HHV Portraits

Roja

HHV Portraits show members of our community dressed and styled by themselves to show their true character. From leather footwear to sneakers and slip-ons, hoodies to mohair and parkas, our community is dressed to impress. Working in fashion, finance or freelancing, we will highlight different individuals monthly and share the versatility our community has through their thoughts and feelings about where they are, what they are wearing, and much more…

Who are you, where are you from, what do you do – and what do you do when you’re not doing that?

I’m Roja, I grew up in Dinslaken, a smaller town in North Rhine-Westphalia. Eleven years ago, I moved to Berlin for my Master’s degree, and as it often goes, I stayed.

My background is in project management and partnership marketing, mainly in the fashion and lifestyle sector. Since last year, I’ve been working independently, creating and realizing campaigns for brands and collaborating with a variety of creative personalities and talents.

In parallel, over the past five years, I’ve helped build a nonprofit organization that brings BIPoC communities together through creativity, movement, and knowledge exchange – working towards a society free from racism and discrimination. I want to help shape spaces where people feel safe, can unfold their potential, and empower each other.

When I’m not working, I love spending time with friends, traveling, being out in nature, and finding inspiration in music and good exhibitions. Dancing is one of my favorite things – it gives me a sense of freedom and lightness.

What inspires you to be yourself and dress the way you do? Are there people, music, or places that influence you?

I’ve always felt the urge to find my own style – even though it didn’t always look good at first. I only really settled into it a few years ago. I don’t follow trends anymore; instead, I wear what truly makes me feel comfortable. Vintage plays a big role in that. Especially when traveling, I draw inspiration from people on the streets, from vibes, and from places. I shop selectively and mindfully, preferring unique pieces tied to a memory.

My Iranian heritage also shapes me a lot. It’s a constant source of inspiration and keeps me connected, even with the distance from my homeland and family.

Sneakers, boots, or ballet flats? What do you prefer to wear and why? Is there an accessory you can’t go without?

On a daily basis, it’s usually sneakers – they’re comfortable and easy to style. But I also love how the right pair of boots can instantly add more expression to an outfit.

I can’t go without my traditional jewelry from Iran. My favorite ring and bangles are with me every day – I never take them off. I was inspired by my aunts, who have worn their bangles all their lives, and for whom they’ve become second nature. I love combining these traditional pieces with my own style and modern clothing. For me, it’s the perfect connection between my roots and the here and now.

Which Berlin district represents your style best and why? Can you recommend any cafés or restaurants in Berlin? Where do you like to go when you need to unwind or get creative?

Just like my style – sometimes casual, sometimes chic, sometimes bold, sometimes understated – it’s hard for me to narrow it down to one district. If I had to choose, it would probably be Kreuzberg and Neukölln. That’s where different styles and ways of life meet and coexist naturally, without judgment.

I usually get my daily coffee from Hassan at?die Kaffeemaschine. For fresh bread, I love going to?Gorilla?just around the corner. For dumplings, I recommend?Han West, and for delicious pasta,?Caligari. Every Saturday, my circle of friends from the neighborhood meets at the weekly market at Herrfurthplatz, where we grab coffee and fresh juices, pick up flowers, and ease into the weekend.

I live near Tempelhofer Feld and love the atmosphere there. Whether I’m running, sorting my thoughts, or watching the sunset, it feels like my little oasis of calm right in the middle of the city.

What’s next? If you had to predict a trend for the next few years, what would it be?

I’m continuing my path as a freelancer, focusing on creative work, impact, and all the things that come with self-employment.

As for trends: I don’t really follow them, but I believe the direction is moving more and more toward individuality. Less hype, more genuine feeling, and above all, more courage to stay true to yourself and live your own style.