The multi-talented Samira Zuberi Himika is an entrepreneur, development professional, communications specialist, campaigner, art promoter, product designer, and vocalist -- the list can go on. The dreamer and founder of Team Engine Ltd had an exhilarating journey to success, for which she is worth all the admiration from the entire community, especially women.
A woman so strong and persistent can be very mild and sensitive from the inside -- that is what we discovered after a rendezvous with the lady herself.
What motivates you to do what you have been doing for so long?
As an entrepreneur, it has only been five years of my life, so it hasn’t been so long, but these are the outcomes of some things that I have been involved in for a long time. I think I understand the DNA of it, and I feel very happy and compassionate about the work that I do.
It gives me fulfillment when I see some of my work is contributing to making positive impacts on a lot of people. I have tried to learn new things in every phase of my life, and have always strived to improve my skills. That need for self-satisfaction and that urge to justify my existence in this world to help others have been the driving strength of my life.
Women are like earth. They are like soil. They have multiple strengths like our soil. They are adaptive to circumstances more than anyone. At the same time, women can be fiery as well
Who do you look up to in life? Who is your biggest inspiration?
I have met all kinds of people throughout my life. Everyone has a good side worth admiration, and I like to take the very best in the worst even. I feel blessed to have met wonderful people who have mostly shown me their goodness and inspired me all the way. My team of exceptionally hard-working fellows inspires me the most.
I might appear to be extroverted, but I am very selective about choosing friends, and extremely sensitive about my feelings. Anybody I meet with whom I can relate to myself inspire me as well.
How difficult or easy has it been being a woman?
I believe it is my responsibility to stand out as a human being, so that no one can tie me down with the limitations of being a woman. It wasn’t very difficult earlier, but now that I am in a leadership position, lots of people are not able to digest this fact. It is hard to sustain as a female boss without being called bossy, but I am trying my best to prove them wrong.
We should never allow anybody to judge us as women, but rather as individual human beings. I specialise in communication, so I have adapted the quality to be able to blend in with every kind of people. Whenever I feel that someone is judging or underestimating me as a woman, I ensure my stance to prove my strength as a human being first. You can always ignore the people who try to pull you down, otherwise deal with them with lots of patience, and eventually they’ll recognise you for good. I think one can earn how he or she wants to be perceived. I have been earning it.
What does beauty mean to you? What makes you feel beautiful?
Beauty is all about being natural. Beauty is skin deep, so having a good heart makes a person more beautiful. We do lots of things just to be appreciated by others, but I believe in being satisfied with myself. Whenever I feel confident and happy about myself, not doing anything wrong, that’s when I feel beautiful inside out.
What is the prime strength of a woman?
Women are like earth. They are like soil. They have multiple strengths like our soil. They are adaptive to circumstances more than anyone. At the same time, women can be fiery as well.
How did you dream growing up would be like when you were a kid? Has it been any different?
By the grace of the Almighty, I have had a very blessed childhood. I have travelled so much with my family, unlike my friends. But I wasn’t very ambitious or sharp in studies till the eighth grade. Music has been my only interest, and my parents were sure that I wouldn’t be able to do anything else. I have been well-groomed to be a singer, but while pursuing my honours in media communication, I developed a fascination for social and communication-based work. I am a late bloomer, and I grew up in every stage of life according to circumstances. I am still growing and learning.
Any tips for women with big dreams?
Yes, I would definitely suggest all of them to stop dreaming, buckle up their shoes, and chase it right away without wasting their time. Your dream evolves as you move forward, so start acting on it as soon as you feel ready. Your aim and dream can be of any dimension, but it will only be achieved if you are passionate and determined about it.