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Who are you?
Hi, my name is Maryam, but I like to go by HKBarbie or Barbie for short.
The nickname originated from the Instagram account I created during my year abroad in Hong Kong. I already had an Instagram; however, I later deactivated it after I grew tired of the people on my social media. Okay, not just the people on my social media, but you get what I mean! I needed something for my new life, and those lucky enough to enter.
Why HKbarbie?
HKbarbie was supposed to be an Instagram where I could post anything, now no longer bound to who ‘Maryam’ used to be. I rarely gave out my first name in Hong Kong, just shortened it to MK. Oh, and I was so serious, it was literally on my nickname on my HKU Application form.
However, HKbarbie stuck.
I remember when one of my Instagram mutuals came up to me in LKF and said,
“Are you THE HKbarbie?”
I swear something changed in my genetic make-up, and from that point, I knew how I should be addressed.
So, HKbarbie or Barbie.
Maryam, if we have a problem or money to be made!
But what does 20 going on 2000 actually mean?
1. 20 Represents The Age At Which I Began Creating This Platform
I initially started my blog to document my exchange year. But soon I realised, developing a self-hosted WordPress blog is kind of hard, especially when you’re trying to travel the world. Not saying it isn’t possible, but Hong Kong International Airport just needed my attention just a little more.
2) 20, Describes My Twenties as A Whole.
What Some Call The Most Influential Years Of Life
As a now 22-year-old, these past two years have been great for my personal and academic growth.
However, not for my bank account…..
3) 20 Going On 2000 Is A Play On One Of My Favourite Chick Flicks Growing Up, 13 Going On 30
I feel like I’ve always rushed to grow up, have my freedom and take on the world. But now, I feel like time is going way too fast for me to catch up, and responsibility is becoming all too much for me to bear.
What do you mean, my agemates are moving out, getting engaged, married, having kids?? Ko si possible!
That being said, I do like how my style and appearance are evolving. Shame no one seems to notice the growth, since I’m still getting asked for my ID whenever I buy a drink…
4) The 2000s Represent The Era In Which I Was Born, And One Of The Greatest Influences On My Style And Expression
I like to call myself a full-time fashionista with a specialism in Y2K.
I can also rock other styles and enjoy the creativity fashion brings.
Don’t worry, I intend to show my credentials in the War-Drobe series, so stay tuned!
Like many Gen Zers, I have also chased the creativity, fashion, music, and culture that the 2000s represent. This blog is a prime example.
