From a young age I had always been quite interested in being creative - drawing, painting and taking photographs. I’d moved to London when I was little and instantly was exposed to a rich, vibrant and energetic environment. With London being so multicultural there was always something for inspiration and I couldn’t help but use it the best way I could. I am very much thankful to the people at Bold Creative as they helped to think further about design and how it could be used, importantly allowing me to work with young people but also doing what I love to do best…design.

Since coming back from Pakistan, I’ve been finishing off several illustrations and a book about the journey. I have finished a collection of garments for charity Paraa, and designed freelance for Paperchase. I am currently interning with designer Emilio De La Morena and finishing off my last year on my degree. 

After graduating I would like to be the Cultural and Diversity Officer for University of the Arts London if elected. Also, I would like to travel to Lebanon and research more about raw silk as well as Bangladesh to visit silk farms and work with fashion designers there for charity Paraa.

• View Rukia's blog of her creative work →
• Rukia's designs at Paraa fashion show →