Ep 10 Tahera Rahman made history as the first TV reporter to wear a hijab on air in America but the journey took years. People told her that her hijab would prevent her from getting into the business. She proved them wrong.

Aug 27, 2019

Tahera Rahman has always dreamed of being a TV reporter. She had the talent, passion and ability to do the job but even while being a qualified candidate, dozens of News Directors turned her down. There could only be one reason why, she thought: her hijab. 

Tahera chooses to wear the traditional Muslim head scarf and it was a non-negotiable in her quest to get into TV News. Finally, she got hired as an evening producer working behind the scenes at WHBF-TV but it would take years and applying three times for a reporter position at that same station before she was finally given the opportunity.

Tahera is now the first TV reporter in America to wear a hijab on air. 

 

In this episode of #BecomingStorytellers she talks about what it felt like having an armed security guard follow her around on stories in her first month on the job, her parents’ emotional reaction to seeing her on air for the first time, the stories of support she’s received & hate she’s faced while doing her job, her message for other hijabi women & girls who want to live out their dream of being TV reporters & much more. 

 

She’s also dropping her Top 3 “Journey Gems” to help you excel in your life & career.