Aneesa Sheikh, a senior at NYU's Gallatin School, has seamlessly woven her diverse passions into a vibrant career in the music industry. From figure skating to modeling, Sheikh’s journey has been marked by a commitment to expanding South Asian representation. Her growing online presence reflects her original compositions and advocacy work. In an interview, Sheikh discussed her evolution in music and aspirations for expanding her nonprofit.

Her multifaceted background has shaped her approach to music, blending cultural identity with entrepreneurial acumen. As she balances education, artistry, and philanthropy, Sheikh envisions a future where her initiatives foster inclusivity and healing through music.

From Figure Skating to Musical Exploration

Aneesa Sheikh’s early exposure to music through competitive figure skating laid the foundation for her artistic journey. While training at world-class facilities, she absorbed a wide array of musical genres, sparking her interest in playing an instrument. This passion merged with her experiences in pageantry, which provided a platform for performing at events, further propelling her musical ambitions.

Beyond her accomplishments as a triple gold medalist in figure skating and Miss Michigan Teen USA titleholder, Sheikh's transition to music began with guitar lessons. Moving from Kentucky to Michigan for advanced skating training, she eventually embraced opportunities in both beauty pageants and music performances. By leveraging event platforms, Sheikh expanded her reach, setting the stage for a career rooted in cultural expression and innovation.

Music Business Education and Cultural Advocacy

At NYU, Sheikh refined her skills in music business, communications, and economics, gaining invaluable insights from esteemed professors. Courses such as Stress-free Living & Working in the Music Industry and Strategic Music and Branding equipped her with tools to market herself effectively. These classes complemented her focus on nonprofit management, enabling her to formalize her organization, Music4M.I.R.A.C.L.E.

With over 200,000 Instagram followers and significant Spotify listenership, Sheikh integrates her South Asian heritage into her pop-fusion songs. Her singles like “NY 2 LAHORE” and “Tough Times” have garnered international acclaim. Recognized as an EQUAL Ambassador by Spotify Pakistan, Sheikh challenges stereotypes while advocating for gender equality. Her nonprofit initiative leverages technology partnerships to enhance music rehabilitation therapy, reflecting her dedication to improving mental health care and uplifting marginalized voices through music.