Emily Rose England is a working class London-based photographer who specialises in analogue mediums. She has produced editorial work for I-D Magazine, Dazed & Confused and Wonderland.
In late November of this year, Emily sent me over her thoughts and opinions about the current climate of the fashion industry and the struggles and challenges working class creatives face.
Emily spoke about the support she received from her family when she decided at a young age she wanted to pursue art and photography.
She admits that her grandparents weren't always 100% behind it but she can recognise why. "I know that they come from a different time, my gran was a stay at home mum, so they don't always get it."
"If anything it just strengthened my resolve to do it because I know what truly is going to make me happy."
Emily discussed how being from a working class upbringing can create feelings of imposter syndrome when working in industries like fashion.
"you have to work so hard and do so much more and when you feel as though you don't get the same oppturnities as people from privileged backgrounds it f***s with you."
She explains "it can create imposter syndrome as it makes it harder for you to see what you've achieved."
Emily's personal portfolio is made up predominately of people from minority backgrounds. "Its important to show the world minorities still exist."
"We are amazing and incredible and powerful and beautiful people."
"I am very proud of the community I am in. I'm proud of being working class despite not having the same start to life as those born into privilege."
But she urges everyone to offer their help to those who need it.
"Try and support these artists, give them your time and attention, support them financially so they can get out of poverty and focus on their art."
Little things can be done by everyone to make a difference Emily explains "Don't give your attention to big corporations even though its so hard when they're everywhere."
Emily has hope for changes to be made in the future. "We need a society that takes better care of its people for us to reach our full potential."
To hear more about the working class creatives working in the fashion industry look out for our radio documentary coming January 2021.
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