, knowing that each step I take is a tribute to the legacy of my father.
Warm Regards,
Lilah x
