Our wider community continues to be more important than ever. As a branch of our Community Connection initiatives and building on our brand heritage, our AW22 'I AM' shoot spotlights individuals from our wider community, celebrating their talents, unique personalities, stories and diverse backgrounds - adding to our support of emerging talent.
Watch the full AW22 interview here
Tell us a little bit about yourself...
I am 44, from Coventry and of Jamaican heritage. I am a husband, father of 2 and very proud of my family and all we have achieved so far. My background is in Graphic Design: but it’s Fashion retail where my career and experience were developed working between high street and high end brands. I am now the Co-founder of a community group called the Curious Boys Girls Club - We want to inspire people (with a specific focus on men at this point to be more open about their life and feelings).
I am creatively curious, looking for inspiration in the world around us from all industries. Whether it’s art, science, technology or design. My biggest inspiration is my children and creating opportunities for them which is all about play, curiosity and building bridges between different experiences.
Do you remember French Connection / FCUK growing up?
I always remember the windows, I used to be a Visual Merchandiser and we would always look at the bold eye-catching windows and be intrigued by the brand.
Who/what has inspired you the most?
There are so many people, but I am continually inspired. Whether it's my mum instilling good values and fashion sense; to my incredible wife and kids inspiring me to be the best husband and father; or the incredible bosses that I have had, helping me to push creative boundaries and guide my career.
How would you describe your personal style?
Modern eclectic - I like tailoring with sportswear, mixed with a bit of grunge. Nothing should be too slick and perfect. I am a bit of a fashion chameleon, but you will generally see me wearing black.
From people you’ve worked with in the industry, peers or role models, what’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
Don't ask anybody to do something if you are not prepared to do it yourself.
What causes are close to you heart?
Men’s Mental health and Wellbeing is a major one for me. Along with something I have suffered with daily for the past 8 years and that is Fibromyalgia or Chronic Pain Condition. Its debilitating and crippling and nobody would recognise that you are suffering from the outside.
How important is community to you?
It's very important surrounding yourself with people that can support, inspire and guide each other through good and bad. I am part of many communities. There is no one shoe fits all and we have all have different parts of our personality that needs a focus at different times.
What hobbies do you enjoy when you’re not modelling/outside of work?
I love watching football, especially my son’s team. I enjoy visiting art galleries with my daughter, building Lego and I’m addicted to collecting (or hoarding as my wife says) sneakers.
Tell us something about yourself that might surprise us...
I planned a surprise Caribbean wedding, which inspired Don't tell the Bride
Quick fire:
I AM... Curious
Spring summer or autumn winter… Spring Summer
Currently binge-watching… The Home Edit
After work, you’ll usually find me… Chilling with the kids
What's the one thing you can't live without? Music
Career highlight so far… Well living and working in New York was definitely at the top but I have had so many it's difficult to choose one window, project, event or company.
