Ulfat Rafiq, North Kashmir’s Trailblazing Hijabi Vlogger

Suhail Khan

Baramulla, Oct 22 : The adage, ‘Dreams do come true if you strive for them,’ is perfectly embodied by North Kashmir’s first Hijabi vlogger, Ulfat Rafiq. She has not only built a name for herself but has become a brand through her work, inspiring other young women in the process.

Who says women cannot shine or achieve great things? It is a matter of harnessing one’s passion. With enough determination, even iron can be made to bend. All that is required is the resolve to pursue your aspirations. Ulfat Rafiq has proven that wearing the hijab presents no barrier to achieving one’s dreams.

In an interview with Kashmir Convener, Ulfat Rafiq shared the drive and identity that fuel her journey. She stated, “If you think it can’t be done, just look at what I have achieved. Wearing the Hijab does not mean I have hidden my talent.”

 
“We have a special trait, we can do what others cannot. Coming from a village where opportunities for girls are scarce, the expectation was simply to get an education. But since childhood, I felt a drive to do something more. I thought, ‘If I don’t take a step, who will?’”

When asked about starting her vlogging journey, Ulfat said, “It was very tough for me to step in front of the camera, but all praise is to God. When you have a passion to move forward, everything from start to end falls into place. It opened my wings to fly.”

“I used to hide it for a long time. But when my family found out through relatives, they too started supporting and encouraging me to do more.”

She reflected, “The journey so far has not been a cakewalk. As expected, a large part of the audience in Kashmir was against me, but I never gave up. I learned to work even harder from those who tried to bring me down.”

“The most lovely and boosting part is when girls approach me and appreciate my efforts. They love to see a girl coming forward and highlighting good things. I receive a great deal of respect and love for being the first Hijabi vlogger, which gives me more energy to work harder and also makes me feel very comfortable.”

She affirmed, “Following your dreams is not a crime. One should just have the passion and willpower to continue working towards the path one dreams of.”

“Vloggers are sometimes wrongly labeled. I have always kept myself within my limits, and I am proud to learn from my audience, as they help one to grow professionally and personally.”

Beyond vlogging, she has channeled her spirit into running a modesty wear store after competing her B.Tech, where she exclusively designs, manufactures, and sells her own creations, including special abayas.

She added, “Look within yourself. If you have a passion inside you, cultivate the ability to fulfill it. No one will stop you from following your dreams. Dream of a beautiful tomorrow and work accordingly to make that beautiful tomorrow a reality.”