Influencer Nabela Noor Claps Back at Ongoing Criticism That She Is ‘Whitewashed’

Influencer Nabela Noor has recently addressed persistent criticisms regarding her identity in a video shared on her Instagram account. The 35-year-old content creator, who has garnered a substantial following of three million for her lifestyle and design content, responded directly to the accusation of being “whitewashed.” She explained that this term is often used by critics who suggest that she does not fit their expectations based on her Bangladeshi heritage.

In the video, Noor stated, “Identity is a lot more than what you can see through a screen,” emphasising the depth of her cultural background. Throughout her message, she switched between multiple languages, including Bangla and Spanish, reinforcing her connection to her roots and her appreciation for diverse cultures. “I was raised speaking Bangla at home and my parents taught me to stay connected to my language and our traditions,” she said, recalling her efforts to embrace her heritage.

Noor’s multilingualism is a testament to her commitment to cultural understanding; she also mentioned having learned Hindi, partly due to her passion for Bollywood films. Addressing the idea of being “whitewashed,” she asserted, “So when you call me whitewashed, what you are really telling me is that I don’t fit your idea of what someone like me is supposed to look or sound like. And I am perfectly okay with that.” This remark encapsulates her aim to break down stereotypes and broaden perceptions of identity.

With over 12 million followers across social media platforms, Noor has made significant strides in her career. Earlier this year, she launched her show, ‘Hosted by Nabela Noor’, on Tubi, making her the first Bangladeshi-American to host a lifestyle series on a major streaming service or network. This milestone is not just a personal achievement, but also a significant moment in television history, diversifying a space that Noor described as predominantly “very white-dominated” in her youth.

In an interview with PEOPLE when the show was launched, Noor reflected on her childhood experiences with lifestyle programming. She noted that growing up, she rarely saw representations of herself or her culture in mainstream media, which made the aspirational content feel unattainable. “I never felt like I could aspire to have a life like that,” she explained, highlighting the lack of relatable representations in the lifestyle genre.

Noor’s show aims to bridge that gap by showcasing her authentic self and her experiences, including a memorable moment featuring her mother, who wears a hijab. The creation of such content, Noor believes, is essential for younger generations who might feel excluded from the narrative traditionally presented in lifestyle programming. “I didn’t see that growing up … there was nothing like that,” she lamented, hoping that her show will pave the way for more diverse voices.

In expressing her beliefs about identity and representation, Noor concluded her video with an empowering message about authenticity. “I’m not the poster child of anything, I’m just me,” she asserted, reflecting her commitment to being true to herself while navigating the complexities of her cultural identity. This statement encapsulates her belief that diversity of experience should be celebrated rather than judged.

Critics may continue to define Noor by their own expectations, but she remains firm in her stance on self-representation and cultural appreciation. Her response has sparked conversations about identity, belonging, and the importance of visibility in media. As she forges her path in a predominantly homogenous industry, Noor is not only redefining what it means to be a lifestyle host but is also inspiring others to embrace their unique identities.

Ultimately, Nabela Noor’s journey demonstrates resilience in the face of criticism and a steadfast dedication to her heritage. Her success signifies progress and serves as a reminder of the rich tapestry of identities that contribute to our society.