Oldham shoe designer set to make headlines

Mariam Surjan, a 23-year-old budding Shoe Designer and Graphic Design student studying her last year at University Campus Oldham, is set to make huge waves in the fashion and footwear industry over the next couple of years.

Mariam has always lived in Oldham alongside her British Bangladeshi siblings and parents.

She was just 19 years old when she launched her dream brand, La Benim.

La Benim is a luxury shoe brand that combines South Asian culture, heritage, ethnic designs, and rich colours with a twist of modernity to make you look, feel, and step in amazement.

High-end shoe designs prioritise brides and celebrate footwear as an heirloom to preserve memories for brides and their future generations.

As a proud British Bangladeshi Muslim, Mariam realised she was highly creative and loved to surround herself with other ambitious individuals.

Still, she wanted to ensure she included her culture in that creative vision.

Studying at Oldham College and excelling in the Arts, Mariam quickly realised which route she wanted to pursue.

It wasn’t easy balancing her studies, working part-time jobs, and supporting a growing dream, but Mariam’s family kept her going and believed in her vision for the future.

Mariam said: “I am about as Oldham as they come, but that doesn’t mean my dreams stop there.

"In 2024, I was honoured to showcase my designs at a debut show in Dubai in partnership with The Fashion Connect.

"Seeing my shoes come to life and gain recognition was surreal, and working alongside other talented individuals spurred my vision even further.

"I knew from that moment that La Benim would be something much bigger.

“I have since designed even more collections and taken the brand to India to explore the rich fashion heritage further.

"La Benim was the official footwear partner for the event, which allowed my artistry to be seen amongst global fashion contacts.

"Asian culture is vast, and as a British Bangladeshi Muslim, it was important to me that my designs capture the colours, culture, and traditions of my heritage.

"It was a defining experience that reinforced my passion and opened new doors.”

With another exciting event in London later in the year and a new upcoming collection, Mariam hopes that her brand will continue to grow.

Find out more about La Benim by visiting the website:  www.labenim.com

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