Meet GFF Talent, Yasmin Ibrahim, a graduate from The University of East London. Yasmin’s final collection delves into her personal and cultural history – confronting traumatic experiences and bravely reclaiming her body, narrative and future. Read about Yasmin’s work below. TW: Sexual assault and child abuse.
What is the most valuable thing you have learnt at university?
I have learned to be patient, as lots of things can go wrong last minute such as printing and designing changes. As a designer, I have to be creative on the spot and see beyond the mistake. I end up being more pleased with the new idea than the old one.
What was the starting point of inspiration for your final project?
I was the victim of a dangerous act called FGM when I was 6 years old. A lot of my inspiration was drawn from my experience and stories from my past.
What materials have you used and how did you source them?
I used a football jersey fabric for most of my collection. Growing up in a country ruined by civil war, the children of Somalia found solace in things like football. Almost all of the kids are wearing a second-hand, cheap football shirt even though we aren't part of any football championship, it's still their way to express themselves. The jersey used was to replicate that essence of being back home. Most of my material was sourced through fabric shops in different parts of London. I also got materials from Somali shops that sell traditional materials.
How has it evolved from your initial ideas and what have you learnt along the way?
When I wanted to do my FMP on FGM I was scared to have flashbacks to the day it happened to me. I never dealt with this trauma properly before. I kept on having creative blocks because my fear was holding me back. The biggest reason why I pushed through my fears was to help raise awareness for more young girls and women.
Telling my story was so personal and so emotional that it was mostly my own experience and journey that made up a majority of the research in the collection. A lot of the material choice was from memory of the day and how things were afterwards. The mat was similar to the one we used to sit on for all occasions in Somalia. The word Jirkeeyga (meaning my body) was printed all over my collection to prove that I'm taking ownership; it's my body, not yours. I overcame my fears through this collection and it felt like healing to me more than anything else.
What are the messages and themes behind your project that you want people to take away? Do explore any topics like diversity, sustainability or politics in your work?
As an FGM survivor, I'm using my collection to do something good. When I was 6 years old I was told no man will marry me if I don't agree to go under FGM. I was carried to a mat so that can they can perform the practice. This is not about marrying, this is about child abuse and taking control of my sexuality. In Islam, there's no mention of FGM. There's a lot of confusion between acts like child marriage and FGM in Islamic countries and how they're religious practices. I can contest that it has absolutely nothing to do with religion. I will be advocating for women's rights using my collection. I also want people to believe that they can advocate for what is right in any way they can.
What’s an aspect of the fashion industry that you’re passionate about fixing or having a positive impact on?
I am a modesty streetwear designer. Personally, I didn't feel like there was anything specific enough and expressive enough for women like myself. Women who enjoy wearing streetwear garments but also are trying to look modest. Growing up I didn't want to wear abayas and look like a clone of my mother and aunties. The majority of old abayas all had the same silhouette and all came in one size. I want young Muslim girls to express themselves through fashion but at the same time feel comfortable and to uphold their integrity through their right to wear what makes them feel like a woman.
What is your plan once you finish your BA?
I am working on new ideas using colour and patterns inspired by my country and other stories. I'm going to continue to use my work to support women's rights and also continuing the spreading message about FGM.