Fathima Shyan Haniffa

My name is Fathima Shyan Haniffa, and I am a single mother of three children. For many years, my life revolved entirely around raising them, and I didn’t have any formal qualifications in fashion or graphic design — or any professional creative background. But deep inside, I always felt a pull towards creativity. Over time, I began to feel the urge to do something for myself, something that would help me grow both personally and professionally.

In 2023, I took a step towards that dream by completing a Level 2 Textiles course at Hounslow Adult Education. It was through this course that I realised fashion design was something I wanted to pursue seriously. This discovery led me to Westminster Adult Education Service (WAES), where I decided to take my first real steps into the world of fashion by enrolling in the UAL Level 3 Diploma in Fashion Design in 2023–2024. The textiles course had shown me that I had a genuine passion and talent for creative work, and I wanted to challenge myself, build a portfolio, and see if I could truly make fashion my career.

During my time on the fashion diploma, I learned how to research, process, and produce garments from concept to completion. I created three complete outfits and two professional portfolios that I am extremely proud of. Once I finished the course, I knew I wanted to start my own brand — but I also realised I needed strong graphic design skills to create my brand’s logo, website, and promotional materials. So, in 2024–2025, I enrolled in the UAL Level 2 Art & Design Diploma in Graphic Design at WAES. The graphic design course opened a whole new world for me. I learned to work with different tools, materials, and processes, as well as how to carry out research that inspires and guides my designs. I developed my drawing and design skills, redesigned packaging — including creating a completely new juice carton concept with a professional pitch — and learned how to create branding and logos. This even led to me designing the official logo for my own fashion brand. I also explored creating animated GIF logos and designing for both print and digital, from magazine covers to product campaigns and other promotional work.

One of my favourite projects was creating magazine covers from scratch, combining handmade elements, Adobe Illustrator, and Photoshop. I also loved designing products and professional website layouts to promote my own brand. Seeing my brand visually come to life through my own designs was incredibly exciting. Studying at WAES has been a truly supportive experience. I have now been here for almost two years and am already planning my next step — studying Digital Marketing for Business, which I know will be crucial for building my brand online. I am deeply grateful for the tutors and staff, especially Stephanie Williams for fashion design, Gayathri Anthey for graphic design, and David Barnett from careers and learners team. They helped me create a strong foundation to move towards my dream. When I started, I had no past experience or qualifications in either field, and both courses were completely new to me. I had no knowledge except for my curiosity and interest. The tutors never judged me for my starting point — instead, they treated everyone equally and respectfully, took time to explain things clearly, offered extra help when needed, and always encouraged us to push our ideas further. Without that kind of support, I would not have come this far.

My proudest achievement so far has been completing my UAL Level 3 Diploma in Fashion Design with a Distinction, followed by the Level 2 Art & Design Diploma in Graphic Design, also with a Distinction — all without any previous formal qualifications. My fashion portfolio was so strong that I was offered a place at the London College of Fashion purely on the strength of my work, without even needing an interview.

In graphic design, I developed a complete visual identity for my brand – SHYANZ, from the logo to packaging, labels, promotional materials, and even the first designs for my website. This means that when I launch my business, I will already have a strong, professional brand image. These courses have transformed my confidence and my future. I now have the creative and technical skills to run my own fashion brand and promote it professionally. I have secured a place to study BA (Hons) Fashion Design and Development at London College of Fashion, which I plan to start next year. I am also preparing to launch my brand, Shyanz.co.uk, soon. Alongside this, I plan to study digital marketing at WAES to strengthen my online presence. My long-term goal is to grow SHYANZ into a full fashion label and, in time, introduce a complete clothing line under the brand.

My journey has also inspired my friends, family, and children. They have seen that it is never too late to start over and follow your dreams. They watched me go from having no qualifications or knowledge in this field to gaining distinctions, being accepted into university, and preparing to launch my own brand. I hope my story inspires others in my community to believe in themselves and take that first step. When I joined WAES, all I had was a Level 2 Textiles qualification and determination. If you’re hesitating because you think you don’t know enough — don’t. WAES will meet you where you are and help you grow. If I can do this as a single mother with no previous experience, anyone can.

I am truly thankful to WAES for helping me turn my dream into reality, instead of it staying just a dream.