Fatiha Al-Ghouri: “I was afraid that he would harass me, but it turned out that he wanted to see my sneakers” | platform

How did you get into the world of comedy?
After my second divorce, I was searching online for a walking group in my local area and a pop-up came up saying, “Try stand-up comedy.” So I did, and here I am 10 years later.

What is one of your favorite gigs ever?
I did a gig at Angel Comedy Club [in London] And 12 veils appeared to see me. They probably felt that comedy clubs weren’t really a place for them, but seeing someone who looked like them on the bill made them come that day. It was so emotional, I ended up crying.

Best structure?
It was the final of the BBC New Comedy Awards 2025. Amy Gledhill was the host, and I was head of the judging panel. We were on stage about to present the award when a man shouted, “Show us your 9-5.” Amy and I thought he wanted us to light it up! We were insulted. It turns out he wanted to see my sneakers…which are Air Max 95s.

What inspired your first presentation? Cockney stacking doll?
Just like the Russian stacking doll, I have many layers to me. This show is an introduction to me and my classes.

You’re performing two family-friendly shows. What’s the idea behind this?
I swear to some extent on Maryam and I know not everyone likes swearing, but I want my offers to be accessible to everyone. That’s why I decided to do these shows. Proper clean fun that you can watch with your mum and dad.

Who is your comedy hero and why?
I don’t really have one. I don’t really watch comedy. I think because I work in the industry, I know how everything is done and that’s all I can see when I watch it. Growing up, I loved watching French and Saunders, Desmond’s, and The Real McCoy. I love Neal Brennan, who is also an American actor.

Who is your non-comic hero?
My maternal grandmother. She was a strong woman who worked hard with my grandfather to raise her family. They had a good partnership and went out of their way to make sure my aunts and uncles were okay.

Can you remember the party so bad? This is it Now funny?
I was on stage and there was a group of guys who wouldn’t stop screaming. They used to do that to all comedians. While I was at it, I couldn’t take it anymore and ended up losing my temper and yelling at them. I got out of my comedic persona, which was scary. I cried afterwards but now I look back on what happened and feel embarrassed. They never booked me again.

Are there any bogeymen from the world of comedy?
Comedians run during their allotted time on stage. A few minutes is fine, but when it extends from five to 10 minutes, it negatively impacts everyone’s night.

Any pre-show rituals?
I never eat a meal before a show or I’ll end up burping on stage. Before I go on stage, I drink a lot of water and pray a little when I am asked to go on stage.

Best advice you’ve ever been given?
And from my belief: “What is yours will not miss you, and what is not yours will not come to you.”

What’s an important lesson you’ve learned from being a standup?
Your audience is your client or client, never forget that it is about them, not you. They should have a good time, and they should be the focus of your time on stage.

Your first children’s novel, “The Advantages of My Hijabi”, will be published Next year. Can you give us a sneak peek at what readers can expect?
It is the story of a young girl embracing herself, her identity, and coming to terms with her family and friends. It’s funny and adorable so give it a read.

What’s next for you?
Find a pair. Are you free on Friday night?