By The ELLE List 2019 is here, celebrating the 50 trailblazers on our radar this year. These are the people we’ve recognised for embracing who they truly are, using their individual talents to change things up in their respective industries – and that’s the message ELLE wants to bring to you.
So we’ve partnered with Magnum ice cream, the champion of true pleasure: a pleasure so good it invites you to truly let go and break free from whatever’s holding you back without fear of judgement. Together, we are launching a series of empowering events featuring the stars from The ELLE List at the Magnum Pleasure Store on London’s Regent Street. For your chance to win tickets, enter our draw now.
To give you a taste (quite literally) of what’s in store, we asked a few of the fearless individuals who’ll be at the events to reveal how they feel empowered everyday, and how you can stand up for your true pleasure.
In an industry that loves to put music into categories, Joy has been fearless in expressing her individuality. She’s carved a path that’s truly her own by refusing to restrict her music to labels. Instead, Joy unapologetically embraces her soulful voice, fusing it with lyrics that pack an emotional and political punch. During her event, Joy will be discussing songwriting and the power of her daring sound. A must for music lovers.
"I always start my day with a positive boost. I make sure I’m well fed, dressed comfortably and get in some exercise. When I’m feeling low, I delete all social media apps from my phone to avoid me spending hours scrolling through other people’s lives. Find the formula that’s right for you.
"I love a random conversation. It can be so humbling. Whether meeting strangers on the tube or out and about, it’s good to know what other people are going through. It’s great to find a pocket of time to interact with others, even for a brief moment, during the daily chaos.
"Reducing the time I spend with people I don’t rate is a game-changer. That’s my top advice for lifting your mood. Hurt people hurt people and you shouldn’t be anyone’s saviour. I feel happiest when I spend time with my ‘day ones’: my family, my partner, my closest friends. We’ll go bowling, eat, play cards – it sounds simple and it really should be.
"Fashion is a handy tool for expressing my individuality. I can tilt a beret like my mum and channel her energy. Or I can wear my Claddagh ring and feel connected to my Irish side. I dress for me, and that’s what makes me a happy and confident Crooksie."
For more from Joy, enter the draw to win tickets to our exclusive event at the Magnum Pleasure Store
Charlotte Knowles and Alexandre Arsenautare the design duo exploring ideas
of contemporary femininity and sexuality through their label, Charlotte Knowles. Together, the pair are a real force for change in the industry – during the talk, you’ll learn about starting out in the business from those who have already done it. They will be discussing the joys of design, celebrating the female form and building your own brand.
"Our mission is to always be true to ourselves. We are pretty much the same people in every situation, whether we're at work or in the pub. Putting on an act all day every day is exhausting, so be you."
"We de-stress by getting away from work. Trying to fit in some exercise to get the endorphins going can make all the difference in feeling fearless. Even escaping for a drink with friends to have a break from the daily grind is a worthwhile treat. And there's nothing quite like a good dose of Japanese food!"
Paula Akpan and Nicole Crentsil didn’t have a space to celebrate their individuality growing up – so they created their own. Together, they founded Black Girl Fest: the UK’s first arts and culture festival championing black British women and girls. Join them at Magnum’s Regent Street Pleasure Store to gain an insight into the Black Girl Fest experience, as they talk how to find your individual voice, and how to use it to make an impact.
"Bring energy to everything you do. I always try to put the effort in, especially when I’m not particularly feeling it. I also think having a shaved head puts an extra spring in my step – it forces me to move with confidence because I have nothing to hide behind." - Paula
"Be kind to yourself. When I’m feeling anxious and it’s impacting my clarity of thought, I take the time to understand that I’m not going to do my best work today, and that’s okay. Take some time out and try again later." - Paula
"Confidence is the sexiest thing we wear. No matter if I’m in a baggy tee or a cute dress, choosing an outfit that makes me happy is what makes me feel my best." - Nicole
To win tickets to meet Paula and Nicole at our summer event series, enter the draw here
