Life & Work with Aneem Aida of Kuala Lumpur

Today we’d like to introduce you to Aneem Aida

Hi Aneem , so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was introduced to an organization by a parent who believed in my potential and encouraged me to join as one of their youth representatives. Their goal was to inspire and empower individuals with various disabilities, helping them build confidence in public speaking, explore job opportunities, and much more.

Over time, I realized my journey with this organization meant far more than just inspiring others. It opened doors for me to meet people from diverse backgrounds, learn invaluable insights about my condition from experts, and grow in ways I never imagined.

Thanks to their encouragement and unwavering support, I have achieved incredible milestones. I ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing myself as a freelance makeup artist, a graphic designer, and even selling teatime snacks during the COVID outbreak. These experiences not only allowed me to pursue my passions but also provided opportunities to help others with disabilities gain confidence and integrate more fully into society.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
“It wasn’t until my 20s that my mother shared with me the horrific and to put it kindly, insensitive remarks she had to endure because of society’s perceived judgements of me. ‘That little girl should not be in this (primary) school. She’ll scare the other kids. Look at her, she’s a monster.’ It broke my heart. I can’t imagine how destroyed my mother must’ve felt to have heard that. For a stranger to say that to her as she was merely looking into the window of the classroom to watch her daughter, a proud moment cruelly tainted. How could a parent, an adult say such a thing about a child?

My existence confuses a lot of people. I understand, I truly do. There is a lack of education surrounding people with my condition – achondroplasia. A lack of normalization for people like me. We are approached with fear and associated as ‘that freak show’ or ‘just a midget’. But we are not ‘just’ those things.

We are also human beings. We have feelings too.

I can do just as many ‘normal’ things as you can. I have done what the average human being is capable of doing. I played sports – basketball and such, I was in cheer, I tap-danced, I did all the things society told me I couldn’t or wouldn’t be able to.

I survived beyond the estimated years the doctor told my parents I would not be able to. I am strong and I am blessed. I have been surrounded by love and light as much as I have been in the presence of negativity and darkness. My parents raised me independently and I am forever grateful for that.

The world does not adapt to us. It does not change for us. Society might not be willing to listen to us right now, but we will be heard. As my aunt once told me: Find yourself. Find your true identity. It’s okay to be different. It is your difference, your uniqueness that is magic.

So to the woman who came up to me and said: ‘You don’t deserve to live’. And to the parent who sat idly by as her child ran up to me and shouted: ‘Look, mom. Look at her’. I look at me and all I see is happy.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a graphic designer and content creator, known for my confidence and bold personality, despite living with dwarfism. What I’m most proud of is my ability to speak and emcee in front of large audiences in professional settings. Additionally, I take pride in being able to offer guidance and consultation on matters related to my condition, especially to new parents of children with dwarfism.

What sets me apart is my unique perspective and resilience. Living with achondroplasia, I’ve learned to embrace life to the fullest and focus on what truly matters, regardless of others’ opinions. I firmly believe in staying true to yourself and your values, as long as you know your actions are right.

For me, family always comes first. Their blessings guide everything I do, and I strive to live a life rooted in humility and kindness.

The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
The COVID-19 crisis taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of community support. As a graphic designer, content creator, and entrepreneur, I learned to pivot my skills during challenging times, starting a business selling teatime snacks while continuing my creative work. The pandemic also highlighted the power of helping others—especially those with disabilities—to find confidence and purpose despite the uncertainty. Most importantly, it reminded me of the value of family and how their support is the foundation of everything I do.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: .instagram.com/aneemaida/
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/meenaadia
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@AneemAida