Roxie Nafousi doesn’t need an introduction. Her books Manifest, Manifest: Deep Dive, and Confidence are global phenomena. Her approach to self-development resonates with millions who were tired of toxic positivity and ready for something real. Her latest perfume brand ALIA is another medium of manifestation. The British-Iraqi author, speaker, and self-development coach believes manifestation is not about becoming someone new; it’s about remembering who you are beneath all the noise. Now, she splits her time between London and Dubai and is focused on being present. Cosmopolitan Middle East chats with Roxie to talk about self-worth, what to do when manifestation feels impossible, and what is next for the manifestation queen.
CosmoME: How has your own relationship with manifestation evolved since writing the books and launching your perfume brand?
Roxie: My relationship with manifestation has become much more grounded over the years. It’s no longer about chasing outcomes or external achievements, but about how I live and who I am becoming every day. Building my perfume brand, ALIA, reminded me that manifestation is an ongoing practice of alignment. It’s about showing up with integrity, staying connected to your why, and trusting that when you move with purpose, everything else falls into place.
CosmoME: You’ve built such an authentic presence online in an era where social media can feel performative. How do you balance being vulnerable with your audience whilst protecting your own mental health and boundaries?
Roxie: I’ve always felt that vulnerability is how we connect, so I don’t shy away from sharing the harder moments. But having done so much inner work, I’ve learned how to bounce back and hold myself through challenges. What I hope people take from that is that life isn’t perfect, but when you commit to your growth, you handle things with more strength and grace.
CosmoME: You talk a lot about self-worth and not settling. What advice would you give to young women who are on their manifestation journey?
Roxie: Work on your self-worth every single day, because it shapes every choice you make. We attract what we believe we deserve, so learning to love and value yourself changes everything – your relationships, your career, and the way you treat yourself. Start by keeping promises to yourself, saying no to what drains you, and choosing people and environments that make you feel seen and respected. The more you practise self-respect, the more your external world starts to mirror it back to you. And remember: confidence isn’t something you’re born with, it’s something you build through small, consistent acts of courage.
CosmoME: For someone who’s in a dark place right now and manifestation feels impossible, where would you tell them to start?
Roxie: Start small. When you’re in a dark place, your only job is to look after yourself. Get outside, move your body, nourish yourself, and surround yourself with anything that brings you even a moment of comfort or peace. You don’t need to visualise a whole new life yet – just begin by believing that healing is possible and making a decision to begin on a new path, taking it one tiny step at a time. Start to read self-help books, listen to podcasts, and watch inspirational documentaries – it really does all help to start to shift your mindset.
CosmoME: What’s one belief or pattern you’re actively working to shift in your own life right now? What are you manifesting for this next chapter?
Roxie: I’m working on slowing down and being present. I’ve spent a lot of time in go-mode, always focusing on the next project or goal. Now I’m learning to find joy in the in-between, to rest without guilt and create from inspiration rather than pressure. I’m manifesting more creativity, love, and balance in this next chapter. My focus is on expansion, but from a grounded place. I think true success is when you can grow while staying calm, connected, and fulfilled within yourself.