Bold move: After launching her own contemporary womenswear brand, Bedouin, before the age of 25, Andraya is one serious gutsy lady. “Being a 25-year-old woman and starting my own business was a very scary prospect. You come across all kinds of hurdles that you don’t expect, but you learn to persevere. I have learnt to appreciate every small achievement and be grateful that I am doing what I love. I also learnt to take risks, as you don’t regret the things you do, only the things you don’t do!”
Work ethic: Starting your own fashion label may be the stuff of every fashion graduate’s dream, but then Andraya is not your average Central Saint Martins alum. Her CV reads like a style who’s who and she’s worked for everyone from Matthew Williamson in London to Marchesa & Edun in New York and DVF in Bangalore, India. “I learnt so much from the inspiring people that surrounded me, but mostly I learnt that determination and creativity are two of the most important skills to harness. It is surprising what you can achieve if you put your mind to something!”
Future goals: Andraya has represented Dubai at London Fashion Week for two years running, now she hopes to take the Bedouin philosophy global. “My ultimate goal is to develop Bedouin into a brand that gives women an inner confidence and encourages spontaneity. Through my designs I would love for women to feel flattered and comfortable, giving them more time to achieve their life dreams.”
Be inspired: “I am just a normal girl that dreamed big and worked hard. I hope that I can encourage other people to become entrepreneurs. With determination you can achieve anything you dream of.”