Naina R Ahluwalia – From Dreaming Under Billboards to Being on Them (Entrepreneur, 195K+ Followers)

"I used to look up at celebrities on hoardings and dream — never imagining I’d be up there one day too."

1. How would you introduce yourself beyond your professional titles?

Beyond being a content creator, I’m just a simple, grounded human who finds joy in life’s little moments. I love spending time in nature, being with my family, and creating memories that feel real and meaningful. Whether it’s a quiet morning walk, a heartfelt conversation, or capturing light through my lens — I believe true beauty lies in the ordinary. At my core, I value love, connection, and staying true to myself as I grow and evolve.

2. What’s the biggest shift in content creation over the last nine years?

When I started out, I was a blogger who loved writing articles and curating thoughtful photo stories. But as platforms like Instagram evolved, so did the format — we moved from still images to videos, from long captions to quick, punchy Reels. The biggest shift, though, has been towards authenticity. Today, audiences connect more with raw, real moments than polished perfection. It’s no longer just about broadcasting; it’s about building a genuine community and showing the human side behind the screen.

3. What do global brands look for in a creator today?

Authenticity, consistency, and connection. Brands today aren’t just looking at numbers or reach — they want creators who can tell a story, resonate with their audience, and build trust. It’s less about having a perfectly curated feed and more about how real your influence feels. Originality, strong personal branding, and the ability to create content that’s organic yet impactful — those are what stand out today.

4. What’s been the most surreal moment of your career?

There have been a few, but some moments still feel like a dream. Flying internationally for my first brand collaboration was definitely one — going from writing blogs in my room to representing a brand abroad felt like life coming full circle.

Then there’s seeing myself featured in articles, newspapers, and even on hoardings. As a child, I’d look up at celebrities on billboards and dream — never imagining I’d be up there one day too.

But one of my favourite moments was being invited to give a TEDx Talk. Standing on that stage and sharing my journey was incredibly special — it reminded me how far I’ve come and how much further I want to go.

5. What’s one skincare or beauty myth you’d like to bust?

That you need a 10-step skincare routine to have good skin. Honestly, less is more. What matters most is understanding your skin, using the right ingredients, and being consistent. Skincare shouldn’t be about trends — it should be about listening to what your skin actually needs.

6. What’s a key message you always share at TEDx or industry panels?

Your journey doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. Use others’ success as inspiration — not as a benchmark for comparison. Whatever you do, give it your all and fall in love with the process. Passion and authenticity make everything easier, more meaningful, and far more rewarding.

7. How do you stay inspired in an ever-changing digital space?

I stay inspired by staying curious and open to learning. The digital world moves fast, but I always come back to what truly excites me — storytelling, creativity, and connecting with real people. Taking time to recharge in nature, traveling, and being with loved ones helps me return with fresh energy and new ideas.

8. If you could swap lives with any creator or entrepreneur for a day, who would it be?

Honestly, I wouldn’t trade my life with anyone. I love the life I’ve built and feel truly happy, proud, and content with my journey. I love who I’m becoming and how this process is shaping me. This is my story — and I’m writing it exactly the way I want. I wouldn’t want to live anyone else’s life, even for a day. :)

Bio:

Naina Ahluwalia is an entrepreneur and digital content creator with a deep passion for beauty, skincare, and storytelling.

With over nine years of experience, she has cultivated a loyal and engaged community by sharing honest insights and real-life experiences.

A TEDx speaker and industry panelist, Naina has earned international recognition, collaborated with global brands, and received multiple industry accolades. Her work has even been featured on hoardings—marking a remarkable journey shaped by creativity, consistency, and meaningful influence.

From embracing the latest trends to championing personal growth, Naina’s journey is a reflection of authenticity, connection, and continuous evolution.

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Interviewed by: Shantanu Singh 

Edited by: Shantanu Singh