One of the goals of Something Genuine is to introduce viewers to people whose stories might challenge our assumptions about fandom. This week’s guest, Ani, does exactly that.
Ani is a cosplayer, content creator, and anime fan who has built a following through her creative approach to cosplay as a hijabi. But what struck me most during our conversation wasn’t her social media presence or even her costumes—it was her perspective.
Ani shares how a childhood love of dressing up eventually led her to cosplay, and how she initially assumed there wasn’t a place for someone like her in the community. Instead, she discovered encouragement, support, and an opportunity to put her own creative spin on the characters she loves.
We also talk about much more besides. Watch the full episode below—and after you do, I’d love to hear your thoughts: What fandom community has helped you feel most at home?
Follow Ani on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. And please subscribe to us for more videos; we’re in full swing on Something Genuine, with a part one finale next week and more videos to come later this summer!
- Something Genuine Season 2, Ep. 3: Hijabi Cosplayer Ani on Navigating Faith and Fandom - 06.17.2026
- Something Genuine Season 2, Ep. 2: Ben Stegmair on Mentorship, a Manga Rushmore, and Living the Anime Dream - 06.03.2026
- Something Genuine Season 2, Ep. 1: Mike Golic Jr. on Attack on Titan, Invincible, and Rebuilding After Setbacks - 05.27.2026
