Meet: Ramiyah Kofi

Interview: Jess Barker @jess.barks

OVERCAST

Photography: Ramiyah Kofi @rmz.archivee &Alexandra Kalonji Muamba @alexandragkm
Styling & Creative Direction: Ramiyah Kofi @rmz.archivee
Models: Leilani Cottle @srormleilanii & Yves - Astrid Hobley @moorephe.ee
Designers: Dylan Furness @dylanfurness_ & Emily Crawford @byemilycrawford

Ramz is a creative force carving out her own space in the worlds of styling and creative direction. Originally from Nottingham and now based in Manchester, her work is rooted in storytelling - whether she’s exploring themes like identity, faith, or sisterhood. With a sharp eye for detail and a bold use of colour, Ramz blends culture, emotion, and visual impact to create work that feels both personal and powerful. From leading thought- provoking projects like Urban Saints to styling with unapologetic energy, Ramz is someone who’s constantly pushing creative boundaries while staying true to her roots.

We can see Grime is a huge love of yours and a big part of the culture in places like Manchester and Nottingham. How do you think grime has influenced your style and creative work? Are there parts of grime culture that you always bring into what you do?

As a lover of grime, I’ve been deeply influenced by the scene, from watching/finding legendary videos like Risky Roadz to watching the music videos and live sets. I’ve always been drawn to the raw energy, the silhouettes, the oversized proportions, and the iconic British streetwear brands that define grime’s visual language.

Over time, I realised that this aesthetic isn’t just something I admire, it feels authentic to who I am. It’s what I’m most comfortable in. It reflects that unmistakably British hip-hop edge that resonates with me. In terms of how grime influences my work, it’s the sense of community and realness that stands out.

Grime has always been about people coming together through shared experiences and stories, and that’s something I aim to carry through everything I create. No matter where my work takes me, the spirit of community and style will always be there!

SISTERHOOD

Photography: Rachel Tsang

Creative director: Ramiyah Kofi

Director: Ezra Alexander

Models: Leilani Cottle @stormleilanii & Nevaeh @4nevaaeh Kianna Leigh Smith @kiannaleighsmith & Amina Jeng @amina_jeng & Ramiyah Kofi @ramiyahkofii

 

You mention that SISTERHOOD is about that special bond between women who’ve got similar experiences or don’t have sisters to lean on. Do you think this is an important bond to build within the creative industries?

Sisterhood is such an important bond to nurture, especially within the creative scene. We’re all navigating this space together, so having that foundation of support, trust, and genuine friendship can make the journey feel a lot less daunting, and a lot more fulfilling.

When sisterhood is present, it creates a space where us women can uplift one another, collaborate meaningfully, and grow both individually and collectively. It’s about building a sense of community within the scene we’re all a part of! one where we celebrate each other’s wins, share opportunities, and feel seen. That kind of connection makes the creative process just a lot more enjoyable too.

Are there any new things you’re excited to try or explore that people might not expect?

Photography is definitely something I’d love to explore more deeply. I had the chance to shoot some of the imagery for my Overcast project, and I really enjoyed the process! It’s definitely something I want to continue developing and incorporate more into my creative practice. Whether it’s storytelling, documentation, or experimenting with visual style, photography feels like a tool that can add another layer to how I express ideas.

TIE AND ERROR
Photography: Rachel Tsang @racheltsangggg
Creative Director: Ezra Alexander
Co-Styling: Ramiyah Kofi
Models: Nigel Emordi @nigel.emordi & Ramiyah Kofi @ramiyahkofii & Jahmiah Simpson @jahmiahsimpson_ & Ezra Alexander @eoeuvre

URBAN SAINTS

Photography: Letitia Colling @letitiashoots

Creative Director: Ramiyah Kofi

Models: Tobias @shadowboyk Aise Sosa @aise.sosa Phoenix Jones @derasae Reggie Utolo @warmwarde Felix @sirdread_

Your project Urban Saints is all about juggling life between the streets and the church. As the creative director, what was it like trying to show that balance and those struggles through your work? What did you want people to really feel from it?

As the Creative Director of Urban Saints, one of the most interesting challenges was finding the right balance between representing both the streets and the church, and executing that vision in a way that felt respectful and authentic. I didn’t want to go too far in either direction or risk misrepresenting the sacredness of the church space, but I also didn’t want to dilute the reality of the streets.

This balance is something that isn’t often talked about, even though it’s a very real experience for many, navigating life between growing up in church and being on road. It’s a duality that shapes a lot of people’s identities, but it rarely gets explored honestly in creative spaces.

What I really wanted people to take away from Urban Saints was a sense of awareness, to open their eyes to a world they might not have realised exists. A space where both faith and street culture coexist. Where people can be both real and spiritual. I wanted to give voice to that experience without misrepresenting it.

With Overcast, you focus on dressing for the UK’s tricky weather - layering is a must but can get a bit much sometimes. How do you keep things looking good but still practical when you’re styling for that kind of weather?

For me, I’m definitely a winter girlie, I dress my best when it’s cold or at least cool outside. I’ve always preferred the colder seasons, the summer heat just makes me feel hot, bothered, and honestly, It’s hard finding the right garms for it as all of mine are big and oversized!

That said, dressing for this in-between weather can be tricky. Sometimes it looks cold out, but the moment you step outside, it’s muggy and humid, and suddenly you’re regretting every layer. It’s those moments that can feel overstimulating, especially if you’ve overdressed. So I always make sure to wear something underneath that’s still breathable and comfortable on its own, something that works even if I end up taking the jacket off. Still functional, still overcast-appropriate.

Where do you see yourself creatively in the next five years?

In the next five years, I see myself collaborating with brands in a meaningful and intentional way, not just on a surface level, but by contributing creatively and authentically. Whether that’s directing or assisting with campaigns, I want to be involved in work that tells real stories, and resonates with people! I’d love to be in spaces where I can bring my perspective to the table, helping shape visuals, narratives, and concepts that feel fresh and relatable. Building connections with like-minded creatives is also a big part of that vision, and working with people who inspire me.

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