Confronting the need to market oneself and fill a predetermined role in order to achieve success, told through the lens of an influencer’s journey to maintain her originality in a world that celebrates “picking a lane.” Shahd is a Sudanese-American digital storyteller born in Minneapolis who found initial and fortuitous success in 2015 through her YouTube channel— a platform Batal used as a video diary; a space to showcase her varying interests and overall love of sharing and connection. Her career has since evolved as she’s been a pioneer in the beauty and modest fashion industries, collaborated with top brands, and released her own style edit in 2020. Shahd has spoken at universities such as Stanford and Columbia University on topics like authentic storytelling, intersectionality, and the importance of Black and Muslim voices in digital spaces. Batal’s other hats include: model, consultant, host, and writer. Through it all, including new endeavors, Shahd understands her true weapon—her voice. She’s challenged industry norms and encourages consistent critique of ‘diversity and inclusion’ conversations while also pushing to create more safe spaces for minority girls and women and shift narratives surrounding American Muslims. Shahd was part of the U.S. YouTube Black Voices Creator Class of 2021 and has been featured in numerous press articles such as Vogue, Glamour, Essence, Allure, and more. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx