British Bangladeshi Rokeya Khanum's Journey from Hostels to High Fashion

In an inspiring tale of resilience and ambition, British-Bangladeshi designer Rokeya Khanum has transformed her personal struggles into a globally recognized luxury fashion brand. The founder of Khanum's, a label celebrated for its intricate designs and commitment to slow fashion, has become a symbol of empowerment for women from marginalized communities worldwide.

Born and raised in East London to Bangladeshi immigrant parents who worked as garment factory tailors, Rokeya was exposed to the world of fashion and craftsmanship from a young age. This upbringing instilled in her a deep appreciation for clothing construction and a fusion of Eastern embellishments with Western aesthetics. However, her path to success was far from straightforward. As a teenager, she became a young, single mother and found herself living in hostels. In the face of immense hardship, Rokeya was driven by a powerful desire to challenge the stigma placed on women in her situation. This determination led her to pursue and earn a law degree, after which she embarked on a corporate career to provide for her son.

It was during this time that she started Khanum's as a side hustle in 2018 with just £2,000 of her own savings. The brand, whose name means "women of honor, status, and strength," was her way of creating a new narrative for herself and for women like her. She began by creating heavily embellished statement jackets, inspired by both her heritage and her desire for affordable luxury pieces. The brand quickly gained traction, thanks in part to collaborations with influencers and a strong social media presence.

Khanum's success story is a testament to Rokeya's tenacity and vision. She was able to leave her corporate job to dedicate herself full-time to the brand, which has since been featured in prestigious magazines like Vogue and Harper's Bazaar, and worn by A-list celebrities.  Beyond her business achievements, Rokeya is a philanthropist, serving as an ambassador for The Bangladesh Education Trust, where she works to combat child labor and provide access to education in rural communities. Her brand's philosophy is rooted in both duality—the blending of cultures and identities—and giving back, with plans to open a female-run atelier in rural Bangladesh by 2028.