Ikram Abdi Omar was the first hijab-wearing model in the UK to appear on the cover of Vogue at the age of 21 and the first face of the Burberry fashion brand in 2019.
The Swedish-born, 23-year-old Somali model who lives in Bristol says her legacy and religious beliefs have greatly influenced her modeling career.
“I love the idea that everyone can express themselves differently and convey a message through fashion alone,” she says.
“I believe my role in this industry is empowering women in and of itself, because it shows that women have the choice to wear whatever they want – whether or not that includes showing their bodies – while still feeling radiant,” she says.
She continues: "The hijab in itself is a very important thing for me because it symbolizes modesty and beauty, it shows confidence, and it is a reminder that I have the choice to dress however I want."
“In a more spiritual sense, I feel closer to God and to Islam when I wear the hijab, and this feeling is increasing over the years.”
When Ikram told her relatives in 2018 that she intended to leave her studies in biomedical sciences to start her modeling career, there were mixed reactions.
"I felt like my grandparents would think of modeling as indecent and worrying," she says.
But after I talked to them about the modest fashion shows, they became more knowledgeable, and they also saw pictures that made them more comfortable."
Although her father, Abdi Omar, wanted her to complete her studies at the University of the West of England, he supported her choice.
About this, he says, "I think that as long as it does not affect her religious beliefs, I have no objection."
He added, "Many in Somali society questioned Ikram's career path, and we had to explain to them. The old generations do not accept anything about modeling or women being in front of the public, but it is important to educate them and explain to them that if you have values and morals, then Western society will respect you."
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