Use makeup to enhance - and not mask - who you are: Nabila

The makeup artist, hair stylist and founder of Zero Makeup wants to empower women to feel comfortable in their own skin

How do you typically begin your workday?
Everyday starts very early with Sadhguru's inner engineering practice - it's a combination of yoga, chants and meditation. This is followed by a cup of tea that I usually have while I'm alone. It helps me clear my head and plan my thoughts and it's my favourite time of the day.
Next, I take time out to plan my wardrobe. Since my day is varied - can include anything from internal audits and visiting construction sites to taking a flight or meeting hair clients - my wardrobe needs to cater to it all. It has to be comfortable, appropriate and 'me' - in that order. Once all that is done, I dive into work... and all else is forgotten.
What is your favourite thing about your job?
My job is surrounded by creative, interesting people and I love interacting with them.
The salon is surrounded by clients who are thrilled with their makeovers. In the PR department, we are constantly planning activities and shooting content. In the lab, I'm working on new formulas and ideas. At the store, it's great to see customers' response to Zero Makeup.
Being actively involved in the fashion and media industry, there is never a dull moment. I am constantly entertained.
What gave you the idea to launch Zero Makeup, and what's so unique about the product?
I've always had dark circles and could never find anything that could cover it up without looking ashy and visible - so I took matters into my own hands. I made a mixture that worked perfectly, covering all imperfections, so they were not visible to the naked eye. Over the years, I honed and refined the area so that I could create a product that is also easy to carry, simple to use and works like magic. And I called it Zero Makeup because the result is so natural, you often can't tell that it's makeup. Instead of trying to change the way you look, it celebrates your skin tone. After looking at all the over-the-top Instagram makeup over the years, this is a natural progression towards 'less is more'.
What has been your most challenging experience to date and how did you resolve it?
Constantly training a team to perform at a level acceptable to me is very difficult as I'm very hard to please. This requires a lot of patience and perseverance. It's not easy to cope with my speed of evolution.

What advice would you give your younger self, if you could?
Unlearn what institutions are trying to teach you - and follow your inner voice.

How do you maintain a work:life balance?
I firmly believe that when your mind, body, emotions and energy are balanced, whatever you do in life will be balanced.

Any advice for youngsters just getting into the professional arena?
The only place where 'success' comes before 'work' is in the dictionary! There is no substitute to hard work, so please do not feel entitled. Earn it!

A fictional character you think would make for a good role model - and why?
My role model at the moment is very real. I am very inspired by Imran Khan, his dedication, commitment and vision. Not letting his past limit his present or future... very admirable.

What is your greatest dream, professionally?
I want to be able to empower women to love themselves the way they are. I want them to wear their confidence. I want them to use makeup or fashion to enhance and not mask who they are. They should accept their hair texture, skin colour and body shape. Celebrate being unique!
- Staff Reporter