Hi, I’m Zara Hussain – self-proclaimed crazy cat lady, lifelong makeup enthusiast, and unapologetically outspoken human.

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As a young woman of colour, I’ve always felt unrepresented. I was convinced that what I had to say, was ‘not a big deal’, these four words genuinely spoken to me by a teacher when in school. The four words that changed everything for me. 

 

Growing up half Pakistani and half Indian, (as well as having undiagnosed ADHD!) I have first-hand experience with injustice and prejudice. Ideas that exist and destroy our society, every day. This anger when seeing such inequality, fuelled by desire to use my voice. 

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Whether it’s making fake YouTube videos as a kid (yes, full production mode in my bedroom, speaking at International Women’s Day events, or working in beauty retail, I’ve always loved the art of communication.

 

My real passion for makeup artistry simply allows me to fight for social justice, all whilst wearing my signature winged eyeliner. I like to say, I came out the womb wearing eyeliner!​

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I’ve seen firsthand how empowering it is when someone feels truly seen, whether through finding the right foundation shade, learning a new skill, or simply being listened to. That same belief drives my activism: everyone deserves to feel visible, valued, and celebrated, both inside and out.

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My passions go way beyond eyeshadow swatches (though I could talk about them all day). I care deeply about politics, feminism, human and animal rights, and the messy, fascinating world of media culture. 

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Empathy has been stitched into me from day one—I was that child who had to leave the room when a charity ad came on TV because it broke my little heart, (spoiler alert: I still do this…) That same compassion is what drives my writing today.

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I created Not a Big Deal as a safe space: somewhere to share my voice, my truth, and my love of connecting with others. 

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I write opinion-based blog posts, educating and empowering those around me to speak up, especially for those that need it the most. At such a young age, my work has been published by a handful of media companies, the BBC and Young Fabians, just to name a couple.

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So, whether you’re here for makeup tips, fiery opinion pieces, or just a dose of honesty, welcome. This is my little corner of the internet where beauty meets activism, empathy meets empowerment, and no voice is ever too “loud.”