Haneefah Adam – The Nigerian Digital Creator Behind Hijarbie
Haneefah Adam is a Nigerian visual artist and digital creator whose work blends faith, culture, and representation. She rose to global recognition in 2015 when she launched Hijarbie, an Instagram account featuring Barbie dolls styled in hijabs and modest fashion. This simple yet groundbreaking idea sparked worldwide conversations about inclusivity and how Muslim women are portrayed in media.
With a background in physiology and a Master’s degree in Pharmacology and Drug Discovery from the UK, Haneefah combines science, art, and faith-driven storytelling. Her dolls wear handcrafted outfits inspired by modest fashion bloggers, cultural aesthetics, and the vibrant creativity of Muslim women worldwide.
The Hijarbie project has been featured on international platforms like CNN, BBC, and Self.com, positioning Haneefah as one of Nigeria’s most innovative digital creators whose work connects faith with global storytelling.
Impact and Significance
- She filled a cultural gap by introducing hijab-wearing dolls, sparking a global movement.
- Her work proves that faith-based creativity can achieve virality without compromising authenticity.
- She demonstrates how Nigerian digital creators can use online platforms to scale influence and representation worldwide.
Where to Explore Her Work
- Instagram: Hijarbie
- Feature on CNN
- BBC coverage: Hijarbie’s Story
- Profile on Self.com
