Nur Ashikeen Iqbal @ Kimi Black, 22, Singer/ Performer
I met with a hit-and-run accident when I was 18-years-old.
Back in 2008, I was in Singapore visiting my mum and went out late one night. A friend was about to give me a lift home on his bike. Out of nowhere, a van swung by and hit me. I remember flying through the air. The next thing I know, I woke up in the hospital. I was suffering from internal bleeding and the doctors had to insert screws to hold my backbone… there were tubes everywhere. I was so confused about what was going on. Not long after, I learnt that I would be wheelchair bound for life, paralyzed from the waist down. Even while lying in the hospital bed, I made jokes and was my usual self— that’s just the way I am. I’m a happy go lucky gal. Just because I met with an accident, I don’t have to be a different person, I’m still me! I believe that I will somehow walk again… i have a lot of faith in myself. I believe that everything happens for a reason. What I’m certain is that God has a plan for each and every one of us. I don’t regret anything that has happened to me. When the accident took place, I was a top ten finalist in the i talent star competition. I’ll always be a bubbly, positive person and continue pursuing my dream to be a singer, even on wheels because anyone can do it. I’m glad that my family has stood by me all the way, through thick and thin! Music keeps me going. I love singing and I will continue to pursue my dream to be a singer. I’ve got my first single out which is called Music Box by Kimi Black — that’s my stage name. You can hear me on itunes, CD Baby and Youtube. I’m currently recording my second single — it’s all about my life, how I survived the accident and stuff. I also have plans to open up my very own beauty parlour real soon. My favourite quote of all-time happens to be, Why are you trying so hard to fit in when you were born to stand out? All I can say is always follow your dreams no matter what situation you’re in!