My name is Naadirah Qazi and I am a model, one half of sister band Qazi & Qazi and poet based in London. Most recently, I modelled for fashion designer Sinéad O’Dwyer’s fall/winter 2025 collection. For those who may not know, Sinéad O’Dwyer has been a catalyst for so much abundance and joy in my life. I spent my entire childhood modelling and acting. It’s a deep passion of mine and feels like a natural expression of who I am. My heart has beat to the rhythm of countless runway shows and iconic fashion moments, from Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood and Dilara Findikoglu to that unforgettable scene in Twilight, when Victoria makes her villainous entrance, strutting through the misty forest. When I became unwell seven years ago, however, my mobility was impacted; I no longer felt it would be possible to continue as there was little to no representation or opportunity in the industry I loved. Then, one Sunday morning, I experienced what would become one of the most magical days of my life.
I was scouted by the wonderful casting director Emma Matell while buying a dream Ed Marler Unicorn Tapestry jacket at a Fantastic Toiles market. At that point, I didn’t grasp the gravity of the event—that I was being accepted into the world of modelling again, nor the fact that for my debut I was about to make history as the first model to model an on-schedule runway at London Fashion Week, in a wheelchair. It was the most surreal and moving experience. I will never forget the feeling of seeing myself on the Vogue runway in my wheelchair. It was such an enormous moment for me. This experience also sparked something much deeper within me. It was the first time since I became disabled that I saw myself in my wheelchair, in photos and in motion. And for that to happen on such a huge platform, without allowing me much time to think about it, was profound.
I’ve now been working with Sinéad’s team for over four seasons and every step of the process has been nothing short of a dream. The entire team has been dedicated to understanding my access needs and ensuring everything is perfectly organised, from finding the ideal space for me to attend fittings to arranging assistance and ensuring I can navigate backstage. The brand collaborates with a diverse cast, each with varying needs, and the team’s commitment to accommodating everyone creates a wonderful, accepting and loving community.
I believe adaptive and accessible fashion is rooted in the understanding that, at its core, clothes are worn and loved as a staple of being human. We wear clothes because it is a daily necessity, but through this, we find ways to celebrate our bodies and express ourselves. I believe that everybody deserves to feel seen and celebrated. I believe in equality and I believe that I, and others like me, deserve opportunities equal to the expectations I once had of myself when I was able-bodied. My mobility may be compromised, but all the hard work I’ve put into shaping myself and building my experiences to meet the goals I set for myself should not be erased simply because I cannot use my legs in the way I once could.
“I believe truly adaptive and accessible fashion is the understanding that at its core, clothes are worn and loved as a staple of being human.”
There are also still many ways that the industry can improve when it comes to accommodation. The assumption that a disabled model can only be cast for jobs specifically suited to that description is a limiting one. For me to exist as a model, I should be seen equally and cast based on my abilities. There are many campaigns, for example, where models are hired to be seated and I am more than capable of doing that. If I fit the ‘look’ of a casting, I should be given the opportunity and my access needs should be discussed so we can work together to understand what I am able to contribute to the job. I believe it’s crucial that the conversation takes place every time a job is booked, with ongoing check-ins if working relationships continue over time as my mobility needs can change.
When I think of the word ‘movement’, it feels complex and layered. Life is in constant motion: the world turns, the universe expands, stars travel and time never ends. I reflect on my own body and how it can feel limiting in a world that is ableist, built on the foundations of good health, strength and fast-paced lifestyles. It can feel suffocating to exist outside that, to feel that you’re not excelling quickly enough. You can feel powerless to time, moving on with or without you. I have felt all these things through my greatest sadnesses and joys, and only very recently have I come to understand that movement is not just about heading in a linear direction. And the way we can notice it is by bringing attention to what really moves us, motivates us through the day, fills us with love and makes us feel alive.
Modelling has helped me regain my confidence in the world because the examples of accessibility extend beyond the runway. They seep into everyday life, encouraging other spaces to think about how to be more inclusive. I truly hope that the world continues to provide opportunities for more disabled models and diverse casting.
I hope that those who see my work find ways to feel beautiful and accept themselves. We are not defined by our health, but by what we love and live for. I am searching for the right home for modelling representation: more opportunities worldwide, more shows. I am here and I revel in the idea of having a full runway schedule and calendar. I just need brands to believe in me as a model. It is my hope that we continue moving towards a more accepting and loving world, one filled with equal opportunity and inclusivity, so that we may reach a point where there is opportunity and work for disabled models, artists, people of colour, trans and LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and minority communities.
Creative Direction and styling Naadirah Qazi
Photography Izzy Offer
As told to Maya Menon
Vogue Singapore’s April ‘Movement’ issue is out on newsstands and available to order online.
