Campus Connection

Mariah Idrissi, one of the first Muslim, hijab-wearing models, will give two presentations Oct. 23-24

Mariah Idrissi, one of the first Muslim, hijab-wearing models, is working to empower women while making the fashion world more representative of all people. Idrissi will give two presentations at UW-La Crosse Oct. 23-24. Idrissi will present “Muslim, Model, and Motivation” at 4 p.m. Monday, Oct.23, in 1400 Centennial Hall. Modeling isn’t just for fame or for company for Idrissi. The model, who has been interviewed by national and international news outlets such as CNN, BBC and Al Jazeera, takes modeling as a way of role modeling for girls and women all over the world. In her life plans, modeling is just one role in which she hopes to bring awareness and comfort to women looking for balance, a place in the world, and their power. Idrissi will also present “Changing the Face of Fashion” at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 24 in 1309 Centennial Hall. Idrissi connects two worlds — the world of fashion and Muslim women — as one of the first Muslim models in an H&M promo. In the presentation, Idrissi explores the changing and evolving role of inclusion in fashion, and the importance of representation in all fields, and especially fashion. She also explores the ways representation in fashion and elsewhere can lead to breaking down barriers of misconceptions and Islamophobia. The presentations are organized by UWL's Anti-Islamophobia Working group in conjunction with UWL's Fashion Week. About Mariah Idrissi Idrissi is the world’s first hijab-wearing model to be signed to ‘Select’ models and featured in a global campaign for H&M late 2015. In addition to being a model, she is an international public speaker, promoting female empowerment. She is also part of a growing movement bringing modest fashion to the masses regardless of faith or background. She has also been featured in high fashion magazines worldwide such as Marie Claire, Teen Vogue and Grazia. Growing up in London, England, Idrissi studied at a local Islamic school for 10 years and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English Literature. Idrissi is an advocate for various humanitarian causes, one of which endorses charity Human Care Syria in the ‘Women’s Hygiene and Sanitation Project.’ Also, as part of an NHS social action campaign to drive young donors to register and give blood, Idrissi joined other leading Black and Asian public figures in an online promotional video campaign. The Telegraph’s Fashion News and Features Editor, Bibby Sowray credits Mariah Idrissi as “one of the first to make waves in the industry.”