Henna Reflection

Our mission is to provide an artistic and reflective platform for self-discovery, self-expression, and self-appreciation, to foster a deeper connection with oneself, and find solace and gratitude in the beauty that lies within and around each one of us.

An artistic medium for women to reflect upon and embrace their inner and outer beauty.

Nida Naeem

Founder and Lead Artist

Favorite Animal: My Cats - Joy & Rumi

Favorite food: My Ammi Jaan's Pakistani Biryani & Thai cuisine

Favorite city to visit: Istanbul

Favorite book: Purification of The Heart by Hamza Yusuf

Favorite fruit: Pomegranate

A quirky thing about me

I sing when I am feeling joyful or sad

Artistic Journey

Early Roots in Creativity

During a visit to Pakistan in 2000, I first explored henna at the age of nine with the encouragement of my Nani Ammi (maternal grandmother), Mrs. Syeda Wahid. Since then, I’ve enjoyed many creative outlets—sewing, cooking, food presentation, and even baking three-tiered fondant cakes for family and friends.

Professional Journey

I completed my undergraduate degree in Business Management at UIC in 2014, but my journey has always been driven more by people and purpose than by titles. In 2020, I joined Hennaz Art as an operations manager and senior artist, where I spent countless hours adorning hands while listening to the stories of women from many walks of life. What struck me most was how much women long for connection, belonging, and safe spaces to be themselves. That realization gave birth to Henna Reflection, a platform where I weave together two of my greatest passions: the art of henna and the faith that grounds me.

Community & Education

Currently, I am pursuing a teaching certificate in Islamic Sciences through Ribaat Institute (Class of 2026), while also volunteering as a class admin with Rabata to support women on their own educational journeys. I hope to continue my studies with a Master’s in Social Work and Public Policy, carrying forward my passion for uplifting communities.

Philosophy of Henna

For me, henna has always been more than design. It is storytelling, healing, and reflection. Like a shared meal, it gathers people together. With every swirl of dye, henna not only brings color to the skin but also warmth to the heart, a reminder that beauty, faith, and community are deeply intertwined.

Personal Drive and Leadership

Raised by a resilient single mother of five, and later navigating life as a single mother myself to two bright little girls, I know firsthand both the challenges and the strength that come with these roles. These experiences drive my dedication to creating spaces that uplift, empower, and support women and children. I previously served as the Director of Program and Development at Jannah Circle, a nonprofit organization committed to empowering women and children through faith-based and community programs. Today, I continue this mission by mentoring and teaching high school girls at Monarch Academy in Hinsdale, IL, where I witness the incredible potential of young women as they grow in confidence, faith, and purpose.

Art

Faith

Joy

Art brings joy and beauty into peoples' lives, and this form of art specifically allows me to get intimate and personally connect with women from all walks of life. Henna art is not only a form of art expression but the natural components and essential oils used, make it quite a relaxing and therapeutic experience.

Faith can bring joy to the creative process of making art and it is the foundation of my work. When I am lost in my work, it gives me the ability to disconnect and reflect. It evokes thoughts and emotions and creates a sense of wonder and awe about all the beauty within and around us. It's a transformative experience for me as an artist and for my clients.

Creating art is a spiritual practice that brings a sense of joy and peace to me and the client. The process is often mediative and allows both parties to connect with and appreciate their inner and outer beauty.

“Do you not see that God has made what is in the heaven and Earth subservient to you and made complete to you His favors outwardly and inwardly?” [31:20]