Nejm, whose real name is Deborrah Samantha Johnson, is a multifaceted Indian rapper, model, and reality TV personality. She gained national recognition through her participation in MTV Roadies Season 19: Karm Ya Kaand in 2023. Her stage name, Nejm, is derived from the Tamil word Nejam, meaning “truth,” reflecting her commitment to authenticity and self-expression.
🎓 Early Life & Education
- Born: 2000 (Age 23 as of 2023)
- Hometown: Chennai, India
- Education: Studied English Literature at Madras Christian College, Chennai
- Upbringing: Spent part of her childhood in Delhi
During her college years, Nejm balanced academics with work, taking on roles such as an IELTS tutor and soft skills trainer. She also participated in the 2019 Times Fresh Face competition, marking the beginning of her journey in the entertainment industry.
🎤 Music & Modeling Career
Nejm’s foray into music began with underground rap battles in Chennai, notably at events like Porkalam, where she stood out in a male-dominated scene. Her original rap titled Change garnered attention, leading to collaborations such as the single I’m Trouble with musician Deveshwaar. Other notable tracks include Wachuwant and Fatal.
In addition to her music career, Nejm has made significant strides in modeling. She has worked with various clothing brands, including Mokshaa in Chennai, and has been featured in print shoots and fashion events.
📺 MTV Roadies & Public Persona
In 2023, Nejm auditioned for MTV Roadies Season 19: Karm Ya Kaand and was selected to join Gautam Gulati’s gang. Her audition was memorable, with judge Gautam Gulati dancing to her rap performance and host Sonu Sood engaging with her in Tamil, creating a comfortable atmosphere for her.
Throughout the show, Nejm was known for her resilience and authenticity. In interviews, she emphasized the importance of staying true to oneself and using one’s experiences as a source of strength. She stated, “You have to think with your brains but play with other people’s brains to stay in a game like this.”
Her journey on Roadies, though cut short, left a lasting impression on audiences, highlighting her as a symbol of empowerment and determination.
💬 Personal Philosophy & Advocacy
Nejm is an advocate for body positivity and mental health awareness. She embraces her identity as a dark-skinned, curvy woman, challenging societal norms and encouraging others to do the same. Her music often delves into personal struggles, serving as an outlet for her experiences and a source of inspiration for her listeners.
In interviews, she has spoken candidly about overcoming personal challenges, including past traumas and mental health issues, using her art as a means of healing and empowerment.
📸 Social Media & Public Engagement
Nejm maintains an active presence on social media, particularly on Instagram under the handle @keepinitnejm, where she shares insights into her life, music, and fashion endeavors. Her content reflects her commitment to authenticity, creativity, and social advocacy.