Cover Story: Ameera Khan on creative process, work-life balance and future
Ameera Khan, also known as Little Miss Khan, is coming into her own as she begins to gain widespread popularity in the fashion world.
Ameera Khan is soft-spoken and has a gentle demeanour. She gives off an air of self-assurance while coming across as modest and unpretentious. Most of her statements end with chuckles of pure joy that echo off the studio walls. She doesn’t hold back in expressing sincere gratitude towards her sister Neelofa. “If it wasn’t for her, I wouldn’t have achieved this insane amount of success,” she says. Neelofa instilled in her the value of confidence. “I feel like she was the first person to see the potential in me, and she keeps pushing me to do better. She’s always there for me.”
Having said that, Ameera confesses she blindly followed her sister’s lead in all fields, including hosting and acting, before establishing a sense of independence. As she entered her 20s, she began to develop a new perspective and set new goals for herself. She was determined to be true to herself by focusing on the areas in her life that brought her the most joy: modelling, and sharing bits and bobs about her life on Instagram. “Thankfully, people soon started to realise that I may be related to Neelofa, but I’m a completely different individual (from her) with a different personality and a different path,” she says, with a chuckle.
Can you share some insights into your creative process when it comes to content creation or any other artistic endeavours you pursue?
If you’ve been following me for a while, you’ll notice that most of my photos are for work, some professionally shot, and some are casual and more “me.” I like to take raw and original photos. I don’t plan them; when I feel like something looks cute, I just whip out my phone and take a photo. I'm forever on Pinterest, and because I’m always on it, I have a mood board mentally as well. I don’t stress myself out over photos anymore.
Are there any specific genres that you are particularly drawn to when deciding on a project proposal?
I think for work I would lean towards fashion, but I would normally pick super carefully what I’d associate myself with. I enjoy working with brands I genuinely use or wear and love.
How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance while managing your professional commitments and personal life?
This is what my daily routine looks like: gym, horse riding, taking Pilates classes, having brunch with friends or family. They’re not in order; some days I squeeze it all in one morning, and most days I just get two to three activities in. The best part of my job is its flexibility; I have the freedom to set my schedule. Whenever I have events or shoots, I can simply move my hobbies around and prioritise work.
What are some of the most memorable moments you have experienced in your career so far?
I’ve had so many memorable moments in my career so far, such as doing shoots or attending events with my sister Neelofa; she makes it more enjoyable. But right now, it has to be the trip to Seoul, Korea, for the Louis Vuitton Pre-Fall show in April. It was my first fashion show overseas, and it was surreal being there, watching the models walk, the music, the wind, just everything. The show was done on a bridge, and we were facing out towards the river. It was the dreamiest setting.
Are you involved in any upcoming projects or collaborations that you are excited about?
I have some that I’m excited about, but I believe that talking about something good jinxes it!
How do you handle criticism or negative feedback, and what advice would you give to the younger generation facing similar challenges?
This career path can become challenging mentally and physically, like I said, it comes with a lot of people’s opinions. I’ve learned to accept that. I always choose to believe in myself and not the words of others about me. My advice would be to not let them damage your self-esteem. It’s easier said than done, but I like to do something that helps me get my mind off things, like horse riding, when I’m feeling down. Usually, I only allow myself to feel frustrated or upset about something for a while; it’s not worth worrying about social media comments. Life is so much more than that; prioritise taking care of your heart, your soul, and your body. Give them some well-deserved love.
Can you share any valuable lessons you have gained from being a part of the entertainment industry?
I’m still at the very beginning of my career, and every project I’ve done is a milestone for me. Getting out of my comfort zone is something I’m becoming more comfortable doing; taking risks to grow is the way to go. Be open-minded to accept challenges and learn, and great things will start to happen.
How do you stay motivated and inspired in an industry that can be highly competitive and demanding?
This industry is as competitive as ever; my dad always said, “There’s always going to be someone better than you, but nobody can ever be you,” so to me, as long as I’m being myself, that’s the best thing to ever do.
Some days I feel inspired, some days I don’t. I allow myself to feel however I feel, but I’ll always push myself up again because nobody can chase my dreams but me because... I’m quoting Will Smith here: “There's no reason to have a Plan B because it distracts from Plan A.” I don’t have a backup plan, nor do I want one, because this career has always been a dream of mine, and I’ll continue to pour my time and energy into it.
What are your aspirations for the future, both within and outside of the entertainment industry?
I’m always focused on building a peaceful, more fulfilling life. One of my goals is to read a new book every week. Reading has helped me feel more ambitious in a way. Incorporating outdoor activities, like horse riding, may mean entering competitions nationally and then internationally. Finding new passions to explore, like tennis, I used to play when I was younger, but I was never 100% into it, so I’d like to find that interest in it again. I love travelling, and my goal from this year onward is to travel every month, and that’s what I’ve been doing since January. Career-wise, I’d want my name to keep growing, I’d want to meet interesting people, and I’d want to make connections that’ll last a lifetime.
Lastly, what message would you like to convey to your fans and those who look up to you as a role model?
I’d like to say thank you for having faith in me. I couldn’t have made it this far without you. Remember to not let social media impact your mindset. Don’t try to be perfect because there’s no such thing, to begin with; just be yourself, and people will appreciate you more for it.
All clothing & accessories Miu Miu Autumn/Winter 2023 collection
Our August 2023 "Champion" issue featuring Ameera Khan will be available in selected major bookstores and newsstands in Malaysia and online on www.magzter.com.
Cover Credits:
Photography Chee Wei Lock
Creative Direction & Styling Colin Sim
Word John Ng
Makeup Sharman Yee, PLIKA MAKEUP
Hair Cody Chua
Styling Assistant Shahira Baharin
