5 minute read
Ranim Mazboudi
Ranim is a popular face on Lebanese TV whose love of seeing the real story below the surface drives her on. With her mother as her number one fan, and primary inspiration, Ranim believes she can achieve anything. A secret lover of dark chocolate during stressful times, she also believes in love - "because without it, you'll never be able to feel bliss in the tiniest moments that you spend with loved ones."
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February, 2020 Photography: Elliane Mallat Photography (@ellienemallatphotography)
Please introduce yourself. I'm a Lebanese journalist and TV presenter.
Tell us about your education As a very social person interested in human relationships, I studied sociology. My love and passion for understanding the world more realistically led me to media, and now I'm planning to continue my Masters and PhD to expand my knowledge further.
How did you get interested in the media field and why a TV presenter? I've always had an interest in this domain. It was always a childhood dream to become a presenter. Younger, I used to watch TV and observe how presenters spoke, sat and acted.
How did the role of a presenter change your life? It changed me a lot! It made me realize that nothing worth having comes easily, you have to work hard for it, and appearances can sometimes be deceiving! I learned to be responsible, independent, confident and careful but honest with my words and the way I act.
Can you explain your career path to date? Contrary to what people think, it's a long path to pursue. I started my career on radio (seven programmes for three years), then became a managing editor of three websites, hosted an online programme that tackles everything related to women's beauty and health, and lastly a programme on a famous Algerian TV.
What do you love most about your job? Being a journalist and presenter amplifies, even more, the freedom of speech and expression that we all as humans have. Since media is the most powerful entity on earth today, we can impact people's lives and positively influence them. I like the challenge of being objective, deep and searching for the real story beneath the surface.
Have you ever been nervous while presenting a show? Of course, we all experience slight nervousness when standing in front of an audience.
What is the first thing you do when you’re stressed? I eat dark chocolate. I find that it reduces the stress a little bit.
Describe a typical day for you? I wake up, drink my coffee, spend some time with my two dogs, then I dress, go out and prepare myself for shooting. When I finish, I meet up with my friends then return home for a movie night with my family.
Who is your daily source of inspiration? My mother! She's my number one supporter. I believe that if I am this successful person today, it's because of the strength my mother gave me! There are so many things that I don’t think I would ever be able to do if it wasn’t for my mother’s words and for her constant push for me to do better and dream bigger.
What’s in your handbag/ satchel? Wallet, hand sanitizer, hair elastic, earphones, keys and a pocket-sized holy book, and no you won't find makeup because I don't put anything on my face unless I am shooting.
What are your best projects to date? I am thankful for EVERY opportunity I've had. All the projects I did made me the person I am.
February, 2020 Photography: Elliane Mallat Photography (@ellienemallatphotography)
Do you have any interesting film or TV projects coming up? Yes, I'm working on a new project with a local Lebanese TV station.
Where do you see yourself in five years? I can imagine myself realizing all of my dreams and projects I am working on right now.
Where do you go if you ever feel you need some time alone? I rarely want to be alone, but when I want to recluse myself, I go to a natural spot on a hill, the beautiful scenery makes me forget everything.
What are some of your hobbies? Writing, reading, taking care of my pets, shopping and discovering new cultures.
What do you believe has been the key to your success? Believing in myself, dreaming big, the passion I have for this career, patience and family support are the most critical factors in my work life.
What is your biggest accomplishment at work or a moment you’re most proud of? All of them, I am proud of every step I have taken toward reaching my goal.
Do you believe in love? Yes, I do. Always have and always will. No matter how ugly this world becomes and what it throws at me, I'll continue to believe in it! Love isn't only about romantic relationships it's also loving God, loving your parents, work, children and that's the finest and purest type of love! Without love, you'll never be able to feel bliss in the tiniest moments that you spend with loved ones. Without it, we will always be miserable and unappreciative of things and relationships.
What can’t you leave home without? My mobile phones.
103 What is your life motto? I change my life motto often based on my recent experiences. Currently, it is: "Rome wasn't built in a day" it reminds me that best things take time to build (personal strength, career, relationships, etc.).
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? Do what you believe is right because you can't please everyone, people are people, and no two people are alike.
Tell me about your hidden talents? One thing which not many people know about me is that I like acting.
What is the one place you would want to visit in this world? Sri Lanka. I heard a lot of people calling it heaven on earth.
What is your favourite movie/song? Favourite movie: The Fault in Our Stars. Favourite song: Non je ne regrette rien - Edith Piaf.
Your message for CiiN magazine. Thank you for this lovely interview. It was a pleasure, and I wish CiiN magazine continued success.
