As the first British Indian model to break into the modelling elite, Neelam Gill is making quite a name for herself.
She’s worked with the likes of Burberry, Kanye West and Dior – next step = world domination. Remember the name: Neelam Gill.
Here’s what you need to know…
Born in 1995 in Coventry, Neelam signed for Models 1 at the age of 14. She made her catwalk debut for Burberry in September 2013 and the next year she became the first Indian model to star in a campaign for the British brand. She’s also walked the catwalk for Kanye and Dior, and starred in campaigns for Abercrombie & Fitch and British Airways.
Gill has been honest and outspoken about online bullying, racism and depression in the media.
Neelam on online bullying (and beating the trolls):
“People say the worst things about me, but I don’t hate them for it. I don’t hate anyone in this world. I just feel sorry because they’re so deeply insecure. If you’re a secure person you never feel the need to write anything negative online.”
Neelam on depression:
The model has spoken honestly about her struggles with depression, saying that sometimes she is so down she can’t get out of bed. Speaking in a YouTube video she said:
“When you’re so hard on yourself, you need to allow yourself to have that moment. And then become strong from it.”
Neelam on YouTube:
You can watch the model telling it like it is on her YouTube channel{
Neelam on feminism and the pay gap:
“Men always tell me that I’m being paid more than them for the same job. I reply ‘good’. What’s the problem with that? I’m touchy about it because look how many industries are male-dominated — women work their asses off only for men to be promoted above them.”
“I consider myself a feminist because I believe that men and women should be equal. I don’t see feminism as the way you dress. I see it as your values. You can be a feminist and do a shoot in a bikini. In fact, that is empowering.”
Neelam on working with Kanye:
“He was really nice. And shy.”
Neelam on Instagram:
You should follow her. Now.