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After a sudden departure from the world of fashion in 2020, Halima Aden returns to the spotlight, gracing the cover of Vogue magazine. However, this time, she’s back on her own terms, embracing her roots and empowering others along the way.The picturesque village of Chefchaouen in Morocco, with its mesmerizing blue palette, serves as the backdrop for Aden’s reentry into the industry. Each cobblestone alley is imbued with history, transporting visitors to a realm where serenity and strength coalesce. Blue, representing the sky and divinity, envelops the village, bridging the gap between the physical and the ethereal.Aden’s choice of location is not coincidental—it echoes her personal journey. She exudes a sense of tranquility and power as we meet, a testament to her unwavering spirit and the strength of her identity.The connection between Aden and Vogue Arabia is profound, dating back to 2017 when she became the first veiled personality on the magazine’s cover. Her appearance marked a historic moment, resonating deeply with hijabi women worldwide who had longed for representation on such a platform. Her unapologetic approach to life was evident even then, as she broke barriers at the Miss Minnesota USA competition by participating in a burkini and veil.Aden’s career soared, accompanied by red carpet appearances and glamorous fashion weeks. Yet, in 2020, a sense of unease prevailed. Aden found herself at a crossroads where her faith, mental well-being, and career no longer aligned. In a candid series of Instagram stories, she critiqued fashion shoots that compromised her hijab and identity. The pandemic-induced pause prompted deep introspection, revealing her desire for a more authentic representation of the hijab and her identity. The end of her career had also brought forward concerns about the industry’s work conditions, especially for models. Aden points out the lack of privacy backstage and the need for better treatment of all models, not just those who wear hijabs.Aden’s decision to speak out reverberated through the media, sparking conversations and discussions about industry practices. While she acknowledges the honesty in her message, she reflects that she could have been gentler in her approach. However, she stands by her decision, as fashion, she believes, necessitates unfiltered honesty amid its often harsh realities.Now, Aden’s story takes a new turn—one of empowerment, mindfulness, and creative exploration. After focusing on her mental health and undergoing therapy, she is collaborating with Snapchat on “Club Unity,” a project encouraging Gen Z to share their mental health journeys. Aden acknowledges the privilege of therapy, vowing to support those who lack access to it.Aden’s journey of empowerment extends beyond herself. Her collaboration with Vita Coco resulted in a children’s book benefiting communities supported by the brand. She is also set to release a ready-to-wear collection in collaboration with a Jordanian entrepreneur and is partnering with Modanisa, designing turbans and headscarves.While her modeling career may have taken a backseat, Aden’s projects continue to shine brightly. She is writing her story on her own terms, unapologetically defining herself and her narrative. Aden’s life story, from a refugee camp in Kenya to international success, resonates with hope, resilience, and empowerment. Her collaboration with RefuSHE—a platform for and by refugee girls—exemplifies her dedication to making a difference. Aden speaks of the power of hope in the lives of refugees, how they cling to it even in the face of adversity.With her eyes set on the film industry, Aden aims to reshape perceptions of Muslim women, offering a nuanced perspective through her writing. She recognizes the potential to portray modern Muslim women authentically, breaking stereotypes and fostering understanding.Halima Aden’s journey is one of inspiration, courage, and transformation. As she graces the pages of Vogue once again, it’s evident that she’s not just a model—she’s a trailblazer, a storyteller, and a beacon of hope for those seeking their voices and identities in a complex world.
