From radio waves to the comedy stage, Noreen has carved out a dynamic career in media. Starting in London’s bustling industry, her love for music led her into presenting, while her quick wit found a home in stand-up comedy. In this interview with Kaniz Ali, she shares her journey, career highlights, and thoughts on Ramadan, along with some heartfelt advice for aspiring presenters.
Creative Director: Kaniz Ali
Photography: Danny Singh
Makeup & Styling: Kaniz Ali
Assisted by: Iman Chana
Outfits by: Lilly’s Boutique London
Jewellery by: The Jewellery Trunk
Location / Shot at: Colonel Saab, Trafalgar Square, London, UK
Kaniz: Talk to us about your background.
Noreen: I was born and raised in Bedford, where I spent my teens and early twenties. After that, I worked in London, and from there, I entered the world of media!
Kaniz: What inspired you to head into presenting?
Noreen: It was my love for music that got me into radio and presenting.
Kaniz: You’ve recently entered the world of stand-up comedy and reached success in it very quickly. What do you love most about stand-up comedy?
Noreen: I can totally just be myself and not hold back! I love to share my observations and stories, and it is genuinely so much fun.
Kaniz: What has been your most memorable moment in presenting?
Noreen: In radio, there have been so many memorable moments—from interviewing some of my favourite stars in the world of showbiz, like Madhuri Dixit, Steven Gerrard, Shah Rukh Khan, and lots of brilliant cricketers. And of course, building a lovely connection with my listeners.
Kaniz: What does Ramadan mean to you?
Noreen: For me, Ramadan is a special month where we really get to discipline our lives in so many ways. We abstain from many things, which is so good for the body, mind, and soul. It also brings us closer to our faith and really makes us reflect on life, think more compassionately, and give to charity.
Kaniz: What is your favourite part of Ramadan?
Noreen: I think it’s knowing that there are literally millions of us around the globe observing the holy month. And of course, spending more time with family and close ones.
Kaniz: What food do you look forward to the most during Ramadan?
Noreen: I don’t change my diet too much or indulge in fancy foods during Ramadan. I’ve been a vegetarian since I was 13, so I just enjoy simple foods like daal and rice!
Kaniz: What is the best advice you can give to someone fasting?
Noreen: Don’t skip sehri and eat good, nutritious food when you open your fast. Try to stay away from all the fried stuff.
Kaniz: If Noreen could disappear anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
Noreen: Probably Bali! (Laughs) I love that place!
Kaniz: What is the best advice you would give to anyone thinking of entering the world of presenting?
Noreen: Be prepared to share lots of yourself—your life and your interests—with the audience. Get to know the station or channel that you want to work on inside and out; get geeky about it, like I did! Finally, just enjoy yourself and make sure you have fun. It’s such a great job to do!
Kaniz: If Noreen was not a presenter, what would she be?
Noreen: Well, I’d be doing what I’m doing now—stand-up comedy, lots of yoga, and travelling the world!!
