Oumayma Elboumeshouli

Creative Director AGE: 23 NATIONALITY: Moroccan/Dutch INSTAGRAM: @oumaymaboumeshouli

Did you always know you wanted to get into a creative field? Yes, since a young age I knew I wanted to be in the creative field. I think I also got it from my dad, who used to be a photographer and major DIY’er. He can make the most artistic things just from items we use in our daily life, like turning two plates into a desk lamp or a coat rack into a mosquito net. Where do you find creative inspiration in this region? In the streets and culture. I feel like the Arabic culture is so authentic in its own way and it is fun to try and create something with it. My roots mean everything to me and they are my biggest source of inspiration so I try to feature them in my own way. Do you feel this region is stereotyped by what the media represents it to be? How are you playing a part in helping to change this? Absolutely. I grew up in The Netherlands and even there most of the people still think there is a certain image. I love the fact that this region is starting to be more open to creatives who are trying to change this image. What challenges have you faced since entering the creative industry? A lot, actually. I developed myself and learned from so many other creative people. How do you stay original, but relevant? I've learned how to bring the best out of myself and to listen to myself more. I try to translate everything that's happening in my mind into imagery. Sometimes it turns out to be good and sometimes it doesn't!