Bubah Alfian

Bubah Alfian

This coveted figure in the fashion world works hard for his success. As well as being a make-up artist for his famous clients, Bubah is also the director of the Jember Fashion Carnival.

E: How did you get into the world of beauty, style and fashion?

A: I started out in 2006 when I enrolled in Rudy Hadisuwarno hairdressing school in Jember, East Java. In 2007, I participated in the Jember Fashion Carnival, where I had to work hard to hone my skills and overcome challenges. I found that I was actually able to do things that I thought I could not do before.

E: In addition to being a sought-after make-up artist, what are you up to these days?

A: Currently, I chair the Jember Fashion Carnival as the director and run a brand called Naranaya where we produce accessories for the carnival. I also enjoy my role as a concept creator, where I work with several partners to start a few business possibilities. Last but not least, I’m preparing several TV shows that are quite massive in scale.

E: What is the most memorable experience of your career?

A: It was when I got the opportunity to be the make-up artist and head hairstylist for America’s Next Top Model, the make-up artist for winners of Miss Universe, Miss World, and other prestigious beauty pageants, as well as when I became one of the judges for Amazing Race USA.

E: What is the biggest challenge you have come across and how did you overcome it?

A: The most difficult challenge is when I got rejected by my counterparts in the field. I was sad and scared, and I broke down. I tried to put myself in their position and understand their point of view. I don’t want to make the same mistake, and I will learn to be wiser.

E: After your success, is there any goal that you still want to achieve?

A: I want to develop and improve the Jember Fashion Carnival to be the number one carnival in the world. I want to help bring better welfare to the Jember Fashion Carnival team. And I also want to make Indonesia’s make-up and fashion industry a world icon.

E: What advice would you give someone who wants to get into the beauty or fashion industry?

A: If you want to be a make-up artist or hairstylist, you have to learn the proper way to do it and really hone your skills. But most importantly, you have to love what you do with all your heart.

(@bubahalfian)