You may recognise her from the runways of international fashion weeks or iconic magazine covers (including Vogue, i-D and GQ), but there is more to Adwoa Aboah’s beauty than meets the eye. The London-born model is also an avid activist for supporting women’s mental health and taking on taboo conversations head first. Drawing on her own personal experiences to support women in their plight to overcome familial trauma, mental health issues, body image struggles and confusion around sexuality, Aboah is using her voice for change.

Recently named the global ambassador for beauty brand Jo Malone London, the 30-year-old is stepping into a new phase of her career and taking more time to make conscious, considerate decisions. Known for her entrepreneurial spirit and never taking no for an answer, we sat down with Aboah to chat beauty, career highlights and being the change you wish to see in the world.

Hi Adwoa! Lovely to speak to you. You are a fashion and beauty icon so, why don’t we start with your greatest modelling career highlight to date?

Can I have two? My first runway show for Marc Jacobs would be up there and so would my British Vogue cover with Edward Enninful.

Beyond your modelling success, you also focus a lot on activism and being a voice for those who may not be able to speak up. How has your modelling career helped give you the resources and reach to make a difference?

The industry has given me such an insight into women across the globe of all ages, races and more. It’s given me the opportunity to connect with people who I likely wouldn’t have otherwise. It’s a sense of community, a sense of sisterhood. I find inner power from other women’s voices, campaigns and careers. I stand on the shoulders of those who came before me and I can only speak because they raised their voice before I could.

What an incredible way to look at the world. Your mental health charity–Gurls Talk–provides resources and a safe space for young women and girls to discuss anything that may be troubling them. Why is it so important for you to be able to support others, inspire change and open discussions about sometimes taboo topics?

We’re often shamed or guilted into not talking about things, especially as women. If I can provide a platform for other women’s voices to be heard, it is nothing short of an honour. We don’t house an echo chamber of the same views, we hold insightful discussions on topics not often taught or brought to schools, universities and the workplace. We give women the opportunity to speak unreservedly and passionately.

Who is your greatest inspiration and why?

Bernadine Evaristo, Michaela Cole and the community of Gurls Talk.

You’ve recently been announced as a Jo Malone London ambassador. Congratulations! What was it about the brand that resonated with you so much?

I think it’s actually two-fold. Firstly, as a global ambassador, I have the ability to really understand the inner workings of the company and how they develop and bring to life all of these wonderful fragrances. I also love the way they communicate their messages and I get to be quite creatively involved in the assets and campaigns that we put out. Additionally, I would be remiss to not mention my admiration for the work and commitment to mental health that the brand has, even before us working together.

What does your everyday beauty routine consist of? What products are you loving?

I love Jan Marini SPF, Palmer’s Cocoa Butter and SkinCeuticals Vitamin C Redness Neutraliser. I also use Rimmel’s Clear Brow Gel, Equi London’s nutritional supplements and 111 Skin face and eye masks. The Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment is also incredible and, of course, I don’t leave the house without a spritz of Jo Malone London’s English Pear & Freesia Cologne.