Ruby Hammer MBE is a trailblazing makeup artist and beauty entrepreneur whose career spans over 40 years of redefining beauty standards. Best known for co-founding the iconic Ruby & Millie beauty line in the late 90s, she was one of the first to champion inclusivity and diversity in an industry that, at the time, overlooked many. Ruby has worked with world-famous supermodels like Cindy Crawford and Naomi Campbell, and her expert touch has graced the pages of top fashion magazines. 🌟
As a British Bangladeshi, Ruby’s journey into the beauty world has been shaped by her identity, allowing her to break barriers while promoting beauty for everyone—regardless of race, gender, or age. Today, her own brand, Ruby Hammer Beauty, continues that mission with products designed to simplify beauty routines and celebrate natural beauty.
On the "Too British ToBe Asian" podcast, we dig into Ruby’s rich, multicultural background and how it has informed her life and career. From navigating the complexities of growing up between multiple cultures to becoming an outspoken advocate for diversity in beauty, Ruby opens up about the challenges and triumphs that have defined her career. This is where we explore what it means to embrace multiple identities—leaning into British culture while honouring our roots.
If you're passionate about beauty, culture, and identity, this conversation will leave you inspired. Don’t miss Ruby’s candid insights on how to navigate the world when you don’t fit into a single box. 💬✨
#TooBritishToBeAsian #RubyHammer #BeautyWithPurpose #IdentityMatters #BritishBangladeshi #InclusiveBeauty #MulticulturalVoices
In this exclusive and deeply personal episode, we sit down with Karanjee Gaba - the trailblazing Afghan Sikh British Asian male supermodel, for his very first podcast interview.
Karanjee opens up about his extraordinary journey from Afghanistan to the UK, navigating within a world where his unique identity often stands out. With unwavering conviction, he shares poignant stories of being asked to shave his hair, a request he respectfully declined due to his religious beliefs.
Karanjee candidly discusses the challenges of feeling tokenised, being seen as a mere diversity tick box and his desire to be recognised simply as a model, rather than a "trend"
Join us for an inspiring conversation that explores the intersections of culture, faith, and the pursuit of true acceptance in the beauty and fashion industry.
This is a story of resilience, authenticity, and the fight for a place in the spotlight on one's own terms.
Don't miss this compelling dialogue with Karanjee Gaba
Stitching Stories| A Journey with Krishan Parmar 🌟
🎙️ Join us on an enchanting journey into the world of fashion, style, and cultural fusion with the trailblazer- Krishan Parmar, the maestro behind some of the iconic looks from magazines, music videos and high-profile stars. As a British Asian fashion stylist and wardrobe designer, Krishan has not only left an indelible mark on the industry but has also redefined the narrative as the only male, British Asian stylist.
✨ Breaking Barriers, Setting Trends ✨ Krishan Parmar, a visionary in his own right, has seamlessly blended British and South Asian aesthetics, creating a unique signature styles that transcend borders. His incredible journey is a testament to his passion, creativity, and relentless pursuit of excellence. From collaborating with global musicians and acclaimed actresses to gracing the pages of top magazines, Krishan's portfolio is a kaleidoscope of iconic moments.
🌈 Cultural Heritage and Fashion Fusion 🌈 In this heart-to-heart conversation, Krishan opens up about his personal and professional evolution, weaving together the rich tapestry of his dual identity. As a British South Asian, he shares the challenges, triumphs, and the vibrant intersection of cultures that have shaped his artistic vision. Prepare to be inspired as he unravels the threads that connect tradition with contemporary elegance.
🔥 The Pinnacle of Luxury and Glamour 🔥 From dressing celebrities to collaborating with luxury brands, Krishan Parmar's work radiates sophistication. Dive deep into the behind-the-scenes tales of his most iconic projects, discovering the alchemy of turning visions into reality. Through laughtera, tears, and triumphs, this interview goes beyond fashion; it's a celebration of dreams manifested.
🌟 A Glimpse into the Extraordinary 🌟 This episode on “Too British To Be Asian” podcast captures the essence of Krishan's remarkable journey — a journey that embodies resilience, authenticity, and the transformative power of fashion. Join us as we unravel the layers of this extraordinary artist, finding inspiration in every stitch, every choice, and every story.
📌 Stay tuned for a captivating conversation that transcends fashion and dives into the soul of creativity. Subscribe, hit the notification bell, and be ready to embark on a journey with Krishan Parmar like never before! 📌
#KrishanParmar #FashionJourney #BritishAsianStylist #PodcastInterview #CulturalFusion #InspirationInFashion #StyleRevolution ✨
I am back with the amazing Spice Queen who is teaching me parts of my culture through learning to cook Indian food.
I didn't grow up learning how to cook so I've had to teach myself over the years. It's been a truly worthwhile experience understanding who I am and where I came from.
Here Parveen made the whole experience fun and entertaining!
Have you ever cooked #JackFruit curry?
Take a look at full lesson….
Search “Too British To Be Asian” available on click on bio to listen and watch now.
#Parveenthespicequeen #Parveenashraf #AuthenticIndianCookingLesson #Curry#toobritishtobeasian #Podcast
Introducing Angie Tiwari, Yoga, Breathwork and Meditation Coach.
Angie shares how she left a life that no longer serves her from, situations, substances, relationships and career choices to a life that she found richness and meaning… in one word….
“Release”
Angie now has a whole community where she shares her experiences to help others to ease their fears to happiness.
She hosts her own retreats, workshops and coaches 1 to 1 so others can have the life they yearn for.
Search “Too British To Be Asian” available on @spotify and all Apple platforms or click on bio to listen and watch now.
#AngieTiwari #Yoga #Breathwork #Meditation #Coach #BritishAsian #toobritishtobeasian #Podcast
Welcome Manpreet Bambra starring in ITV's South Asian comedy;
"Count-Abdulla"
Watch now on ITV X
Welcome actress Mariska Ariya starring in ITV's British Asian COMEDY, "Count-Abdulla"
Watch now on ITV X
Adrian Somouie | “You Can Hear The Communication From Your Body”
Born in 1985 during the Iran and Iraqi war was taking place, Arian fled with his mother and elder brother to Liverpool with his father joining 2years later.
He explains the heartache and emotional trauma being stripped away from his grandmother who be describes as his first love to a new country which he found challenging navigating between cultures; British and Iraqi.
Arian talks candidly on feeling torn and the challenges he felt growing up;
“I used to have a lot of resentment over that situation, as not only did it bring along a big sense of not belonging, but simple things became much harder for me compared to watching others go through the same experience.”
Arian discloses he suffered from extreme Anxiety particularly from the separation of his relationship which became his breaking point whereby he seriously considered suicide.
However, Arian sort help from reading books and reevaluated his life. He is now an “Intuitive Trauma Healing and Transformation Coach” which Arian describes - his calling.
“I just get it” - He states within just a few minutes of meeting someone he has an innate ability to intuitively identify the root cause that created the patterns the person unconsciously is stuck in.
Here he talks on “Too British To be Asian” with Sharan Raju on how trauma occurs and settles within the body, trauma responses, why people live in survival mode and how we can heal and become our authentic self.
Amar Singh | Education System - Is Pale, Male and Stale
Amar Singh - Gallery Owner, Activist on Women’s and LGBTQ rights, Digital collector and Hollywood Producer.
Born and raised in London Amar is not only an accomplished philanthropist he’s also a royal descendent of the Kapurthala Royal family - one of the oldest royal families in India. As history explains royal families in India were stripped of their power during India’s independence.
However, Amar has some of the most remarkable people in his family tree.
Amar’s grandmother who was Princess was a women’s education activist, she championed women’s education alongside Nehru India’s first prime minister. Rajkumari Amrit Kaur probably the most notable member of the Kapurthala royal family. She wasn’t just a great feminist and women’s rights activist she was India’s first health minister and set up the first women’s education fund.
Amar is currently fighting to abolish LGBTQ Conversion Therapy within India’s Supreme Court and has sold over 20,000 NFT’s and is currently involved in producing and writing Hollywood films.
Here he talks on “Too British To be Asian” on being the role model for others to lead by example to be the change for underrepresented groups. How women and groups have been taught to become suppressed due to a rigged education system and how true freedom comes with acceptance of all people and so much more…
Bally Gill | "Will The Industry Tell Me There's No More Parts?"
Winner of The Ian Charleson Award for his portrayal of Romeo in the Royal Shakespeare Company's 'ROMEO AND JULIET, Bally Gill is best known for his role as Neel Fisher in BBC drama Sherwood. Also appearing as Agent Singh in Slow Horses and in the ITV crime series Manhunt, as well as the BBC medical comedy-drama This Is Going To Hurt.
Listed as one of Evening Standards “Rising Stars” of 2023 Bally makes his film debut in the forthcoming adaptation of the Alan Bennett play ‘ALLELUJAH’ in the role of Dr Valentine.
Allelujah strikes the heart of bureaucracy and the daily struggles of an NHS geriatric ward. A deeply moving and humorous story, but the audience quickly realises there is a real imminent threat which everyone on the ward is is at risk.
Bally Gill talks to “Too British To Be Asian” podcast on the preconceptions people have on him being an all-knowing expert in Desi cultures, proud to play the role of a stereotypical Indian doctor in Allelujah, the lack of Diaspora stories being told, frustrations of gatekeepers giving “token” actors the opportunities for roles and the fear the industry will have no more parts for him… and so much more, this is a must listen!
Bally’s co-starrs include Jennifer SAUNDERS describing him as “tremendous” and “wonderful” Judi DENCH detailing on BBC’s Graham Norton Show her role fancying her doctor played by Bally “wasn’t hard”
Allelujah - is released in cinemas nationwide now.
The former pharmaceutical recruitment partner, Sarah Woods is best known as BBC’s finalist on Best Home Cook 2020.
Like, most people once the pandemic hit Sarah decided it was time to follow her dreams and commit to her passions. Sarah decided to up-skill and put herself forward to train as a chef in culinary school, Devon.
Sarah talks on being “Too British To Be Asian” - navigating her way between cultures, code switching, learning to have different faces and grappling with acceptance but by which crowd?
Writing ‘Desi Kitchen’ was Sarah’s true labour of love to ‘make Indian home cooked food accessible to everybody.’ An exciting blend of British meets Sarah’s desi culture. Exploring all culinary cuisines from many different types of diaspora.
Desi Kitchen is a love story to Desi culture and what the true meaning is to be British and Asian through the love of food. Truly beautiful.
Desi Kitchen is out now..
It’s Day 3 of Diwali!!
And what better way to connect with my South Indian heritage whilst celebrating The Festival ofLight then popping over to my dear friend TV Chef Parveen Ashraf - The Spice Queen home to share how much fun and simple cooking authentic Indian dishes can actually be.
Even for someone that’s #toobritishtobeasian like me.
And the best bit… we’re cooking Jelabi Baby!
What did you cook?
Christine Pillainayagam is a retail strategist by day, who lives in Kent with her young family and a collection of records, CDs and minidiscs (remember those?). Her mild obsession with the Beatles and the desire to write a story that reflected her own experiences growing up as a first-generation immigrant led her to put that love of music and words into a book.
“My name is Ellie. Ellie Pillai…I think I might be a little bit weird. But aren’t we all, just a little bit?”
Ellie Pillai has no idea how to apply eyeliner properly, or what makes people cool. She just writes songs in her head like she’s living in her own personal soundtrack, and sees dancing girl groups, which is a bit, well…weird. But that’s only on the inside - on the outside, Ellie Pillai does everything she can to stay completely invisible.
Sound familiar?
Ellie Pillai is Brown is her debut novel available to buy from Amazon and all major bookshops.
I was honoured and privileged to welcome onto the “Too British To Be Asian” podcast - award winning Personal Trainer and Wellness Coach Lavina Mehta. Her mission….To help ALL ages to FEEL GOOD physically & mentally. Her slogan: To “Exercise for Sanity not Vanity.”
By dedicating her time releasing twice daily workouts over the COVID-19 Lockdown featuring her 74yr old elderly mother-in-law Lavina in Gujarati and English, she has been featured on TV & Radio & have had up to the age 100 join her community.
In 2020 Lavina caught the eye of royalty and awarded an MBE for her services to health and fitness over the pandemic.
She has further received the “British Asian Heroes Award;” by the British Asian Trust endorsed by the Prime Minister, Women of the Future “Kindness Rules Programme”, BBC’s “Make a Difference” for her COVID work.
Lavina won the “She Awards Inspiration in Health & Fitness 2020 Award.” A finalist & only PT in the Asian Women of Achievement Awards 2020 Sports Category.
Currently, Lavina is an Ambassador for Diabetes UK and supports Alzheimer’s Society & Brain Tumour Research fronting charity fitness campaigns.
Here on ‘Too British To Be Asian’ Lavina speaks openly about her medical scare that sent her alarm bells to take care of her health, her passion to help the South Asian community, the love and support of her family and the struggles to learn her craft
I was fortunate to host my very first panel discussion at the prestigious Somerset House, London exploring;
“WHY IS REPRESENTATION SO IMPORTANT IN THE FASHION AND BEAUTY INDUSTRY?”
I was so honoured to be joined by.. Arooj Aftab - Fashion Consultant and founder of #DoneWithDiversity https://www.instagram.com/its.arooj/
Sejal Sehmi - U.K. Editor of Browngirl Magazine https://www.instagram.com/sejalsehmi/ https://www.instagram.com/browngirlmag/
Shanil and Jenika Gudka sibling Founders and CEO’s of The Wolfe London https://www.instagram.com/thewolfelondon/
To be part of the panel to discuss what representation means to them and how we can combat the misconceptions of what diversity means to people today.
“People said I didn’t look Gujarati, I Didn’t know what that meant” | Sejal Sehmi
As UK editor of Browngirl Magazine Sejal Sehmi has a front-line view on all trending discussions on issues facing South Asian people. As Brown Girl Magazine’s U.K. Editor, her passion for writing stemmed from challenging society defined rules created for women of her generation. She initially started contributing for Brown Girl Magazine in 2013, and in 2017 successfully created her own UK team and been involved in major events at TedXUCLWomen, UK's first Asian Woman Festival and collaborated with South Asian Heritage Month.
To understand the legacy that she creates and the present stigma surrounding cultural expectations, over the years she also attempted to film and document such issues both in India and in the UK as writer and director of “The Evolution of the British Indian Woman,” a mini-film series that explores the essence of a British Indian woman through the experiences of three branches of her own family tree. Sejal had been a guest speaker for the BBC Asian Network and BBC Radio London discussing social issues impacting British South Asians today. As well as being a contributor for The Asian Today, she has featured in Asiana.TV, Asian Woman, The Independent, Red Magazine, NetDoctor and Seema Magazine.
In this interview with Sharan Raju on The podcast “Too British To Be Asian” Sejal discusses the politics people had on her mixed race ethnicity that made her question her own identity.
Full interview available on Spotify and all Apple platforms
Link to interview via @sharanrajuofficial bio on instagram.
Also full interview available on Spotify and all Apple platforms - Too British To Be Asian Podcast
#Editor #BrowngirlMagazine #Gujarati #mixed #bestofboth #britishasian #sikh #london #punjabi #desi #actress #motivation #toobritishtobeasian #podcastersofinstagram #interview #listen #spotify #applepodcasts #podcast #podcaster #itunes #podcastlife #podcastshow #podcasting #positivevibes #mentalhealth #anxiety #selfcare #loveyourself #inherited-trauma
Introducing Naveeda - An international Hair and Makeup artist with a career spanning over 30yrs. Not only has Naveeda established herself as one of the most sought-after Hair and Makeup artists in both Western and Asian commercial fashion industries, she has also stood out as a top bridal make-up artist.
Naveeda believes the attitudes towards the stigma of dark skin within the South Asian communities have improved over the last few decades. She shares her experience on refusing the requests from the groom’s family to make to make a bride fairer as it conflicted with her values that everyone is beautiful.
She exclaims that “Social media is fake” as there are influencers who do not understand the craft of make up and that contouring needs more understanding and that self-love should be everyone’s top priority.
This is a must listen!
To contact Naveeda for enquiries;
It’s finally here!
My interview with Kama Sutra expert, Storyteller, Author and Mythologist is available to download NOW via Spotify and all Apple platforms!!!
Seema is debunking the stigma of self pleasure and how over the years the Kama Sutra has become a manual of sexual positions from what it should be, which is a beautiful art of ethics and philosophy.
Self pleasure isn’t pornographic -“it’s a woman’s right to her own body, of her sexuality”
Seema explores the stories that had been silenced around the Kama Sutra; "The Kama Sutra was written to create the most refined society...the success in all relationships depended on good pleasure. A society that understood the pleasure of women properly, was a refined society”
“Women have an independent source of pleasure that has nothing to do with a man”- Seema Anand
This is a must listen!
All social media platforms and to buy 'Arts Of Seduction' can be found ; https://linktr.ee/seemaanandstorytelling
Born in India and placed in an orphanage in Bombay just 2 short days after her birth. Trishna shares her journey from being adopted a year later by a Caucasian family from a small town in Ohio, USA.
Although blessed with supportive parents that encouraged Trishna to embrace her heritage, she was subjected to racism, name calling and rumours from her extended family which led her to constantly question herself; “Where do I fit in” Race and colour being in the forefront of her mind she marked ‘Caucasian’ in her college applications trying to convince herself she was white.
Today, Trishna is an up and coming singer, actress, and model located in Los Angeles, CA - having worked on feature films, major network television series, model campaigns, as well as writing her own music and developing her own television series. She strives to be a role model and voice for young brown-skin women looking for that light to get through every day personal struggles. Trishna can be found all over social media speaking on and working towards representation for brown-skin women, Black Lives Matter, members of the LGBTQ+ community – breaking barriers and glass ceilings for all.
“Time Becomes So Important As You Get Older” - Huji The Grey Indian
Meet Huji, she’s part of a growing movement of women proving that ageing naturally is the key to living a younger and happier life.
After the birth of her second child, Huji realised that her priorities had changed and spending hours in the hairdressers had become “a waste of her time” and the up keep simply took too much time away her family.
Huji decided to document her experience to stop dying her grey hair via Instagram which has attracted thousands of followers. Suddenly, this opened a door to a huge community of “Silver Sisters” who have become liberated and more confident through their attitude to Pro Ageing.
I was completely honoured that Huji came onto my podcast, supporting my little part of the internet world. She was completely honest and I felt we connected through our energies. I could have spoken to her for hours.
Take a look and listen and tell me what you think of the interview..
Huji’s socials;
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thegreyindian/
Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC99wklX8ERY1QKd4NsjwXRA