Elias Riadi Covers Rollacoaster Magazine Autumn/ Winter 2020

In early 2017, digital entertainment company Kyra TV launched PAQ — a weekly, challenge-led YouTube show hosted by Dexter Black, Danny Lomas, Shaquille-Aaron Keith and Elias Riadi. Affectionately dubbed Top Gear for fashion, PAQ lifted the lid on the exclusive world of streetwear and framed fashion as an accessible means of experimentation and self-expression. Quickly attracting a loyal audience, the show propelled the boys to the forefront of London’s creative industries, providing them each with a platform to accentuate their own individual styles and identities, and ultimately make their mark by simply being themselves.

After making a joint decision to cancel the show this year, Watford-raised Elias Riadi is ready to introduce himself on his own terms. From months of self-reflection about his identity and Moroccan heritage, to presenting for the likes of Tommy Hilfiger and preparing to drop his first clothing label, the 23-year-old has spent the past few months figuring out what those next steps will hold. Covering the new issue of Rollacoaster, Riadi reflects on finding self-confidence, experimenting with creative freedom and the lasting impact he wants to have.