Happy Summer, everyone 🙂
The past few years have been nothing short of transformative. Returning to Los Angeles after eight years abroad in Luxembourg was both grounding and disorienting in ways I did not fully anticipate. Transitioning from the rhythms and rituals of European life back into the fast-paced, ever-evolving culture of the United States, especially Los Angeles, came with its own set of emotional and cultural adjustments. If I am honest, Los Angeles feels like its own ecosystem entirely, almost an oceanside bubble that does not quite represent the rest of the country. At times, it feels like California exists as its own world.
Now, two years into this new chapter, my daughter Luna and I have found our footing. We have built a life that feels stable, intentional, and truly ours, while still holding onto the parts of our European experience that shaped us. I carry a deep sense of pride for everything we have navigated, the uncertainty, the sacrifices, the rebuilding. There is something incredibly powerful about creating a sense of home again, especially as a mother, knowing that your child feels safe, secure, and rooted.
But if there is one truth I have come to understand more deeply than ever, it is this: none of this was meant to be done alone.
Motherhood, life transitions, and personal growth can feel overwhelming in isolation. While independence is often celebrated, there is a quiet reality that doing everything alone can take a toll, emotionally, mentally, and physically. What has made this journey not only manageable but meaningful is the presence of a village.
Our village may be small, but it is profoundly strong. It is made up of a handful of people who have become our chosen family—individuals who show up with consistency, compassion, and love. These are the people who create a space where we feel safe, supported, and seen without judgment. In moments when I feel overwhelmed or vulnerable, I no longer feel the need to carry that weight alone. I have learned that reaching out is not a weakness, but a reflection of trust in the relationships we have built.
One of the most meaningful connections in my village has been Naz.
From the very beginning, there was something unmistakable about her presence, her authenticity, her drive, her intelligence, and her warmth. She embodies what it means to live with intention and purpose, not only as a professional but as a mother, daughter, sister, and friend. Watching her journey unfold, seeing her step into her full potential, earn the title of Dr. Naz, and build a beautiful family, has been nothing short of inspiring. Her children are growing up within a village that reflects the same love and strength she offers to others.
It is no surprise that her vision for connection and community evolved into something greater. Her podcast, The Village with Dr. Naz, was born from that same energy, the desire to create space for meaningful conversations, shared experiences, and genuine human connection. I remember when it was just an idea, something she spoke about with passion and excitement. To now see it come to life, and to be part of that journey, feels incredibly special.
In this episode, we explore the layers of our friendship, the realities of motherhood, my experiences as an early fashion blogger and content creator, and my life abroad in Europe. More than anything, it is a conversation rooted in honesty, laughter, and the shared understanding that none of us are meant to do life alone.
This experience was more than just a recording, it was a reflection of what it means to be held by a village, to celebrate one another, and to create something meaningful together.
I hope you enjoy this episode of The Village with Dr. Naz as much as I enjoyed being part of it. It was truly a beautiful day and a moment I will always carry with me.
WATCH HERE:
https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/2ODoyM5oRdo?si=LRo5_58l4PqbMlKA