AUTOBIOGRAPHY

Born in the town of Winchester in 2006, my journey began with an unexpected twist as I entered the world alongside my twin brother. This early connection has shaped my life in extraordinary ways, a bond that has endured through the years. My appreciation for creativity and the arts (in particular; fashion design, photography, and cuisine) blossomed from a young age, influenced by my travels and the various cultures I have been lucky enough to experience. 

Throughout my youth, I have participated in a variety of sports and extracurricular activities, ranging from sailing and rugby to scouts, dance, photography, and acting. These diverse pursuits have not only kept me physically active but also instilled me with a sense of discipline and teamwork. Yet, it was within the realm of cuisine that I found a love for creativity. Crafting elaborate 5+ course meals became a hallmark of my leisures, and in 2019, I successfully completed a junior chef program. The culinary world opened up to me, revealing the intricate world of flavours and the artistry of presentation. Alongside this, I was also shortlisted to partake in junior bake off before COVID-19 put a hold on production.

My intrigue with fashion deepened over the years, evolving from hours spent reading fashion magazines (and exploring my mother's wardrobe), to actively sketching, experimenting with fabrics, and creating unique designs. In the winter of 2022, I was approached to become a sales associate for Anthropologie Winchester. The manager's interest was piqued by my distinctive approach to styling and pairing garments, this opportunity allowed me to delve deeper into the retail side of the fashion industry. As part of my A-level courses I have further explored and improved my techniques; in Textiles looking at both the development of samples and the process of designing and crafting garments, in History I have refined my analytical and literacy skills, and in Business I have built upon my understanding of industry and the various factors that hold influence.

As the chapters of my life unfolded, I navigated the journey of self-discovery, eventually embracing and understanding my identity as a gay individual. This transformative process, marked by challenges and liberation, significantly influenced my perspective on life. The realisation that I could authentically be myself brought a sense of freedom and acceptance. I came to understand that fashion wasn't merely a hobby but an integral part of me, providing a means to express myself and convey my inner vision. Clothing became a form of storytelling, a visual narrative of my identity and experiences. The combination of fashion, identity, and self-expression has become a significant part of who I am, shaping not only my personal style but also influencing my artistic endeavours.

Life is full of challenges, and my journey has been no exception; I've encountered ups and downs with a battle through depression that has taught me the importance of resilience, self-care, and seeking support. It has fostered a sense of empathy and understanding towards others facing similar challenges, and why breaking the stigma around mental health is so important to me. As I continue to mature and evolve, I am excited to welcome the unfolding chapters of my life as an artist and designer, and am ready to embrace the opportunities that come my way.