Today we’d like to introduce you to Syeda Abbas. Them and their team share their story with us below:
Syeda Abbas came to this country as a child that spoke little to no English. That didn’t stop her from dreaming. Abbas knew she wanted to be someone that could help others. She decided to become a journalist. A controversial decision in the South Asian community. But the road was full of obstacles. Many highs & lows. Growing up she didn’t see any Pakistani or South Asian representation on tv. She was determined to change that. She graduated from West Chester University of Pennsylvania. Even before graduating Abbas was juggling different hats. She was working as an on-air model at QVC for brands like Becca cosmetics and color wow, interning at Fox 29 Philadelphia, working for the University’s station, and driving for Uber. After her internship, she was hired as a Traffic Producer for Good Day Philadelphia. Abbas was also doing freelance traffic reporting at the radio station WXPN. She was soon offered a job at WJET- TV. There she was a General Assignment Reporter and anchored the weekend shows. Currently, Syeda works at Cleveland 19 News in Cleveland, Ohio. She’s been a voice in the community. Storytelling is her passion and in her free time, she loves being involved in the community, traveling & watching movies.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I’m thankful for what I have. As an immigrant woman, it’s a tough world to navigate at times. But I remind myself of all the good people in my life. That’s who I do this for. I just keep going no matter how hard it gets. It’s not the easiest thing to do, trust me I know that. Sometimes I cry but I never stop. I didn’t grow up with a lot and that’s ok. It made me who I am today. I have a work ethic and understand the value of money now as an adult. I’m grateful for the struggles as cheesy as it sounds because they teach you so much more about life. I have learned that the opinions of others should never matter. You have to focus on yourself because life is so short.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Currently, I’m a TV Reporter at WOIO in Cleveland. I love all my stories. It’s hard to pick one. It’s kind of like picking a favorite from your kids. But when I think back, I’m happy with my coverage on the Stop Asian hate rally, Bill 181 in Ohio, and colorism in the South Asian community.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
Social media will definitely take over. It already has in some ways. I see myself helping people in any capacity hopefully through my stories.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: syedaabbastv
- Facebook: syedaabbasnews
- Twitter: Syeda Abbas
Image Credits
Vernon Ray
