Entertainment

Durban-born 'Dubai Bling' star Farhana Bodi reveals how she stays grounded in the spotlight

ZamaNdosi Cele|Published

Farhana Bodi has opened about about navigating life in Dubai whilst still maintaining her roots in South Africa.

Image: Instagram

Farhana Bodi is a multifaceted influencer, entrepreneur, and the captivating star of Netflix's reality series Dubai Bling.

Born in India and raised in the vibrant landscapes of South Africa, Bodi has called Dubai home since 2008, where she has carved out a remarkable niche for herself.

Initially embarking on her professional journey as a makeup artist and model, she later founded the empowering blog I Woman of the World, which champions women's empowerment and celebrates their achievements.

With a staggering following of over three million on Instagram, Bodi has emerged as a global icon, embodying the essence of style, luxury, and resilience.

"Independent Media Lifestyle" spoke to Bodi about motherhood, her roots and how she navigates life in Dubai. This is what she had to say. 

You grew up in South Africa before building your life in Dubai. What parts of your upbringing still shape the woman you are today?

Growing up in South Africa grounded me. It taught me resilience, community, and faith.

Life wasn’t about appearances - it was about strength, family, and showing up for the people you love.

That foundation still shapes everything I do today. No matter how global my life becomes, my roots keep me centred.

Do you ever find yourself missing home, and what does South Africa represent to you now?

Of course. Home will always be where your story began. South Africa represents innocence, simplicity, and the early version of me - before the world knew my name. It reminds me of who I am at my core.

What did moving to Dubai teach you about reinvention and courage?

Dubai taught me that reinvention is not pretending to be someone else - it’s becoming more of who you already are.

It takes courage to start over in a new country, to build your own name, and to stand alone when necessary. Dubai rewards boldness and vision - and I found both here.

How would you describe your life in Dubai today?

Full. Intentional. Evolving.

Dubai is where my ambitions expanded. It’s a city that mirrors my mindset - fast, forward-thinking, and unapologetically aspirational.

What does luxury mean to you beyond fashion and high-profile events?

Luxury, to me, is peace. It’s having the freedom to choose your life. It’s emotional security. It’s being able to protect your child and build a future for him.

Fashion is beautiful - but true luxury is stability, faith, and time.

How do you curate your personal style, and what inspires it?

My style is a reflection of my duality - heritage and global influence.

I blend South Asian richness with European structure. I love strong silhouettes, couture details, and timeless elegance.

I dress the way I want to feel: powerful, feminine, and intentional.

How has motherhood reshaped your priorities and sense of purpose?

Motherhood changed everything. It stripped away ego. It clarified my mission.

Everything I build - every brand, every partnership, every late night - is anchored in purpose now.

Being a single mother taught me strength I didn’t know I had. It forced me to grow.

What do you cherish most about your life right now?

Clarity. Peace within myself. And watching my son grow in his own beautiful way.

There’s something incredibly grounding about knowing why you wake up every day.

What has being on Dubai Bling meant for your personal growth?

Being on a global platform forced me to see myself more clearly - the strengths and the flaws.

It taught me resilience under public scrutiny. It taught me composure. Most importantly, it taught me that authenticity always wins in the long run.

When you reflect on your journey, what makes you most proud?

That I never gave up. That I rebuilt when things fell apart. That I’m raising my son with strength and dignity.

Success is beautiful - but survival with grace is something I’m deeply proud of.

What feels like “home” to you today?

Home is no longer just a place. It’s wherever my son is safe. Where my faith feels strong. Where I feel aligned.

Right now, that’s Dubai, with my roots always living in South Africa.