Meet Rubaa J

We were lucky to catch up with Rubaa J recently and have shared our conversation below.

Rubaa, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.

I built my confidence by doing things that bring me joy and not worrying about other people’s opinions. I also surround myself with friends and family who truly support me and want to see me succeed. Their encouragement has helped me believe in myself and keep pushing forward.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I’m a graphic designer, photographer, adventurer, and snack connoisseur based in New York. Originally from Pakistan, I’ve been lucky enough to experience life in Beijing and New York, which has greatly shaped both my personal identity and my artistic approach. For over 12 years, I’ve been providing design and photography services, but my work is much more than just a career—it’s a way of connecting with the world around me.

My passions go beyond design and photography. I’m an avid traveler, always chasing the next adventure and seeking out new cultures, foods, and experiences. Whether it’s hunting down a hidden gem in a city’s food scene, getting lost in a historic place, or simply enjoying the magic of a sunset, I find inspiration in the everyday and the extraordinary. I love meeting new people and learning their stories, and that curiosity feeds directly into my creative process.

What excites me most about my work is its ability to capture fleeting moments—the kind of moments we often forget in the blur of everyday life. I see beauty in the details that go unnoticed, the small, quiet things that others might pass by. By focusing on the overlooked, I try to bring attention to what makes the world feel alive, vibrant, and meaningful. It’s about preserving joy, connection, and wonder in a way that allows us to hold onto those feelings, even when time moves on.

Through my design and photography, I hope to evoke that sense of wonder, to encourage others to look more closely at their surroundings, and to remember the moments that make life special. Whether it’s through the lens of a camera or the lines of a design, I aim to bottle up happiness and curiosity, saving it for later.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

I believe the three qualities that have had the most impact on my journey are: an eagerness to learn new things, keeping an open mind, and seeking out diverse experiences, particularly through meeting people from different cultures and backgrounds. Embracing new experiences keeps you adaptable and energized.

For those early in their journey, my advice is simple: don’t worry too much about what others think. Pursue what brings you joy and pushes you outside your comfort zone, even if you don’t feel fully ready. Taking that leap, whether in a career or personal endeavor, can open doors you never imagined. Sometimes, one bold decision can change the entire trajectory of your life.

What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?

The most impactful thing my parents did for me was moving from Pakistan to give us a better future. Leaving behind our home, family, and everything familiar was an incredibly difficult decision, but they made that sacrifice for our sake. I know I wouldn’t be where I am today—enjoying the opportunities, education, and career I have—if they hadn’t made that bold choice. Their decision completely shaped the life I have now, and I am beyond grateful for it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.rubaaj.com
• Instagram: aarjayyy
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rubaajamil