In a world where luxury is often defined by material wealth and status, true elegance lies in the ability to reinvent oneself while staying authentically grounded. Khalila Lister is the epitome of this refined balance. Once a fixture in the glamorous, fast-paced world of hip-hop, Khalila traded celebrity-packed parties for a life defined by faith, resilience, and purpose. Now, as the CEO of the groundbreaking Power of Voice Academy, she has built an empire that empowers voices around the globe, all while standing unapologetically in her truth.
Khalila’s journey, from the glitzy highs of her former life to her transformative embrace of Islam, reads like a modern fable—one where personal values triumph over external pressures. In this exclusive feature, she shares the raw, untold story of how she overcame profound challenges, including an abusive relationship, to become a powerful voice in the world of public speaking, leading a movement that has inspired thousands.
In her own words, Khalila proves that true success is not found in compromise, but in the courage to remain true to oneself. Prepare to be inspired by a woman who embodies the very essence of resilience, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to empowering others.
From Hip-Hop to Hijab: How I Transformed My Life and Built a Public Speaking Empire
By Khalila Lister, CEO of Power of Voice Academy
I lived a life most people dream of; a fast-moving, glittering fantasy, touring with global celebrities, immersed in the intoxicating and vibrant energy of the hip-hop scene. As a sought-after party host, I moved within exclusive circles, sharing spaces with the rich, the famous and the powerful. You would think I felt I had it all, this enviable and glamorous lifestyle, the vibrant music scene filled with talent, money, lavish expenditure and every desire fulfilled. On the surface, I had it all, yet I felt an emptiness inside. This hedonistic way of life did not fill the emptiness gnawing at my soul.
My life changed dramatically when I discovered Islam. It was as if I had an awakening – like the void was ready to be filled. I found myself wanting to be immersed in Islam. If I wanted to do, and in doing so, I knew I would need a complete shift in my values, lifestyle, and identity, and leaving behind my career in hip-hop was a painful transition. It was a painful fracture—a goodbye to a lifestyle that had defined me for years.
While I embraced my new faith wholeheartedly, I struggled to reconcile my past with the life I was building. The modest dress, hijab, and the internal transformation I went through left me feeling lost and unsure of how to move forward.
And as if the internal struggle wasn’t enough, After stepping away from the world I had known I found myself trapped in a different kind of darkness—an abusive relationship. I was caught in a web of control and fear, and although my faith remained my anchor, I felt powerless. Those years were some of the darkest of my life. I was no longer the woman who lit up hip-hop stages or danced in VIP rooms—I was broken.
But in 2020, everything changed. I escaped the toxic relationship, stepping out of the shadows as a single mother of four, bruised but not defeated. With my children in mind and my heart full of determination, I turned our lives around. I went from being a broke single mum to a multiple six-figure business owner, launching Power of Voice Academy, the world’s first public speaking academy for Muslims.
I rose from the ashes of my past. I empowered myself, and now I empower others through the academy. I have trained countless individuals, helping them to find their voices and shine on prestigious stages like TEDx. The very thing that I once doubted—my voice—became my salvation, and now I’ve built a platform for others to amplify theirs.
Standing Firm: From Niqab to Hijab, My Message Remains
I am still on my journey of transformation. For a time, I wore the niqab, and while I have since transitioned to wearing the hijab without covering my face. Life evolves, and so do I. Personal growth is a constant, yet unchanging is the essence of my message: you do not need to sacrifice your values to succeed. I have faced countless obstacles, but I have always stood firm in my beliefs.
Today I am honoured to be recognised with awards such as Top 100 Global Women Entrepreneurs by Mirela Sula, Top 50 Most Influential Muslims in Europe in both 2023 and 2024. I am also a proud recipient of the She Awards Glass Ceiling Breaker, a testament to my mission to uplift and empower others. These accolades are not just mine—they belong to every woman who stands firm in her truth.
Alongside my brilliant COO, Alina, and a team of powerful, driven women, we are building legacies at Power of Voice Academy. Together, we are more than just colleagues—we are building legacies. When I stepped through the door of the public speaking world, it opened doors for others. Together we are showing the world that success doesn’t require compromise—it requires authenticity and courage.
Pro Tips for Visibility: Using Your Voice Powerfully in the Boardroom
Whether you’re a professional or entrepreneur, mastering public speaking is essential to standing out. Your voice is a tool that can propel your career and create opportunities. Here’s how you can use it effectively:
1. Own Your Story
Authenticity is your greatest strength. Your experiences—whether personal or professional—are what set you apart. Use your story to create an emotional connection with your audience. When people see the real you, they are more likely to trust and follow you.
2. Create a Memorable Presentation
The structure of your presentation matters. Start with a powerful hook to draw in your audience—an interesting story, fact, or question. Break down your key points in a clear and engaging way, using examples to make them relatable. End with a strong, actionable message that leaves a lasting impression.
3. Stand Confident in Your Values
One of the biggest barriers to success can be the pressure to conform or compromise on your beliefs. Don’t. Confidence in your values not only boosts your presence but draws others to you. The strength of your convictions will resonate deeply with your audience.
4. Embrace Your Nerves
Even the most experienced speakers get nervous. The key is to harness that nervous energy and turn it into passion. Practise mindfulness and visualisation techniques before stepping onto the stage or into the boardroom. Remember, your audience is rooting for you.
5. Engage with Your Audience
Public speaking isn’t just about talking; it’s about connecting. Ask questions, interact, and make eye contact, which in my world we call ‘non verbal communication’. Engage with your audience as if you’re having a conversation, not giving a lecture. This builds rapport and keeps people interested.
6. Amplify Your Voice
Whether through social media, speaking engagements, or publications, share your insights regularly. The more visible you are, the more people will recognise your expertise. Don’t shy away from positioning yourself as a leader—embrace it and own it.
Your Voice: Your Most Valuable Asset
Throughout my journey, I’ve learned that your voice is your most powerful tool. It’s what allows you to convey your truth, build trust, and inspire others. For years, I doubted whether I could make an impact while remaining true to my faith and values, but my voice has been my strongest asset, guiding me through every challenge and in turn opening doors for so many others as I now lead a community of over 10,000 women. Four years ago I would have never dreamed it possible!
A Message That Lasts a Legacy
I stand here today as living proof that you do not need to compromise who you are to succeed. From the hip-hop world to public speaking stages, from niqab to hijab, I have built my success by staying true to my values. And now, as the CEO of Power of Voice Academy, I am proud to have built a team of powerful women and speaker coaches who share that mission of empowerment and legacy-building.
Whether you’re a professional or entrepreneur, remember this: your voice is the key to unlocking your potential. Use it with confidence, speak your truth, and you will inspire others to follow suit. Success is not about fitting in—it’s about standing out by being unapologetically you and using your voice to share your unique gifts, experiences and message with a world that very much needs to hear it.
If we are not telling our stories, who will?
Khalila Lister
