Ubah Hassan: Model, Entrepreneur, and Reality TV Star

Ubah Hassan is a multifaceted personality known for her contributions to modeling, business, and reality TV. Born in Somalia and raised across continents, Ubah Hassan has harnessed her extraordinary life experiences to make a reputable name in the worlds of fashion, entrepreneurship, and television. From walking global runways to launching a successful brand, she stands as a beacon of resilience and hard work. Her appearance on “The Real Housewives of New York City” (RHONY) further amplified her popularity and gave fans a closer look into her dynamic personality.

This article explores Ubah Hassan’s life story, career milestones, challenges she has faced, and her current status as a rising star in multiple fields.

Early Life and Upbringing

Ubah Ali Hassan was born on August 27, 1983, in Somalia. Her life took a dramatic turn at a very young age when her family became displaced due to the Somali Civil War in the early 1990s. Her mother and three sisters fled to Ethiopia in 1991 while Ubah, her father, and her brother remained in Somalia until 1994, later moving to Kenya. These early hardships shaped Ubah Hassan’s resilience and determination.

At the age of 15, she reunited with her mother and siblings in Canada, where the family faced new challenges, including living in a homeless shelter during their initial year in the country. These experiences instilled a sense of humility and survival instinct in Ubah Hassan, which she has carried throughout her life and career.

Career Highlights

From Modeling to Runway Icon

Ubah Hassan was discovered at the age of 17 in Canada by a photographer who instantly recognized her potential. Shortly after, she began modeling in Vancouver and Toronto. Her talent and striking looks soon caught the attention of major agencies, and she signed with Click Model Management in New York City in 2007.

Her modeling career quickly took off, and Ubah Hassan walked runways and worked with top designers such as Ralph Lauren, Oscar de la Renta, Gucci, and Rachel Roy. She also appeared in major publications including Vogue Italia and Allure. She became the face of Ralph Lauren’s Spring/Summer campaign in 2009, further solidifying her position in the fashion industry.

Despite her modeling success, Ubah Hassan felt a need to diversify her career. She owned a restaurant in Vancouver before taking her entrepreneurial spirit to new heights.

Entrepreneurial Success with Ubah Hot

Driven by her passion for food and African-inspired flavors, Ubah Hassan launched her vegan hot sauce brand, Ubah Hot, in 2021. The brand has received widespread acclaim and was even featured as one of Oprah’s Favorite Things shortly after its launch. The brand’s inclusion in Oprah’s list expanded Ubah Hassan’s reach as a businesswoman and made her brand a household name among spice enthusiasts.

The success of Ubah Hot also led to collaborations. Recently, Ubah Hassan partnered with the renowned restaurant chain Serafina to create a signature dish named Ubah Hot Pizza, combining her entrepreneurial ventures with culinary art.

Reality TV Stardom

Ubah Hassan joined the cast of The Real Housewives of New York City in its 14th season, which premiered in 2023. On the show, she quickly became a standout with her witty remarks and unfiltered opinions. Her heated dispute with co-star Erin Lichy became one of the most talked-about moments of the season.

However, her dynamic on the show has not always been without controversy. Recent episodes showcased her clashing with Brynn Whitfield, where fans criticized her comments, describing them as unnecessary and confrontational. These moments have sparked debates but have undoubtedly kept Ubah Hassan in the public eye.

Net Worth and Achievements

As of 2024, Ubah Hassan’s net worth is estimated to be between $1.5 million and $2 million. A significant portion of her wealth comes from her modeling career, business ventures, and appearances on RHONY. Her vegan hot sauce brand has proven to be a lucrative endeavor, adding a steady stream of income to her portfolio.

Notable Accolades

• Featured as Model.com’s Model of the Week (2008)
• Named one of Oprah’s Favorite Things for Ubah Hot (2021)
• Winner of the Elle Genius Award for her philanthropic efforts with Maji Umbrellas (2012)

Personal Struggles and Triumphs

Life has posed its fair share of challenges for Ubah Hassan, from being uprooted due to war to starting afresh in a foreign land. The loss of her mother to leukemia in 2012 was another difficult moment in her life. This personal tragedy motivated her to amplify her philanthropic efforts, raising funds and awareness for cancer research.

Her transition from modeling to entrepreneurship came with hurdles as well, particularly in balancing business with her evolving career in entertainment. Nonetheless, Ubah Hassan has consistently relied on her resilience to prevail over adversity, embodying strength and tenacity.

Height, Weight, and Personal Details

• Height: 5 feet 11.5 inches (182 cm)
• Weight: Approximately 135 pounds (61 kg)
• Nationality: Somali-Canadian
• Known For: Modeling, Ubah Hot, RHONY

Ubah Hassan is also a practicing Muslim and prioritizes her faith as a guiding principle in her life. She is currently in a relationship with investment banker Oliver Dachsel, which she confirmed during a recent red carpet appearance.

Philanthropy and Advocacy

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Ubah Hassan is deeply committed to philanthropy. She co-founded Maji Umbrellas, a brand that donates a portion of its profits to support clean water initiatives in East Africa. For this effort, she received the Elle Genius Award in 2012.

As an ambassador for Oxfam’s Sisters on the Planet organization, Ubah Hassan advocates for gender equality and voices out against systemic discrimination. She has also worked closely with nonprofit organizations such as Toms Shoes and All Hands and Hearts, providing essentials to underserved communities around the globe.

Recent News

The 15th season of The Real Housewives of New York City is already generating buzz, with Ubah Hassan returning to the franchise. However, her contentious interactions with Brynn Whitfield have become fodder for fans, who are divided in their opinions of her. Headlines like “Ubah Goes Off the Deep End” and “Fans Blast Ubah Hassan for Remarks About Brynn Whitfield” have dominated discussions about RHONY.

Outside of reality TV, Ubah Hassan plans to expand her business ventures. Fans eagerly await updates on new product launches from Ubah Hot as well as her ongoing collaboration with global culinary brands.

Key Information About Ubah Hassan

Closing Thoughts

From a challenging start in life to her current status as a model, entrepreneur, and reality TV star, Ubah Hassan’s story is as inspiring as it is multifaceted. She exemplifies resilience, creativity, and social consciousness, making her a standout personality in every realm she enters. Whether it is as a style icon, a culinary innovator, or a reality TV star, Ubah Hassan continues to redefine success.