Presenter, illustrator, fashion creative and consultant Arooj Aftab has been breaking down barriers in the quest for inclusivity within the fashion industry. Recently named in the inaugural Vogue Business 100 Innovators list, Arooj is recognised as an industry tastemaker and poses important questions about the language we use to promote real and meaningful diversity.

In January 2020, she launched #donewithdiversity, which combines her passion for inclusivity within the fashion world and her talent for illustration. The project aims to encourage brands and publishing platforms to rethink their language and consider if they are truly inclusive to all. Last year, she was announced as the new host for Tommy Hilfiger’s third Fashion Frontier, which saw her interview Tommy Hilfiger and CEO Martijn Hagman.

With acknowledgements from The Asian Media Awards, Vogue, Bustle,
Stylist Magazine and more, Arooj has been navigating the way for meaningful and long-lasting conversations around accessibility in the fashion industry. These consultations aim to guide brands for better workplace practices internally and also in their outward-facing messaging.

Growing up in Bradford, West Yorkshire, living with a genetic condition (NF) and moving to London in 2019, Arooj is fascinated by the nuances of the different cultures, clothing choices and trends she sees inside and outside her home. Describing herself as a multihyphenate, her ability for storytelling with the likes of Microsoft, Bicester Village, Ugg, Bare Minerals, Lacoste and more, allows Arooj to create engaging content whilst tapping into new audiences.