Mediacorp Oli 968 DJ Haleema Asman is navigating the intense emotional landscape of new motherhood. Two months after welcoming her son, she found the courage to return to on-camera work, embracing her postpartum body.
Her mornings begin as early as 3 AM to manage her five-month-old son's frequent wake-ups before her 10 AM radio show. Returning to work after maternity leave brought added pressures, shifting her show to a lunchtime slot and managing new co-hosts and production duties on minimal sleep. Asman described the transition, stating, "Nobody tells you, ‘Hey, you’re a mum now, we’ll ease things for you.’ It doesn’t happen that way."
The most surprising aspect of motherhood, Asman shared, is the overwhelming depth of emotions - the profound love, fear, guilt, and doubt experienced simultaneously. She finds herself constantly balancing her heart's desire to be with her son against the demands of work and financial responsibilities.
She also noted the pressures from online communities, where mothers often face criticism for deviating from perceived norms, particularly regarding choices like breastfeeding. Asman advocates for a more empathetic approach, emphasizing that each mother's journey is unique. She finds solace and support in a WhatsApp group of fellow mothers, sharing advice and experiences without judgment.
Asman's experience as a mother has deeply influenced her professional life, enhancing her empathy and understanding as she interviews guests for her show, bringing motivational profiles to listeners with newfound depth. She finds strength in prayer and the realization that having navigated childbirth, she can face any challenge.