IN A CANDID CONVERSATION WITH ICE TODAY, GERMAN-BANGLADESHI MODEL PIA AHMED OPENS UP ABOUT HER CAREER, PHILOSOPHIES AND JEWELLERY BRAND, PI/AH
How did it all begin for you? Did you face any particular challenges?
I was born in Hannover, Germany, but I have always been connected to my roots through my parents and regular visits to Bangladesh. I am grateful that I have been able to grow up with privileges and freedom, but as I age, I have been trying to find my own identity. Am I German, or am I Bangladeshi? I draw from the practices and beliefs that appeal to me from either culture, but I’m also aware of the social issues that exist in both. This search for my identity plays a crucial part in my modelling career.
My modelling career started after I did a couple of shoots and an agency approached me. A few of my friends had also encouraged me to pursue it as I have a look and appeal that is rare in Germany. But modelling has been more than a career to me; it is a platform to represent and empower other first-generation immigrants who identify with me. Growing up, I had only seen white models in the media and fashion industry and this is especially true for a country like Germany, where there is not much diversity. For me, my career is a step towards more representation of South Asian and Bangladeshi models in this part of the world.
You studied political science and later worked on issues such as racism, discrimination, diversity and migration. What inspired you to be so involved in social activism?
There are human rights violations all around the world. Particularly in Germany, issues of racism and xenophobia are still at large. The refugee crisis in Europe has exposed a multitude of human rights violations. Immigrants who are legally contributing to the growth and development of the economy are not treated fairly. Often my parents and even I have to experience the intolerant side of Germany because of our race. While a lot of work has been done to make things better, I believe there is still a lot to be done, but not enough people are devoted to making that change. This is why it is very important to me to be directly involved in with these issues. My parents, who have regularly been involved in political work and social activities have been a huge inspiration for me in this undertaking.
MODELLING HAS BEEN MORE THAN A CAREER TO ME; IT IS A PLATFORM TO REPRESENT AND EMPOWER OTHER FIRST-GENERATION IMMIGRANTS WHO IDENTIFY WITH ME.
Could you tell us a bit about your jewellery brand, PI/AH Studio?
This is a small business that I started in 2021. For now, I am making handmade chain-link earrings, necklaces, and bracelets crafted with freshwater pearls. It is a new venture and I have not been able to do much yet, but I plan on launching a variety of different jewellery styles in the future. I have been busy with my bachelor thesis, among other responsibilities, so I have not been able to fully dedicate myself to my brand. But I am really excited to launch my first collection, hopefully within the next 2 months.
What does PI/AH represent?
PI/AH represents diversity and diaspora. More than crafting aesthetically pleasing designs, I orchestrate my brand to tell my story; the story of a German-Bangladeshi designer trying to promote social awareness. I aim to represent my Bangladeshi heritage as much as possible in my designs and inspire conversations about diversity and diaspora.
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